Franchise Wamp Nga Mt Hagen Eagles are victors beating neighbors Waghi Tumbe yesterday in Round 8 of the 2022 Digicel Cup Season in Jiwaka.
Eagles put on a strong strong performance to defend a late come back by Tumbe with a final score line 22 – 14 at the Jonas Amban Oval in Minj.
It was costly for the home team as Eagles crossed first to open the score board with a try following consecutive penalties by Tumbe.
Handling errors by Waghi Tumbe gave Mt Hagen Eagles enough ball and field possession in their half.
Eagles went on with another attack gaining yard through the middle with a line brake resulting in a four pointer. Successful conversion saw the Eagles extend the lead to 10 with Tumbe yet to score.
But the home side did not back off. Carving through the Eagles defense, a penalty in their half saw them extend ground by finding the sideline. With momentum behind Tumbe, a cross kick saw Tumbe Outside Centre Alex Max scoring a superb try on the left side.
But the Mt Hagen Eagles held on the lead into half time with a 10 – 8 score line.
Tumbe began the second half with a promising start but failed to put points on the board. A counter attack by the Eagles on the right side of the Tumbe defense was hefty as Eagles bounce back to score under the post.
A successful conversion saw Eagles extend the score line to 16 – Tumbe 8. Strong runs by Tumbe was helpful as they push towards the opponent’s try line.
With 10 minutes left, a knock-on by Eagles gave the home side a chance to close the 8 point difference.
Tumbe capitalize with a set replay sending Alex Max for his second try. With the conversion successful, the score saw Eagles lead with 16- 14.
But the visitors proof to strong for the home side as they made huge yards down Tumbe’s territory.
A slick move by Eagles dummy half Danny Aron saw Eagle’s fourth try to seal the game 22 to Tumbe 14.
Eagles Coach Charles Kuri was delighted saying the team kept to the basics and executed their game plan. He said the team was disciplined resulting in tries during critical times of the game.
“We have to improve on a number of factors in preparation for Round 9 against the Gulf Isou. I think the backline was good today, we just need more enforcement with the forwards, said Kuri.
Coach Kuri said they will stick to their basic game plan come Round 9 of the 2022 Digicel Cup Season.
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