University hold off Harlies in top of the table clash

In the top-of-the-table clash premier match in the Capital Rugby Union, University held off Harlequins with a 29-24 victory at Bava Park in Port Moresby on Saturday.
The match lived up to expectations as the top two teams took to the field in what was a high-tempo and exciting match. The forwards battled it out in the mid-field while the backs’ running and support play created chances early on.
It was the University who scored the first points with converted tries to Charles Maip and Lance Cooper giving Piggies a 14-0 lead after 20 minutes.
As the first half wore on Harlequins began to gain the upper hand with a lion’s share of possession, a break down the right flank resulted in the first try to Harlies by fullback Uni Patrick in the 30th minute.
The try was converted with Harlies trailing 14-7.
This spurred Harlies on as they began to dominate possession with their forward pack applying pressure on the Piggies’ defence.
It paid off as hooker Freddy Andale crashed over for Harlies’ second try to take the score to 14-12 at half time in favour of University.
In the second half Harlies created numerous chances but were let down at the crucial moments by handling errors.
Piggies’ Dean Andale crossed over for the first points of the half. In reply, Harlies’ Dennis Chapue and Ben Levy crossed the line as Harlies took the lead 21-19 in the final 10 minutes.
However, the Piggies were able to storm home with tries to Eugene Mel and George Hoki to claim a five-point victory.
University coach Paul Joseph told The National that the competition leaders were going to come out firing from the starting whistle.
“Harlies know that we had the fight in the forwards, they did very well in the counter rucking.”