Undefeated Gereka Sharks storm into Rigo Coast 9s semifinals

Tournament debutants Gereka Sharks have emerged as the team to watch in the Nelson Saroa 9s, maintaining a flawless undefeated streak to secure their place in the semifinals.

Led by skipper Omega Jogioba, the Gereka-based outfit made an authoritative start on Saturday, dismantling Arinama 24-8 in the tournament opener. They maintained that momentum in their second encounter, showing composure under pressure to edge out the Saroa Raiders 10-8.

Under the guidance of coach Jay Eno Mauri, the Sharks completed their Pool A sweep with a hard-fought 12-8 victory over Nese SSD Sabuiya.

"We came in as first-timers in the competition but were prepared for the challenge," Mauri told NBC News. "We knew every team would be playing tough, so we came ready."

The Sharks' clinical pool performance set up a high-stakes Cup quarterfinal against a quality Rigo Coast side, the Bonanamo Sharks. The match proved to be a grueling contest of attrition as both sides battled for a spot in the final four.

Skipper Omega Jogioba proved to be the difference-maker, starring for the visitors with a hat-trick of tries. His individual brilliance helped Gereka outmuscle Bona in a convincing 12-8 victory, though the win came at a physical cost.

Team manager Jhay Mistake Renny praised the squad’s resilience following the heated clash.

"The boys faced a grueling match against Bona. Some of my players were injured during the game, but we managed to stick to our game plan and come away with the win," Renny said. "I am incredibly proud of the effort to reach the semifinals."

The Sharks now look to carry that momentum into the penultimate stage of the tournament as they eye the K10,000 grand prize tomorrow.