Novettes, Juggernauts chase U20 Women's inaugural title

The Pepsi Capital Rugby Union (CRU) will host its first-ever NiuPower Capital Rugby Union Women’s (CRUW) U20 Grand Final on Saturday, September 6th, 2025, at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. 

After a successful introduction of the standalone CRUW competition last year, the FinCorp University Piggies went on to claim the inaugural title following their victory over the Supreme Industries Harlequins. 

The U20 Women’s category was introduced this year, which will see the Chemcare Juggernauts go head-to-head with the Moni Plus Novettes in the decider, as the two teams chase history to become the inaugural champions. 

Novettes’ coach Lynnette Davani said the girls are pumped and relaxed, working on their combination and game plan, while admitting that the Juggernauts would come hard, so they need to prepare well.  

“The girls are all excited and look forward to this weekend’s game against the Juggernauts. The girls know that Juggernauts are one of the strong teams and they are going to come hard, but we have to prepare for the challenge,” Davani said. 

“Most of the girls are new to the game, except a couple of them have played in the open women’s. It’s very hard to coach them, but I think they taught me how to be patient and stick to the process.”

Captain Chantelle Yariyari added: “I believe we will play our best, and all the hard work that we put in throughout the season will pay off. I believe in my teammates to give their best this weekend against the Juggernauts.”

Juggernauts’ captain Maryanne Philemon said they are ready to meet the Novettes, stating: “We are so happy but nervous as well because this is our first time to play in the grand final. We know the Novettes will come hard, but we are prepared and looking forward to it.”

With the first-ever U20 women’s premiership title on the line, both teams are stoked to entertain the fans and display their rugby skills, while staking their claim for the historic trophy this weekend.