From bruise brothers, runaway tries and prowling Tigers - how round 3 unfolded
Meninga Cup, Connell and Harvey Norman girls round 3 action saw bruise brothers in action, runaway tries and the Tigers’ girls roaring. Full state wide report here, including Norths’ Sunday skirmish against Tweed.
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The Capras unearthed a couple of bruise brothers as round 3 of the Meninga, Connell and Harvey 19s and 17s unfolded today.
Capras edge players Zac Bateman and Eli McKay were outstanding in defence, with the lanky McKay producing an early contender for tackle of the season in their Connell Cup victory, 28-18, over the Pride.
100+NAMES: HEAD TURNERS IN THE CONNELL, MENINGA, HARVEY GIRLS COMPETITIONS
In other highlights this weekend:
+ Lili Lewis’ bullet pass to create try No. 1 for Souths Logan against the Tigers in Harvey girls under 17s. It was something like Wally Lewis used to deliver at the ground
+ Blackhawks fullback Logan Deininger scored a sensational try in the wet in a thriller against the Cutters
+ Ipswich Jets Meninga Cup player Mafiou Cherif was a super sub with two tries in four minutes
+ Cutters skipper Cianna Faulkner was magnificent in the Harvey 19s
+ The power running and passing of Tigers under 17 forward Lishainah Ulugia
+Clydesdales 17s fullback Mia Byrnes was special as her side scored three late tries to win
+ Sunshine Coast centre Tahlee Donald blazed 70m for a solo try
+ A bruising tackle by Tigers Harvey 17 prop Porche John
+ Souths Logan under 19 winger Angel Austin produced a catch and pass to create a try which was worthy of the highlights tape
+ Phoenix Raine-Hippi scoring two tries in a dominant win over Norths in the Harvey 19s
+ Oliver Patterson’s aerial brilliance. The Norths Connell Cup winger leapt into the air and scored in a Israel Folau like effort.
+ Dyer Akauola’s double in North’s 40-16 triumph over Tweed.
+ Tweed prop Zac Kumbamong’s stampeding efforts to turn a 24-12 deficit into a 34-24 comeback win over Norths.
Jump to your game: Wynnum Manly v Burleigh, Blackhawks v Cutters, Jets v Clydesdales, Capras v Pride, Bulls v Falcons, Tigers v Magpies, Devils v Tweed.
SUNDAY GAMES
HN UNDER-17S
TIGERS V MAGPIES
The Brisbane Tigers unleashed a lethal left side combination as the side rose to victory 24-16 over Souths Logan in a local derby at Langlands Park.
In a physical match which Magpies coach Matt Fitzgerald said showcased some of the code’s leading female footballers, powerful Tigers winger Namileeyah Pio twice benefited from the strength of rampaging forward Lishainah Ulugia two score crucial first half tries.
The imposing left edge runner Ulugia then added her own try 10 minutes into the second half on her way to a player of the match performance.
Prop Porche John also had a big game in a forward pack which was imposing.
It all started so well for Souths Logan when Magpies captain and halfback Lili Lewis created the opening score for her side with a super bullet pass that enabled her centre Bella Alo to gift wrap a try for winger Ebony Tziros.
But minutes later the Tigers capitalised on a fumble at the back by Souths Logan to earn the attack ball.
After she had bumped her way to within one metre of the line, Tigers forward
Ulugia produced a lovely pass down the blindside to help her winger Namileeyah Pio cross.
It was that combination which then struck a second time close to halftime.
In between Pio’s double, the Tigers seemed on song today, making use of possession with a forward power game that was taking some holding.
It was such momentum which presented outstanding Tigers hooker Enah Desic with the chance to dive over, an opportunity she accepted.
There was a flicker of hope for Souths Logan when, with 11 minutes remaining, representative fullback Janique Mili scored, cutting the margin to 20-10.
But the match was put to bed with right edge forward Orianna Clark, running onto a Porche pass, crashed over for the Tigers.
Both Clark and Porche John were outstanding for the Tigers, along with No.13 Riley-Jay Henry Purcell, while hooker Enah Desic against shone.
Souths Logan coach Fitzgerald said in a physical game his side needed to hold the ball more.
“We will address our effort areas and reset next week,’’ he said.
“It has been hard, we could only train once in the last 10 days with Rugby 7s Met East trials and league games. It’s a massive juggling act but no excuses 0 the Tigers held the ball and we did not.’’
