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Emerging Reds Cup: The best moments from day 2; Highlights, best pictures from day 1

Emerging Reds Cup: Who stood out from the crowd in day 2 action? All is revealed here along with the top pictures, moments and players from the first two days of rugby action at Ballymore.

Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

The Emerging Reds Cup continued to unearth Queensland’s top rugby juniors as day two of the tournament took place at the home of rugby, Ballymore Stadium.

Brisbane White and Southeast Queensland were winners in the Under-14s pool while in the Under-16s, Queensland Country dealt with Brisbane White and Southeast Queensland toppled Brisbane Grey.

On Thursday, unbeaten Brisbane White will have to get past Brisbane Junior Rugby Union to take out the Under-14s title and the SEQ Barbarians have to take care of Queensland Country to be crowned champions of the Under-16s pool.

Catch up on all the action from Wednesday’s matches below.

Action from the Queensland Country Under-16s clash. Picture: QRU Media/ Anthony Wingard.
Action from the Queensland Country Under-16s clash. Picture: QRU Media/ Anthony Wingard.

QUEENSLAND COUNTRY V BRISBANE WHITE UNDER-16S

Queensland Country recorded a historic first ever win at the Emerging Reds Cup by way of a 26-12 triumph over Brisbane White.

No Country team had prevailed since the tournament’s inaugural season in 2021 but that drought was broken on Wednesday when man of the match halfback Koby Kelland and his boys in blue turned it on to topple their Brisbane rivals.

Man of the Match Koby Kelland (right).
Man of the Match Koby Kelland (right).

Country’s backs were on song, with fullback Luke Sparke, winger Matthew Johnston, midfielder Magnus Van Deventer, slippery wing Roldan Waike and flyhalf Finn Bourne all having their moments across the match.

In the forwards, the powerful Ryder Nathan made a stirring impact in the second half to give his side thrust forward towards the finish line.

MJ MAGIC, SPARKES FLY

Matthew Johnston. Luke Sparke.

Those are the names of the boys responsible for the highlight play of the day, a superb 60m try that began in right wing Johnston’s hands down the right edge and ended with Sparke going in untouched under the posts.

It was one for the highlight reel, Johnston’s 55m scoot down the right touchline and wonderful right to left spiral pass into the breadbasket of Sparke to storm ahead 12-nil.

It was some play from MJ (Matt Johnston), and like any good fullback Sparke was there in support ready to pounce.

That man Sparke had his hand in another highlight to begin the second half.

Sparke booted the ball 50m downfield into open pastures and Lachlan Fahey charged through and regathered the ball to score an absolute stunner and move Country ahead 26-12.

Earlier, Country playmaker Finn Bourne and inside centre Magnus Van Deventer combined to put Jai Komene over before hooker Harry Allen flexed his muscles with a pick-and-drive try.

SPECIAL K

Country scrumhalf Koby Kelland, a Siena Catholic College student, put himself in the conversations for Queensland Reds selection after an energetic showing that paved the way for his side.

His side made every post a winner, Country leading the entire way and Special K’s vision, eyes-up attack, crisp service and speed to the breakdown was where the success was created.

He was the smallest bloke on the field, but he used his slight stature to his advantage, Kelland catching opposition defenders off guard at times and taking a few steps from the breakdown before unloading to a runner.

The Battery Hill dynamo was handy, that is for sure.

AIC ACES MOVE MOUNTAINS

Caelan Mackay (right)Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard
Caelan Mackay (right)Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard

Again, it was not Brisbane White’s Day with the Country boys king with their offloads, work rate and ball handling.

But in a tough match, St Laurence’s College fullback Caelan Mackay and Marist College Ashgrove wing Will Bagnall showed glimpses of brilliance.

Likely a First XV player in 2025, Bagnall blitzed his way through the line on a handful of occasions when he returned the ball from the backfield with gusto.

He had plenty of touches in the first half, bringing the ball forward with vigour and his fullback Caelan Mackay improved dramatically from Monday’s showing to be one of Brisbane White’s most threatening runners.

Mackay scored a try, wriggling his way through a tackle to plant the ball down for his team’s second try that pulled White within 14 points trailing 26-12.

Outside of his darts from fullback, Mackay moved his side forward with a productive kicking game, something he has learnt from his older brother Finn, a tactical kicking ace in the Reds Tier One Academy.

BRISBANE GREY V SEQ BARBARIANS UNDER-16S

Lane Edmonds (pictured on the right) was excellent for SEQ.
Lane Edmonds (pictured on the right) was excellent for SEQ.

Man of the match Lane Edmonds, a loosehead prop from Ipswich Grammar, and his in-sync Barbarians moved past another foe on their way to the Under-16s title.

SEQ won well, 22-7 over a valiant Brisbane Grey.

Edmonds led the charge with his workrate and his teammates followed suit, throwing their bodies on the line to repel Brisbane Grey for much of the match.

Only once did SEQ’s brick wall of defence come undone in an epic defensive display.

ONE MINUTE OF MADNESS

The Barbarians’ defence was something to behold and at the forefront was Ipswich Grammar School prop Lane Edmonds.

He is taller than any normal prop you’d see on a day’s march and boy does he work hard.

After sustained pressure by Brisbane Grey on SEQ’s line, Edmonds produced an outstanding try saving tackle that held up prolific Brisbane State High prop Tyrece Herniman.

Moments later, Edmonds got his side out of trouble again when he jackaled the ball at the breakdown and won a penalty.

He was everywhere.

Koby Nouanrasy of SEQ. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Anthony Wingard.
Koby Nouanrasy of SEQ. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Anthony Wingard.

BBC’S BIG BOPPER IMPRESSES

Burdekin brute Locklyn Thomas made a stunning impersonation of an outside back in his team’s first half taming of Brisbane Grey.

A prop now honing his trade at Brisbane Boys’ College, Thomas leapt into the air and snatched a kick restart, before powering forward another 15m to get his side within striking distance.

The Barbarians did not score but it was an eyebrow raising moment from the big bopper, who earlier in the half displayed soft hands when pop passing left and right to his support runners.

A Burdekin Catholic College kid who arrived at BBC via Kirwan State High, Thomas was part of a very powerful front row featuring Sio Kite (prop) and Aiden Luke (hooker) that worked hard for no reward in the first half.

In the second half Kite and his front row accomplices won a timely scrum penalty to close in on SEQ’s red zone.

BEALS, BOTHMA BATTLE

Malakaih Beals. Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard
Malakaih Beals. Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard

SEQ went 54 minutes without conceding a point.

Yes 54.

Brisbane Grey’s first breakthrough came with just 16 minutes left when busy inside centre Pierre Poluleuligaga sent Malakaih Beals through a gap.

Beals crossed to make it 15-7 but when Jeremiah Harbottle (red card, high tackle) left the field Brisbane Grey’s chances diminished further.

Then, with less than two minutes to play, big Craig Thaggard muscled his way over to nail the coffin shut.

The Toowoomba Grammar weapon was excellent in the lineouts when he came on and it is safe to say TGS will challenge for next year’s GPS rugby premiership with players like Thaggard, hooker Ruben Kruger, flanker Keegan Cook, lock Rupeni Baravilala and prop Harrison Humphreys (all strong performers for the Barbarians) in the mix for the First XV.

With the game slipping away from Brisbane Grey, reserve scrumhalf Keanu Bothma, an Iona College young gun, offered plenty.

Action from the Queensland Country, Brisbane White Under-14s match. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Anthony Wingard.
Action from the Queensland Country, Brisbane White Under-14s match. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Anthony Wingard.

SEQ BARBARIANS V BJRU UNDER-14S

Southeast Queensland henchman Will Caro was a trojan working man of the match in his team’s frantic 17-10 victory over BJRU.

