The Business House Mixed Touch Tournament reached its thrilling semifinal stage on Monday, showcasing intense competition and spirited performances from all 12 teams.

Cook Islands Touch president Vou Williams emphasised the fierce determination and competitive spirit necessary to succeed in Touch, stating, “In Touch, there can only be one winner, and the semi-finals are all about determination and the desire to win.”

He noted that each match was a demonstration to the teams’ dedication.

The day kicked off with the Toa Division matches on fields 1 and 2, which ended in full-time draws. CSB faced Soul Time and Te Mavericks Ora took on Brew Crew, with Soul Time and Te Mavericks Ora eventually clinching victories in overtime. This sets up an exciting Toa Grand Final showdown between Soul Time and Te Mavericks Ora for the top honours in their division.

In the Moana Division, ICI Crew and Fibre Optics secured their spots in the grand final by overcoming their opponents, Rock College and Poos & Wees, respectively.

Over on field 1 in the Mana Division, BCI and KAPS engaged in a closely fought battle that saw KAPS emerge victorious. Meanwhile, on field 2, Air Raro triumphed over Air New Zealand in a spirited contest between the airline teams.

“The Mana Division final between Air Raro and KAPS promises to be another thrilling match-up,” Williams commented, acknowledging the skill and determination displayed by both teams.

“Throughout the semifinals, standout players made significant contributions to their teams’ successes.

“Ariki from KAPS impressed with his agile plays, while Robert Heather of ICI Crew showcased exceptional skills near the goal line,” noted Williams.

“Oscar from Air Raro wowed spectators with his diving tries, and Leo’s playmaking abilities were instrumental for his team's strategies.”

Looking ahead to the grand finals next week, Williams expressed: “The finals promise to be exhilarating with Soul Time and Te Mavericks Ora contending for the Toa Division title, ICI Crew and Fibre Optics battling for supremacy in the Moana Division, and KAPS and Air Raro competing for top honours in the Mana Division.”

Williams invited everyone to join the final showdown at the National Stadium next Monday, July 1st, to witness the height of what has been a fantastic season of mixed touch rugby.

“I want to thank all the participating teams, officials and enthusiastic spectators for their dedication throughout the tournament.”

Results from Monday 24 June: Week 7 – Semi Finals Toa Division: CSB 3 & Soul Time 4, Te Mavericks Ora 6 vs Brew Crew 5 Moana Division: ICI Crew 6 vs Rock College 3, Fibre Optics 3 vs Poos & Wees 2 Mana Division: KAPS 6 vs BCI 4, Air Raro 7 vs AIRNZ 4