Adam Cuthbertson speaks after Mackay Cutters victory over Townsville Blackhawks in QRL trial match

Mackay Cutters were bolstered by the inclusion of a number of NQ Cowboys-listed players in their victory over Townsville. Their coach Adam Cuthbertson gave the rundown.

Mackay Cutters vs Townsville Blackhawks Saturday 22 February 2025 Picture:Michaela Harlow

Torrential rain couldn’t halt Mackay Cutters’ Hostplus Cup side on the weekend, as they put 44 points on the board in their second trial match, resulting in a win over Townsville Blackhawks.

The Cutters, bolstered by several inclusions including players such as Brenton Baira following his NRL trial match for the North Queensland Cowboys, were dominant from the outset despite the brutal conditions.

Baira was one of four Cutters players - along with Rayden Burns, John Radel and Ryan Rivett - who pulled on a Cowboys jersey in Cairns after impressing coaches during the pre-season

Baira, who ran in four tries for the Cutters playing out wide in the number 5 position, was a source of considerable admiration from head coach Adam Cuthbertson.

“Brenton Baira was obviously a standout, but it’s just good to see him back home in Mackay Cutters colours and playing in front of his home fans,” Cuthbertson said.

Brenton Baira lined up for the Cowboys in their 2025 pre-season challenge game against Dolphins. (Photo by Emily Barker/Getty Images)

“But in general I just thought it was a really good team effort. Ray Burns was another one who was really impressive coming in after his trial with the Cowboys.

“He hasn’t played a lot in the halves, but he fell into place really nicely and did a good job kicking.”

Cuthbertson had more praise to give for his fullback Luke Pietzner, who came in after a year on the sidelines due to a serious shoulder injury.

Best pics from Mackay Cutters vs Townsville Blackhawks QRL action at BB Print Arena

“He wasn’t too sure of his future at one point given how serious that shoulder injury was. But since he’s come back he’s been great, hasn’t shied away from the contact at all.”

Cuthbertson said it was especially pleasing to see his side clean up some of the unforced errors they gave away in their first trial match against Central Queensland.

Rayden Burns featured prominently for Mackay Cutters vs Townsville Blackhawks. Picture: Michaela Harlow

“We nailed the areas we needed to improve on for this match which was really impressive,” Cuthbertson said.

“We spoke a lot about ball security after the first game, and in even worse conditions we managed to go the first 30 minutes without an error. Considering the conditions to come away from that game with 44 points is impressive.”

The Cutters now gear up for their first game of the season proper, which will see them host PNG Hunters at BB Print Stadium on March 8.