PC Ravens return to the 7s arena with a statement

The Sports Tok 7s back-to-back (2019-2020) champions, Papuan Compound Ravens, made their return to the seven-a-side event and lit up the 2025 Firelight 7s tournament that was hosted in Port Moresby from December 12-14 at Bava Park. 

After two years of non-participation in the 7s tournament, the Ravens came with a renewed energy and put their feet down, winning three round-robin games and reaching the Cup final, but fell short to Port Moresby’s La Sallians from Eight Mile. 

The former champions, led by veterans Max Vali and Francis Luveni, who are the only remaining players from the 2019-2020 championship success at the Sports Tok 7s, steered the young side and flexed their muscles, but the resilient La Sallians upset them in the decider.

Despite the result, the PC Ravens’ coach Armstrong Dickson noted that his men had a solid campaign and ended the Firelight 7s tournament with their heads held high, anticipating next year’s event.

“The final leg of the Firelight 7s is really good. We haven’t played any 7s tournament for two years, so it’s good to be back. It wasn’t the result we wanted, but to come back and make it all the way to the cup final was pleasing,” he stated.

Coach Dickson heaped praise on captain Vali and Luveni’s leadership, adding: “I’m glad that we still have the services of our veteran players like Max Vali and Francis Luveni, who were leading and guiding the young boys on the field.

“That’s what it's all about - having experienced players lead the way, setting good examples, and being good role models on and off the field. Their experience really helped boost our campaign, and we look forward to being better next year.”

The Morobean powerhouse 7s team are now setting their sights on competing in the annual premier NiuPower Sports Tok 7s ninth edition, slated for April next year during the long Easter weekend in the nation’s capital.