Vipers sting competition leaders Dabaris in dramatic ‘Men in League’ clash

Vipers fullback Jeremiah Ben celebrating his try after defeating Dabaris 24-10 (Image: PNGNRLC)

The Digicel ExxonMobil Cup delivered high-anticipated drama at Sir John Guise Stadium as the Port Moresby Vipers claimed a famous 24-10 victory over competition leaders, the Central Dabaris. In a match fueled by an electric atmosphere from NCD and Central fans, the 'Men in League' round 3 lived up to its billing as a physical, top-of-the-table showdown.

The young Vipers outfit displayed their intent early. After a series of heated opening exchanges, winger Manase Watt crossed for the first try following a slick ball movement initiated by five-eight Thomas Peter. Despite fullback Jeremiah Ben failing to add the extras, the Vipers held a 6-0 lead deep into the first half.

The Dabaris responded by injecting fresh legs from the bench. Debutant Simon David made an immediate impact from dummy half, orchestrating a clever play to send center Peter Bongro over the line to break the deadlock. Veteran halfback Sebastian Gaudi nailed the conversion, sending both teams into the sheds locked at 6-6.

The momentum swung towards the Dabaris early in the second half when Lucas Dupa scored a brilliant individual try, handing the home side a 10-6 lead. However, the advantage was short-lived. Reserve hooker David was sent to the sin bin for a high tackle on the Vipers' fullback, leaving the Dabaris to defend with 12 men.

The Vipers clinical execution paid off during the power play. Yamo Yakopa crossed to level the scores, and Ben Fege, taking over kicking duties, successfully converted to put the Wellington Albert-coached side ahead 12-10.

As the afternoon heat intensified, so did the physicality in the middle. The mounting pressure forced a penalty from the sideline, which Fege coolly slotted to extend the lead to 14-10. Tensions boiled over in the 63rd minute, resulting in a double sin-binning for Dabaris second-rower Heni Rawa and Vipers prop Sunni Lipu after an on-field scuffle.

The Vipers thrived in the open space. AFL-convert Jeremiah Ben showed his class with a slick line-break to score, pushing the lead to 18-10. The result was put beyond doubt when Joseph Kora produced a blistering runaway effort, bumping off defenders to score under the posts.

Fege’s final conversion sealed the 24-10 triumph, marking a statement win for the Vipers and a rare stumble for the league-leading Dabaris.