He side halfback Lewis, fullback Janique Mili, Mele and Amanii Misa and Kaylani Tavita all did well. Hinemaia Te Pou also tried hard for Souths on the edge.
HN UNDER-19S
The Tigers power game impressed throughout as the home side hit the winners post 40-10 ahead.
Australian schoolgirls prop Alice Shannon and right edge runner Patricia Wani were focal points early, then later in the match Seromelina Tanielu impacted the game.
Souths Logan tried hard. The Magpies’ players put their bodies in front of their opponents, but the speed of play the ball by the Tigers ensured they were always on the front foot.
Early on, a wide blindside move to get Shannon one-on-one gave the Tigers momentum which ultimately led to Tiresa Elika diving over from dummy half - one of three tries.
Then the Tigers produced more aggressive running and quick play the balls, with Wani twice impacting the game with her ball running, before plunging over herself from close range.
The running game of edge forward Elika also came to the fore and the Tigers were sprinting away.
But Souths Logan gained encouragement following a brilliant collection of a chip kick by winger Austin Angel who, under pressure in defence, unloaded for teammate Hinemaia Te Pou to score. It was a try worthy of the highlights tape.
Soon after Angel also saved a try when Tigers halfback India Seeto had sliced through, but despite that effort Brisbane Tigers had their fourth game when Seromelina Tanielu proved too big, two strong from close range.
Tigers winger Petra Greenwood then jumped over from the ruck again after her side had plundered forward with quick play the balls, and it was 24-6 at halftime.
Kayleen Takai then scored for Tigers in the second half, although Magpies did rally when Layla Amaru scored.
“We played as a team today. Everyone was good this week,’’ said Tigers coach Damien Pratt.
Souths Logan coach Warren Bernardin said he could see the effort all game.
He said he admired middle forward Symian Tato in her first taste of Harvey under 19s, prop Jayden Tofae for her 60 minute effort and five-eight Manaia-Rose Afuie who tried hard in attack and defence.
“We just need to hold the ball and tackle. Simple.’’
CONNELL CUP
Pace can score you tries, and it can save you tries and this is exactly what happened when Tyler Mearns and Tom Parker combined for a try saving tackle to hand Souths Logan a 18-16 win over the Tigers.
With 90 seconds left Tigers fullback Grayson Wharakura was up and off and into the clear, but Parker and Mearns combined to drag him down 1m short and the match was saved.
Earlier both Parker and Mearns had displayed their pace running with the football when they scored long distance tries.
Those tries - one in each half - helped Catapult Souths Logan from behind after Tigers edge forward Trent Picot played strongly in the first half.
Souths Logan coach Lincoln McLeod praised his winger Mearns.
“Tyler Mearns demonstrated our next man up philosophy,’’ he said.
“At the start of the day he wasn’t playing but when a player pulled out due to injury he got the call up.
“He scored a try and was involved in the game-saving tackle after Easts got the intercept right near fulltime.’’
In the opening half an hour Tigers back rower Picot scored a 25m try off his halfback Elijah Breen, saved a try and also burrowed over to score.
All this after the Magpies shocked the Tigers with a brilliantly taken right hand move which saw winger Mearns run so quickly, surely his hamstrings were under pressure.
Between those tries it was the Tigers who threw the kitchen sink at Souths Logan’s line, forcing the Magpies to scramble right, left and then hang tight in the middle.
While their defence would have fatigued them it would also have given them confidence they had the Tigers’ measure in attack.
“Our defensive resilience and scramble was a highlight,’’ praised Souths Logan coach McLeod.
Finally, after sustained pressure, Tigers back rower Picot basically threw himself at the line to cross after 20 minutes. It was a hard earned try.
But Souths Logan were level again into the second half when five-eight Tom Parker flashed onto a pass and raced 80m untouched to score an intercept try.
Ten minutes later representative centre Joseph Tupuse strode over and after a lot of effort, Souths had their beaks ahead, 18-12.
Then came the try saving efforts by Mearns and Parker for Souths Logan.
Defensively Magpies No. 13 Mace Andrews was outstanding with his hustle and energy saving tries, prop Fa’apale Feaunati finished strongly in the heat while Sam Martin’s energy was extraordinary.
Breen fired the Tigers’ attack while Max Blanch again shone for Tigers.
Tigers coach Farren Mahoney said he was happy with his team’s effort, but frustrated they did not “ice our moments’’.
He said his five-eight Vaughn Pahiva stood out.
