Valley Hunters, Brothers set to face off in CRU Decider

The battle lines have been drawn in the Pepsi Capital Rugby Union (CRU) Premier Men's Grade when the SWG TSI Valley Hunters lock horns with the Kramer APAC Brothers to fight for the bragging rights on Saturday, September 6th, 2025, at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. 

The Valley Hunters and Brothers met in the grand final last year, and the Frank Genia-coached men went on to claim their maiden premiership title after 16 years. The Valley Hunters have made their second straight grand final, while the Brothers have booked their ninth consecutive decider. 

The SWG TSI-backed club imposed their presence this season, maintaining the top spot from the opening round until the finals, and ultimately reached the big dance. They were unstoppable in the first 10 rounds but slumped in form and picked up their rhythm again to flex their premiership pedigree. 

On the flip side, the brethren had an inconsistent season but peaked towards the pointy end of the regular season, winning two crucial sudden-death elimination matches against the Theodist MBB Marlins and Supreme Industries Harlequins to secure a spot on the biggest stage.

Valley Hunters coach Frank Genia mentioned that the atmosphere in the camp had been great, where the players are working on fine-tuning their attack and defence, and building team spirit and combination. 

“The boys enjoy coming to training, they enjoy the club, and they enjoy each other’s company. When you have an environment that is conducive to learning and the players are enjoying themselves, it makes my job easier,” Genia said.

“We did something special last year (winning the premiership), but we never mentioned back-to-back this year, let alone make the grand final. Now that we are here, we are just enjoying it. 2024 is at the back, the 2025 title is up for grabs.”

Valley Hunters vice captain Kenneth Kula said their preparations had been relaxed and calm, with the players taking one session at a time as they anticipate meeting the formidable Brothers in the big dance. 

Brothers captain Mitch Jonah noted that the departure of a few players earlier this year to overseas stints had affected the performance of the club, but they defied all odds and made it to the grand final.

“Our preparations have been good so far. Due to 9 of our players moving out to Australia, some of our boys in the junior grades pushed for their place in the premier team and stepped up,” Jonah said.

“When we came into the finals series, the boys dug deep and we came out victorious in the last two games against the Marlins and Harlequins. We are fortunate to play again in the grand final. It’s a good feeling, and we are looking forward to the challenge against the Valley Hunters.”

Additionally, the men’s A Grade, U23 and U20 Divisions, including the Open Women’s and U20 girls, will also host their grand finals alongside the Premier Grade this Saturday.  

CRU General Manager Eddie Galele acknowledged the major sponsors of both the men’s and women’s competitions, Pepsi and NiuPower, including Moni Plus, and other minor sponsors for their support this season. 

Mr. Galele also extended his congratulations to the teams who made it to the finals and wished them well on the weekend.