University Pirates and Darwin Dragons to clash off in 2025 Darwin Rugby Union grand finals
University Pirates and Darwin Dragons will clash in two top shelf senior Darwin rugby grand finals with unbeaten seasons set to be tested. Here’s what you need to know and who’s expected to stand out.
The stage is set for a thrilling day of Darwin Rugby Union action with reigning premiers targeting new trophies while new champions are set to be crowned.
The University Pirates have the early favouritism in both the men’s A-Grade and B-Grade, undefeated in both divisions, with the Darwin Dragons and Palmerston Crocs their respective final foes.
It’s been a season to remember for the Pirates’ A-grade side seeing off all comers and pulling out a regular season point difference of 329.
Their momentum did not slow come finals time with their semi-final defeat to the tune of 52-18 a real statement of intent ahead of their Saturday grand final from 7.30pm.
Stylianos Vrontos had two tries to his name to add to what has been a sensational season on the scoring front, while skipper and playmaker Robbie Butcher was as pivotal as ever.
Asiveli Rauga will be another to look out for on the try scoring front while the Pirates’ forward will relish the challenge of next foes Darwin Dragons.
Some of the Pirates’ closest matches have come against the Dragons this season, and the Darwin side fought its way into the big one after a tough 20-14 battle against South Darwin.
Jefica Kolinisau scored a brace in that match while the likes of Drew Tobin and Thomas Gunn are known experienced campaigners.
The Dragons forwards are always well up for the challenge too, with Hirini Murfitt leading the bunch and someone who can carry hard and tackle hard.
It’s the same match-up of clubs in the women’s final with the Dragons the unbeaten side this time, hunting back-to-back titles after seeing off Casuarina 27-5 in the semi-final.
Captain Ayla Murfitt scored a brace in that match and Keisha Humes did too, while there’s plenty more known talents across the squad.
Ellie Niki, Jacinda Summers, Cassiela Wapau and Zoe Kurnoth are other players with plenty of sporting success in recent times and have the want for more.
Pirates fought their own way into the final with a 21-0 defeat of Palmerston with tries to Mere Rasaku, Mele Tipou and Charlotte Elcoate.
Paige McCourt and Teka Voysey are others who have enjoyed great seasons and will be calling the shots when they get their chance against the Dragons.
Pirates will take on Palmerston in the men’s B-Grade and are favoured to win with their unbeaten run while unfortunately Crocs legend Dennis Bree will miss out with interstate commitments.
And the Swampdogs will face the Darwin Dragons in the under-17s boys final after beating Palmerston 22-0, with that match set to start the action from 2.15pm.
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Originally published as University Pirates and Darwin Dragons to clash off in 2025 Darwin Rugby Union grand finals
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