MENINGA CUP
The Brisbane Tigers snared a big scalp by downing Souths Logan 26-24, claiming the club’s first Meninga Cup victory since round 5, 2022.
Defence and plenty of it was the cornerstone of the victory, but around the direction of Xavier Hellyer, the Tigers also displayed confidence with the ball.
The Tigers last ditch defence was commendable, as they grappled time and again with Souths Logan on the try line, preventing tries.
Although Souths Logan rushed in the last three tries of the match over the final 10 minutes, the better side won.
“I am very proud of our effort and the way we defended,’’ said coach Ben Weston. “Our middle led the way.’’
Souths Logan coach Ben Trim said it was imperative the side work on holding the ball more.
The Tigers led 12-6 at halftime, and extended the lead into the second half when Vantayvius Peo and William Quinn scored.
The Tigers shocked Souths Logan early with two quick tries - one by Braiden Driscoll after just three minutes, and the other when hooker Cohen Emmi wrestled over after a long run from No. 13 Driscoll.
Magpies fullback Xavier Atoa flew in cover defence to reel Driscoll, but the Tigers’ didn’t panic, leading to Cohen Emmi’s burrowing effort to score.
The Tigers’ efforts were not reserved for ball running.
They rallied hard in defence, and in one set hooker Emmi saved a try on the line, followed by another effort tackle by fullback Joshua Lee.
Importantly for Souths Logan, they did score close to halftime when Dorian Lotaki crashed over, leaving Tigers ahead 12-6.
A big moment in the half came when Tigers No. 6 Xavier Hellyer regathered his own kick, passed the ball to Tommy Green whose wide ball was intercepted by Souths, saving a certain try that would have made the score 16-nil.
Best for the Tigers were hooker Cohen Emmi, No.13 Driscoll and props Elijah Keung and Connor Simpson.
Souths best was right edge player Kohen Briggs.
DEVILS V TWEED
MENINGA CUP
The Tweed Seagulls rose from the ashes to complete a stunning comeback after being down 24-12 with twenty minutes to play.
Tweed, who won 34-24, scored four tries in the final twenty to turn the match on its head and break the hearts of Norths players and supporters.
Powerful prop Zac Kumbamong was at the fore, crashing over three times to begin, and finish, Tweed’s miraculous comeback.
Norths, ahead by 12, had the game all but wrapped up heading into the final quarter but Tweed clicked into gear when Kumbamong burst through the line and slammed down the ball.
It was game on.
Jake Lateo scored a fantastic try as well, an incredible solo try where he beat the Norths team for pace down the left edge.
Zane Harrison had his radar working, the Seagulls halfback slotting six-from-seven in a game where he controlled the pace and got the very best out of his fullback Mason Barber.
Although Barber didn’t need any helping hand to deal damage. The rangy No. 1 was at his brilliant best, busting tackles and finding holes to get Tweed into good field position.
The Devils would be disappointed because they had played so well until it got down to the business end of the contest.
Forwards Andre Mbunde, Lauloto Salei, Roberston Tosi Tofu, Maddox Goodwin, Amos Va’a and Laurie Lupematasila were all top notch, bruising Tweed in what was a dominant first half showing by the home side.
North’s backs were also A1, it was just incredible how Tweed rallied home.
Halfback Jahrel Iselin-Jansen scored a beauty out of dummy-half, and you couldn’t fault the efforts of winger Adam Khan and George Taualai, his five-eighth.
That interchange punch of Cory Pearse, Lateo and Roko Bilish was just special when paired with hungry forwards Kumbamong (three tries in the final 20 minutes), Wellard, Junior Filimaua, Jack Schmidt and Anton Whaiapu.
What a game. What a comeback.
CONNELL CUP
The Norths Devils delivered a gigantic 40-16 victory over the Tweed Seagulls, running in seven tries to Tweed’s three to come away dominant victors on home turf.
Halfback Timahna Tandy slotted six-from-seven from the tee on a day where Norths had all guns blazing.
The home side kicked off proceedings through Nudgee College flyer Ethan Grimshaw who pinned the ears back and flew.
Grimshaw’s teammate James Grey showcased his speed for North’s third try when he flashed onto a nice pop pass and tore away down field. North’s were off to a flyer, courtesy of their quickest blokes on the field.
North’s had scored six tries before Tweed got on to board, prop Dyer Akauola dealing damage left right and centre with his barnstorming carries.
