Delhi Redz reach Women's RPL Final with 26-14 win over Kolkata
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Delhi Redz booked their place in the Women's Rugby Premier League Season 2 Final with a 26-14 comeback victory over Kolkata Banga Tigers on 22 June at the Ganti Mohana Chandra Balayogi Athletic Stadium, Gachibowli, Hyderabad. The win sets up a summit clash against Chennai Bulls, who defeated Delhi in the men's section on the same day. It was the seventh day of action in Rugby Premier League (RPL) Season 2.
Delhi Redz's Comeback Win
Kolkata Banga Tigers made a sharp start in the Women's fixture, with Sofia Gonzalez crossing for an early try before Ujjwala Ghuge extended the lead. Delhi clawed back through Eden Kilgour in the second quarter, and Dumuni Marndi's powerful run brought them level. A fortunate bounce allowed Silika Qalo to give the Redz the lead early in the final quarter, and Isadora Lopes added a further try to seal a 26-14 win and a place in the Women's Final.
Hyderabad Heroes Rout Bengaluru Bravehearts 45-7
In the men's section, Hyderabad Heroes overpowered Bengaluru Bravehearts 45-7 in a one-sided contest. Despite Bengaluru dominating early possession, they could not breach the Heroes' defensive line. Maurice Longbottom opened the scoring late in the first quarter, before Taitaifono Tavita took charge — scoring one try and setting up Ravuama Seruvakula in the second period. Sumit Kumar Roy and Diego Ardao added further scores as Hyderabad's pace proved relentless. Tavita crossed again in the fourth quarter, and though Akuila Rokolisoa got Bengaluru on the board, Longbottom's late drop goal completed a commanding victory.
Chennai Bulls Down Delhi Redz in Men's Tie
Chennai Bulls controlled the men's fixture against Delhi Redz from the outset. Marika Koroibete scored twice in the opening two quarters to build a commanding lead. Hitesh Dagar pulled one back for Delhi, but a tight third quarter yielded no scores. Marcus Kershaw extended Chennai's advantage in the final period, and despite Delhi pressing in extra time, the Bulls' defence held firm to secure the win.
Kolkata Banga Tigers Hold Mumbai Dreamers to a Draw
In a thrilling men's encounter, Kolkata Banga Tigers — despite conceding an early yellow card — struck first through Vuiviwa Naduvalo on the counterattack. Ajay Deswal added a second try and Naduvalo crossed again before half-time to put Kolkata in control. Mumbai Dreamers rallied after the break through a penalty try and two scores from Liam Poulton to take the lead. Brady Rush restored Kolkata's advantage in the final quarter, but Lucas Mignot replied almost immediately, leaving the match in a thrilling draw — a result that frustrated the previously unbeaten Dreamers.
The stage is now set for a blockbuster Women's Final between Delhi Redz and Chennai Bulls, with both sides having demonstrated contrasting form across the day's fixtures.