Sunshine Coast rugby union coaches reveal tips for Noosa Dolphins and University Barbarians grand final

Sunshine Coast Rugby Union A-Grade coaches have given their picks ahead of the grand-final between Noosa Dolphins and University Barbarians. HAVE YOUR SAY

Sunshine Coast Rugby Union A-Grade coaches John Flew, Geoff Ingram and Ben Radmall give their say ahead of this weekend's grand final between Noosa and University.

The quest for the ultimate bragging rights has arrived as the University Barbarians take on the Noosa Dolphins in this weekend’s blockbuster Sunshine Coast rugby union grand final.

The Barbarians, who last tasted silverware in 2015, upset minor premiers Noosa Dolphins 13-10 in their first semi-final matchup to ensure they progressed straight to the decider.

The Barbarians will also head into Saturday's 3.30pm match armed with home-ground advantage as they look to complete an eight-match winning streak.

The Dolphins are aiming for back-to-back premierships and will head into the weekend’s clash after only losing two regular season matches this season.

We asked the surrounding coaches in the A-grade competition who and why will be crowned the 2021 premiers.

Geoff Ingram (Caloundra Lighthouse)

Caloundra Lighthouse A Grade coach Geoff Ingram knows it will be a close encounter between Noosa and University ahead of their grand-final clash. Picture: Adrian Bell Photography

“I think University looked really good last time they played against Noosa in the first round of finals,” Ingram said.

“It will be very close but I think Noosa have learnt a few lessons from that initial loss and I saw them play against Maroochydore and they were a lot tighter in certain areas and played with a lot more purpose.

“The week off is a small bonus as well for University but I’m leaning towards Noosa in what will be a very close contest.”

Ben Radmall (Maroochydore Swans)

Maroochydore Swans player/coach Ben Radmall says both teams are deserving of their sport in this weekend’s decider.

“Noosa has been the favourite all year but University have really hit top form and will be coming in with some strong momentum,” Radmall said.

“They haven't dropped a game in seven matches now and they’ve done their homework on Noosa by beating them twice this season.

“They should be going into it with confidence so if I was to have a bet I’d be putting my money on University.”

John Flew (Caboolture Snakes)

Caboolture Snakes Rugby Union A Grade men's captain and coach John Flew thinks Noosa will have the upper hand heading into the grand final against University.

“University gaining the home-ground advantage for the grand final is a one-up already and they were able to beat Noosa the other week,” Flew said.

“No doubt they’ll be confident but Noosa have been the form side all year so I think they’ll be comfortable winners and very tough to beat.

“On the day I wouldn’t be surprised if Noosa ran away convincing winners.”

John Kenna (Wynnum Bugs)

“I think it will be a real physical and real back and forth sort of match without either side giving much else to each other,” Kenna said.

“Noosa have been the frontrunners all season but my gut feeling now after watching the season unfold and through the finals I really believe University have set a new standard so I’m tipping them in a real tough contest.”

Saturdays other grand final matches can be found below:

11.15am - Colts - Noosa Dolphins vs Maroochydore Swans

12.15pm - Senior Women‘s - Noosa Dolphins vs Caloundra Lighthouses

1.30pm - Reserve Grade - Noosa Dolphins vs USC Barbarians

3.30pm - A Grade - USC Barbarians vs Noosa Dolphins