AS first-timers in the UPNG Rugby Football League (UPNGRFL), Strategic Management (SM) Titans from the School of Business and Public Policy shocked everyone at the Vice Chancellor’s Oval when they emerged victorious and took out the inaugural UPNG SRC Easter 9s trophy.
SM Titans is one of the three new teams that took part in the SRC 9s Tournament alongside Norths Panga and Eco Mioks over the Easter weekend.
After four consecutive days of thrilling Rugby 9s showdown at the VC Oval, SM Titans came out victorious as the SRC Easter 9s Cup Champions after defeating SNPS Spartans in a grand final thriller.
The SHSS Souths Arts Warriors also claimed the bowl after being defeated by SNPS in the Cup’s grand final qualifier.
The tournament was proudly sponsored by Finance Minister Reinbo Paita as part of his commitment in giving back to the UPNG Rugby League Community as a former UPNG SRC President.
Minister Paita is not new in supporting Rugby League games in UPNG as he was the major sponsor and a driving force towards successful Vice Chancellor’s cup campaign for the UPNG Pythons and Blacks in Goroka last year.
Paita who graced VC Oval with his presence said he’s always around supporting sports because he wants to see young men and women excel in sports as well as education.
He watched all the finals games and presented all the awards after the grand final match.
UPNG SRC President Joel Rimbu thanked Minister Paita for his presence and he’s hoping for a better year for UPNG under Paita’s leadership and guidance.
SHSS Souths Arts Warriors on the other hand claimed the bowl award after defeating SBA West Eagles 38 points to 14 in an entertaining grand final match.
Preseason and normal rounds of the UPNGRFL is set to kick off any time when the UPNGRFL President is identified and elected.
