Muruks shrug off Gurias, soaring to decider

The PRK Mendi Muruks pulled off a gutsy 20-12 victory over the Agmark ENB Gurias in the Digicel-ExxonMobil Cup Preliminary Final at a packed Santos National Football Stadium on Sunday, 7th September, 2025, setting the stage for a rematch with the Lae Snax Tigers in the Grand Final.

After 14 years of missing out on the grand final, including four consecutive preliminary final exits in recent seasons, the Southern Highlands franchise finally snapped the grand final drought in front of their passionate fans. 

Muruks’ try-scoring sensation Jade Puk made a powerful run in the 12th minute and offloaded the ball to support player Victor Ario, who outpaced the Gurias’ fullback to score under the uprights, taking a 6-0 lead.

The Gurias returned the favor in the 32nd minute from a scrum play, with winger Myles Banam scoring in the corner, and the Muruks responded on the stroke of half-time through center Lega Batia, leading the contest with a 10-4 margin.

Just 3 minutes into the second half, hooker Jerry Joe quickly scooped the ball from the ruck and swerved past five Gurias’ defenders to score the third try for the black and whites, increasing the lead to 16-4.

In the 53rd minute, center Lega Batia scored his second try and extended the Muruks’ lead to 20-4. With 11 minutes left on the clock, the Gurias registered back-to-back tries but fell short, going down to the Muruks with a 20-12 loss. 

The Muruks displayed composure, tactical precision, and determination under pressure to shut down the determined Gurias. Despite a spirited fight back shown by the ENB lads, the men in black and white held firm to emerge victorious with an 8-point margin.

Next weekend’s big dance promises an epic showdown, with the Muruks seeking redemption after a narrow loss to the Lae Snax Tigers in the major qualifying final. Their rivalry, intensified by recent clashes, sets the stage for a high-stakes grand final.

The PRK Mendi Muruks are no strangers to winning premierships, with the club boasting four premiership titles (1996, 2006, 2007, 2008) and finishing as runners-up four times (1995, 1998, 2010, 2012). The club’s rich history and loyal fan base make this decider special as they aim for their fifth title.

All eyes now turn to 14th September 2025, as anticipation builds up for the Lae-based clubs, raring to entertain the Port Moresby fans. Expect a thrilling encounter full of physical confrontation, tactical brilliance, and unforgettable moments.