Royals thrash Souths to make city league final

By MELTON PAIS
ROYALS booked its grand final spot after thrashing Souths 34-12 in the in the Port Moresby Rugby League preliminary final at the National Football Stadium Oval 2 yesterday.
The Black Swan International-sponsored Royals will face the winner of Paga Panthers and Magani playoff which will be played today after their preliminary final called off due to time and will be at 5pm at the Oil Search National Football Stadium main field.
Souths, who earned the reputation as grinders, had no answer for Royals who used a more attacking style.
Royals led 10-2 at halftime before exploding in the second half against the Kroton-sponsored Souths, who added 10 points while conceding 24. Royals, who were also the minor premiership and coached by Steve Gunua, put on a show for their fans which sets up an interesting final against one of Paga Panthers or Magani — two teams that have good attacks.
Souths disputed a try early in the second half and delayed the game for more than 10 minutes before control was restored and the game was allowed to continue.
Royals led 14-2 at that stage.
Both sides had stars with Royals powered by PNG Hunter’s Silas Ghauna, Port Moresby Vipers Supa George and Ezra Gotuno in the forward and Enga Mioks flyer Damien Herod on the wing.
Souths had Hunters reserve half William Mone in the No.6 jersey. Mone’s impact on the game was limited as he was a marked man.
Royals were the better side with captain and halfback Karis Peter and vice-captain and five-eighth Mathew Wauwe taking control of the sets.
Royals coach Gunua described the win as something they had worked hard for.
“They have showed the never-give-up attitude and displayed some classy touches to show that we are the defending champions,” a happy Gunua said.