Pukpuks look to seal gong

THE Papua New Guinea Pukpuks will look to continue their perfect record when they meet the Solomon Islands in the final round of Oceania Rugby Cup at the Papua New Guinea Football Stadium tomorrow.
The Pukpuks are the only side yet to drop points in the tier-three tournament, having accounted for Nauru and Niue in their first two matches.
The Solomon Islands, who are coming off a 61-7 win over Nauru, will be out to test PNG’s backline speed with fullback Moses Singamoana and winger Timo Sanga likely to be worthy match-ups for the Pukpuks’ Wesley Vali and Emil Latumahina.
Pukpuks coach Billy Rapilla will be looking for a repeat performance from his forward pack who were instrumental in matching a bigger Niue side in the second round on Tuesday.
Rapilla praised the efforts of his front-rowers who came out on top over a more physical Niue outfit.
The battle in the forwards will also be a priority for Solomon Islands skipper Paul Tema, who is eager for his men to test their strength against the Pukpuks.
In the first match, Nauru face Niue in what should be an improved performance from debutants Nauru.
Pre-match favourites Niue will be relying on their forwards to set the pace for their attack against a vulnerable Nauru defence.
Nauru head coach Dominic Tabuna said his side were taking each match as a learning experience as they look to develop the sport back home.