The stage is set for the Semi-finals of the Honiara Rugby Union Association (HRUA) 2025 Men’s 15s Premier Championship, with two blockbuster clashes scheduled for Thursday, 21 August, and Friday, 22 August, at the Town Ground Rugby Stadium.
Defending champions Avaiki Rugby Club (RC) will open proceedings on Thursday at 4pm when they face a determined Tavuli Giants RC.
Avaiki underlined their status as tournament favourites with a commanding 79-17 quarter-final victory over Sosa RC.
For Tavuli Giants, this marks a historic first appearance in the semi-finals. The Giants booked their place after edging Matangiki 19-8 and will be aiming to continue their fairytale run by upsetting the reigning champions.
Friday’s showdown promises equal excitement as last year’s runners-up, Henderson Hammerheads RC, lock horns with a new looked Usotasi side led by former Fiji 7s superstar William Ryder.
Hammerheads were the first to confirm their spot in the final four with a convincing 22-11 triumph over a strong Islanders RC outfit.
Meanwhile, Usotasi secured the last semi-final berth in dramatic fashion, edging Diesel Power RC 30-29 in a nail biter.
With two high stakes clashes waiting, excitement is building across Honiara as fans gear up to witness who will advance to this year’s grand final.
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
Photo caption: Action of a recent rugby match. Photo Credit Aelanlife @ Facebook
