The Lae Tigers have defeated the Hela Wigmen in Sunday’s Digicel Cup Grand Final rematch at Lae Rugby League Oval.
In a thrilling encounter reflective of the top two teams in the competition, the Lae Tigers emerged 28 – 24 victors, keeping their undefeated start to the season going for another week.
The home team started the match strongly, earning an early penalty and try to establish an 8 – 0 lead.
The Wigmen hit back with two quick tries through interchange forward, Tommy Moide, and winger, Rame Wigmen, to establish a 12 – 8 lead, but the Tigers scored their own double before halftime to head into the sheds up 18 – 12.
The Wigmen scored first in the second half via a penalty goal, but the Tigers scored another try to lead 22 – 14 heading into the 60th minute mark.
The Wigmen hit back via centre Junior Igila to make it 20 – 22, but again the Tigers found their way to the line to extend their lead.
Despite a late try to winger Bob Nale, the Wigmen went down by four to suffer their first loss of the season.
