Marsden and Keebra Park set to battle for top spot in Round 4 of Allan Langer Cup

Marsden SHS are on red alert for Queensland U18 Origin hero Reece Walsh ahead of Wednesday’s Round 4 clash with Keebra Park.

Sam Walker hugs captain Joshua James after the win in the Under 18 Queensland V NSW State of Origin game at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. Pics Adam Head

Marsden SHS are on red alert for Queensland U18 star Reece Walsh ahead of Wednesday’s Allan Langer Cup clash with Keebra Park.

Both teams are tied on four competition points after Marsden’s 48-22 win over St Mary’s Toowoomba but rugby director Matthew Hartigan says Walsh’s return is a major boost for a Keebra Park side eager bounce back from last week’s surprise loss to Wavell SHS.

“Getting Walsh back is massive for them,” Hartigan said.

“He only missed out because of U18 Origin and he’s easily the one of the best players in the competition, if not the best player.”

Sam Walker and Reece Walsh embrace Joshua James after Queensland U18s’ 34-12 win over NSW at Suncorp Stadium last week. Picture: Adam Head

Walsh scored the final try in Queensland U18s 34-12 win over NSW last week and will skipper Keebra Park from fullback against Marsden.

The Makos will remain favourites at home and pack an almighty punch with star duo Teui Robati and Tyrone Sa’U in strong form.

Marsden also hold bragging rights after knocking Keebra Park out of last year’s NRL Schoolboy Championships and Hartigan is eager to see their rivalry renewed.

“Robati’s been really good for all the past few games and Tyrone’s been reaping the rewards out wide,” Hartigan said.

Marsden SHS supporters have been out in full force this season with the Makos enjoyng three home games on their new school playing fields.

“It’s always a great game between our schools and we’ve got a fantastic rivalry now, especially after David Fifita’s year (2017) and our win in the semis in 2018.

“2019 has been a massive community building year with us having three home games and we’ve been getting huge crowds down, so hopefully we’ll get another big one on Wednesday.”

Round 4 of the Allan Langer Cup will be livestreamed exclusively at www.couriermail.com.au/sport.

ALLAN LANGER CUP LIVE STREAM SCHEDULE

Wednesday, June 12

Palm Beach-Currumbin v Wavell Heights, 5.30pm

Ipswich State High School v St Mary’s Toowoomba, 5.30pm

Marsden State High School v Keebra Park, 6pm