Paul double helps Wigmen see off Kimbe Cutters

A GILMO Paul double saw the Hela Wigmen beat the Kimbe Cutters 12-4 in round one of the Digicel Cup at Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby yesterday.
Paul scored the opening try in the 4th minute after Judah Rimbu combined with fullback Bland Abavu to send him barging over for a converted try.
The Cutters responded 10 minutes before half-time with winger Edward Yukil scoring an unconverted try off a long pass by five-eighth Justin Yoka.
The second half saw both sides stepping up in defence and attack. Wigmen front-rower Samuel Yegip was assisted off the field after he copped a head knock in a strong tackle by the Cutters.
However, the Kroton-sponsored side were able to breach the Cutters defence with Paul completing his double for a 10-4 lead in the 51st minute.
The Cutters had some scoring opportunities but they could not execute well.
Yoka and Mark Alunga threw everything at the Wigmen but the visitors were denied by strong defence led by forwards Agiru John and Ham Tina.
Wigmen half-back Solomon Pukari put the game beyond doubt with a penalty goal four minutes from fulltime.
The Wigmen face the Enga Mioks at the Lae Rugby League Ground on Sunday (1pm kick-off). The Cutters meet Waghi Tumbe at Sir John Guise Stadium on Saturday (3.30pm kick-off).