2 weeks Ago By postcourieronline
AFTER an inspiring semi-final victory on Sunday, the Nigibada Rhinos U20 rugby league team is gearing up for their first-ever grand final in the Port Moresby Suburban Rugby League. The team, drawn from the heart of Gerehu communities like Baruni Dump, Rainbow, NRI, and Yu-mi Yet, have captured the imagination of their supporters and now stands on the brink of history. In reflecting on their 8-2 semi-final victory over Kesu Black Spiders, club president Michael Francis Konduagle attributes their success to self-belief and discipline on the field.
“Our boys put up strong defence and completed their sets, which really helped secure the win. We told them to play their usual footy and believe in themselves,” he said. The team’s ability to maintain focus under pressure proved pivotal as they outplayed their oppo-nents to earn their spot in the final.
A standout feature of the Rhinos’ game plan has been their integration of U17 players into the side, with these young guns seamlessly slotting into the senior team. Although Konduagle is tight-lipped about naming individual players, he hints that the entire squad played their roles to perfection and will be crucial again in the grand final. The Rhinos are entering the final with their fitness at peak levels, a testament to the long season they’ve endured.
“We’re focused on keeping the boys mentally prepared through bonding sessions and speeches. We want them to go into the final playing simple, pressure-free footy,” he said. When it comes to tactics, the Rhinos are confident in their style of play, planning only minimal ad-justments to keep their team comfortable on the field.
While they acknowledge the threat posed by their opponents, June Valley Tigers, they believe their mix of basics and intensity will be enough to handle whatever the other team throws at them. The mood in the Rhinos’ camp is electric, but there’s no room for complacency. “It’s unbelievable for the boys to be playing in their first-ever grand final, but there’s no celebra-tion yet.
We still have the most important game ahead of us,” said Konduagle. The club knows all too well that the grand final is the true test of their season’s hard work and ded-ication. With no injury concerns, a full-strength team, and unwavering support, they are ready to charge into battle and claim their place as the 2024 U20 champions.
It’s set to be a monumental clash, and whether the Nigibada Rhinos lift the trophy or not, they’ve already made their mark in their debut season. Their grand final message echoes beyond the field, says Konduagle: “Let’s play true rugby league and show true sportsmanship. May the best team win.
” The Rhino’s will take on June Valley Tigers in the grand final at a date to be confirmed by POMSRL officials..