Akauola scored the Devil’s final try of the game, his second, to announce himself as one of the competition’s premier middle forwards.
The towering No. 8 led the North’s pack of Romarion Kupenga-Tuitama, Taoso Taoso, Hayden Polson, Lincoln Dalton and Isaac Raulini came onto the field and impacted the game with a try.
As mentioned earlier in the story, Oliver Patterson plucked the ball out of the sky, trampled over his defender and dived in to score the try of the day.
It was just incredible.
Eventually Tweed warmed into things but it was too late. The visitors scored three late tries, two of which were scored by hooker Jai Bilish.
Nelson Maka’afi also crossed for Tweed, who should be proud of its second-half effort to close the gap.
HN UNDER-17S
A tremendous try scored by right wing Charlotte Emery put the icing on the cake in North’s triumphant 22-14 victory over the Tweed Seagulls at Bishop Park on Sunday.
Norths led 16-14 before halfback leader Ashley Cotter’s cross field kick was reeled in and planted down by Emery.
Centre Jessica Jahnke, who scored a wonderful try herself, added the extras 20m in from touch to put the nail in the coffin ahead 22-14.
Jahnke, Cotter, props Jara’Kyah Turpin and Memphis Tanielu and lock Easter Taualai were formidable for the home side.
The visiting Seagulls were steered around the park by halfback Lorah Luadaka, sporting bright blue headgear and gutsy five-eighth Kaylee Booth, who stood out with her yellow headgear and relentless defensive efforts.
Centre Chelsea Coleman highlighted Tweed’s fight to the last whistle with a barnstorming carry in the 60th minute, a carry you would see on the first play of the game.
TORAH LUADAKA
The Tweed halfback had her fingerprints all over Tweed’s courageous effort at Bishop Park on Sunday.
The headgeared bandit rose to the occasion, scoring two tries against the run of play to keep Tweed within an arm’s length of a well-drilled Norths outfit.
Luadaka struck away for her first early in the game with a sizzling length of the field effort and then again in the second half when she plucked a loose pass and stormed away for an intercept try.
She had a touch of class and showed that when pinning her ears back and doing it all herself for try No. 3 midway through the second half.
NORTHS PROP LEADS THE WAY
Powerhouse middle forward Jara’Kyah Turpin scored two tries in her team’s home-victory on Sunday and was a huge factor in keeping Tweed in its own half.
Turpin steamrolled opposition defenders for both of her tries and maintained the same intensity on defence. She was often first to put her hand up for a carry.
HN UNDER-19S
The Seagulls soared at Bishop Park to defeat Norths 32-0, the visitors running in six tries to nil in a persistent showing over a gallant Devils outfit.
Phoenix-Raine Hippi was a standout, the Tweed centre running in two tries and dazzling with her offloading ability.
Norths impressed as well. Some positives included:
+ The work of halves Georgette Di Trapani and Sienna Twigg
+Rib rattling tackles from second rower Haraliza Ilau
+Power-running from prop Ally Ramsay.
Tweed ran away with it, halfback Savanahh Roberts-Hickling nailing kicks from near the sideline to flex her muscles alongside tryscorers Leilani Ahsam, Kali Ainsworth, Sienna Smith and Charlotte Day.
EFFORT PLAYS
Norths displayed tremendous effort, from thumping front-on tackles to kick chases and everything in between.
Prop Jacinta Neemia and second rower Haraliza Ilau were at the fore with their defence and halfback Sienna Twigg too.
Twigg made a cracking try-saving tackle when she delivered a crunching hit on a Tweed ball-carrier, taking her into touch in the process.
Then, fast-paced winger Madison Morris was excellent in a kick-chase where she followed the ball and wrapped up her opposition in the in-goal area to force a dropout.
TRIO OF TERROR
How good were Seagulls trio Phoenix-Raine Hippi (centre), Mercedez Taulelei-Siala (fullback) and Savannah Roberts-Hickling (five-eighth).
The trio of terror took the game on and successfully wore down North’s left edge defence with powerful No. 6 Roberts-Hickling’s hand on the trigger.
Roberts-Hickling sat deep in the pocket and with her running the show, the Tweed backline had great depth, allowing speedy outside backs Taulelei-Siala and Hippi more space and time to wind up and make metres.
WYNNUM MANLY V BURLEIGH
MENINGA CUP
The Burleigh Bears coach Ben Linde has praised the commitment of his team’s defence after a 36-16 win over the Wynnum Manly Seagulls.
