In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY — ‘Devastating’: Fijian Drua coach backs Moana Pasifika to stay in Super Rugby Pacific
2. RUGBY — Fiji 7s to honour Ratu Epeli
3. RUGBY — Fiji fired up for historic Hong Kong 7s
4. RUGBY — Fisher heads Fijiana with six in line for debut
5. RUGBY — Legge eyes sharper defence ahead of Tonga clash
6. FOOTBALL — South Melbourne FC hold on to see off Bula FC
7. RUGBY LEAGUE — Sport, community and the fight against violence
8. RUGBY LEAGUE — Respect over violence, says Aiton
9. FOOTBALL — Youthful New Caledonia score first goal outside of Oceania
10. FOOTBALL — Coaches Confident Ahead of OFC U-16 Women’s Championship 2026 – Qualifying in Port Moresby
PAC – RUGBY: PMN PACNEWS: Fri 17 Apr 2026
‘Devastating’: Fijian Drua coach backs Moana Pasifika to stay in Super Rugby Pacific
CANBERRA, 17 APRL 2026 (PMN)—Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson has described the news around Moana Pasifika as “devastating” saying the Pacific presence in Super Rugby Pacific is vital to the competition’s identity.
The Fijian Drua confirmed on Tuesday that Jackson will leave the club at the end of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.
Fijian Drua assistant head coach Tim Sampson has signed a two-year deal with Scottish club Edinburgh Rugby from the 2026/27 season, the club confirmed.
Edinburgh Rugby said in a statement the highly-rated attack coach brings nearly two decades of Super Rugby experience and has helped shape one of the competition’s most creative attacking systems with the Drua.
Speaking during his weekly press conference on Thursday, Jackson responded to confirmation that Moana Pasifika will not continue beyond the 2026 season.
The club announced it had told the players and team officials on Tuesday that Moana Pasifika would exit Super Rugby Pacific after the 2026 season.
The club says it is leaving the competition due to ongoing financial pressures and the inability to sustainably fund the franchise beyond the 2026 season.
New Zealand Rugby says it is disappointed by the decision and remains open to engaging with any parties interested in keeping Moana Pasifika in Super Rugby Pacific.
“It’s called Super Rugby Pacific for a reason,” Jackson said in response to RNZ Pacific during the press conference. “Both Moana and the Drua have brought a different aspect to the whole competition. I know they have tried really hard … we are Pacific brothers and our hearts are with them.”
Moana Pasifika confirmed the development earlier this week, stating the franchise is “no longer viable” beyond next season.
Despite the uncertainty, Moana Pasifika will see out the current Super Rugby Pacific season, starting with Friday night’s clash against the NSW Waratahs in Sydney.
The Round 10 fixture comes at a difficult time for head coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga’s side, but also offers a chance to respond on the field against a Waratahs team chasing a crucial home win.
Umaga will leave Moana Pasifika at the end of the 2026 season before joining the All Blacks coaching set-up.
Moana Pasifika have named a strengthened line-up with Patrick Pellegrini set for a special outing in front of family and friends at Allianz Stadium.
The Sydney-born first five-eighth will make his Super Rugby debut at the venue after an impressive showing against the Chiefs last weekend.
He is joined in the backline by the return of experienced duo Melani Matavao and Jonathan Taumateine while Tuna Tuitama also comes back into the starting side on the wing.
Up front, Abraham Pole, Chris Apoua, and Semisi Paea are included in the starting pack with Ola Tauelangi named among the reserves.
Moana Pasifika hold a strong recent record against the Waratahs, having won three of their past four meetings, adding extra motivation heading into Friday night’s match.
Across the rest of Round 10, the ACT Brumbies welcome back Tom Wright for their clash with the Fijian Drua in Canberra while the Western Force return home to face the Crusaders in Perth. The Queensland Reds have the bye.
The Drua remain winless on the road this season and face a tough assignment against a Brumbies side expected to test them up front and at the set-piece.
But previous meetings have shown they can trouble Canberra’s scrum when at their best.
