UniTech Reds Defend Pepsi Super 10s U20 Boys Title

Last year’s Pepsi Super 10s Under 20 Boys Champions, UniTech Reds, retained their crown after edging out the Irok Pirates Red with a gripping 7-5 win on Sunday, 15 March 2026, at Lae’s SCRUM Oval, Morobe Province. 

Being the reigning premiers in the U20 division, the expectation was on the UniTech Reds to deliver results. Sure enough, the red-hot Reds did not disappoint as they rose to the occasion and lived up to the hype, stamping their authority and defending their title.

The UniTech Reds won all their round-robin matches, maintaining their rhythm into the finals, ultimately beating the determined Irok Pirates in the decider to claim two consecutive Pepsi-sponsored Super 10s U20 Boys titles.

While the Open Men’s unfortunately missed out in the finals and finished 5th at the end of the round-robin games, the U20 boys performed exceptionally well to clinch the coveted title and made Taraka proud. 

Club official Russel Tarutia explained that the club’s preparation leading up to the tournament was great, especially the U20 boys, who participated in the Pilgrims Freshmen U20 7s tournament in February, which prepared them well for the Super 10s.

“Both Open Men's and U20s boys started training one month before the tournament. Our U20s took part in the Pilgrims Freshmen 7s tournament in February, so that got the boys together to train and lead on to the Super 10s,” Tarutia said.  

“Our open men’s team came 5th after the pool games. They lost their 1st game and won their second game, but missed out on a top-4 placing. They played well, but unfortunately, had only 2 games and essentially had to win both games to have had a chance to make the finals.”

Despite not putting a women’s team, he revealed that they are working to include them in the future: “Unfortunately, we couldn’t field a girls' team as we are still in the process of recruiting new girls to the club.”

Mr. Tarutia mentioned that winning consecutive titles wasn’t a fluke, describing that the players have worked hard and dedicated themselves to claim the bragging rights.

“The club is very proud of these boys. We have some new boys wearing the U20s Reds’ jersey this tournament (and some moved up to play in the Open Men's team),” he said.  

“It's satisfying to see them put in the work during training and then reap the rewards on the field. Nothing is by chance or luck; it's hard work and commitment to the cause, and they’ve shown to be consistent by winning back-to-back titles.”

Tarutia acknowledged the players, sponsors, their families, and the fans for their support during the two-day tournament hosted in Lae’s rugby union heartland.

“Special thank you to Pilgrims Investment Ltd for supporting and registering our Open Men’s team,” he shared. 

“Also, to all our supporters, family, and friends for coming out and cheering the boys on. We hope to have the same support throughout the year with our Morobe Rugby Union (MRU) 15s season coming up soon.”

The UniTech Reds now shift their focus to the 2026 MRU 15s season and look forward to becoming serious contenders to compete for the bigger title. 

PC: UniTech Reds