Vipers constrict Isou, recording back-to-back wins

The Moni Plus NCDC Port Moresby Vipers bagged their second straight win after holding off the PRK Gulf Isou with an 18-12 margin in round 2 of the Digicel-ExxonMobil Cup (DEM Cup) on Saturday, 18 April 2026, at Santos National Football Stadium.

Both teams started the season opener with a win each and anticipated making two in a row. The Port Moresby local derby lived up to its billing, with both teams boasting experienced campaigners and youthful sides, pushing the contest to a grandstand finish.

Within five minutes of the match, booming back-rower Joseph Kora made a rampaging run outside Isou’s 10-meter line and barged his way to the try line, with five-eight Ben Fege converting the try and putting the Vipers in front, 6-0.

The Vipers went on a roll, with rookie fullback Jeremiah Ben making a line break and assisting hooker Ishmael Vaieke, who scored under the uprights. Isou hit back in the 25th minute, capitalizing on the Vipers’ error and reducing the margin to 12-6 at half-time.

In the second half, both teams failed to complete their sets, reducing their chances of scoring points. The Gulf men leveled the score in the 60th minute, but the NCD flagship side responded in the 73rd minute through Benjamin Boas to ice the game, 18-12. 

The Wellington Albert-coached Vipers have registered two straight wins, sitting second on the ladder. They will meet the undefeated table-topping Gas Resource Central Dabaris in round 3 of the DEM Cup top-of-the-table clash on Sunday, April 26th, at Santos National Football Stadium.