Tigers, Mioks fight out muddy stalemate

 By GABRIEL LAHOC

THE Lae Tigers winning roll this Digicel Cup season was halted by the Enga Mioks who drew 8-8 in a tight affair yesterday at the Lae rugby league ground.

A penalty goal with five minutes to go by halfback Ate Bine Wabo ensured the homeside kept its loss column clean but things could have been different for the Tigers who were trailing 8-6 in a matched played on a muddy surface in the rain and riddled with countless drop balls.

Mioks coach Timothy Lepaclaimed before the match that what his side lakced in size and power they would make up for in heart and determination.

The Tigers led 6-0 with a try to winger Robert Vuai which was converted by Wabo. 

The Mioks scored two tries to take the lead and could have had 12 if not for fullback Charlie Simon’s two misses that would prove costly in the end.

Mioks outside centre and man of the match Ryan Yama Kiso set up his side’s first try to winger Wawa Paul.

Trailing 6-4, the Tigers let in a try through complacency when they failed to clean up a loose ball which  Mioks outside centre Charlie Martin score their second try.

The Tigers reign at the top of Pool 2 was shaken but the Lae franchise hold on to their spot. 

Results: Pool 1 – Muruks 14 Vipers 26, Wigmen 26 Lions 14, Eagles on bye; Pool 2 – Tigers 8 Mioks 8, Gurias 12 Lahanis 8, Isapea on bye.