Capras Colts show desire to win as they take down the highly fancied Blackhawks

The Capras inflicted the first defeat on the high-flying Townsville Blackhawks in the Hastings Deering Colts competition. Read what coach Kane Hardy had to say about his team’s performance here.

The CQ Capras under-21s have moved into equal first position after inflicting the first loss of the season on the Townsville Blackhawks.

The team scored a 36-26 win over the highly fancied northern outfit in Round 9 of the Hastings Deering Colts competition played at Browne Park on Saturday.

But they didn’t have it all their own way.

After charging to an early 18-point lead with three tries in seven minutes, the Blackhawks did the same in the latter stages of the first half to trail by just two at the break.

The visitors got their noses in front when they scored first in the second half but the Capras hit back with three tries, two of them to fullback Marcus Tanner, to score an inspired victory.

The Capras under-21s scored a 10-point win over the Townsville Blackhawks.

Halfback Peyton Jenkins finished with 12 points, converting the team’s six tries.

It was a good night for the Capras, with their men also getting the better of the Blackhawks 22-16 in their Hostplus Cup clash.

Capras Colts’ coach Kane Hardy said the win showed the pride and passion in his players.

“We started well, fell away and came home strong,” was his summary of the game.

“The boys had a great preparation and learnt their lessons from the loss to Wynnum last week.

The Capras under-21s stormed home to score a spirited win after trailing early in the second half against Townsville.

“They challenged themselves at training to be better at what we weren’t good at and that’s what helped us against the Blackhawks.

“It was a challenge to see where they’re at and for them to show the desire to win against a quality team.”

Hardy could not speak highly enough of front rower Jeremy McLachlan.

“He played nearly 50 minutes. His first stint was unbelievable, his second stint even better,” he said.

“Jeremy’s become a real leader of this team, even though he’s not the captain.

The Capras under-21s next game is against the Redcliffe Dolphins.

“He just says ‘follow me boys’ and they do.

“He’s been outstanding all season.”

He was equally as glowing about Tanner who, as well as scoring two tries, set one up.

“He was a massive reason why we won. There were moments he kept us in the game,” Hardy said.

“It was his speed, evasion and he positioned himself to take the opportunities when they came.”

Hardy said Saturday’s win would instil plenty of confidence in his players and they were sure to have a spring in their step at training this week as they prepare for the next assignment, an away game against the Redcliffe Dolphins.

“When the going gets tough moving forward, the boys will be able to look back at that game against the Blackhawks and know that when the chips are down, they can still get the job done,” he said.