In a gruelling clash that had everything, a highlight of GPS lock Caro’s courageous performance came when he made a crunching tackle on a runaway Jacob Ranasinghe who was steaming towards the stripe.

It took a lot to pull away from the gutsy BJRU boys and Caro’s commitment in all aspects of the game was a great starting point for a team that had size, strength and speed across the park.

The match to-and-froed, with each team replying promptly to five-pointers with tries of their own.

SEQ led from start to finish and a big moment came when, nearing full time, Logan Saints saviour Lemoto Lemeki, the Barbarians loosehead prop, attacked the breakdown when BJRU were closing in and won a penalty.

It gave his side just enough breathing room to see the game out before Noah Te Kiri could boot the ball into touch, call game and bring up win No.1 of the tournament for SEQ.

Hugh Stanbury and Chris Manu scored for BJRU while Will Caro, Mitchel Van Dyke and big Kian Van Den Berg crossed for the Barbarians.

WORKHORSES

It was a battle of who wanted it more in the first half and the closeness of the contest was reflected in SEQ’s slender 7-nil lead at oranges.

It was apparent Barbarians lock Will Caro, a second rower from Gregory Terrace, wanted it.

He scored his team’s lone try and came up big on the defensive end as well. Alongside him, flyhalf Zaine Gurney was classy, the Miami State High playmaker kicking the 50-22 that gave the Barbarians good field position for Caro to crash over.

Busy No.8 Finau Tafa and boundless flanker Noah Te Kiri also got through plenty of work, while BJRU ‘s Cezar-Mayn Leota, second rowers Will Edwards and Connor Glen and blindside flanker Peter Letiu were excellent.

The work rate of BJRU flanker Hugh Stanbury was a highlight.

STANBURY SERVES AGAIN

BJRU flanker Hugh Stanbury was immense after a cracker on Monday.

Tireless in defence and prominent at the breakdown, Stanbury was here, there and everywhere at once for his side.

He was unlucky not to win a penalty or two more at the breakdown and he scored his team’s second try that pulled them within two points, down 12-10, with a little over 10 minutes to go.

LEANING TOWERS OF SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND

How big was the SEQ Barbarians pack?

Look no further than the two towering second row giants they had galloping from A to B, Kaiya Tafea and Kian Van Der Berg.

Tafea was as tall as the day is long and under expert coaching at The Southport School, you can expect to hear his name more in the future.

His lock buddy Van Den Berg was another young giant and he used his stature to muscle over with just three minutes to go.

SEQ led 12-10 and the match was hanging in the balance.

That was until Van Den Berg bound over to hand his side a commanding seven point lead heading into the death minutes.

QLD COUNTRY V BRISBANE WHITE UNDER-14s

Action from the Queensland Country, Brisbane White Under-14s match. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Anthony Wingard.
Action from the Queensland Country, Brisbane White Under-14s match. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Anthony Wingard.

Brisbane White enters the final day undefeated after dealing with Queensland Country 17-7.

A try from outside centre Digby Ioane was the dagger that ensured victory.

Brisbane White led 12-7 with eight minutes to play before Nudgee College duo Manamo’ui Toia and Ioane took no prisoners and combined to move into the clear, White ahead 10 points.

Toia pinned his ears back and pierced through a hole, drew in his defender and then unloaded to Ioane who did the rest in the left corner to put a down payment on the Under-14s title as the only undefeated team left in the pool.

It was a top notch team effort from Brisbane White where flyhalf Billy Gough had a touch of class with his kicking and passing game.

For Queensland Country, utility back Tyler Lama threatened from inside centre.

Ioane (two tries) and Tom Nasser scored tries for Brisbane White while flanker Tai Henare crossed for the opposition’s only try.

Powerful front rower Nelson Takai was awarded man of the match honours following a strong performance leading a dominant scrum and defending fiercely.

Front rower Nelsoni Takai was named man of the match for Brisbane White.
Front rower Nelsoni Takai was named man of the match for Brisbane White.

LIKE FATHER LIKE SON

His father is a front row enforcer for the Helensvale Hogs A-Grade side and young Noah Mariner, the Country flanker, is following in his footsteps being a real handful on the footy field.

The son of lock turned prop powerhouse Samson, openside Noah chopped low and hard in a workaholic performance that featured telling defence and plenty of strong carries.

A Helensvale Hog on a Saturday in GCDRU’s competition and a Logan Saints weapon on the Sunday in BJRU, Mariner went looking for work and when the boys in blue were closing in, himself, lock Toby Bretherton, prop Tim Luck and Co were the first on scene for a hit-up.

Mobile No.8 Murrie Herrman was impressive for Brisbane White. Action from the Queensland Country, Brisbane White Under-14s match. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Anthony Wingard.
Mobile No.8 Murrie Herrman was impressive for Brisbane White. Action from the Queensland Country, Brisbane White Under-14s match. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Anthony Wingard.

WATCH THIS SPACE

There is a long way to go yet for threatening Nudgee College outside back Manamo’ui Toia but the early signs indicate he is going to be quite the handful like his older brothers.

He has role models to look up to in tone-setting siblings Rob (Nudgee, 2022) and Aholoka (Redcliffe SHS, 2023) and plenty of natural talent to wreak havoc himself.

After all, he had his hand in the most telling try of the match when put Ioane over in a titanic left edge raid.

His brother Rob was the single most deadly Queensland schoolboy centre in 2022 and is closing in on an NRL debut with the Sydney Roosters, while middle or edge forward Aholoka is also in the Roosters system after making the Queensland Schoolboys rugby league team in 2023.

DIGBY DAZZLES

He is the nephew of 66 game Reds veteran Digby Ioane but young Digby, a Brisbane State High talent, is carving out a legacy of his own at inside centre.

Digby’s two tries, the first and last of the match, put Brisbane White in a winning position and his Maori sidestep was on show when he made a cracking dash down the left edge midway through the match.

DAY TWO PREVIEW

The Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup returns on Wednesday at Ballymore with the top rugby rookies in Queensland battling it out in four top-flight battles.

At 10am Queensland Country face Brisbane white to start the day in the Under-16s, before Brisbane Grey and South East Queensland take centre stage.

In the afternoon, Brisbane Junior Rugby Union and South East Queensland butt horns in the Under-14s pool before Brisbane White will look to get on the board against a fierce Queensland Country outfit.

Ahead of an action packed day two, revealed below are a super 15 of players this masthead believes could have a big say in how the matches unfold.

SUPER 15 TO WATCH ON DAY TWO

Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

Queensland Country v Brisbane White Under-16s

Roldan Waike (Queensland Country)

A player that cannot be left unmarked, Waike was a fleet-footed left wing that had some of the quickest feet on display at the Emerging Reds Cup.

A utility back from Townsville Grammar, Waike is at the peak of his powers with room to rove or in broken play.

David Filo (Brisbane White)

Wavell State High outside back David Filo was well contained in the first round, but still looked one of Brisbane White’s most likely to break free of Country’s defensive shackles.

On Monday the big bodied winger never died in contact and kept his legs pumping when being wrestled to ground in a positive showing.

Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

Harrison Asi (Brisbane White)

It wasn’t Brisbane White’s day on Monday but big loosehead prop Harrison Asi showed plenty of good signs.

The tall Brisbane Boys’ College front rower showed a soft pair of hands linking between his backs and forwards and his scrummaging held up very well.

Brisbane Grey v SEQ Barbarians Under-16s

Malachi Figota, Keegan Cook, Agapetos Lote-Felo (SEQ Barbarians)

The SEQ Barbarians made a stellar statement on Monday and if they replicate the dose on Wednesday there’s a good chance this group of boys are front and centre.

