Matangiki rugby team has once again been crowned the 2015 Honiara Rugby Union Association (HRUA) league champions.
This came after they defeated a strong Luapel side 15-8 yesterday at the Panatina rugby pitch.
It was Luapel who started off with three points on the score sheet from an early penalty which Beach Soccer sensation, McPhilip Aisa successfully converted.
Then Matangiki hit back just minutes later following several attempts with more pressure and paid off with the first try of the match by Golden Kiloko, but with a failed conversion.
The lead was extended shortly afterwards with their second try by Moses Singamoana, this time with a successful conversion to make it 12-3 by half half time.
The second half was an equally fought battle both teams experiencing the mounting pressure as the time ticks slowly to the end.
Matangiki only managed a penalty and Luapel a try but without a successful conversion.
Luapel was searching for a second try which if had enough time would make some difference but all attempts came to a halt to the sound of the final whistle.
Matangiki’s Calvin Tengamoana said, it’s a great achievement for them to win this year’s title.
“It’s a big achievement for Matangiki since we managed to defend the title against a strong Luapel side.
“Big credit to our boys who have given their best today, our training and commitments towards our preparations paid off well.
“We would like to thank all the supporters and our communities who came out to throw support during the final,” he said.
Luapel coach Jophil Keuahu said, they deserve to lose because the Matangiki side is well organized and prepared for the final clash.
“Our boys started off pretty slow at the start and also I think the pressure of the game is also one contributing factor to our loss.
“We accept our defeat and congratulate Matangiki for their victory.
“We will come back for the challenge next year,” he said.
Following the victory members of the Matangiki paraded through the streets shouting and celebrating their win.
By CARLOS ARUAFU