For Jackson, however, the focus remains wider than results alone: on what the Pacific teams have brought to the competition since joining.
His comments reflect a growing concern around the future shape of Super Rugby Pacific, and what it could mean for Pasifika representation if Moana is not replaced.
As Round 10 begins, attention now turns back to the field. But the off-field uncertainty is casting a shadow over one of the competition’s most important storylines.
Moana Pasifika vs Waratahs, Friday 17 April, Allianz Stadium – Sydney, 9.30pm (NZT). Fijian Drua vs ACT Brumbies, Saturday 18 April, GIO Stadium – Canberra, 9.35pm (NZT).
TEAMS
MOANA (1-15): Abraham Pole, Millennium Sanerivi, Chris Apoua, Tom Savage, Veikoso Poloniati, Miracle Faiilagi (c) Semisi Paea, Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa, Melani Matavao, Patrick Pellegrini, Glen Vaihu, Tevita Latu, Solomon Alaimalo, Tuna Tuitama, William Havili. Replacements: Samiuela Moli, Malakai Hala-Ngatai, Paula Latu, Jimmy Tupou, Ola Tauelangi, Jonathan Taumateine, Faletoi Peni, Tyler Pulini.
WARATAHS (1-15): Tom Lambert, Ethan Dobbins, Daniel Botha, Matt Philip (c), Miles Amatosero, Angus Scott-Young, Charlie Gamble, Pete Samu, Jake Gordon, Jack Debreczeni, Max Jorgensen, Lawson Creighton, Joey Walton, Andrew Kellaway, Sid Harvey. Replacements: Folau Fainga’a, Isaac Kailea, Siosifa Amone, Angus Blyth, Clem Halaholo, Jamie Adamson, Teddy Wilson, Triston Reilly.
DRUA (1-15): Emosi Tuqiri, Zuriel Togiatama, Samuela Tawake, Temo Mayanavanua (c), Isoa Nasilasila, Etonia Waqa, Kitione Salawa, Isoa Tuwai, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Manasa Mataele, Virimi Vakatava, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Isikeli Basiyalo, Isikeli Rabitu. Replacements: Kavaia Tagivetaua, Penaia Cakobau, Mesake Doge, Mesake Vocevoce, Joseva Tamani, Simione Kuruvoli, Kemu Valetini, Inia Tabuavou.
BRUMBIES (1-15): James Slipper, Billy Pollard, Allan Alaalatoa, Nick Frost, Lachlan Shaw, Rob Valetini, Luke Reimer, Tuaina Taii Tualima, Ryan Lonergan (c), Declan Meredith, Corey Toole, David Feliuai, Kadin Pritchard, Ollie Sapsford, Tom Wright. Replacements: Lachlan Lonergan, Blake Schoupp, Darcy Breen, Toby MacPherson, Rory Scott, Klayton Thorn, Tane Edmed, Andy Muirhead….PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS: Fri 17 Apr 2026
Fiji 7s to honour Ratu Epeli
HONG KONG, 17 APRIL 2026 (FBC SPORTS, 17 APRIL 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—The Fiji men’s 7s team will pay tribute to the late former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau during this weekend’s tournament in Hong Kong, as the nation prepares to lay him to rest on Bau Island.
Ratu Epeli, a respected national leader, was also a strong supporter of Fiji rugby, maintaining close ties with the national sevens side over the years.
Head coach Osea Kolinisau acknowledged the impact Ratu Epeli had on the team, reflecting on moments when he personally engaged with players during his time as President.
“Our condolences to Ratu Epeli’s family… he’s a big part of our nation and always supported the team.”
Kolinisau recalled meeting the late President during international tournaments, highlighting his consistent presence and encouragement.
“Met him a few times at the Singapore Sevens… he was always there supporting us.”
The Fiji 7s coach confirmed the team will carry his memory onto the field.
“We will honour him this weekend when we play.”
