The inaugural Douglas Guise Tribute 7s in New Ireland province has been hailed a success with the display of talents over the three days tournament outside Kavieng town. President of New Ireland Rugby Union Charlie Melachon thanking the participation of Port Moresby based Brothers club as well Harlequins and Nova Rugby Union clubs said it was indeed motivational. Melachon said the three POM based clubs associated with the late Douglas Guise and being the only out of province clubs participating as exhibition play offs showcased an improved level of rugby in Papua New Guinea boosting an elevated platform for the rest of the tournament over the independence weekend. Melachon acknowledged the backing of the tournament as the first of its king in a long time for the code in the province signaled a revived hope to see greater results moving forward. Meanwhile in the cup finals, Fandas Rugby Union Club of Lugagun village are the inaugural Douglas Guise Tribute 7s Cup champions. Out of 34 teams from within the province taking part in the challenge in honour of late Douglas Guise the former PNG Pukpuks 7s coach, Fandas sealed a home ground victory 12- 7 points over nearest rival the Sappers settling as Runner Up. Ngavalus Brothers-1 defeated Junction Brothers 14-12 for the Plate while Luvurao Wanderers-2 reigned 10-7 points over Madina Hawks in the Bowl final. The shield award went to Laks Bay 10-12 win and Baum Storms claimed the Trophy prize 7-5 against Luvurao-1. The Top Try Scorer was awarded to Peter Salathiel of Manggai Barbarians, Best Player to Algie of Ngavalus Brothers-2 and Best and Fairest player awarded to Kunak Late of Fandas while Timothy Mokis of Luburua Purex clinched the Best Forward award. Most improved Player is Benson Nigel of Baum Storms, Most Improved Team is Tiang Hurricanes and Most Improved Coach is Oliab Gurumang. And the Lugagun oval in East Coast Nalik along Buluminski highway once again blossomed with rugby flavour of Bilas Peles serenaded by an oldies show between the New Ireland Drongos Oldies and Fishpots. This year’s tournament was non invitational but concentrated within the province teams and from next year onwards will be open to the rest of the country to contest.