Flankers Figota and Cook were workhorses on both sides of the ball, with Cook showing a turn of foot on the left edge where he did a bit of everything.

Mobile No.8 Lote-Felo’s output stays the same regardless of the score so SEQ can rely on him to get them on the front foot with his carries and hold out the big Brisbane Grey pack when they are closing in.

Malachi Figota (with the ball in hand). Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard
Malachi Figota (with the ball in hand). Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard

Angus Underwood (Brisbane Grey)

Churchie fullback Angus Underwood’s faultless performance in the backfield flew slightly under the radar on Monday because of his team’s epic 43-nil scoring spurt to close out the game.

Before Brisbane Grey took control of the match Underwood showed his class with his accurate kicking game, dangerous running game and safety under the high ball.

SEQ Barbarians v Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s

Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

Chris Williams and Tyson Tai (SEQ Barbarians)

Churchie fullback Chris Williams had a wonderful first outing on Monday with his direct play always getting his side into a better spot on the field.

He will be key at fullback and in front of him looms a big threat in outside centre Tyson Tai.

Brisbane State High rookie Tyson Tai did not get many opportunities in the opener and the energetic, contact-hungry utility is bound to leave his mark at some point this week.

Kruz Hola (BJRU)

Hola had his hand in everything when he came on in Monday’s match.

His side didn’t get the result they were after but his presence lifted his teammates and his aggressive, fearless nature in the outside back department is something that stands out.

Watch for No.13 Hola, and his inside man Matei Otonuku in jersey No.26.

Queensland Country v Brisbane White Under-14s

Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

Digby Ioane (Brisbane White)

The nephew of former Queensland Reds fan favourite Digby Ioane lived up to his name on Monday when he carved a gorge in his opponent’s defensive line on more than one occasion.

The young gun is quick, runs telling lines and is always steaming onto the ball.

He holds the keys for success.

Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

Joseph Keke, Nelson Takai, Danny Soloai (Brisbane White)

If Brisbane White are to keep their hot streak up its defence will begin with the front row unit of Keke, Takai and Soloai.

The terrific trio had a strong start on Monday, influencing their match in more than one way and their physicality and size is sure to give their side a boost on day two.

Darius Anderson (Queensland Country)

Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

A flair-filled rookie coming through the ranks at Cathedral College in Rockhampton, Anderson is the type of kid to excel in any sport he plays.

Slippery North Queensland Cowboys signed fullback Mutua Brown was a product of the Cathedral College and young Anderson, 14, has the lightning fast pace that earnt Brown a Queensland Under-19s call-up earlier this year.

Watch for tactical kicking ace Anderson (No.13) in broken play or defending his goal line.

DAY ONE COVERAGE

The Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup kicked off today at Ballymore with the top Under-14 and Under-16 rugby talents from across Queensland facing off in four blockbuster battles.

There was no second year syndrome for 204cm, 105kg Reds Under-15s select (2023) Jack Calleja who shone bright in the South East Queensland Barbarians stunning win in the Under-16s pool.

An Ipswich Grammar School boarder from the sporting rich Innisfail region, lock Calleja was a key player in the comprehensive, highlight-laden 59-7 victory over Brisbane White.

Another young gun who starred was Nudgee College 15-year-old Aiden Luke who followed in the footsteps of fellow Nudgee products John Grenfell (2022, Reds Under-16s) and Liam Robinson (2023, Reds Under-16s) who made an impression from hooker in years past.

Hooker Aiden Luke being presented his man of the match medal by Sam Cordingley, QRU General Manager Professional Rugby, after scoring four tries for the Brisbane Grey Under-16s on day one of the Emerging Reds Cup.
Hooker Aiden Luke being presented his man of the match medal by Sam Cordingley, QRU General Manager Professional Rugby, after scoring four tries for the Brisbane Grey Under-16s on day one of the Emerging Reds Cup.

On Monday, Year 10 student Luke surpassed his individual best effort of two tries by scoring a whopping four tries in Brisbane Grey’s 48-18 come from behind win over Queensland Country.

Catch up on all the action from day one of the Emerging Reds Cup below and keep an eye out for more www.couriermail.com.au coverage when play returns on Wednesday.

UNDER-14S

BRISBANE WHITE V SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND BARBARIANS

Nudgee College scrumhalf Tom Gibb gave a stunning impression of a modern day, full package scrumhalf in a man of the match performance that spearheaded Brisbane White to victory.

Brisbane White won 41-17 over a gutsy South East Queensland outfit that trailed 22-7 at half time, before clawing back with inspired goal line defence that triggered their expansive attack.

Scrumhalf Tom Gibb (pictured) was classy. Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-16s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Scrumhalf Tom Gibb (pictured) was classy. Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-16s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

The Barbarians were unlucky not to be awarded a try on the cusp of full time when left wing Will Jessiman jetted downfield before diving over in the left corner.

It was called a knock on, but Brisbane White’s seven try serving had already done more than enough to pull clear from the brave Barbarians.

Flyhalf Billy Gough and inside centre Josh Andrews were a great combination and on the outside Digby Ioane, the nephew of former Reds star Digby, Kolby Walters and Tane’ Crampton spread their wings at different moments to make the most of their opportunities in attack.

Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

FAST AND FURIOUS

The SEQ Barbarians trailed 22-7 at the break but were right in it – their goal line defence and counter attacking highlights of their first half performance.

Rapid Ipswich Rangers winger Daniel De Swardt was responsible for his team’s lone try, a 54m sprint down the right edge that came out of nowhere.

The Barbarians, with Will Caro, Kian Ven den berg, Lachie Webster and Finau Tafa to the fore, contested the breakdown well and finally their efforts were rewarded when the pacy De Swart got his chance to show a clean pair of heels.

They were spotless.

Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

35 MINUTES OF MAGIC

Before being subbed off with a little over 15 minutes to play, Brisbane White scrumhalf Tom Gibb was a real gamechanger.

The Nudgee College No.9 offered the crispest service, seemed to be a play ahead reading the game very well and kicked an impressive 50-22 from inside his 22m.

His sublime service that got his athletic outside backs involved was everything in the first half, especially his cut-out passes.

THEY ONLY KNOW ONE WAY

Riverside’s Elijah Nosa (with the ball in hand).
Riverside’s Elijah Nosa (with the ball in hand).

Riverside Rugby Club young enforcers Elijah Nosa and Danny Soloai only knew one way and that was straight and hard when both boys stormed over for tries in the second half.

With a similar rampage towards the line as the one he produced in last weekend’s BJRU grand final, prop Soloai crashed over early in the second stanza to stretch the lead out to 34-7.

Then, with a barnstorming carry from in close, Solaia’s club teammate Nosa, the man of the match in last weekend’s BJRU grand final, charged over to call dagger at 42-12.

WOW, WILLIAMS!

In a losing effort, there were plenty of positives produced by the Barbarians and one bloke, young fullback Chris Williams, was king in this space.

The diminutive No.15 from Churchie scored his team’s final try, freed up his outside men Daniel De Swardt and Will Jessiman well by drawing in the defence and was a mistake free customer.

The young gun had a sprinkle of class and around him, Mabel Park State High powerhouse Finau Tafa was a monster with his carries from No.8.

When he came on, Gregory Terrace midfielder Angus McLaughlin went looking for work and made inroads with his carries into the teeth of the Brisbane White defensive line.

QUEENSLAND COUNTRY V BRISBANE JUNIOR RUGBY UNION

Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

The boys from the Country scraped home 24-15 in this one, repelling an amped up BJRU outfit that looked to be running down hill in the final 15 minutes to come away victorious.

Only just.