As the country mourns the loss of one of its respected leaders, the national team will look to pay tribute in the best way they know, through their performance on the field…..PACNEWS
HKG – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS: Fri 17 Apr 2026
Fiji fired up for historic Hong Kong 7s
HONG KONG, 17 APRIL 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—From their first triumph in 1977 to their most recent title in 2019, the Fiji Airways Fiji men’s 7s team’s legacy at the Hong Kong 7s remains unmatched.
With 19 titles to their name, the tournament has long been a special stage for Fiji rugby. Now, as the iconic event marks its 50th year and kicks off today, the Fiji men’s 7s side returns with history behind them and expectation ahead.
Drawn in a competitive pool alongside Germany, Great Britain and France, Fiji will be aiming to stamp their authority early. Germany’s presence as one of the rising SVNS 2 sides adds another layer of challenge, while traditional rivals Great Britain and France promise tough encounters.
Head coach Osea Kolinisau says the weight of history is not lost on the players, with motivation already building within the camp.
“The boys know the history in Hong Kong… I’ve been watching the social media as well, and I’m thankful to those putting out all the years Fiji has won.”
Kolinisau revealed that past successes are being used as inspiration for the current squad.
“There are videos of the teams that won in the 90s and 2000s… the boys are watching it, and they know what’s at hand.”
With the significance of the tournament clear, the coach says the players are embracing the moment.
“A lot of them are fired up.”
As the 50th edition begins, Fiji will once again look to add to their rich history in Hong Kong, driven by legacy, pride, and the desire to reclaim the title.
The Hong Kong 7s kicks off this afternoon….PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS: Fri 17 Apr 2026
Fisher heads Fijiana with six in line for debut
SUVA, 17 APRIL 2206 (FBC SPORTS)—Captain Alfreda Fisher will lead a Vodafone Fijiana XV side featuring a host of potential debutants when they take the field at Churchill Park in Lautoka in their opening match of the Oceania Women’s Rugby Championship today.
Fisher has been named to steer the side, with Kolora Lomani providing support as vice-captain in what shapes as an exciting mix of experience and new talent.
Several players are in line to make their first appearance, with Varanisese Qoro, Agela Raitubu, Charlotte Tuicikobia, Elesi Rotabaiwalu, Vilisi Tivalele, Charlotte Vosakiwaiwai and Vatiseva Cavuru all marked as potential debutants.
The rest of the lineup blends established names with emerging players, including Karalaini Naisewa, Keleni Marawa, Sulita Waisega and Carletta Yee, as the Fijiana look to deliver a strong performance in front of their home crowd.
Fijiana are the reigning champions and will look to defend their title when the dust settles next Saturday.
They meet Tonga this afternoon, and the match kicks off at 4.30pm at Churchill Park in Lautoka….PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS: Fri 17 Apr 2026
Legge eyes sharper defence ahead of Tonga clash
LAUTOKA, 17 APRIL 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—Fijiana 15s head coach Mike Legge says his side is still fine-tuning key areas ahead of the Oceania Rugby Women’s Championship opener against Tonga in Lautoka tomorrow.
With limited preparation time and disruptions caused by recent weather conditions, the team is focused on tightening their structure and maintaining consistency across the full match.
“I think in terms of our defence structure, it still needs a bit of attention… and just our reaction at the breakdown.”
Legge highlighted the need for improved concentration, stressing the importance of sustaining intensity for the full 80 minutes.
“We need to stay in the fight… stay switched on for the full 80 minutes rather than just going in 20-minute bursts.”
Preparation has also been impacted by external factors, with the recent cyclone affecting training schedules in the lead-up to the tournament.
“Preparations have only been going for a couple of weeks… we had a really disruptive week last week with the cyclone, so most of our trainings in Suva were cancelled.”
Despite the setbacks, Fijiana will look to put together a complete performance as they open their campaign against Tonga on home soil….PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Fri 17 Apr 2026
South Melbourne FC hold on to see off Bula FC
BA, 17 APRIL 2026 (OFC)—South Melbourne FC all-but-confirmed their place in the top four of the OFC Pro League with an impressive victory over Bula FC in Ba.
Sinisa Cohadzic was able to call upon a number of players who missed their defeat to Auckland FC over the weekend, including captain Marco Jankovic and forward Yuki Uchida, giving them a much fresher line-up than their opponents.
