Norths Devils continue to chase top four berth in Intrust Super Cup

Semi-final bound Norths have ticked off one aim for the season, but will continue to chase a top four berth starting by avoiding a repeat of last season’s upset ambush loss to Mackay.

Semi-final bound Norths have ticked off one aim for the season, but will continue to chase a top four berth starting by avoiding a repeat of last season’s upset ambush loss to Mackay.

Norths sit in fifth place, safe and sound in the top five but eager for more wins ahead of the finals.

“There is still a chance to chase fourth,’’ said coach Rohan Smith.

“We will continue to chase that.’’

Norths thrashed Northern Pride last weekend and will face another away trip to the north of the state to confront the Mackay Cutters on Saturday.

Northern Pride's Matthew Musumeci is overrun by Norths defenders. PICTURE: BRENDAN RADKE

Playing back-to-back road trip games will present a new challenge for Smith’s group this season

“It will be the first opportunity to take that on. That is a challenge as the Cutters played very strongly against the Falcons,’’ Smith said.

And the match will be played against the backdrop of last season’s result when, in similar circumstances, Norths went to Mackay as favourites, only to be ambushed against rivals who were out of finals’ contention.

Norths Devils players celebrate scoring against Pride. PICTURE: BRENDAN RADKE

Coach Smith will be looking to repeat last weekend’s outstanding start which started the ball rolling in Norths 62-14 win over Northern Pride.

“We hit the ground running right from the opening set. That was our intention, to start well,’’ Smith said.

Norths will finish the season against Cutters (away), Capras (home, August 24, 5pm) and Wynnum (away, September 1) before the finals.

Meanwhile, Norths Hastings Deering colts also sit in fifth position after beating Pride 28-24.