Led well by tireless flanker Hugh Stanbury, lock Connor Glen, destructive No.8 C’ezar-mayn Leota and midfielder Matei Otonuku, BJRU fought hard in a gallant comeback attempt but Queensland Country’s defence was impenetrable.

C’ezar-mayn Leota. Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
C’ezar-mayn Leota. Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

After trailing 10-7 quickly into the contest, the boys in blue (Country) turned astute defence into offence and went on a 17-5 scoring run to squeeze home.

Emerald State High School second rower Toby Bretherton, the official man of the match, was impressive for Queensland Country, disrupting lineouts, defending stoically and scoring an important try on the stroke of half time that handed his team a 12-10 lead.

Toby Bretherton. Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Toby Bretherton. Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

SOMETHING SPECIAL

Queensland Country posted first points and it was agile blindside flanker Tai Henare who made his trip down from the Sunshine Coast well worth it.

The Mountain Creek State High student gobbled up an outstanding off-balance kick back infield from wing Bradley Ramsey-Cameron who was tiptoeing down the left touchline.

Henare then put on a telling left to right step to evade the last line BJRU defender to make it 7-nil.

Tai Henare. Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Tai Henare. Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

Villanova College young gun flanker Hugh Stanbury had a stunning reply of his own, a Harry Wilson-esque try by muscling over and stretching his hand out in contact to dot it down and equalise the scores.

To begin proceedings in the second half that man Henare, sporting bright green headgear, barged over to make it 17-10 in favour of Country.

STANBURY STARS

Hugh Stanbury storms through a gap. Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Hugh Stanbury storms through a gap. Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

Villanova College has a good one coming through in fearless flanker Hugo Stanbury.

The workaholic openside was on a hit and spin mission from the get go with his carries and he maintained a high standard from the first whistle to the last with his work on both sides of the ball.

A flame haired flanker who swung momentum in BJRU’s favour when the going got tough, Stanbury scored a try, pilfered to win a penalty and then dislodged the ball form his rival’s grasp with a thumping tackle all in the space of three minutes in the second half.

An Easts Tiger, Stanbury roared up onto his feet after being met with a crunching no-arms tackle by Country outside centre Darius Anderson which said everything about his attitude.

He was outstanding in a losing effort.

Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

MIDFIELD MAYHEM

BJRU’s midfield bulldozer Matei Otonuku was his team’s most potent back in the first half and he was an expert at getting his side over the advantage line.

A Victorian boy, Otonuku made the move to the Sunshine State at the beginning of last year to broaden his horizons in both codes of rugby and in the first stanza, he left his mark.

An emerging rugby and rugby league rookie from Keebra Park State High, ‘MJ’ was ferocious with his hit-ups before laying the ball back quickly to energetic halfback pairing Kobe Te Kiri and Tom Rollason.

His big No.8 C’ezar-mayn Leota, the younger brother of Iona College rugby prodigy Hopo, was also excellent at attacking the breakdown, winning the ball on one occasion.

Z IS FOR ZAC

Zac Zeremes sends it over from the sideline. Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Zac Zeremes sends it over from the sideline. Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

Queensland Country fullback Zac Zeremes had the highlight finish of the day, an acrobatic planting of the ball in the right corner to make it 24-10 and put a canyon between the two sides.

Zeremes was as busy as a bee, safe under the Garryowen and returned the ball with vigour.

He and his inside man Darius Anderson, the outside centre, were quality and Zeremes was one of few to slot a sideline conversion in the wind on Monday.

UNDER-16S

SEQ BARBARIANS V BRISBANE WHITE

A masterclass of running rugby from South East Queensland saw them cruise past Brisbane White 59-7 and solidify themselves as early favourites for the Under-16s title.

The boys in orange, featuring players from Toowoomba, Ipswich, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast, ran riot from start to finish and looked like a team that had been together for years.

With every carry the well gelled Barbarians moved beyond the gain line, their discipline was first rate and where there was one, two followed closely to deal extra damage.

To put it simply, SEQ’s nine try detonation that saw them thwart all of Brisbane White’s attacking chances and test them constantly on defence was something special.

With natural inside centre Rohan Nichol implementing his bounce-and-spin running game at flyhalf, Jaxon Todd and Dylan Terblanche finishing backline shifts well on each wing, Isaac Fidock creating something from nothing at fullback and midfielders Oli Kennedy and Leo Fanuatanu feeding off each other, SEQ never looked like losing.

The only time Brisbane White led was when Padua College flyer Rory West scored a stunning 80m intercept try to begin proceedings in style.

After that, it was all one way traffic with No.8 Agapetos Lote-Felo, flanker Keegan Cook, lock Jack Calleja and hooker Adrian de Klerk moving mountains and man of the match Terblanche sizzling in the backfield.

Dylan Terblanche (pictured) started every game for the TSS First XV this season as a Year 10 student.
Dylan Terblanche (pictured) started every game for the TSS First XV this season as a Year 10 student.

FANTASTIC FIDOCK

Dangerous Somerset College Year 10 student Isaac Fidock had the Midas touch in SEQ’s epic 26-7 first half performance that set up a boilover victory.

A First XV fixture in the APS premiership winning Somerset team despite being 15-years-old, Fidock made an error or two early but loomed the most threatening on the park.

It all came together when he sent Rockhampton Grammar weapon Leo Fanuatanu through a hole before unloading to Dylan Terblanche who scored a beauty.

That made it 21-7 then to stretch the lead to 26-7, Fidock’s pace saw him get on the outside of his opponent and come ever so close to scoring.

Fanuatanu crashed over immediately after and it was 26-7 with one half remaining.

All things good for SEQ started with the light-footed Fidock who could stop on a dime with his sublime footwork.

FROM THE KICK-OFF

Ipswich Grammar lock Jack Calleja picked up from where he left off last season as one of the Emerging Reds Cup’s most influential forwards.

Big Calleja was a force to be reckoned with in the lineouts and in general play and he held up his end of the bargain on defence where he had his moments.

The towering lock scored his team’s first try, and then set up his team’s second try of the second half when he reeled in a kick restart, took the ball forward and unloaded to Keegan Cook who scooted away before finding Jaxon Todd who scored.

In the space of four minutes coming out of the break, SEQ went from leading 26-7 to being well in the clear ahead 40-7 and big Calleja played his part, that is for sure.

Another who had his say was flanker Cook, SEQ’s left edge battleship that flourished with room to move.

Cook, Jaxon Todd, Terblanche, Fidock and outside centre Leo Fanuatanu (two tries) were just full of running and SEQ’s 33 point second half explosion started with them.

NO.14 JERSEY CLAIM STAKED

The Southport School Year 10 student Dylan Terblanche staked an early claim for the No.14 jersey in the Queensland Reds Under-16s side named at the conclusion of this tournament.

With a handful of positive touches, a wonderful kick to make 55m, two tries and an array of line breaks, Terblanche took Brisbane White by surprise with his consistent involvement in attacking play.

One second Terblanche was reeling in opposition touch finders, or offloading the ball and the next he was sprinting back into position to be in the frame for the following attacking raid.

He was everywhere and still had speed to burn late in the game after a tireless performance gliding from sideline to sideline.

QUEENSLAND COUNTRY V BRISBANE GREY

Nudgee College Year 10 Aiden Luke scored four tries in the second half to ignite the fire within his Brisbane Grey teammates and inspire a second half ambush.

Brisbane Grey trailed 18-5 at oranges and went on to win 48-18 with Luke muscling over a whopping four times with rolling maul magic his bread and butter.

He was named the official man of the match, Luke putting a down payment on the Reds Under-16s No.2 jersey in the process.

In 2022, Nudgee College’s John Grenfell won that jersey. Last year Liam Robinson, another Nudgee boy, snared the jersey.

