The Bintangor Goroka Lahanis defeated the Kroton Hela Wigmen 22-14 in a tightly contested match at the National Sports Institute in Goroka, Eastern Highlands province.
The home side came out firing, dominating early territory and possession. Fitler Omena opened the scoring with a swift finish in the corner, quickly followed by a powerful effort from Paluse Ake. Moments later, Cyborg Oliver powered through the middle, giving the Lahanis a commanding start with their third try in the opening quarter.
Charlie Buka nailed two out of three conversions, stretching the lead and lifting the home crowd’s energy.
Meanwhile, Wigmen showed class and grit under pressure. Norman Brown responded with a well-timed burst through the line, and Siki Konden followed up with a determined finish near the posts. Simon Arana added two conversions to keep Hela within striking distance.
A crucial penalty goal from Lote Kuman kept Wigmen breathing down Lahanis’ neck, and the final minutes turned into a defensive warzone. The Lahanis held their line with fierce determination, repelling every Wigmen attack in the dying moments.
Both sides showcased determination and defensive intensity, but it was Goroka’s early blitz and disciplined structure that carried them across the line. The Lahanis’ composure under pressure and home-ground edge proved just enough to edge out a dangerous Wigmen outfit.
The win boosts Lahanis’ momentum heading into the latter stages of the 2025 season, while Wigmen will be left ruing missed chances in what could’ve been a comeback victory.