Harlequins hold off MBB Marlins in CRU Premier Grade blockbuster

The Supreme Industries Harlequins shrugged off the fast-finishing Theodist MBB Marlins with an 18-10 victory in round 17 of the Pepsi Capital Rugby Union (CRU) Premier Grade main fixture on Saturday, August 9th, 2025, at Bava Park.

This match was the clash of a top-2 spot, with the MBB Marlins sitting in the second spot and the Harlequins closing in on the third position.

After 12 minutes of massive hits and bone-crushing tackles, the Harlequins used their behemoth forward pack to score the first five-pointer in the corner, with an unsuccessful conversion, taking a 5-0 lead.

The Harlies scored an unconverted try again in the 17th minute through a well-executed set piece and extended their lead to 10-0. 

With a little bit of field position and territorial play, the MBB Marlins made use of that momentum to score their first try in the 31st minute, narrowing the margin to 10-5 at half-time.

In the 58th minute of the second half, the Harlequins got a penalty inside the 20-meter line of the Marlins’ red zone, and they opted for a 3-point conversion and scored again in the 65th minute, increasing their lead to 18-5.

The Marlins responded with a consolation try in the 72nd minute and tried to make a comeback to stun the Harlies, but the jesters of Bava Park defended their line to shut down the fast-finishing men from Gerehu. 

With only one round remaining before the regular season ends, the men's premier grade has hit overdrive as the teams fight to secure their spots in the playoffs next weekend.