REVEALED: The 15 players set to define the Mackay and District Rugby League finals

With Mackay and District Rugby League finals series getting underway on Saturday, it’s time to reveal who coaches believe will define their team’s 2024 campaign.

Former Bulldog Falakiko Manu has been instrumental for Moranbah this season.

Finals time is upon us in the Mackay and District Rugby League’s A grade competition, which means it’s time to take a deep dive into who coaches think will define the finals for 2024, and why they’re so valuable.

Blake Coombes (South Sharks)

The Sharks’ lock is highly regarded for his workrate and consistent tackling.

“He’ll do plenty of it and we lean on him for that,” coach Mark Bowden said.

Jayden Batchelor (Brothers)

The Brothers left-centre has a decade of experience at A grade level, with Heggie saying his mere presence in the side adds something to the squad.

“He’s a big and physical player who’s really strong defensively. Just his presence means a lot to our group,” he said.

Jayden Batchelor of Mackay Brothers in action. Picture: Bernadette Vella.

Falakiko Manu (Moranbah Miners)

An elite runner who can play as either a half or in the centre spot, Miners coach Jim Ahmat said the former Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldog will be critical to the team’s success.

“He turns up every single set and he knows what it takes at that top level,” Ahmat said.

Josh Natoli (Sarina)

Sarina coach Kane Linnett praised his halfback for his toughness and intelligence on the field.

“He’s a tough guy and he organises us really well and is willing to get stuck in.”

Kenny Edwards (Mackay Magpies)

The former Parramatta Eels second-rower’s experience at the highest level continues to be incredibly valuable according to coach Hep Cahill.

“Now that he’s retired from NRL, his goal is to pass on that knowledge he’s gained to our next generation of young players, and it’s been huge for us as a club,” Cahill said.

Former Parramatta Eel Kenny Edwards’ efforts for Mackay Magpies this season have earned him a place among the 15 key players for this year’s finals series. Picture: AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts

Henri Stocks and Mikaere Beattie (South Sharks)

South’s number six and seven duo in Beattie and Stocks drew high praise from their coach.

“If those two gel together they can be the best two halves in the competition... we need them to play well (on Saturday),” Bowden said.

Brad Campbell (Brothers)

A big recruit for this season, Campbell’s consistency at the halfback position was praised by coach Tom Heggie.

“His kicking game is elite and he’s quality defensively and willing to take the line on. We’re expecting him to be influential for us,” Heggie said.

Michael Bell (Moranbah Miners)

The Miners’ general proved to be a key out last week in their 18-14 loss to Brothers.

“He directs traffic for us, he’s a strong runner and a strong defender and we’ll be a lot better with him back on the park,” Ahmat said.

Usaia Fonongaloa (Sarina)

This big front-rower was identified as the leader of his team’s front pack.

“He takes the team forward hard and when we need something he can come up with a big play or a big tackle to get us fired up,” Linnett said.

Usaia Fonongaloa of Sarina in action. Picture: Supplied

Andrew Borg (Mackay Magpies)

A junior that has come right through the ranks of Magpies rugby league, coach Cahill said the fullback is in many ways the heart and soul of the team.

“It means so much to him to play seniors for this club having come all the way through juniors. It’s almost been his life goal to play A grade for us,” he said.

Declan Laird (Brothers)

The Brothers prop is noteworthy for his versatility, with Heggie saying he has “taken his game to another level” this season.

“He’s super fit and can play multiple positions and works hard on both attack and defence.”

Braythen Porter (Moranbah Miners)

This 21-year-old front rower was earmarked by coach Ahmat for his “engine” and willingness to push again and again.

“He’s got a lot of ticker and we’re expecting another big performance out of him just doing his job,” he said.

Zane McKellar (Sarina)

This 19-year-old fullback drew plaudits from coach Linnett for playing a critical role on Sarina’s last line.

“He’s got plenty of speed and a good set of hands on him. He’s always willing to learn,” Linnett said.

Shae Marwer (Mackay Magpies)

Cahill identified Marwer as someone who he can rely on to “lead by example” in the five-eighth position.

“He’s just a key player, he competes hard and leads the way with how he trains and plays every week,” Cahill said.