Melanesian Cup Champions, Lae Snax Tigers returned to the country to a low profile welcome, despite their convincing 40 points to 4 win over the Nadi Aviators in Fiji on Saturday.
An elated Coach Stanley Tepend said the teams win must be credited to the team’s play structure, both in defence and in attack on the field during the 80 minutes encounter.
Tepend in recounting the team’s performance said the team had stuck in the first 10 minutes of the first half, however, came back strong settling with three converted tries to lead at 18 points at half time.
He said the Aviators had been strong in defence against the Tigers in the first half but could not maintain the grip in the remaining minutes of the game.
He added the Aviators had a team dominated by other teams in Fiji Rugby League and some were even NRL class players who had played in the previous Melanesian Cup challenge in 2016 against Rabaul Gurias.
Captain Charlie Simon said despite enduring a tough opposition from the opposing team, his boys made a good come-back to win convincingly against the Aviators.
The team transited through Port Moresby today straight to Lae and will start their preparations for the Digicel Cup Season.