Bula were keen to build upon their win at the weekend, knowing that three points would see them leapfrog South Melbourne and into second place.
There were a few hearts in mouths early on, when Scott Wara’s foul on Uchida led to a VAR check for a possible red card, but the review was eventually concluded with just a yellow card the punishment for the centre-back.
It was Uchida who would make the early impact though. The dangerous Japanese forward latching on to a tidy through ball by Max Mikkola, before craftily lifting his effort over Didier Desprez and into the back of the net.
Mikkola added to his assist with a goal of his own less than ten minutes later. Turning away from his marker 25 yards from goal and arrowing a stunning left-footed effort past Desprez, with the ‘keeper rooted to the spot.
Uchida and then Nahuel Bonada went close to adding a third for South Melbourne in the closing stages of the half as they finished the opening 45 minutes strongly.
Stephane Auvray made one change at the break, removing Gabiriele Matanisiga and bringing on Nabil Begg in hopes of turning the tide for his team.
It was the Australian side however who continued to dominate proceedings, though without significantly testing Desprez.
Bula FC eventually worked their way into the half and came close through Adam Supyk – the full-back smashing an effort narrowly wide of Javier Diaz Lopez’s post, having been set-up by Fergus Gillion.
Nabil Begg almost halved the deficit heading into the final ten minutes, gliding away from Jack Painter-Andrews but lifting his effort past both Diaz Lopez and the post, as South Melbourne breathed a sigh of relief.
The heavy rain certainly didn’t help either side, as Bula continued to push for a way back in as the minutes ticked down.
Six minutes of additional time was signalled by the fourth official but South Melbourne never looked in serious danger of surrendering their leader, holding on to strengthen their grip on second place.
South Melbourne FC: 2 (Yuki UCHIDA 21′, Max MIKKOLA 30′)
Bula FC: 0
HT: 2-0…PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS: Fri 17 Apr 2026
Sport, community and the fight against violence
PORT MORESBY, 17 APRIL 2026 (NRL)—When the PNG Hunters run onto the field on Saturday, it will be more than just another rugby league fixture. It will be a statement.
In partnership with SP Brewery’s flagship brand, SP Lager, the Hunters will headline the SP Lager Anti-Violence Round, a powerful initiative under the “Join the Generation of Change” campaign.
This round is not about points on the ladder or tries scored; it is about tackling one of PNG’s most pressing social challenges: domestic and family violence.
By using the reach of sport and the influence of a national brand, SP Lager and the Hunters are sending a clear message to communities across the country: There are no excuses for domestic violence.
SP Lager has been the naming rights partner of the Hunters since 2013, a relationship that has grown into one of the most recognisable sponsorships in Papua New Guinea sport. But this partnership is not just about branding; it is about responsibility. With rugby league commanding passionate national attention, the Hunters provide a platform that few others can match. SP Lager’s decision to use this platform to amplify awareness around domestic violence reflects a commitment to social change that goes beyond the brewery gates.
On Saturday, the Hunters will wear a specially designed jersey carrying campaign messages such as Join the Generation of Change and There Are No Excuses for Domestic Violence. These jerseys are more than uniforms; they are symbols of solidarity, worn by athletes who understand the power of their visibility and influence.
Domestic violence is not an issue that can be solved overnight. It requires sustained dialogue, community engagement, and visible reminders that respect and safety must be at the heart of family life. The Anti-Violence Round is designed to keep this conversation alive, ensuring that awareness does not fade into the background.
Through sport, SP Lager and the Hunters are encouraging communities to:
• CONTINUE conversations around respect and safety;
• SUPPORT stronger families;
• REINFORCE positive behavior; and
• BE part of the next generation of change.
These are not abstract ideals; they are practical steps that can transform households, communities and, ultimately, the nation.
Sport has always been more than entertainment in Papua New Guinea. It is a unifying force, a source of pride, and a platform for national identity.
When the Hunters take the field, they carry the hopes of thousands. By dedicating a round to anti-violence awareness, they are also carrying the responsibility of shaping attitudes and behaviours.
