CRU SET FOR FINALS SHOWDOWN
AFTER a grueling season, the CRU has finally reached the pinnacle of its 15-aside rugby competitions. The finals series for both the men’s and women’s competitions will commence this weekend with the Minor (elimination) and Major Semi-finals for Pepsi CRU Men’s competition to be played on Saturday 31 August at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium; and the Niupower CRUW’s Minor (Elimination) and Major Semi-Final to be played on Sunday 01 September at POMIS.
Following this weekend’s Semi-Finals, the Preliminary Final and Grand Final for both competitions will be played on Sunday 08 September and Saturday 14th September respectively.
In the Men’s Competition the epic encounters continue between Kramer Ausenco Brothers and Harlequins who have featured prominently throughout the season with Harlequins gaining the upper hand and running out as 2024 minor premiers; while Brothers, facing a more challenging campaign, held on to second place through grit and determination.
The surprise packages of the season were SWG Valley Hunters and Theodist MBB Marlins. Both teams caused some major upsets toppling the likes of Harlequins, Brothers and University. Unfortunately for the Theodist MBB Marlins, Fincorp University pipped them for 4th position, while the much-improved SWG Valley Hunters comfortably secured 3rd position on the points table.
This weekend’s semi-finals will be evenly fought contests in both games. In the Major Semi Final Harlequins look the stronger and will take on a Kramer Ausenco Brothers outfit determined to secure a spot in the grand final to commemorate the club’s 50th anniversary celebrations. While in the Minor Semi Final SWG Valley Hunters may have too much firepower against a young Fincorp University side that has shown glimpses of what they are capable of. All in all a fiery weekend of tough skillful rugby will be on show in all grades this weekend.