Stylish Defence too strong for Brothers

Normal, Sports
Source:

The National, Monday 6th May 2013

 By JOHN PANGKATANA

DEFENCE ran riot in a powerhouse display to open their Capital Rugby Union campaign on a high note, beating Brothers 37-19 at Monier Park in Port Moresby on Saturday.

The men from Murray Barracks sent a clear message of their intentions with the start of the 2013 season.

Despite Brothers getting their noses in front early through a try to back-rower Auloh Ottio off a penalty, it was Defence who played more enterprising rugby.

Defence’s rising star centre James Lumaris followed with two quick tries, before another to number 8 Jeremy Kuveu to lead 19-12 at half-time. 

While Defence playmaker Adeck Naio controlled play around the rucks, Steven Yasang, Kuveu and Misiel Silas ensured they were competitive up-front against a strong Brothers forward pack.

The Brothers were their own enemies as wrong options cost them.They had several chances to cut the gap but failed to put away opportunities. Fullback Jack Maraha tried to ignite a revival but he was closely marked by Lumaris, Rocky Ngaffin and Solomon Bukam.

Then when Kuveu scored his second try and side-stepping winger Mathias Pina scored another on top of Naio’s haul of four conversions and two penalties, the margin was too wide for Brothers to reel in.

In the other matches, champions Harlequins beat Motuan Warriors 24-5 and University Piggies beat LaSallians 32-12.