The visibility of rugby league means that messages delivered through the game resonate far beyond the stadium. They reach homes, villages, and communities where conversations about respect and safety are most needed. This is the unique power of sport: it can inspire change not just in how people play, but in how they live.
The SP Lager Anti-Violence Round is a call to action. It challenges every supporter, every family, and every community to take a stand.
It reminds us that respect begins at home, that safety is non-negotiable, and that violence has no place in our society.
As the Hunters run out in their special jerseys on Saturday, they will not only be representing their club and their fans. They will be representing a movement … a generation of change determined to end domestic violence.
Together, SP Lager and the PNG Hunters are proving that strong brands and strong sporting platforms can do more than entertain. They can lead. They can inspire. And, most importantly, they can help build a safer, more respectful Papua New Guinea.
There are no excuses for domestic violence…..PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Fri 17 Apr 2026
Respect over violence, says Aiton
PORT MORESBY, 17 APRIL 2028 (THE NATIONAL)—Strong men chose respect was the pledge made PNG Hunters head coach Paul Aiton as he committed the QRL Hostplus Cup franchise to driving and raising awareness against domestic violence across the country.
He told a media gathering at the Santos National Football Stadium that the Hunters will strive to be role models against all forms of violence, either on or off the field.
“We are a club with a responsibility, and all our actions are based on the pillars of faith, family and footy (in order of priority), guiding our games, our actions and our lives.
“As the coach, it is my responsibility to drive and set the standard in the Generation of Change campaign, driving the key message that there are no excuses for domestic violence,” he said.
Officially confirmed as campaign ambassador in the brewer’s battle against domestic violence, Aiton added: “This is why the PNG Hunters are proud to support SP Lager’s anti-violence campaign and use our partnership to drive real change.”
He said consequently, Saturday’s Hostplus Cup match between the Hunters and Ipswich Jets will be the SP Lager Anti-Violence Round where the locals will wear special jerseys adorned with the campaign’s messages.
In the Hunters’ camp, Aiton was quick to point out that while he wasn’t sure of each individual’s past, he had seen huge improvement in most of his players’ attitude and character.
“Aggression, on and off the field, has no place in the Hunters’ camp.
“Our aim is to create good young men, now and into the future … even when they leave football and return to their communities,” Aiton said.
He also acknowledged and thanked their sponsor for giving the Hunters the opportunity “to be part of the next generation of change”.
SP Brewery senior brand manager Kitione Amet said booths, banners and video messages would be set up and beamed across the stadium on Saturday with messages on ending domestic violence, responsible consumption of alcohol and the constitution of a society free from violence.
Amet said the campaign, for now, is centred around the PNG Hunters.
“This is a start, but there are opportunities to explore further and engage with local communities and grassroots organisations” in sustaining the “generation of change” message post-match.
Suggested areas for further assessment are the inclusion of survivors of domestic violence; follow up activities to ensure the conversation continues beyond Saturday’s fixture; and the possible expansion of the initiative to include other sports or leagues in Papua New Guinea…..PACNEWS
THAI – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Fri 17 Apr 2026
Youthful New Caledonia score first goal outside of Oceania
RATCHABURI, 17 APRIL 2026 (OFC)—New Caledonia have scored their first goal against an opponent from outside of Oceania in a senior women’s international match, during a 4-2 defeat to Indonesia in their second FIFA Series match at the Ratchaburi Stadium in Thailand.
Julia Honakoko was the player to make history with the goal, whilst Léana Hmae also got on the scoresheet late on, as New Caledonia’s youthful senior side rescued some respect on the scoreboard after conceding four goals inside the first hour.
It follows a 4-0 defeat to Thailand in their first FIFA Series match three days prior, as the Francophone nation continue their preparations for FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2026™ under U-20 coach Léon Waitronyie.
Two goals inside the first half-hour pushed Indonesia into an unassailable lead. Emily Nahon opened the scoring for the Southeast Asian nation from a corner in the 19th minute, before Sheva Furyzcha doubled their advantage in the 28th with a magnificent long-range free kick into the top-right corner of the net.
