Valley Hunters dominate Harlequins, booking CRU Grand Final spot

The Pepsi Capital Rugby Union (CRU) reigning champions, SWG TSI Valley Hunters, secured their place in the Grand Final following a dominant 24-7 victory over the Supreme Industries Harlequins in the Men’s Premier Grade Semi-final fixture on Saturday, August 23rd, 2025, at Bava Park. 

In a high-stakes clash, this match was set up to go down to the wire. However, the Valley Hunters put their feet down in the 80-minute contest to advance to the decider, while the Harlequins have a chance to redeem themselves against the Kramer APAC Brothers in the preliminary final.

The title holders went on a fiery start, scoring the first 5-pointer in the 4th minute, but failed to convert the try, taking a 5-0 lead. Ten minutes later, the Valley Hunters got a penalty and opted for a conversion, extending their lead to 8-0. The match turned into a slugfest contest following the penalty goal, leaving the half-time score at 8-0. 

In the second spell, after 10 minutes of fighting for ball possession and territorial play, the Valley men registered an unconverted try in the 49th minute and continued their try-scoring streak in the 73rd minute, increasing the lead to 21-0. 

However, the Harlies scored a consolation try in the 77th minute to give themselves a fighting chance, but the Hunters iced the game with a penalty goal, securing their spot in the big dance with a 24-7 win.

Valley Hunters’ coach, Frank Genia, was impressed with his men’s phenomenal performance, attributing the commanding victory over the Harlies to their consistency and work ethic, which the club had prided itself on the entire season. 

“I’m really happy for the men. They’ve worked hard. We’ve been tested a lot this year, but to make it to the grand final is both relieving and exciting,” coach Genia said.

The defending premiership coach highlighted the club’s preparation for this season, stating: “We set out a plan during the off-season in 2024. We have slowly built and progressed. We knew there would be challenges.

“But overall, I’m really happy with the team and the club’s overall progress. We’ve set up a good system and we are seeing some good progress across all grades at the club.” 

Genia added that there is room for improvement ahead of the decider, saying: “We need to tweak a few areas in our set piece, but overall, it’s more about mindset and clarity for the players.

“I think more importantly, we will just enjoy the win leading up to the grand final. We will enjoy the preparations during the week and look forward to the final.” 

Asked if the Valley Hunters had what it takes to retain the title, Genia responded: “We have earned the opportunity to compete for the 2025 final. That is our focus and we will prepare accordingly.”

The SWG TSI-sponsored club had a stellar season, maintaining the position on top of the ladder from round 1 until the conclusion of the regular season and walking away with the minor premiership. They now aim to stake their claim on the elusive silverware and go back-to-back for the first time in the club’s history.