Vipers prove too strong for Bulldogs

By JACK AMI
CENTRE Simon Kaman scored two tries to help Port Moresby Vipers Academy continue their perfect start with a 26-18 win over hosts Eda Bulldogs in Rigo, Central, on Saturday.
Bulldogs put the youthful Vipers under pressure, but the visitors’ sleek attack helped them establish a 20-4 halftime lead in the round-five Southern Super League National Gaming Control Board Cup fixture at Kwikila Oval.
Led by captain Aiden Arusa, Bulldogs re-grouped in the second half and registered 14 points to the Vipers’ six, but the game slipped away through silly errors when they were trailing 14-20 with 15 minutes remaining.
Junior Yamatau, Junior Kevau and Jeremiah Titipae each scored a try for the Vipers, and skipper Kingstimer Paraia converted three goals. Bulldogs’ Josh Walo scored two tries, and Arere Baru and Gini Tau each bagged a four-pointer. Emmanuel Laua slotted home a goal.
The intensity of the match was high as referee Francis Ruma — who lost a tooth via an accidental elbow from a player — put Bulldogs winger Gideon Evi on report for a reckless high shot.
Vipers were punished throughout the second half and coach Godfrey Luke was worried that tempers would flare, but Ruma controlled the match in a transparent and professional manner until fulltime.
There were a lot of players who stood out for the visitors, but centre Kevau was named as the man of the match.
Vipers lead the 12-team competition on 10 points, followed by Moresby South Blacks (8).
Blacks cruised to a 32-6 win over Koiari Nagavas.