1RPIR CROWNED PENNANT CHAMPS AS THEY THUMP ATW
BY NIGEL MADO
THE First Royal Pacific Islands Regiment (1RPIR) Diggers have been crowned the 2026 PNG Defence Force Pennant Champions, in the 2026 Commanders Cup tournament, defeating the Air Transport Wing (ATW) Eagles 24-15 in a thrilling final yesterday morning at Murray Barracks.
The final, produced a tightly contested battle, with both teams trading attacking blows throughout the match.
The ATW Eagles made the stronger start, scoring the opening try before the Diggers responded to keep the contest close.
The Diggers held a narrow 12 to 17 setting up a tense second half as both sides returned strongly after the break.
The Eagles continued to challenge the Diggers, but 1RPIR maintained their composure and eventually pulled away to secure the win, while the ATW Eagles finish as runners-up after a strong campaign.