A Creedence Kelly Donovan double, Saxon Innes’ pace and the brilliance of impact centre Disharne Tonihi helped the Bears to victory, but the foundation of the team’s success first came in defence.
And then came the enterprise.
Tonihi was given a chance in the centres where his defence was crunching and his speed sizzling.
He scored a runaway try and also set up another for Coby Black with a burst down the left edge.
Bailey McConell and Coby Black’s halves combination was much improved, Innes’ line-running and kick returns were just stellar and the Bear’s defence was A1, with mobile lock Cooper Bai leading the way.
Bai was a monster with his carries and with his line speed, he met his opposition with force and made them fumble the ball.
It just wasn’t the Seagulls day - although there were positives.
In his first game of the season winger Charlie Johnstone had some positive touches, strong defensive plays and was rewarded with a try late in the game.
At fullback, Kylem Vunipola spread his wings and was one of the best for Wynnum Manly. The Marsden SHS old boy broke the line on multiple occasions and gave his team its best chance at scoring.
Zane Ford and captain Harry Armstrong stood tall for the home side but errors and ill-discipline meant Burleigh were in for their second win in a row.
Bears coach Linde said edge forward Amare Milford had a big match for Burleigh, while prop forward Brady Turner played big minutes.
Captain Bailey McConnell at No. 6 was back toward his best while Innes worked hard from the fullback.
CONNELL CUP
Burleigh Bears coach Ryan Gundry said his team’s defence after error was key in today’s 26-18 win.
The Coast side made it two wins on the trot with a 26-18 success over Wynnum Manly at Kougari Oval.
Both teams warmed into the game after handling errors riddled the first half of footy, with Burleigh defending their mistakes well.
“I liked our resolve to keep turning up defensively after errors,’’ coach Gundry praised.
“We also executed the game plan well and played as a team.’’
The Bears effort was spearheaded by edge forward Treleque Boyce-Silimaka who was strong and tough.
Fullback Seth Gundry also organised the defence nicely and threatened with his touches, while prop Marley Iggason led in the middle.
After conceding an early try to barnstorming prop Franck Iraguha, Bears boys Seth Gundry, Kilarney Lavender and Daniel Rakena scored to move ahead 16-6.
After the break, Kingston Seve crossed and Lavender pounced for his second to keep their noses in front amid a resurgent second half effort by the home side Wynnum Manly.
Hard-hitting centre Antonio Okusitino and five-eighth Tyler Pereira scored for the Seagulls in the second half but couldn’t find another way in after the 47th minute.
David Bryenton was busy at the back, while Ezekial Jones (hooker), Jared Horne (lock), Taylan To’a (second row) and Iraguha had strong games in their respective positions.
For Burleigh, Seth Gundry (fullback) winger Seve, halves pairing Daniel Rakena and Marley McLaren, Tupou Francis (lock) and Lavender, a centre playing in the second row, were all excellent in slippery conditions.
Wynnum coach Blake Trace said it was important the group worked on playing its game, focus on ball control and picked the right times and areas to turn ball over.
“I think we need to work on our discipline as well. The penalties hurt us and came at crucial times.’’
Best for the Seagulls were props Frank Iraguha and Chaev Kolone.
HN UNDER-17S
Burleigh Bears’ quick start proved the difference in the team’s 20-14 win over Wynnum.
Burleigh heard the starting gun first to score the first three tries - courtesy of Grace Jacobsen, Mia Davy and Lacey McLaren.
Back Wynnum came and anyway could have claimed the match, and it got really tight when Wynnum’s Summer Thorne scored, but in the end Burleigh had enough points in the bank to claim victory.
“At a pivotal moment in the game, front rower Summer Thorne made three desperate tackles in a row,’’ said Wynnum coach Cameron Nygaard.
“From her efforts we gained possession which led to a barnstorming run to the line by Thorne.
“She carried three girls to eventually crash over.’’
He said it was a game of two halves, with his side down 20-4. “I asked the girls at halftime to forget about the first half and go into the second with the mindset it was nil.
“Taleigha Kingston Francis stepped up to the plate in replacing our injured lock London Pukura.
It was a player of the match performance by Francis who controlled the middle and gave good direction, Nygaard said.
Coach Nygaard was most impressed with winger Ruby Powles who peppered the right edge with high balls and kicks for touch.
“Ruby handled the pressure and was comfortable under the ball with some brilliant returns in the middle’’.
