THE Central Dabaris and Port Moresby Vipers will clash in the 2026 National Youth Competition Under-19 men’s grand final on Sunday at the Santos National Football Stadium, Port Moresby.
This decider will showcase some of Papua New Guinea’s most promising young rugby league talents on one of the nation’s biggest stages.
The Vipers will lean on their dynamic fullback David Sevara, the competition’s leading try scorer with five tries in as many matches. His attacking flair has been a constant threat throughout the season.
Meanwhile, the Dabaris will look to rising star David Taraka, whose powerful performances have been pivotal in their campaign.
Taraka was instrumental in the preliminary final, scoring a hat-trick to secure his team’s place in the grand final. PNGRFL chief executive officer Stanley Hondina highlighted the importance of the National Youth Competition in nurturing future rugby league stars.
He noted that many players have progressed through the PNGRFL Academy and youth development programmes, which focus on building skills both on and off the field.
Beyond crowning the national youth champions, Sunday’s grand final offers a glimpse of future prospects who may one day represent the PNG Hunters, Digicel ExxonMobil Cup clubs, or even the PNG Kumuls.
