Harlequins beat Uni to make decider

By MARTHA DERUAGE
HARLEQUINS five-eighth Ishmael Indepine scored his side’s opening try and played a leading had in helping his side beat University 35-17 in the Capital Rugby Union premier grade preliminary final on Saturday at Bava Park.
The victory was important for Harlies, who had to come back from a mid-year from a slump.
They were also beaten by Uni in last year’s corresponding fixture last year — and the Piggies went on to win the title beating Brothers in the final.
University were first on the board off a penalty but Harequins drew level off the boot of Indepine for a 3-3 score midway through the half.
Indepine step through the line to score the first try of the match.
Winger Elton Una crossed for his side’s second and looked in control but the defending champions 3hit back through Solomon Unobo to trail 17-12 before Harlies added wo more five-pointers to take a commanding 27-12 to halftime.
The second half was a tighter affair with both sides only managing a try each.
Indepine described his try as a morale booster especially when playing finals against a team like University.
“Finals are crucial moments and for me to score the opening try was pretty exciting,” Indepine said.
“It definitely gave me hope that we could beat them. We still have a big game ahead next week so hopefully it turns out well for us.”
Harlequins coach Billy Rapilla said the win had meant a lot to the club.
On Saturday, Harlequins will meet Brothers in the grand final.