What an impression 15-year-old Luke made in his first outing of the tournament, coming off the bench and kicking his side into gear with a tone-setting showing in the front row.

BOURNE TO BALL

Queensland Country flyhalf Finn Bourne had his prints all over Queensland Country’s first half taming of Brisbane Grey.

The smart flyhalf had his radar working and with two penalty goals in the first half he helped open up an 18-5 buffer.

A Siena Catholic College student from the Sunshine Coast, Bourne gave his side an edge with not only his kicking off the tee but his direct style of play, torpedo bombs and clearance kicks.

TWINKLE TOES FROM TOWNSVILLE

Queensland Country loved playing to the left wing and why wouldn’t they? Sharp as nails Townsville Grammar winger Roldan Waike was roaming out there and boy could he move.

With twinkle toes and a quick turn of foot, Waike had his way evading the first defender on almost every occasion and the boys in blue looked ever so dangerous shifting it left towards Waike.

BOMB SQUAD DELIVERS

Talk about impact off the bench.

Brisbane Grey’s supersubs shifted momentum almost immediately after entering the arena and slowly but surely their team regained control of the match.

Aiden Luke was the head of the snake, the Nudgee College hooker showing his promise with two timely tries to kickstart his team’s second half assassination.

His first cut the deficit to eight points and then his second extended Brisbane Grey’s lead to 29-18.

His partners in crime were Mountain Man Sio Kite who was a great link between the forwards and backs and lifter in the lineouts.

Trusty Prop Tyrece Herniman, mobile second rower Manasa Vunivola, sleek moving outside centre Malakaih Beals and two-try scrumhalf Isaac Kefu also made a big difference.

SONS OF GUNS INSPIRE SECOND HALF SORCERY

Scrumhalf Isaac Kefu, the son of former Queensland Red Toutai, and inside centre Pierre Poluleuligaga, the son of former Manu Samoa Scrumhalf Junior, were at the epicentre of Brisbane Grey’s 43-nil second half scoring spree that broke the game wide open.

Isaac Kefu (right). Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard
Isaac Kefu (right). Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard

Brisbane Boys’ College Year 10 student Isaacscored two tries from strong support play and footwork to pull his side into the clear.

Then, to accompany a startling second half audition by Aiden Luke, Kefu’s rampaging midfielder Poluleuligaga scored twice and put Kefu in for one of his tries.

Pierre Poluleuligaga. Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard
Pierre Poluleuligaga. Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard

A talented centre capable of playing wing and fullback, Poluleuligaga was born in Toulon, France during his father’s playing days for Toulon Rugby Club.

Between Luke (four tries), Kefu and Poluleuligaga they poled eight tries and with flanker Harry Bate, Archie Ilott and sniping goalkicker Angus Underwood delivering in spades, Brisbane Grey warmed its engines ahead of a blockbuster against statement-makers South East Queensland on Wednesday morning.

DAY ONE GALLERY OF THE UNDER-14S

Hooker Aiden Luke being presented his man of the match medal by Sam Cordingley, QRU General Manager Professional Rugby
Hooker Aiden Luke being presented his man of the match medal by Sam Cordingley, QRU General Manager Professional Rugby
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup action from the day one match between Queensland Country Under-14s and Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.
Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup day one action between South East Queensland's Under-15s and Brisbane White Under-15s. Picture credit: QRU Media/ Erick Lucero.

THE PREVIEW

The Buildcorp Emerging Reds Cup will be without one of the most exciting rugby rookies in Queensland when the bumper pathway event kicks off at Ballymore on September 16.

Brisbane Boys’ College Year 11 student Tai Taka is a wildcard talent who earlier this season made his First XV debut on the wing against Downlands College in style, scoring three tries.

A utility back best suited in the centres, the young excitement machine will miss the ERC after sustaining a head knock in a round nine win by BBC over Toowoomba Grammar.

Tai Taka (green jersey) tackles Prestyn Laine-Sietu of Nudgee College. GPS First XV rugby between Nudgee College and BBC. Photo: Stephen Archer
Tai Taka (green jersey) tackles Prestyn Laine-Sietu of Nudgee College. GPS First XV rugby between Nudgee College and BBC. Photo: Stephen Archer

He is a stunning prospect, who would have left his mark on this year’s event set to unearth some of the top rugby young guns from all corners of Queensland.

He is still good enough for the selectors to include him in the Queensland Reds Under-16s side, to be selected at the end of next week, to play in the Super Rugby Under-16s on the national stage.

Let’s wait and see.

QUEENSLAND REDS SPECIAL: 140 CRACK PLAYERS FROM 140 YEARS

EMERGING REDS CUP COVERAGE 2022

EMERGING REDS CUP COVERAGE 2023

One hundred rugby-loving kids, representing rugby centres from the Gold Coast to Cairns, will feature in the four teams converging on Ballymore next Monday.

Some of the Players to Watch from each side are uncovered below ahead of the three- day rugby bonanza unfolding on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday before the Reds Under-16s team is named at the conclusion.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Tyrece Herniman (Brisbane Grey Under-16s)

Brisbane State High School’s Tyrece Herniman.
Brisbane State High School’s Tyrece Herniman.

The Year 10 loosehead prop is coming off an outstanding GPS First XV rugby campaign with Brisbane State High and should feel bulletproof heading into this event.

When Brisbane Grey are closing in on their opposition tryline, expect Herniman to muscle up and land a blow or two as he did with two tries for State High against Nudgee College in the GPS season decider.

Visesio Kite (Brisbane Grey Under-16s)

Sio Kite. GPS Rugby Churchie Vs BBC Saturday August 10, 2024. Picture, John Gass
Sio Kite. GPS Rugby Churchie Vs BBC Saturday August 10, 2024. Picture, John Gass

Powerhouse 16-year-old prop Sio Kite is hard to miss.

He is the 145kg, 197cm wrecking ball only in Year 10 at Churchie.

He will put his stature to good use in the scrums and in close quarter battle, that is for certain.

Manasa Railati Vunibola (Brisbane Grey Under-16s)

Manasa Vunibola. Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard
Manasa Vunibola. Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard

He is a towering lock or backrower with the athleticism and silky hands of a back.

A key player in the Souths Magpies Under-16s division one side, Vunibola has been plying his trade in a Brisbane State High squad that trumped all before them - except Nudgee - in this year’s GPS First XV rugby competition.

Isaac Kefu (Brisbane Grey Under-16s)

Rohan Nichol puts a shot on Isaac Kefu. Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard
Rohan Nichol puts a shot on Isaac Kefu. Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard

The second-choice halfback in the News Corp GPS rugby Team of the Season, Kefu has had quite the season - and it is only getting started.

A Year 10 student with great rugby pedigree, Kefu has a calmness about him that saw him stave off fierce internal competition for the No. 9 jersey in BBC’s team this season.

Harrison Asi and Harrison Mciver (Brisbane White Under-16s)

The Brisbane White scrum will be in safe hands with imposing front-rowers Harrison Asi (hooker) and Harrison Mciver (loosehead prop) packing down.

Brothers boys, Asi made the move from Wavell SHS to Brisbane Boys’ College this year while his prop buddy Mciver is a born leader from Nudgee College.

Joshua Heinrich (Brisbane White Under-16s)

Josh Heinrich. AIC First XV rugby action between St Peters and Ashgrove in round four. Picture credit: Denver Jensen.
Josh Heinrich. AIC First XV rugby action between St Peters and Ashgrove in round four. Picture credit: Denver Jensen.

Way back in the olden days, a tough as teak flanker called Ted Heinrich was doing his best for the Wallabies. From the famous St Joseph’s Hunters Hill breeding ground, Heinrich played 11 Tests between 1961 and 1963.

