The Minor Semi Final of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup 2024 saw the thrilling Kroton Hela Wigmen overpower the Lae Snax Tigers 32-12, at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.
The Wigmen displayed their dominance early on, with Woodie Kawage opening the scoring in the 15th minute. Kawage, playing as the hooker, was influencial throughout the match, adding another try in the 79th minute to seal the victory.
Wigmen fullback Kaupa Sipa added to the Wigmen’s tally with a try in the 37th minute with his agility and speed.
Trevor Solu, who came off the interchange bench, made a significant impact, scoring a try in the 50th minute and successfully converting four out of five attempts.
Solu’s performance was pivotal, as he also added two penalty goals in the 59th and 62nd minutes, further extending the Wigmen’s lead.
Terence Wemin, playing at centre, contributed with a try in the 72nd minute, showcasing his strength and precision.
The Lae Snax Tigers, despite their efforts, managed only two tries, both scored by winger Dickson Otto in the 21st and 31st minutes.
Otto’s performance was commendable, but the Tigers struggled to keep up with the Wigmen’s relentless attack.
Jacky Winas, the halfback, converted one of Otto’s tries and added a penalty goal in the 8th minute, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide in their favor.
The match highlighted the Wigmen’s strategic play and effective use of their players, with Solu’s contributions being particularly instrumental.
The Tigers, on the other hand, will need to regroup and address their defensive lapses as they prepare for future challenges.
The Wigmen’s victory not only advances them further in the competition preliminary finals against the Enga Mioks but also cements their reputation as a formidable team in the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup 2024 Season.