HN UNDER-19S
In a willing encounter the Burleigh Bears pieced together a hard earned 18-4 away victory over Wynnum on the back of a Tayjah Simmonds double.
Interchange Tayjah Simmonds scored two crucial second half tries on the back of relentless hard work from her forward pack – Gabrielle Lolohea, Liarna Barber-Salvation, Grace King, Makia Lehrer-Simon and Kaliyah Browning.
Holding off Wynnum Manly is no easy task, but the Bears forward pack was game.
Browning converted three from three off the tee while Titans Academy talents Bella Thompson (fullback) Mhia Mackey-Taylor (centre) and Nadia Windleborn (hooker) gave Burleigh an edge.
So did Sarina Masaga, the Bears five-eighth who raised eyebrows with a thumping tackle in the second half which halted all of Wynnum Manly’s momentum.
Ellie Cullen (winger) crossed for the home side on the back of a swift through the hands movement in the first half but Wynnum Manly could not get in again despite showing promise.
Indeed Cullen had scored first, but the Bears managed three unanswered tries - all converted by Browning - which inched their side ahead in a close encounter.
Wynnum Manly coach Steve Casey praised the team first mentality of Burleigh, saying their middles and back three played a strong game.
For the Seagulls centre Mariah Brown was a standout.
“She is one of our best every week,” Casey praised.
“ I thought she did very well, she was unlucky not to score in the second half … She’s super strong and a great defender.”
Around Brown, halfback Caitlin Tanner gave her everything and was a “great leader” while middles Maddison Schipplock and Lili Douglas impressed with their tenacity.
“Every week they go over and above,” Casey said of the workrate of his props.
Bears coach Spencer Taplin praised second rower Makia Lehrer-Simon. “She had a good defensive game, understanding her role and executing it. She also had a very high work rate,’’ the Burleigh coach said.
BLACKHAWKS V CUTTERS
MENINGA CUP
Townsville scored twice late to overcome the Cutters in a thriller on a rain soaked Jack Manski Oval.
On a day for carries, an endless amount of carries, Blackhawks fullback Logan Deininger provided the spark of brilliance to bring the match alive.
He scored a thrilling individual try in the 50th minute after his team were behind 8-nil.
Deininger defied the heavy field to explode into the backline, finding a gap on the right hand side to blaze over.
Then, 13 minutes later, Townsville halfback Lachlan Erba threaded a grubber kick for his winger Anthony Iorangi who crossed.
With halfback Lachlan Erba kicking both conversions, those two tries were enough to get the job done.
This was after Cutters fullback ace Mutua Brown and Luka Russell had scored for Cutters.
CONNELL CUP
In the big wet up north, Blackhawks’ hooker Cooper Cox and halve Marley Proctor proved the difference in a slug festival.
Blackhawks won 12-6 against a Cutters side which almost pinched a draw at the end.
The Blackhawks defence, which had done so well, was breached with seven minutes to go by Ryan John, setting the scene for an exciting finish.
The big men from both sides rolled down the middle, churning up the metres as a gritty tug-a-war unfolded.
It is not that there was no ball movement - both teams handled well in the conditions - but the forward power, and runs off the back of that, were key.
The point of difference were the quick feet, reaction time and speed of halve Marley Procter, and then his hooker Cox.
Blackhawk’s five-eight Proctor broke the early deadlock with a brilliant individual try.
After his hooker Cox had won a penalty with his scamper from the ruck, Proctor took the line on from 10m out, winning the fight to place the ball.
In wet conditions, his speed was the difference between him scoring or being dragged back.
Then in the second half Cox found the line and boom, 12-nil it was. In the conditions, it was worth an 18-nil break.
But the Cutters rallied. It took magnificent defence to deny them for as long as the Blackhawks did, but it was no surprise to see Cutters cross and set up an exciting end.
Earlier, in the first half the Blackhawks almost scored also when left centre Cohen Dittman put on some footwork, but to Cutters’ credit they held their formation down a narrow blindside to narrowly repel the attack.
Blackhawks halfback Riley Carbone, with his kicking game in the wet and general play, was his side’s best.
Townsville coach Nathan Norford also said his prop Sitiveni Afu work hard, as usual, while winger Heath Bethel worked hard in the conditions.
UNDER-17s
The Cutters played a nice brand of rugby league to win 20-10, scoring two tries in each half.
In wet conditions, the Cutters controlled the ball nicely, and with Keeley Logan’s astute kicking on song, they maintained pressure on the Blackhawks.