Fast forward to 2024 and his flesh and blood is running around a rugby paddock again, doing the family name proud.

Josh Heinrich, Ted’s nephew, is a baby-faced assassin who despite wearing No. 2 on his back, was a very good goalkicker and lineout thrower for Marist College Ashgrove’s First XV this season.

Lincoln Dalton (Brisbane Grey Under-16s)

Lincoln Dalton. GPS First XV rugby round one action between BGS and Churchie.
Lincoln Dalton. GPS First XV rugby round one action between BGS and Churchie.

If there was a Rookie of the Year award in the GPS First XV rugby competition, Brisbane Grammar flanker Lincoln Dalton would have had a good chance this season.

A Year 10 student, the nimble openside flanker is everywhere at once, either challenging the breakdown, making tackles and in attack taking the ball forward or supporting a teammate.

Hats off to whoever has to clean his jersey after the game.

Alfie Bowman (Brisbane Grey Under-16s)

Alfie Bowman passes. GPS Rugby Churchie Vs BBC Saturday August 10, 2024. Picture, John Gass
Alfie Bowman passes. GPS Rugby Churchie Vs BBC Saturday August 10, 2024. Picture, John Gass

An up-and-coming scrumhalf from Churchie, Alfie Bowman will touch the ball more than anyone in his team and will feed a feeding frenzy for his backs Bond Bradley and Franck Iraguha.

He had on the job training for Churchie’s First XV this season and was impressive when filling in for Hugh Rylance.

Jack Calleja (South-East Queensland Under-16s)

A young Jack Calleja pictured in 2022 winning lineout ball for the Queensland Country Under-14s. City vs. Country under 14 boys, Queensland Rugby Union. Wednesday, July 6, 2022. Picture: Nev Madsen.
A young Jack Calleja pictured in 2022 winning lineout ball for the Queensland Country Under-14s. City vs. Country under 14 boys, Queensland Rugby Union. Wednesday, July 6, 2022. Picture: Nev Madsen.

You won’t need binoculars to find big Jack Calleja, a lineout maestro from Ipswich Grammar School.

At last year’s event Calleja won lineouts for fun and it was his brilliance in the set-piece that allowed his team to flourish.

Watch for the tall second-rower, who was at home in the GPS First XV competition, to be front and centre again for South-East Queensland.

Agapetos Lote- Felo (South-East Queensland Under-16s)

Kingston Seve (left) and Agapetos Lote-Felo in action this season. The Southport School vs. Toowoomba Grammar School firsts GPS rugby. Played on The Village Green. 27 July 2024 Southport Picture: Richard Gosling
Kingston Seve (left) and Agapetos Lote-Felo in action this season. The Southport School vs. Toowoomba Grammar School firsts GPS rugby. Played on The Village Green. 27 July 2024 Southport Picture: Richard Gosling

A promising backrower with raw talent, Gold Coast Eagles enforcer Agapetos Lote-Felo moved mountains for The Southport School in the GPS First XV rugby competition this year.

A Year 10 student, Lote-Felo has a big frame but possesses plenty of pace which makes him hard to handle once he gets going.

A silent assassin, Lote-Felo is a major asset to whatever team he is on. With the likes of Lincoln Dalton by his side, South-East Queensland are a real chance in this.

Brothers Hesed Lote-Felo and Agapetos Lote-Felo in Eagles colours back in 2022. Picture Glenn Hampson.
Brothers Hesed Lote-Felo and Agapetos Lote-Felo in Eagles colours back in 2022. Picture Glenn Hampson.

Rohan Nichol (South-East Queensland Under-16s)

Rohan Nichol (with the ball). Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard
Rohan Nichol (with the ball). Action from the Under 16 Brisbane junior rugby league grand final between Brothers and Souths at Norman Park. Picture Lachie Millard

This won’t be Rohan Nichol’s first rodeo.

The Sunshine Coast Grammar midfielder has been a fixture in junior representative sides contesting this event in years gone by and he returns this year a smart, powerful inside centre with all the tricks.

A standout at the trials, Nichol was a key player in Brothers’ Under-16s grand final win over Souths last weekend and will be eyeing up that Queensland No. 12 jersey.

Dylan Terblanche (South-East Queensland Under-16s)

Dylan Terblanche. The Southport School vs. Toowoomba Grammar School firsts GPS rugby. Played on The Village Green. 27 July 2024 Southport Picture by Richard Gosling
Dylan Terblanche. The Southport School vs. Toowoomba Grammar School firsts GPS rugby. Played on The Village Green. 27 July 2024 Southport Picture by Richard Gosling

The Southport School Year 10 student Dylan Terblanche has what you can’t coach and that is speed.

One of the finest youngsters who emerged from the GPS First XV rugby competition this season, Terblanche gives this side plenty of options on attack while being a trusted last line defender.

He will let his actions in the backfield do the talking.

Fraser Boakes (Queensland Country Under-16s)

His older brother Seamus was one of the top goalkickers in this year’s GPS First XV rugby competition but younger brother Fraser is also carving out his own rugby legacy at Brisbane State High.

Boakes, 15, is playing up an age level here and unlike his brother who plays flyhalf, Boakes is a hardworking second-rower who calls lineouts in his sleep.

It will be hard to miss the towering lock from the Helensvale Hogs.

Josh Claridge (Queensland Country Under-16s)

He is no flash dan but Rockhampton Grammar School lock or flanker Josh Claridge will get the job done with no questions asked.

Tasked with captaining the Country side, Claridge has been noted for his leadership qualities and there’s little doubt he will get Queensland Country’s hidden gems to shine bright in a tournament sure to unearth some young firepower.

Noah Te Kiri(South-East Queensland Barbarians Under-14s)

Watch out for the Te Kiri twins at the Emerging Reds Cup. Left is Kobe and right is Noah.
Watch out for the Te Kiri twins at the Emerging Reds Cup. Left is Kobe and right is Noah.

A flanker or centre, Te Kiri is a Mr Versatile who on his day can be one unstoppable.

From King’s Christian College, Te Kiri has speed, power and great instincts and it is in South-East Queensland’s best interest to feed him the ball.

He will be hard to miss. He wears white and blue headgear.

Tyson Tai (South-East Queensland Barbarians Under-14s)

A young enforcer out of Brisbane State High, Tyson Tai is quickly making a name for himself as one of the defensive henchman’s of junior rugby and rugby league.

A flanker capable of playing elsewhere, Tai doesn’t just tackle, he dethrones.

Watch for the physical flanker to influence matches for the boys in orange with his defensive presence.

Simonita Lui Fetuuaho (South-East Queensland Barbarians Under-14s)

A young gun winger from Marsden State High, Simonita Lui Fetuuaho is coming off a triumphant grand final win with Riverside over Logan where he was as safe as the Bank of England.

A big-bodied, athletic winger or fullback, Fetuuaho is quick between the ears and looms as a big threat when he gets involved.

Pat Fanning (South-East Queensland Barbarians Under-14s)

The Townsville and District Rugby Union youngster is a high achiever in both codes and comes into this tournament with good form behind him.

A goalkicking fullback or centre, Fanning attends rugby league stronghold Ignatius Park College in Townsville and played very well for the Northern Schoolboys this year.

Stan Grellman (Brisbane White Under-14s)

Marist College Ashgrove students Stan Grellman (left) and Lachie Webster (right) will feature at the Emerging Reds Cup next week.
Marist College Ashgrove students Stan Grellman (left) and Lachie Webster (right) will feature at the Emerging Reds Cup next week.

A rugby high achiever in his family, Grellman is one of five Marist College Ashgrove youngsters contesting the Emerging Reds Cup this year.

A hooker, Grellman has plenty of height and toughness about him and will be an extra running threat outside of his scrummaging duties.

