Pukpuks run riot in win

 By JOHN PANGKATANA

THE Monier PNG Pukpuks development team went on a try-scoring spree to beat Gold Coast club Currumbin Alleygators 39-0 in their second tour match of their training camp in Australia on Tuesday.

Sevens international Henry Liliket and rising newcomer Mara Katam scored two tries each, while centre pairing Hubert Tsereha and Brisbane-based Ralph Susuve powered their way  through for a try each.

In the mid-field, playmaker Jonah Kautu Jnr and Susuve linked up well in a workable combination that would have had head coach Allan Manning thinking overtime. 

Kautu kicked three conversions and a penalty in a sturdy performance for the former PNG Under-20 Moscow tourist.

Team manager Billy Rapilla, speaking by phone from the Gold Coast last night, said the team made up of those who did not play or have enough game time in the first match performed strongly to dictate terms early and finished off well.

“There are no major injury worries just a few bumps and bruises,” he said.

“Liliket (ankle) and Oswald Gela (knee) are the two with noticeable injuries,” he said.

On their last match against the Australian Under-20 team tonight, Rapilla said they were very structured and big, with 30 per cent having a Polynesian background.

He said that PNG-born Petowa Paraka was that Australian side. 

“They will definitely be more ex­perienced and stronger and we are expecting it be a very physical match, a blow over in the result,” he added.  

“In saying that we here for that to gain the much needed game time against quality opposition and learn as much as we can. 

Today’s starting line-up: Micky Rau (prop), Joshua Vakona (hoo­ker), Ryan Sambath (prop), William Maniot, Philip Suapo (lock), Desmond Korpok, Raymond Vagi (flankers), Billy Torea (No.8), Douglas Guise (half-back), Robert Bulumaris (five-eighth), Ralph Susuve, Tisa Kautu (centres), Hubert Tsereha, Henry Liliket (wings),Mara Katam (fullback). 

Reserves: Kapua Kapua, Keto Neheja, Cyjoh Waingut, Ezra Kautu, Buttler Morris, Geti Raka, Liebert Suang, Jonah Kautu Jnr, Kingsley Lea, Kumalau Auru.