The defending champions, 1134 Igam Crocs, have finished the Commanders Cup pool stage on top of Pool A after beating the Lombrum Sharks 21–10 in Round Five.

The result caps off a strong pool-stage campaign for the Crocs, who have now turned their attention to the semi-finals as they look to defend the title they won in the previous competition.

For the Crocs, being the defending champions has brought added expectations, but Team Manager and Coach Major Derek Levi says the players have tried to keep their focus on what happens on and off the field.

He says the team understands there is pressure to perform, but the message to the players has been to remain humble, disciplined and focused throughout the competition.

Major Levi says the Crocs have also been tested by the other units, with the team treating every match as an important challenge rather than looking too far ahead.

He says their main goal remains clear, to win the Commanders Cup and retain the title.

But for Major Levi, the tournament is about more than simply winning a trophy.

He says the competition provides an opportunity for personnel from different PNG Defence Force units to come together, build camaraderie and strengthen relationships through sport.

He says the Crocs have been encouraging their players to play hard but maintain good sportsmanship, with rugby bringing everyone together as colleagues and brothers.

“It's the unity of camaraderie between us and the other units and the display of sportsmanship,” Major Levi says.

He says the team wants to see rugby as the ultimate winner, regardless of which unit takes the trophy at the end of the tournament.

The Crocs have also received strong support from their families, friends and former Engineer personnel based in Port Moresby, including supporters from Lae who have continued to follow the team's campaign.

Major Levi says that support has been overwhelming and has given the players extra motivation throughout the tournament.

As the Crocs prepare for the semi-finals, he says the team's approach remains simple, stick to the game plan, listen to the coach and execute their roles on the field.

He says having everyone working towards the same plan has been an important part of the team's performance so far.