Logan was a nice link between her forwards and her backs, with a nice shift to the fringes coming after her front six had asserted themselves with power running.
Cutters defence was also strong against a winning Hawks outfit which kept coming, and skipper Cianna Faulkner was terrific with her leadership.
“The girls’ defence was strong,’’ said Cutters coach Veronica Dorante.
“They worked well together as a team.
“Our focus was to work on good ball, attack sets and they delivered well,’’ she said.
Blackhawks coach Rebecca Petersen said: “Today was not our day, with a wet field and rain around and we could not control the ball.
“Mackay was the better team at the end of the day.’’
She said his side learned plenty and would be better again next week.
Cutters scored first when fullback Courtney Harris extended her arms to put the ball on the line, and scored again when alert five-eight Takiyah Sweet dived over from dummy half.
Cutters would have scored a third time, but fantastic cover defence by Mia Pashley prevented the score.
Earlier in the game Blackhawks’ captain Jakaia-Lee Collett led by example with her power runs and hurting defence.
The Blackhawks were never light years out of the match, and reduced the margin early in the second half when Mia Pashley scored.
But Cutters’ Erin Synott scored again shortly after to take her team clear again.
Ella Duncan also scored for the winners.
Best for Cutters was No. 13 Cianna Faulkner.
Townsville coach Petersen said Blackhawks edge Chloe Maxwell, with her strong carries and powerful defence, was outstanding across the 60 minutes.
HN UNDER-19S
The Blackhawks’ girls won a battle of wills to claim a tough, grafting 12-4 win over Cutters on a rain-soaked Jack Manski Oval.
Blackhawks coach Rob Hall was proud of the way his side dug deep in the conditions.
“We stuck to our processes against a high quality opposition that we have a lot of respect for,’’ Hall said.
“Our forward pack worked really well, with Lhylla Willimson great for us again in the second row.’’
Hall also had high praise for second rower Brandy Yallop who shone in her first starting appearance in the centres, and former schoolboy star Ebony Raftstrand-Smith who made a solid return. “She asked a lot of questions of the cutter’s defence,’’ coach Hall said.
Mackay coach Matt Sanders said representative hooker Paityne Johns was his best, but he also wanted to ensure prop Gracie Watt was mentioned for her “great effort’’.
For the winners, Zaleah Mosby-Nona scored in the first half, and Hannah De Daunton in the second half.
Mersades Lawson scored for Cutters.
JETS V CLYDESDALES
CONNELL CUP
Clydesdales coach Ned Murphy said in a tight, tough contest, it was his team’s defence which enabled his side to raise the V for Victory sign at Ipswich Brothers this afternoon.
The Clydesdales prevailed 18-16 in a match which could have swung either way.
There was not a struck match in the encounter, a torrid, physical affair which will have players from both teams looking for a nice douse of Radox in their bath tonight.
“I like that we toughed it out in a physical game, and that we played the whole 60 minutes,’’ said Clydesdales coach Ned Murphy.
Clydesdales hooker Brodie Hilt was at his best for the winning side, while fullback Lachlan McGrath did more than his share of work.
While the Darling Downs boys got the win, coach Murphy would like to work on ball control this week, and the group’s finish to their sets when attacking.
Ipswich’s best was prop Cooper Cracknell who returned from a concussion after a 19 day break. He led from the front.
Jets centre Ioane Tia Tia who, whenever he got early ball, showed skill. The Forest Lake SHS will get better for more experience.
Ipswich player Ty Taputoa, who suffered a knock in a tackle, was cleared of serious damage after hospital observation.
UNDER-17S
The Clydesdales scored three converted tries in the final six minutes to clinch a sensational victory over the Jets, 26-22.
It was a high class clash which either side could have won, but the Toowoomba-based side stayed the course to swoop late.
Skipper Pypah Ferguson, Tayla Horrobin and Abby Sayeg scored near full-time, with Aaliyah Murray landed all three conversions. Phew, what a finish.
Clydesdales coach Russell Jones reflected on the comeback when he said: “We just kept talking about completing our sets as we hadn’t been doing that.
“We knew we could score if we controlled the ball.’’
He said resilience and grit in defence with 15 minutes left gave the side confidence. “It was about convincing them they had it in them.’’
Ipswich coach Vili Leaunoa said she saw improvement.
“I thought our girls improved their line speed in defence,’’ she said.