Danny Soloai(Brisbane White Under-14s)

The kid just loves footy, whether it is for Riverside in rugby or Easts in rugby league - he is in his element.

A prop, Balmoral State High student Soloai led the way for Riverside in their grand final win last weekend and pity help you if he is charging full throttle at you.

Elijah Nosa (Brisbane White Under-14s)

Elijah Nosa and his Riverside teammates celebrating a grand final win last weekend at Easts.
Elijah Nosa and his Riverside teammates celebrating a grand final win last weekend at Easts.

Expect big Elijah Nosa, a leader, to cause a ripple or two in the opposition’s defensive line.

A Marsden SHS boy now honing his craft at GPS school Churchie, Nosa was at the epicentre of Riverside Rugby Club’s impressive 22-19 Under-14 division one grand final win over Logan last weekend.

Nosa is a Mr Versatile, capable of playing multiple positions. He is at his most deadly lurking in the wider channels, but can also ball play.

Noah Mariner (Queensland Country Under-14s)

A young Noah Mariner, 5, playing rugby union in a clinic run by Queensland Reds player Lolo Fakaosilea and QRU coach Ken Dobson back in 2015.
A young Noah Mariner, 5, playing rugby union in a clinic run by Queensland Reds player Lolo Fakaosilea and QRU coach Ken Dobson back in 2015.

A humble leader, Mariner will captain the side from flanker - although the Churchie young gun of both Samoan and Tongan heritage could slot into the centres if needed across the tournament.

Mariner is a multi-sport top gun, a Helensvale junior who earlier this year was shedding tackles as one of Coomer Crusher’s prime movers in the Gold Coast competition.

He has previously excelled in rugby, rugby league and Australian football.

Darius Anderson(Queensland Country Under-14s)

A touted outside back in the Rockhampton district, Darius Anderson will play in the centres where his pace is a point of difference.

A North Rockhampton State High student, Anderson can kick goals and create for himself with sublime footwork.

Tyler Lama (Queensland Country Under-14s)

Commer Crushers players Elias Satema and Tyler Lama celebrate their side's under-14 GCDRU grand final win.
Commer Crushers players Elias Satema and Tyler Lama celebrate their side's under-14 GCDRU grand final win.

An outside back with plenty of pace and size, Tyler Lama is one of many promising rugby rookies coming through the ranks at King’s Christian College.

A Coomera Crushers fullback or centre, Lama last week left his mark on the Gold Coast District Rugby Union grand finals with his counterattacking some of the best on show at the Bond Pirates Rugby Club.

He is bound to leave his mark at some point.

Hugh Stanbury (Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s)

Young Stanbury enters this in fine form having helped his mighty Easts Tigers to a treasured Under 15 BJRU premiership.

The Villanova College flanker will be brimming with confidence, especially going against kids his age, and he can really help this team with his work at the breakdown and in defence.

C’ezar Mayn Leota (Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s)

His older brother Hopa Leota was the best schoolboy rugby prop in the nation this year and there’s no doubt C’ezar, his younger brother, has learnt a few tricks of the trade.

A No. 8 built like a front-rower, C’ezar can inflict pain on both sides of the ball.

Kobe Te Kiri(Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s)

Kobe Te Kiri (right) pictured after a man of the match performance for King’s Christian College’s Year 8 rugby league grand final win over Redcliffe State High earlier this month.
Kobe Te Kiri (right) pictured after a man of the match performance for King’s Christian College’s Year 8 rugby league grand final win over Redcliffe State High earlier this month.

You will notice this livewire scrumhalf at some stage this week.

Like a bolt from the blue, King’s Christian College ace Kobe Te Kiri has been a revelation lately in both codes of rugby and this team is automatically a chance with him touching the ball more than anyone.

Will Heaton(Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s)

The younger brother of Nudgee College First XV premiership winner Ryan, young Will is a flanker who started his rugby career at the Eagles nest.

Watch for his work rate.

FULL SQUADS

UNDER-16S

Brisbane Grey U16 ERC Team

Tyrece Herniman | Brisbane State High School | Sunnybank

Aiden Luke | St Joseph’s College Nudgee

Visesio Kite | Anglican Church Grammar School | GPS

Jeremiah Harbottle | St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace | Souths

Archie Searle | Marist College Ashgrove | GPS

Locklyn Thomas | Brisbane Boys’ College

Os Van Velthuizen | St Joseph’s College Nudgee

James Hannan | St Joseph’s College Nudgee | Brothers

Manasa Railati Vunibola | Brisbane State High School | Souths

Locklyn Ikimata-Lavea | Padua College | Riverside

Harry Bate | St Joseph’s College Nudgee

Kane Shedlock | Brisbane Boys’ College

Spencer Parkes | Anglican Church Grammar School

Archie Ilott | St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace | Souths

Isaac Kefu | Brisbane Boys’ College | Souths

Keanu Bothma | Iona College | UQ

Bailen Noy | Anglican Church Grammar School

Jonah Wilde | Brisbane Boys’ College

Pierre Poluleuligaga | St Joseph’s College Nudgee | Brothers

Chaz Nicoll | GPS

Taj Cook | Marist College Ashgrove

Tom Mackinney | St Joseph’s College Nudgee

Angus Underwood | Anglican Church Grammar School | Easts

Malakaih Beals | Brisbane State High School | Souths

Cooper Knowles | Fortitude Valley State Secondary College | Brothers

Brisbane White U16 ERC Team

Harrison Asi | Brisbane Boys’ College

Samuel Diakos | St Laurence’s College| UQ

Harrison Mciver | St Joseph’s College Nudgee | Brothers

Penita Taufua Fuimaono | Wavell SHS | Brothers

Kafoa Maile | Brisbane State High School | Sunnybank

Joshua Heinrich | Marist College Ashgrove | GPS

Jack Burton | St Joseph’s College Nudgee

Zeki Langi | Brisbane State High School | Sunnybank

Lincoln Dalton | Brisbane Grammar School

Tom Wood | Anglican Church Grammar School | GPS

Robbie Piutau | Brisbane State High School | Sunnybank

Darnel Taki | Brisbane State High School | Sunnybank

Sione Haukinima | Forest Lake SHS | Sunnybank

Jackson Rodwell | Brisbane Boys’ College

Alfie Bowman | Anglican Church Grammar School

Ioane Feaunati | St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace | Sunnybank

