LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Fiji Bati and PNG Kumuls will face off in a highly-anticipated rugby league clash in Port Moresby on Sunday.
Both teams are entering the match with confidence after securing wins in their previous matches against Cook Islands.
The Kumuls were particularly impressive in their opening round victory, scoring nine tries, with Nene MacDonald contributing four of them.
On the other hand, the Bati had a tougher battle in their week two match, narrowly winning 22-18 thanks to a late try from Sunia Turuva.
These two teams have a history of close encounters, with their most recent clash in 2022 resulting in a 24-14 victory for PNG.
Lachlan Lam, who scored a double in that match, will be a key player for the Kumuls once again.
However, the Bati had the upper hand in their previous meeting in 2019, winning 22-20 in a thrilling contest.
This sets the stage for another intense and closely-fought battle between these proud nations.
Playing in front of their passionate home crowd in Port Moresby will give the Kumuls a significant advantage.
They will be aiming to dominate the Bati with their fast and skillful ball movement, relying on try-scoring machines like Alex Johnston, Nene MacDonald, and Zac Laybutt.
Yet, the Bati also have their own arsenal of attacking weapons, including Jahream Bula, Maika Sivo, and Sunia Turuva, who will pose a significant challenge for the home side.
Overall, fans can expect a tense and thrilling encounter as these two teams go head-to-head in Port Moresby.