UniTech Reds run rampage in the U20 Division of Firelight 7s Leg 3

The 2024 inaugural Firelight 7s U20 Division Champions, UniTech Reds, put the tournament on notice during the opening day of the three-day competition yesterday (12th December 2025) at Bava Park, Port Moresby. 

The U20 defending premiers came firing with all guns blazing during the Firelights 7s Leg 3 opener, registering two comprehensive victories against the Flying Fox and Newtown Chiefs, but drew with Hox Villa. 

UniTech Reds’ coach John Milba said he was pleased with the team’s performance, but cautioned that they would not get ahead of themselves as their job isn’t done yet. 

“We are just using the approach of taking one game at a time. Because of the simple approach that we are using, the boys have performed well and remained undefeated in their pool,” Milba stated.

“We are confident but not underestimating other teams. We will play our simple game and stick to our process. We’ve completed the round-robin games this afternoon and look forward to the finals tomorrow (today).”

Coach Milba added that his boys were executing the game plan well. However, he wanted them to tidy up their defence and be better in the finals. 

The U20 reigning premiers will meet the Taikone Davaras in the Cup Quarterfinals today (13th December) and hope to reach their second straight grand final.  

The team features the University of Technology (UniTech) staff's children, including the kids from the surrounding communities, such as East Taraka, West Taraka, Labi Police Barracks, and Tenth City. 

Most of the players who have won the title last year have moved to the senior division, except for three players who are still under the age of 20, guiding the newcomers and aiming to go back-to-back. 

In addition, the open men’s and women’s games will kick off today, with the finals to be hosted tomorrow. With a huge prize money on offer, 48 teams in both men’s and women’s divisions are setting their sights not only for the title but the cash prize as well.