The determined SWG Enterprise Valley Hunters snapped a sixteen-year premiership drought and claimed their first trophy following a gritty 28-21 victory over the fast-finishing Kramer Ausenco Brothers in the 2024 Pepsi Moni Plus Capital Rugby Union Premier Grade Grand Final on Saturday, September 21st, at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.
Since joining the competition in 2008, the Hunters never made it to the grand final, let alone win any premiership. Securing the hated wooden spoon in 2023 and flipping the script in 2024 to clinch the prized silverware has been a remarkable season for the Hunters. Against all odds, the new look valley men rose to the occasion and stamped their authority, capping off their incredible 2024 season with a premiership bang.
In a high stakes game for both teams, everyone anticipated a very tough and physical battle in the early proceedings. Surprisingly, the Hunters ran havoc during the match, scoring three unanswered tries to shock the Brothers. The men in black were on the back foot for almost 30 minutes. However, with a little bit of possession, the Brothers crossed over the line and trailed behind the Hunters with a 22-7 points at the break.
The battled-hardened Brothers used their experience and exerted their dominance in the second spell. Despite having a lion's share of possession and field territory, the Hunters’ impregnable defence kept the Brothers at bay. Through relentless offense, the Kramer Ausenco-sponsored side scored their second try to narrow the margin. The Hunters returned the favor a few minutes later and the Brothers scored a consolation try, ending the decider in a thrilling 28-21 points grandstand finish.
The Hunters not only made history for the struggling club to win their first premiership, but they also spoiled the Brothers’ 50th anniversary and stole the limelight. It was a double blow for the seasoned campaigners (Brothers) in their historic year, who were shattered and humbled by the resurgent Hunters. The Valley Hunters have had a fairytale run in the 2024 CRU campaign, finishing off the season on a positive note.
Frank Genia, who took the coaching role for the hapless Hunters, turned the fortunes of the languishing club around in his rookie season. Not only did the Hunters win their first premiership, but Genia also clinched his first title as a coach. It was a sweet premiership story for Genia and the Hunters.
“It was really good. I was pleased with the first half performance. We set ourselves up and executed our game plan really well. We put pressure on them (Brothers), which resulted in a few opportunities and we were able to convert them into points,” coach Genia said.
“We knew the Brothers were going to come back strong in the second half, which they did but we maintained pressure and held our line as long as we could. They scored two tries and we got a penalty to ice the game. The rest is history.”
Genia mentioned that without the undivided support from the club founders, sponsors, and loyal fans, the team couldn't make it this far. He thanked everyone for their unwavering support over the years. Their patience and support has paid off dividends with a historic first-ever premiership trophy.
“As a coach, I put in a lot of work and time into planning and trying to know the players. Basically, just trying to do what’s best for the players and the club. It’s very rewarding when the planning comes together,” Genia said.
“Shout out to Puipui (club founder), the president of the club, including Max Katal, and other founding members of this club, as well as the fans. I’m really happy that they are enjoying this moment.”
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