Furyzcha scored her second in the 53rd minute, whilst Claudia Schenemann also got in on the action for Indonesia in the 59th, with another stunning strike into the top-right corner from outside the penalty box.
Despite finding themselves four goals down on the scoreboard, New Caledonia rallied in the last half-hour. Julia Honakoko made history with her nation’s first goal against an opponent from outside Oceania in the 61st minute, capitalising on a rebound inside the box to pick out the bottom-left corner on her right foot.
Honakoko came close to adding another with an effort that struck the crossbar, before Léana Hmae rounded out the scoring with New Caledonia’s second in the 80th minute – a looping long-range effort over the opposing goalkeeper’s head.
Whilst New Caledonia depart Thailand with two defeats from their two fixtures, the opportunity to gain experience against opposition from outside Oceania will serve their youthful side in good stead as they continue to prepare for FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2026™ in Poland in September.
New Caledonia: 2 (Julia HONAKOKO 61′, Léana HMAE 80′)
Indonesia: 4 (Emily NAHON 19′, Sheva FURYZCHA 28′, 53′, Claudia SCHEUNEMANN 59′)
HT: 0-2 …PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Fri 17 Apr 2026
Coaches Confident Ahead of OFC U-16 Women’s Championship 2026 – Qualifying in Port Moresby
PORT MORESBT, 17 APRIL 2026 (OFC)—The final push for a place at the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship 2026 will unfold in Port Moresby, with the Cook Islands, American Samoa and hosts Papua New Guinea set to contest the qualifying stage for a single spot at the tournament, to be held in Honiara, Solomon Islands in September.
Cook Islands head coach Tuka Tisam expressed confidence in his teams readiness, highlighting the strong connections forming within the group in the lead-up to the qualifiers.
“Preparation’s been good. The girls are coming together really well,” said Tisam. “We’ve got some players from New Zealand, and we’re jamming with the girls right now.”
With many players returning from last year’s campaign, Tisam believes his squad has matured significantly and is better equipped for the challenge ahead.
“They are at the right age now. They are more mature,” he said. “A lot of them learned from the last tournament, and they’re ready for this one.”
The experience of narrowly missing out previously remains a driving force for the Cook Islands side.
“It’ll be huge for the girls. Some of them played the last one and didn’t make it through,” Tisam added. “This is their chance to go to the next round, and it means a lot.”
For hosts Papua New Guinea, head coach Susan Steven emphasised both preparation and the advantage of playing in familiar surroundings. With local support expected in strong numbers, her team will look to use the occasion as motivation.
“The preparation is going well. The girls are ready and looking forward to this tournament,” said Steven.
“Playing at home, on the ground, is definitely an advantage for us. Our families and all of Papua New Guinea will be supporting the team.”
Steven also outlined the key ingredients required for her side to progress.
“We just need discipline, teamwork, the right mindset, and consistency,” she said. “We have to work together to move forward to the next stage.”
“Please come and support the team. There’s no entry fee, so we want everyone to be there with us,” she added.
American Samoa arrive with the benefit of early acclimatisation, having reached Port Moresby ahead of the other teams. Head coach Diane Justus noted the importance of adjusting to the local conditions as part of their preparation.
“For us, preparation has been good. We got here earlier and adjusted to the environment,” she said. “It’s not the same as back home, but the girls are adapting well.”
She also pointed to the unpredictable weather as a factor the team has had to manage.
“The weather is unpredictable. Sometimes we expect humidity, but it’s cool instead,” Diane explained. “But overall, the team is settling in.”
Having qualified for the championship in the previous cycle, American Samoa are aiming to build on that success.
“We see the importance of winning this stage to get to the next one,” she said. “We’re coming here with that same intention again.”
With only one team set to advance, each side brings a blend of experience, determination, and ambition into the qualifiers, setting the stage for a competitive tournament in Port Moresby.
As the action approaches, all three teams remain focused on their goal to secure qualification and taking the next step on the regional stage….PACNEWS
