Wanigelas edge Maopa
The National, Tuesday November 26th, 2013
By JACK AMI
WANIGELA Kavela yesterday caused the upset of the round when they edged out Maopa Paio 8-6 in the Southern Regional League Nines tournament at Port Moresby Rugby League oval.
Burly forward Robin Lindsay barged over three Paio’s defenders to lead 8-6 midway through the second half after trailing 6-4.
Bland Abavu scored the first try for Paio which brother Josiah converted while Kavela’s four-pointer was from Collin Aruna.
Kavela, sponsored by local businessman John Ricky of Clayfield Construction & Maintenance Ltd, were more disciplined than Paio.
Manager Ricky and coach Pala Aruai attributed the win to their team making the most of their opportunities against an opposition stacked with heaps of talent that included the Abavu brothers, Kumul Josiah, Anthony and Bland.
Ricky said Aruna’s experience was invaluable along with contributions from Lindsay, Genova Paul and Joshua Vaii.
Results: Kai Marshalls 20 Trail Storms 8, YJ Tigers 14 TI Lahara 6, Miro Koivi 12 Vanagi Blacks 8, Hisiu Knights 20 Paramana Vanare 12, Kilivana Knights 6 Kelekinis 4, Oro Settlers 18 Paramana Nanapaimu 16, Koke Lama Brothers 22 Eastern Warriors 16, Koita Hunters 6 Tubusereia Development 0, Maopa Vevili 14 Sowali Hornbills 4, Gavuone Stone 12 Eastern Warriors 10, Central Waga Hots 14 Coast Brothers 10, MK Brothers 22Noma Arina 6, Koki Eels 12 TI Stone 8, Keakalo Malagana 8 Vabukori Mosquitoes 4, Vewala Pelagai 20 Boera Sailors 14, RIL Roadsiders 24 Vuruwani Seagulls 10, Pom Sharks 16 Kido Gigira 2, Efogi (2) 6 Bese Amapenaio 0, Donadabu Minas 12 Pom Sharks (2) 4, Kelerakwa Water Miles 16 Taurama Waves 8.