The top of the table clash saw the Valley Hunters edge the fast-finishing Harlequins with an 18-15 win during the round 13 fixture of the Pepsi Moni Plus Capital Rugby Union (CRU) competition on Sunday, July 21st, 2024, at Bava Park in Port Moresby.
With the gallant triumph over the table toppers, the Valley Hunters have registered their sixth consecutive wins, while the Harlequins have tasted their second loss of the season but maintained their spot on top of the ladder.
The resurgent Valley Hunters dominated the formidable Harlequins outfit and held the competition leaders scoreless, leaving the half time score at 10-0.
However, the Harlies turned the screws on in the second spell and shifted the momentum in their favor. With a lion’s share of possession, they scored twice to scare the Valley men.
The Frank Genia-coached side held their resolve and competed courageously until the full time siren, scoring a final match-winner in the dying minutes to ice the game.
Coach Frank Genia attributed the Valley Hunters’ gutsy victory to their impregnable defence, which frustrated the Harlequins to come from behind and steal the game.
“Our defence was really good. Even though we had one player in the bin, the boys stuck together as a team and defended well. They pride themselves on their defence, understanding that defence wins games,” Genia stressed.
“The performance was good. If you saw the game, the boys had to work hard and dig deep. Our discipline wasn’t good at all, but we kept competing. The win was a good reward for the boys. They’ve been working hard in the last twelve weeks. It’s not easy to beat the Harlequins, but I’m pleased and happy for the boys.”
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