Grand Final

His three tries, one try assist and a crucial try save helped the AROB Black Orchid to their second Sports Tok Rugby Sevens Tournament Cup title; holding off the Gerehu Natives 22 – 07.

Sakein, a regular Black Orchid member, received praise from his team captain, Solomon Semoso who is also his elder brother and team head coach Tsitom Semoso.

Kulaka West and Kindeng Storms are fairly new in the competition but are determined to make history during game day this weekend at the Lae Rugby League oval. 

The 2024 NGCB Ipatas Cup grand final is set to be hosted at the Lae Rugby League Oval on Saturday, the 2nd of March, and Sunday, the 3rd of March.

The captains of the top four teams were present today at Lae League: Homeland Saints from Western Highlands, Prum Panthers from Enga and the two newbies from Jiwaka-Kulaka West and Kindeng Storms.

Under new management and fueled by the determination of young leaders, the league has seen a revival with six teams participating across three divisions: Senior Men’s, Under 21 Men’s, and Women's divisions.

Despite facing challenges and starting from scratch, the league has garnered support from businesses and individuals, allowing it to reach this significant milestone.

It's the sport's most storied and bitter rivalry.

Over the course of 105 Test matches since their first meeting at the House of Pain, Carisbrook stadium in Dunedin in 1921, these two most recognisable of rugby rivals have fought battles on and off the pitch to create some of the sport's most iconic moments.

New Zealand won that first game 13-5 and have a far superior record overall, leading the head-to-head 62 to 39, with four draws.

But numbers can only tell you so much.

Panthers have been the form team this year, with an average winning margin of 20-plus. Majority of their players dominated Kokopo marlins in the recent confederate trials. It is expected that all their big guns will be taking the field on Saturday, against an unknown Knight’s outfit.

Again Panthers have been consistent throughout the season with core of their playing group coming out of the Gurias development program.

The Tigers held off the Bears 22-18 in a hard-fought grand final match.

Matthew Church, who was the Coach for SP PNG Hunters from 2020 – 2022, steered the Brisbane Tigers to premiership glory in his first year at the club.

Tigers registered first on the scoreboard through Prop Tristan Powell 12 minutes into the game and Tigers took the early lead with a successful conversion. However, the lead was short-lived when the Bears Tony Francis crossed the line twice to give his side a lead 8 – 6 with missed conversions.

The Crusaders haven't won a grand final match since joining the competition, but this afternoon they set history for the club after defeating favourites Harlequins.  

The 23-10 victory over Harlequins in the A Grade division was a dream come true for Crusaders.

The Crusaders started their match trailing behind the high flying Harlequins who fielded the best team to win the final.

The match looked certain to be over with the early lead by the Credit Corporation Harlequins who had three teams secured the Grand Final Bert. 

Ned Carrick will referee the Premier Grade match between Kramer Ausenco Brothers and defending premiers Credit Corporation Harlequin. Jess Craig takes charge of the Women’s clash between reigning premiers Harlequins and Juggernauts.

Carrick is no stranger to the country having been here for work with the Port Moresby General Hospital and PNG Sustainable Development Program.

He said coming to PNG as a rugby referee is a first time thing and he expects to meet some familiar faces at the NFS on game day.

The main event in the A grade between Pawa and United Brothers is shaping to be a blockbuster with the Brethren after disposing off Gazelle last week look set to give minor premiers Pawa a good run for the money when they hit the diamond on Sunday.

Pawa coming off a bye last week have had a solid season and taking out the minor premiership honors. They have been very consistent all facets of their game, in terms of batting and fielding but that will be put the test when they face the might of Brothers who are in equally good form and ready for the big showdown.

The team is:
Goalkeeper: Faith Kasiray  
Defenders: Margaret Joseph   Lucy Maino, Olivia Upaupa, Lavina Hola 
Midfield: Rayleen Bauelua, Rumona Morris, Ramona Padio  
Forwards: Marie Kaipu, Meagan Gunemba, Charlie Yanding 

Assistant coach Percy Mataio said the coaching has confidence in the team that should give us something to proud of.