Vipers aim to spoil Muruks party

By PARKER TAMBUA
PORT Moresby Vipers know they are up against a tough Mendi Muruks outfit but they are aiming for a win as they look to head into the finals with momentum.
The Moni Plus-sponsored visitors will face the ladder-leading Muruks, who are a win away from the minor title, in the final round of the Digicel Cup season at the Lae Rugby League Ground on Sunday (3pm kick-off).
“We are up against a very strong side and we’re prepared for the challenge,” Vipers coach Joe Sipa told The National yesterday.
“It’s an important game for both sides and whoever wins the game will head into the finals with momentum.
“I think the team with less errors will come out winners, so that’s what we are looking at.
“We know that the Muruks have one of the top defences in the competition, so we will have to stick to our game plan to score points.”
Sipa said he would retain the same 17 players who beat Rabaul Gurias at the Kalabond Oval in Kokopo, East New Britain, last Saturday.
The Muruks have an experienced pack – led by Julius Yakopa, Bernard Goma Jr and Ishmael Balkawa – who have been consistent in laying the platform for their attack all season.
The Vipers also have a talented pack in the likes of Fedro Gene, Benjamin Timothy, Ade Kawa and Joel Kee. Both sides have a good, young backline too.
The match-up is even and the clash is expected to be entertaining one for fans in the Morobe capital.
Fixtures: Sat, Aug 14 – Gurias v Mioks, Eagles v Dabaris; Sun, Aug 15 – Isou v Lahanis, Wigmen v Tumbe, Cutters v Tigers, Muruks v Vipers.