A competitive but non-productive second half of the season has continued for the Pakenham Rugby League Club after the Eels ended their 2025 campaign with a 34-16 loss to top-of-the-table Melton Broncos.
The Eels were looking dangerous – sitting in fourth position with five wins from their opening nine games – but failed to expand the win column from that point forward in the season.
Two of those remaining seven games were called off due to a shortage of referees in Victoria, while a draw against Truganina Rabbitohs in round 15 provided some much-needed inspiration.
Saturday’s match up with the Broncos was very much a reflection of the Eels’ season; matching motors with the competition’s best before fading as the second-half progressed.
Nathaniel Johansson-Joseph gave the Eels the early lead before a try to live-wire full-back Zyris Heng Khoth gave the visitors the perfect start after eight minutes of play.
Melton responded in style, taking the lead with three tries to two in the opening half.
An early second-half try to Troy Pulupaki brought the Eels within range, but a double to Adam Naitoko and sealer from Tevita Sopu ensured the Broncos will head into this week’s major semi-final against Eastern Raptors with confidence oozing from all pores.
Christopher Tuitea had his kicking boots on for the Broncos, nailing five conversions from six attempts.
Dominiko Tuau hit two of three for the Eels.
Pulupaki led the try-scoring count for the Eels this season; eight times crossing the line, while half-back Damascus Lota scored seven tries and 56 points overall.
The Eels best win of the season came in round seven; a 26-16 victory over third-placed North West Wolves.
In other games this week, Casey Warriors ended their season with a crushing 38-0 loss to Werribee Bears, while Doveton Steelers finish the season in fifth place after a 28-24 triumph over Altona Roosters.
NRL VICTORIA SECOND GRADE MEN’S
Results R16: Eastern Raptors 30 def North West Wolves 28, Casey Warriors 0 def by Werribee Bears 38, Melton Broncos 34 def Pakenham Eels 16, Altona Roosters 24 def by Doveton Steelers 28, Truganina Rabbitohs def Sunshine Cowboys (forfeit).
Final Ladder: Melton Broncos 23, Eastern Raptors 22, North West Wolves 21, Werribee Bears 17, Doveton Steelers 16, Pakenham Eels 13, Altona Roosters 12, Truganina Rabbitohs 12, Casey Warriors 11, Sunshine Cowboys -9.
Finals Fixture – Week 1:
Major semi-final (1 v 2) – Melton Broncos v Eastern Raptors.
Minor semi-final (3 v 4) – North West Wolves v Werribee Bears
