Covid outbreak: Magpies Crusaders players test positive days out from first trial game

A number of Mackay and Whitsundays players have tested positive to Covid, while the side’s first pre-season game has been cancelled just days out.

A Covid outbreak in the senior squad was not the ideal way to start the pre-season, but the Magpies Crusaders are learning to adapt with the times as the region’s case numbers surge.

Mackay and Whitsundays had training halted and players tested after two senior members of the Queensland Premier League side tested positive for Covid.

New Magpies Crusaders coach Brian Murphy said it was a frustrating start to his time in Mackay.

“We knew it was coming, it’s obviously one of those things we need to learn to live with it,” he said.

“Two of our players tested positive, a number of others had symptoms, myself included.

“Luckily we’ve all done RAT tests and tested negative, so we’ll hit the training track tonight and follow the health guidelines.”

Magpies Crusaders midfielder Denzel Bobongie will play for the side in 2022.

Murphy’s stint in Australia has been challenging to begin with, after he moved from New Zealand to coach the recently relegated Magpies Crusaders outfit.

He said once he got off the plane in Townsville, he thought he could quarantine at his new Mackay home, but instead was sent to a hotel in Cairns.

“It was certainly a frustrating time to quarantine in Cairns, but luckily we didn’t have to quarantine this time.

“The rules have changed, since we tested negative we’re all okay to train tonight.”

Magpies Crusaders were set to face Townsville Rebels in a practice match on Saturday, but a number of Townsville players tested positive to Covid and the game was cancelled.

The new coach is not taking any chances despite testing negative on a rapid antigen test, lining up to receive his booster shot on Thursday.

Murphy said he was thrilled with the chance to begin the trial games on the sidelines, and was excited for the year ahead.

“It’s very exciting, I’ve been very impressed with the club and the facilities,” he said.

“The players are of the quality I wanted, the culture is great and everyone’s meshing well.

“We’ve got a few activities planned over the next couple of weeks to help build players’ relationships and culture.

“So far, it has been everything I dreamed it would be.”

The Magpies Crusaders has games against North Queensland Congo United and Frenchville in the upcoming weeks before the season begins.