Lahanis Defeat Vipers 18-12 at Sir John Guise Stadium
The Bintangor Goroka Lahanis held off a determined second-half challenge from the Moni Plus Port Moresby Vipers to claim an 18-12 victory in their Digicel ExxonMobil Cup clash at Sir John Guise Stadium on Sunday, 24 May 2026.
The Lahanis dominated the opening half and carried their momentum into the break after winger John Gore scored the first try of the match. Lock forward and skipper Palangat Kanini added the second try before Ryan Martin crossed for the third. All conversions were successful as the Goroka side built a solid lead.
The Vipers mounted a strong comeback in the second half with centre Joseph Kora opening the scoring for the Port Moresby side. Winger Manase Watt added another try to keep the home side in contention, while Joseph Kora grabbed his second try of the afternoon in a spirited finish.
Despite the Vipers’ fightback, five-eighth Justin Yoka showed class and experience throughout the second half, guiding the Lahanis to an important 18-12 win.
The match delivered another entertaining round of the 2026 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup season, with both teams displaying determination and attacking rugby league in front of fans at Sir John Guise Stadium.
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