PNG Kumuls Outclass Cook Islands 40–28 in Port Moresby Clash
Papua New Guinea’s national rugby league team, the PNG Kumuls, thrilled a packed Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby with a 40–28 victory over the Cook Islands Aitu in the Pacific Championships on Saturday.
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| PNG Kumuls Outclass Cook Islands 40–28 in Port Moresby Clash . Kumuls winger Alex Johnston celebrates a try |
The Kumuls delivered a dominant performance, running in seven tries to the visitors’ five, in a fast-paced encounter that kept fans on their feet. Robert Derby was outstanding, scoring twice in the 12th and 31st minutes, while Rhyse Martin, Alex Johnston, Zac Laybutt, Morea Morea, and Gairo Voro also crossed the line.
Rhyse Martin was reliable with the boot, converting six of seven attempts, adding valuable points to PNG’s total. For the Cook Islands, Rua Ngatikaura opened the scoring early, with Reubenn Rennie, Caelys-Paul Putoko, Esom Ioka, and Delahia Wigmore each adding tries.
The home side led 22–12 at halftime and maintained composure in the second spell to secure the win despite a spirited Cook Islands fightback. Esom Ioka converted four of his five attempts for the visitors.
The match, played under fine weather and good ground conditions, saw just one sin-bin, with PNG’s Rhyse Martin briefly sidelined in the 79th minute. Fans erupted as the Kumuls sealed their second-round win, boosting their Pacific Championships campaign.
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