In a thrilling encounter at Bava Park in Port Moresby city during Leg-2 Round 3 of the Rigo Rice Cup, saw two teams do battle in what can only be described as a very close match.
The Hidomo Brothers showed remarkable tenacity against the United FM3 Bulldogs though the match ended in a close 12-10 match.
Bulldogs’ Half Back Ezekiel Mandi proved to be a standout player, delivering a crucial conversion in the second half that turned the tide to the United Finance M3 Bulldogs.
Hidomo Brothers displayed dominance in the first half with Emmanuel Tulia crossing the line in the 24th minute followed by an addition early 2-points penalty kick by Dickson Amea, secured the first half. The Bulldogs managed to put points on the board in the 12th-minute from a penalty kick by Ezekiel Mandi, ending the half trailing 2-6.
However, the Bulldogs’ showcased a fighting spirit which proved lethal in the final minutes. Branden Peter scored a try alongside Taka Boi in the 51st and 60th minute. Bulldogs Halfback Ezekiel Mandi sealed the deal with a pinpoint conversion after Boi’s try, bringing the Bulldogs in a 2-points lead despite a late try by Hidomo Brothers’ Brael Bita sealed their victory.
Though the Bulldogs fell short, Ezekiel Mandi’s calm under pressure and his decisive kicking were a testament to his skill and potential, making him a player to watch as the competition progresses.