Harlequins eliminate Marlins

Harlequins eliminated the Theodist MBB Marlins with a 36-17 win in the Pepsi Capital Rugby Union (CRU) Men’s Premier Grade Elimination Final on Saturday, 19 September 2026, at Bava Park.

The jokers put on a try-scoring blitz in the first half, crossing over the line three times with one successful conversion. The Gerehu men scored a solo try, trailing the Harlequins by 17-5 at the break.

At the resumption, both teams scored two tries each with one conversion apiece. The jesters of Bava Park dug deep to defend their lead and shattered the fast-finishing Marlins.

Coach Billy Rapilla explained that it was a tough match, noting that they’ve worked hard to stop the Marlins' attack.

“It was a gutsy finish for us. It was 17-17, and we started panicking, but the boys held on,” Rapilla said.   

“We actually talked about it and practiced to a certain extent to counter their fast game, and I’m thankful that in certain parts of it, we did well. 

“However, the result could’ve gone either way when we were 17-17, but I’m thankful that we stuck to our process and the boys really dug deep, so that was good for us.”  

Coach Rapilla praised the Marlins’ resilience: “Full credit to them. The Marlins are an exciting team. They are hard to stop when they get into their mood.” 

With a blockbusting preliminary final against the Brothers this weekend, coach Rapilla admitted that the Harlequins needed to be in their best element. 

“Big improvement needs to be done in the scrum and set piece, and then countering their big forwards, which is not going to be an easy thing,” he said.

“They are an experienced side, and they showed that against the Valley Hunters. We have to come up with a better plan to counter them. It’s going to be tough, but we’ll turn up.”