Vipers aiming to rebound against Isou

THE Port Moresby Vipers will look to bounce back from last week’s 10-14 loss to the Rabaul Gurias when they face Gulf Isou at Sir John Guise Stadium on Sunday (1pm kick-off).
The main match of Port Moresby’s round-nine Digicel Cup double-header will see Waghi Tumbe chase a second-straight win against the Central Dabaris (3.15pm).
The Vipers dropped from third to fifth on the ladder following the loss to the Gurias on Sunday, but coach Leonard Tarum said he was happy with his side’s performance.
He said the loss had given them the opportunity to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
“We are doing well,” Tarum said.
“The loss tells us where we are and it’s good.
“It helps us a lot for our game against Isou.
“It’s a local derby but we will not be complacent.
“We will need to be at our best as a win is important with three games remaining before the finals.”
The worst defensive side in the 12-team competition, Isou are expected to struggle against the Vipers who will be counting on veteran Ase Boas, Karis Peter, Presley Soto, Brendon Gotuno and Ben Wemin.
Meanwhile, Tumbe — who registered their second win of the season against the Mt Hagen Eagles at home last week — are pushing for a top-six spot and a win over the Dabaris will improve their chances. However, the Bagelo Solien-coached Dabaris will be determined to deny the visitors a win.
“We are competitive in most of our games,” Dabaris assistant coach Gairo Pepena said.
“We just lack composure, direction and game management. We hope to improve in the remaining matches of the season.”