VALLEY HUNTERS FAIRYTALE FINALS RUN CONTINUES

By Nigel Mado

Sheer determination & relentless perseverance! That was on display during the Minor Semi-final match yesterday by a team that may well be a serious contender for the Capital Rugby Union premiership this year, the SWG Enterprise Valley Hunters.

At the helm of the ship this year, taking over from former coach Max Katal, former PNG Pukpuk Frank Genia has managed to take the Hunters from finishing off last on the ladder last year, to cracking the finals for the first time in the team’s history.

After dispatching the Fincorp University Piggies in the Minor Semi-Final, 18-15. They have set up a date with Billy Rapilla’s Harlequins, who went down to the defending premiers, the Kramer Ausenco Brothers in the Major semi-final.

Coach Frank Genia earlier this week, when speaking to media, mentioned that this is an exciting time for the Valley Hunters club, especially this playing group, whose dedication and commitment has brought them this far, describing themselves as the new “Kids on the Block” in Finals Rugby whist enjoying the ride.

Another interesting thing to note would be the development of a working partnership between both Co-captains, Jedediah Katal and Jonah Tokiong in the backline and their vice-captains in both Jasiel Titto and Jordan Seladi, all seasoned leaders.

Chalapan Pomat and Patrick O’Leary have also been pivotal in the forward pack for the hunters, and a fiery Sawi Sukumbal and Ishmael Sabata providing a lot of depth and options for an already formidable side.

The SWG Valley Hunters capped off the season proper round in the 3rd position on 54 points with 11 victories, 3 draws and two losses.

Picture Courtesy: Valley Hunters RUFC