The Creek Rhinos smashed the Gerehu Natives with a convincing victory of 19-5 in the Cup decider of the inaugural Niu Power Gerehu Firelight 7s to claim the tournament on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at Sir John Guise Stadium.
Led by skipper Blake Mindipi, complemented by speedsters Bartholomeow Evi and Douglas Pirika, the Rhinos kept the opposition at bay with their blistering pace, leaving the Natives gasping for air and blowing them off the park.
Although most of the players have a background in rugby league, except Mindipi, they quickly adjusted their style of playing and learned the basics of rugby union, defying the odds and stealing the spotlight.
The Rhinos have flexed their championship credentials in the Gerehu Firelight 7s tournament, exerting their dominance and clinching the prized silverware. They also won the first and second legs of the tourney last month, making a whitewash in the three-leg series.
An elated captain Blake Mindipi admitted that despite playing with league-dominated players, the boys adhered to the basics and executed their game plan to perfection, ultimately walking away with the coveted trophy.
“Firstly, I would like to give thanks to the Lord for leading us throughout the tournament. It was tough for us because most of the boys came through rugby league. It was a challenge for us but we got through it,” Mindipi revealed.
“I hope it was a lesson for them that they could learn the rules more and come back better next tournament. My message to the players is to believe in themselves.
“Being league boys to play union was tough but every time we had our training, I told them to do the basics and keep believing in themselves. What we showed here was unbelievable.”
Mindipi also thanked coach Terrance John for his mentorship and guidance, including the sponsors Don Pio and Andrew Evi, as well as the fans for their loyal support throughout the tournament.
Interestingly, the same lot of boys represented the Ave Rugby League Club and went to Alotau last month to participate in the Hidomo 9s and claimed the tournament, as well as winning the Southern 9s, and snatching the Gerehu Firelight 7s puts the icing on the cake on their successful off-season campaigns.
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