Bond Bradley | St Joseph’s College Nudgee

Caelan Mackay | St Laurence’s College | Souths

David Filo | Wavell State High School | Brothers

Franck Iraguha | St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace

Micah Figota | Ipswich State High School | Brothers

Alfred Liu | Ipswich Grammar School

Taione Taka | Brisbane Boys’ College

Rory West | Padua College | Brothers

Flynn Corbett | Brisbane State High School | Souths

South-East Queensland U16 ERC Team

Lane Edmonds | Ipswich Grammar School | Ipswich Rangers

Harrison Humphreys | Toowoomba Grammar School | Toowoomba Bears

Gavin Wilson - Tyers | Downlands College Toowoomba

Tristan Auelua | Redcliffe State High School | Caboolture Snakes

Adrian de Klerk | Sunshine Coast Grammar School

Ruben Kruger | Toowoomba Grammar School | Toowoomba Bears

Jack Calleja | Ipswich Grammar School

Rupeni Baravilala | Toowoomba Grammar School | Toowoomba Bears

Harry Cohen | Ipswich Grammar School

Keegan Cook | Toowoomba Grammar School

Agapetos Lote – Felo | The Southport School | Gold Coast Eagles

Tom Smith | Ipswich Grammar School

Craig Thaggard | Toowoomba Grammar School | Toowoomba Bears

Malachi Figota | Ipswich State High School | Brothers

Kobi Nouanrasy | King’s Christian College | Helensvale Hogs

Max Kahler | The Southport School

Rohan Nichol | Sunshine Coast Grammar School

Oliver Kennedy | Ipswich Grammar School

Max Primus | Downlands College Toowoomba

Leo Fanuatanu | Rockhampton Grammar School | Nagoa Red Claws

James Grey | Ipswich Grammar School | Ipswich Rangers

Jaxon Todd | The Southport School | Souths

Dylan Terblanche | The Southport School

Isaac Fidock | Somerset College

Hemi Rakuita | Ipswich Grammar School | Sunnybank

Queensland Country U16 ERC Team

Ritchie Bourne | Good Shepherd Lutheran College, Noosaville

Harry Allen | Somerset College

Ryder Nathan | Marsden State High School

Fraser Boakes | Brisbane State High School

Maiatoa Haddad-Tuimaseve | N/A

Josh Claridge | Rockhampton Grammar School

Solomon Stewart | Smithfield State High School

Hugo Hawke | AB Paterson College

Fletcher Holmes | All Saints Anglican school

Finn Bourne | Siena Catholic College

Roldan Waike | Townsville Grammar School

Magnus Van Deventer | King’s Christian College

Noah Wright | St Brendan’s College

Matthew Johnston | Toowoomba Grammar School

Luke Sparke | Matthew Flinders Anglican College

Maximus Hill | Southport State High School

Owen Heathwood | Sunshine Coast Grammar School

Andrew Kwok | St James’ College

Kasjan Spice | St. Joseph’s Primary Nambour

Lachlan Fahey | Palm Beach-Currumbin State High School

Koby Kelland | Siena Catholic College

Alex Kinder | Pacific Pines State High School

Jai Komene | Pacific Pines State School

UNDER-14S

South-East Queensland Barbarians Under-14s

Lemoto Lemeki - Groves Christian College - Logan Saints Rugby Club

Sunny Payne - Coombabah State High School

Cayleb Beath - St Brendans College Yeppoon - Cap Coast Crocs

Tonkla Phumtabtim - Good Shepherd Lutheran College Noosaville - Maroochydore Swans Rugby Club

De’Aundre - Yorkston Toowoomba Grammar School

Wyatt Lindsay - Nambour Christian College - Maroochydore Swans Rugby Club

Hunter Stott - All Saints Anglican School - Riverside Rugby Club

Kian Van den Berg - Sunshine Coast Grammar School

William Caro - St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace - GPS

Kaiya Tafea - The Southport School

Noah Te Kiri - Kings Christian College - Logan Saints Rugby Club

Samson Leggo - St Johns College Nambour - Nambour Toads Rugby Club

Lachlan Webster - Marist College Ashgrove

Finau Tafa - Mabel Park State High School - Souths Rugby Club

Mason Davison - Iona College - Riverside Rugby Club

Riley Young - Iona College - Wynnum Bugs Rugby Club

Zaine Gurney - Miami State High School - Riverside Rugby Club

Angus McLaughlin - St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace

Tyson Tai - Brisbane State High School - Logan Saints Rugby Club

Kyan Simpson - Ambrose Treacy College

Simonita Lui Fetuuaho - Marsden State High School - Riverside Rugby Club

Chris Williams - Anglican Church Grammar School - Sunnybank Rugby Club

Daniel De Swardt - Ipswich Grammar School - Ipswich Rangers Rugby Club

William Jessiman - The Southport School

Brisbane White Under-14s

Jeremiah Tuimavave - Brisbane State High School - Sunnybank Rugby Club

Sidney Myers - Brisbane Grammar School Souths Rugby Club

Stanley Grellman - Marist College Ashgrove - GPS Blue

Nelsoni Takai - Brisbane State High School - Logan Saints Rugby Club

Joseph Keke - St Joseph’s Nudgee College - Riverside Rugby Club

Danny Soloai - Balmoral State High School - Riverside Rugby Club

Edward Mulholland - Brisbane Grammar School - Brothers Rugby Club

Kane Kinnaird - Anglican Church Grammar School - GPS

Murrie Herrmann - Brisbane State High School

Zorro Loli - St Patrick’s College, Shorncliffe

Hugo Vukovich - St Joseph’s Nudgee College

Harvey McLaughlin - St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace

Oliver Smith - St Joseph’s Nudgee College

Poasa Logova - St Joseph’s Nudgee College

Tom Gibb - St Joseph’s Nudgee College

Thomas Nasser - St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace

Levi Fien - St Joseph’s Nudgee College

Billy Gough - Anglican Church Grammar School- Riverside Rugby Club

Joshua Andrews - St Joseph’s Nudgee College

Digby Ioane - Brisbane State High School

Elijah Nosa - Anglican Church Grammar School - Riverside Rugby Club

Manamo’ui Toia - St Joseph’s Nudgee College

Tane’ Crampton - St Joseph’s Nudgee College

Kingston Hall - St Joseph’s Nudgee College

Kolby Walters - Anglican Church Grammar School

Queensland Country Under-14s

Gabriel Claassen - Rockhampton Grammar School Central Queensland

Jayden Herewini - Woree State High School - North Queensland Club

Israel Lui - Trinity Bay State High School - North Queensland Club

Thomas Paul - Stella Maris Primary School - South Queensland

Timothy Luck - Downlands College - South Queensland

Raui Olliver - St Brendan’s College - Central Queensland

Lucas McLean - St Brendan’s College - Central Queensland

Toby Bretherton - Emerald State High School - Central Queensland

Lawson Morris - Toowoomba Grammar School - South Queensland

Tai Henare - Mountain Creek State High School - South Queensland

Benson Humphreys - Toowoomba Grammar School - South Queensland

Noah Mariner - Anglican Church Grammar School - South Queensland

Tavai Siaunuua - Keebra Park SHS - South Queensland

Koby Hill - South Queensland

Peter Owens - Maroochydore State High School - South Queensland

Zavier Ngauamo - Benowa State High School - South Queensland

Zaeden Kitching - Ely FNQ U14

Colten-Amotawa Pohe - King’s Christian College - South Queensland

Darius Anderson - North Rockhampton SHS - Central Queensland

Tyler Lama - Kings Christian College - South Queensland

Bradley Ramsay-Cameron - Pacific Pines State High School - South Queensland

Harry Zanapalis - Sunshine Coast Grammar School - South Queensland

Zac Zeremes - St John’s College - South Queensland

Brisbane Junior Rugby Union Under-14s

Marcus Grehan - Brothers - St Joseph’s Nudgee College

Jacob Ranasinghe - Souths

Leroy Whippy - Logan - Brisbane State High School

Dominic Ango - Logan

Will Edwards - Ipswich - Ipswich Grammar School

Peter Letiu - Ipswich

Hugh Stanbury - Easts - Villanoa College

C’ezar Mayn Leoto - Brothers - Iona College

Kobe Te Kiri - Logan

Hamish Whalley - Souths

Isaac Tilcock - Logan - Brisbane State High School

Charlie Garnier - Riverside Rugby Club - Iona College

Kruz Hola - Logan

Alex Eaton - Ipswich

To’o Jnr Vaifusi - Ipswich

Kellam Joseph - Brothers - St Joseph’s Nudgee College

Jerome Whippy - Logan - Brisbane State High School

Chris Manu - Souths

Connor Glenn - Ipswich - Ipswich Grammar School

Will Heaton - Norths - St Joseph’s Nudgee College

Cael Anderson - Souths

Tom Rollinson - Brothers - Brisbane Grammar School

James Dunworth - Brothers - St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace

Ollie Tart - Brothers - Brisbane Grammar School

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