PNG PM’s XIII Teams Fall To Australia As Junior Kumuls Claim Victor

 PNG's Prime Minister's XIII teams were unable to match Australia's attacking power in Port Moresby on Saturday, with both senior home sides suffering heavy defeats at Santos National Football Stadium.

Australia's men ran in 60 points against PNG's 10, while the Australian women scored 66 points to six. The double-header attracted strong interest from local rugby league supporters as PNG continues to prepare for the arrival of the Chiefs in the NRL from 2028.

PNG PM’s XIII Teams Fall To Australia As Junior Kumuls Claim Victor

 

Ezra Mam proved a constant threat in the men's encounter, finishing with three tries as Australia's attack repeatedly exposed gaps in the PNG defensive line. Jaxon Purdue scored twice, while Tom Chester and Thomas Hazelton were also among the players who crossed for Australia.

The home side refused to go quietly, with Sylvester Namo finally getting PNG on the scoreboard in the second half. Jeremaiah Ben then produced an impressive individual effort, racing into the corner to score PNG's second try and lift the home crowd.

Australia's women maintained control for most of their match, with Jada Taylor and Taneka Todhunter completing hat-tricks as the visitors secured their 66-6 victory. PNG's senior teams therefore finished the main PM's XIII contests without a win, but the Junior PNG Kumuls changed the mood with an 18-10 victory over the Australian Kangaroos juniors.

The Junior Kumuls' success provided a positive finish to the day's rugby league programme, as PNG's young players held their Australian counterparts to 10 points and secured an 18-10 result in front of the Port Moresby crowd.