Basilisk Marlins have strengthened their push towards the finals of the PNG Defence Force Commanders Cup 2026 after defeating Air Transport Wing Eagles 36–12 in their Round Five match.

Petty Officer Peter Waiga says the Marlins have prepared well throughout the competition and are determined to continue their campaign through to the finals.

“Currently, this year, the team has been preparing well for the Marlins Cup. We are looking forward to play to the end, to the finals.”

Waiga says the competition has been closely contested, with teams across both pools putting up strong performances.

The Marlins are also managing some player soreness and injuries, particularly among their front-row players, but Waiga says the team is receiving support from its medical and physiotherapy staff.

He also praised the team's physiotherapist, who has been with the Marlins for almost three years, saying she has become an important part of the team.

Meanwhile, the ATW Eagles, despite the 36–12 loss, have taken positives from their Commanders Cup campaign, with Sergeant Philip Tivilit highlighting the camaraderie and connections built throughout the tournament.

Tivilit says the competition has provided an opportunity for personnel from different units to reconnect with former colleagues and comrades they had not seen for years.

“We take Commanders Cup basically like what the commanders have said about Commanders Cup.

It's just all about mateship, bringing the soldiering aspect together and try to build a better Defence Force.”

He says the tournament has also highlighted areas ATW needs to improve, particularly its understanding of the rules and game structure.

“We need to polish up a little bit on the way we played and understand the rules and be sure that in the two years’ time, I think we'll be in a better position to take up the challenge.”

Tivilit says sporting events such as the Commanders Cup also create an opportunity for personnel to interact across ranks outside the usual work environment.

He thanked the families and supporters who backed the Eagles throughout the tournament, despite the team missing out on a place in the finals.

“We want to say thank you to all the families and friends that have been here with us all throughout the week, supporting us.”

The Marlins will now await the remaining results as they continue their push for a place in the finals, while ATW Eagles will use the experience to prepare for the next Commanders Cup.