22/08/2024
Pawa Pilai Power Rankings: Round 17- Harlies Riot, as Crusaders spoil Nova's form, Wanderers concede Seventy
A weekend of twists, turns, and upsets has shaken up the Pawa Pilai standings. The Valley Hunters and Brothers played out a thrilling draw, while the Harlequins continued their march towards the minor premiership. Let's dive into the action.
1. Harlequins (1)
The Harlequins are on a roll. Their 78-5 demolition of the Wanderers was a statement of intent. They've been clinical in attack and relentless in defense. If they can maintain this level of performance, they'll be a force to be reckoned with in the playoffs.
2. Brothers (2)
A draw against the Valley Hunters might not seem like a major victory, but it shows the Brothers' resilience. They're a tough nut to crack, and they'll be a dangerous opponent for anyone who faces them in the playoffs. The big loss of men mountain in top try scoring prop Tony Sipa, George Wai, and aceman Emil Latumahina has surely dented the reigning champs' ambitions for another title.
3. Valley Hunters (3)
The Hunters' draw against the Brothers was a testament to their defensive prowess. They've been a revelation this season, and their clash against the Brothers was a classic battle of wills. During the start of the season, they had a big changeover of players coming into their ranks. They were tipped to improve, but they've walked over the park towards a finals campaign, and they're running red hot.
4. MBB Marlins (4)
The Marlins continue to defy expectations. Their victory over the University Piggies was another feather in their cap. They're a well-balanced side with a bright future. With the remaining game of the season, they'll need to win their last game and hope for the Piggies to have a shock loss to make the finals.
5. University Piggies (5)
The Piggies are a team in transition. They've shown glimpses of their former glory, but they've also struggled for consistency. They'll need to improve their defensive game if they want to challenge for a top-four finish. I think they will make the final four, with their last game of the season against a Wanderers outfit. They should win by plenty, and their back three is full of pace. They'd probably make the Boromas and Gaigais side in the end-of-year representative honors.
6. Crusaders (7)
The Crusaders are slowly but surely climbing the ladder. Their victory over Nova was a step in the right direction. They've got the talent to compete with the best, but they need to be more consistent. This side started the season on fire but lost their way a bit and won't be able to make the finals. Though good effort for an outstanding season.
7. Nova (6)
Nova's defeat to the Crusaders was a setback. They've been a competitive side, but they need to tighten up their defense if they want to make a serious run at the playoffs. They started the season with four successive defeats. I guess they're rebuilding for the future.
8. Juggernauts (8)
The Juggernauts had a week off, but they'll need to hit the ground running when they return to action. They've been struggling this season, but they have the potential to turn things around. But with a game remaining, they'll wait until next year, I guess.
9. Wanderers (9)
The Wanderers are still searching for their first win of the season. They've been outclassed by their opponents, and they'll need a miracle to avoid finishing at the bottom of the table, which is unlikely. They face a University Piggies side that will be playing for a spot in the top four. Previous Wanderers teams in the past have always given the Piggies side a good run, but they'll need a miracle.
PC: The National Pic
Best Port Moresby Rugby Union Page full of praises, rucks and mauls, feature stories and many more.
