Underdogs Kipamanu stun defending champions to book grand final spot in TRL

Kipamanu club pulled off a major upset on Saturday, toppling reigning Tauruba Rugby League champions Lamana Eels 11-8 to secure a place in the grand final against Moragani.

The underdogs, who had carried little expectation throughout the finals series, produced a spirited and skillful performance that left the Tauruba crowd in celebration.

Captain Timothy Kalo led from the front, with halfback Ame Guns and hooker Vicky Kila combining well to set up star winger Aquila Araga for a crucial try. In-form centre Greg Solo added to the momentum with sharp attacking plays and a decisive 30-metre field goal that saw Kipamanu lead 9-8 at halftime.

The forwards pack of Mako Malaga, Junior Vanua and Kwalimu Lala laid the platform with their hard running, while Junior Wabuli stood out in defence.

The win stunned a star-studded Lamana Eels outfit that featured big names such as Bobby Koim, Anthony Gumu, Solomon Dou, Taguma Araga and Riwalo Ripsy.Coach Lega Renagi praised his players for rising to the occasion.

“My team was underestimated, but they proved everyone wrong,” Renagi said.He credited the victory to teamwork and discipline, saying the players stuck to the game plan despite the pressure of facing the five-time champions.

“We knew we had nothing to lose. I told the boys to trust each other, play with heart, and keep their focus. They did exactly that and it showed in the result,” he added.Renagi also highlighted the importance of belief, noting that the underdog tag only motivated his players further.

“Everyone wrote us off, but the boys never stopped believing. This win is for our community and for the young players coming through to show them that hard work and discipline can achieve anything.”

Looking ahead to the grand final against competition newcomers Moragani, Renagi said Kipamanu would not take their opponents lightly.

“We’ve come this far because of hard work, and we know Moragani will be hungry too. We’ll go back, recover, and prepare well for what will be another tough battle,” he said.

Kipamanu will now face Moragani in what promises to be an epic grand final showdown next week.