The inaugural Representative Round of ‘Vodafone Friday Night Footy’ of the Pepsi Moni Plus Capital Rugby Union on August 9th, 2024, at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby, saw the Kramer Ausenco Brothers flex their muscles to down the Fincorp University Piggies with a 32-15 win in front of a healthy rugby union crowd.
With their rivalry dating back to the early 1960s, the anticipated match of round 16 lived up to its billing, as both teams emptied their tanks and left everything on the pitch in the opening minutes. The intensity and physicality of the brutal hits was felt on the stands.
The Brothers opened the scoreline with a 3-point penalty goal from fly-half Jonah Kautu’s boot. A few minutes later, the Piggies returned the favor and scored in the corner. The men in black responded with a 5-pointer and scored again in the ensuing set to take a 13-5 lead at half time.
Just like what they did in the first half, the Fincorp-sponsored Piggies bagged the first try in the second spell. The CRU reigning premiers (Brothers) pounced back to keep the game alive. The determined Piggies responded with a five-pointer. The seesawing affair continued until the experienced brethren posted three more tries to seal the deal.
Coach Joe Kautu expected the match to be more physical, knowing that the Piggies would put up a spirited fight in attempting to reclaim the historic cup, but the Brothers did well to counter their rivals in the blockbusting showdown.
“Our preparation was on point. We have prepared well for this match, so we deserve to win this game and defend our title. I’m very proud of the boys,” coach Kautu said.
He mentioned that the club was commemorating its 50th anniversary, so it was a special milestone achievement for the Brothers to defend the Aduni Cup.
“This year is extra special as we (Brothers) celebrate 50 years since breaking away from the University Piggies in 1974,” Kautu added.
“It means a lot to the club, especially to the old boys (pioneers of the club). For us, we are only the custodians. We are here to maintain the legacy and retain the cup.”
Kautu also extends his word of thanks to the naming rights sponsor, the Kramer Ausenco company, for backing the team over the years, as well as crediting the players for the job well-done, and gave a shout out to the loyal fans, who stood with the club through thick and thin.
As the regular season draws to a close, the Brothers now focus on winning the remaining games and look forward to the playoffs.
Meanwhile, in the curtain-raiser match, the Henanamos were ruthless, thumping the Magias with a convincing 22-5 victory.
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