“We worked really hard on it and it showed in the first 50 minutes.
“We probably need to improve with our scramble defence and be a lot better with our communication.’’
She said the team’s ball control also improved.
There was a golden try moment late in the first half when Clydesdales edge forward Tayla Horrobin flashed onto a chip by talented fullback Mia Byrnes to score.
Byrnes, who had already impressed with limited chances running the ball, found space with her chip kick and Horrobin chased the ball like she had been fired out of a cannon. It was a great try.
Just as good was a fabulous grubber kick and regather effort by Ipswich halfback Jazmyn Brennan-Rowe who scored on the cusp of halftime.
After an unforced error by Toowoomba, Jets’ forwards rolled toward the posts where Brennan-Rowe produced an instinctive kick and chase try.
During the second half there was also a key moment when Jets winger Tenapau Naawi saved a try with a tackle after A Clydesdales’ player had reeled in a Byrnes crosskick.
Ipswich Jets’ defence in the final 10 minutes, when the opposition was pushing hard, was also a key period in the game.
Ipswich won the possession battle for the first third of the match, although despite Jets’ power running and ball control, the Clydesdales’ defence defied their rivals for long periods.
The Jets did cross first when power forward Tylah Hamilton found the line.
The Clydesdales reward came later in the first half when centre Abby Saige glided over after outstanding team play.
There was an early contender for tackle of the match when Jets prop Summer Hoet unleashed a bone-crunching hit.
Hoet then crossed to extend her team’s lead, 10-4, with a bumping, strong effort close to the line.
Clydesdales captain and lock Pypah Ferguson was excellent with her long striding runs and deft passing before the line.
Ipswich’s Ella O’Dea also displayed great promise for the Jets.
No. 13 Ferguson, interchange forward Poppy Gibbons, fullback Byrnes, second rower Horrobin and centre Abby Saige shone brightest for the Clydesdales.
Ipswich coach Vili Leaunoa said best for the Jets was captain and second rower Emanlini Waqairatu. “She was our best last week as well.
“Her awesome attitude and great leadership skills shows why she’s our captain for this campaign.’’
HN UNDER-19s
Let it sing, let it sing. And so the Western Clydesdales did on their way to a 24-8 win over Ipswich Jets.
In a local derby at Ipswich Brothers, the Clydesdales started the better to establish a potentially match winning lead before the Jets found their feet.
Halfback Mikeely Scott, impressive centre Lucy Davis scored early, while the fresh legs of Rianna Haverhoek crossed in the 28th minute.
Centre Jessica Fitzgibbons then added another try and the Clydesdales were galloping.
But it was not one way traffic, with the Ipswich girls fighting on.
Spirits were boosted when prop Sifa Leapai scored, and in the second half when skipper and No. 13 Ariana Henderson crossed.
But Clydesdales closed out the game with a try by Sumaya Haidari.
Jets coach Michael Wardrop said he admired his team’s hustle in defence and its attitude.
“As one of the youngest teams in the competition, I was impressed that we didn’t quit when things didn’t go our way,’’ he said.
He praised prop Sifa Leapai who was strong before being injured, along with fellow prop Luciah Silo in defence.
Captain and No. 13 Ariana Henderson also displayed quality touches and tackled anything that moved.
MENINGA CUP
Ipswich Jets hooker Nathan Fraser helped lead his side to a 34-6 win over the Clydesdales, but it was not the points for, but rather just the six points again, which pleased coach Tye Ingebrigtsen.
Last week Ingebrigesten watched as the Clydesdales played some expansive football against the Bulls to score plenty of points, so to hold them to just six this weekend was outstanding.
“Our defence was really, really good considering Toowoomba put on a few points last week,’’ he said.
Ingebrigtsen said with the ball, it all started with his starting props Nicholas Tuliatu and Kanaan Magele, and with good direction from hooker Nathan Fraser, things started to tick over.
The Jets coach was also impressed with interchange forward Mafiou Cherif who added impact and energy. He scored two tries in the last four minutes.
Toowoomba coach Gus McKellar said a lack of ball control and execution let his side down, especially in the final 20 minutes.
McKellar said No. 13 Lyucian King-Togia and second rower Trace Beattie were his strongest players, while halfback Joey Sankey also earned a mention.
CAPRAS V PRIDE
MENINGA CUP
The Northern Pride swooped late, but it was not enough to pinch a draw against the Capras.
CQ won 26-20, rattling up a big enough advantage to ensure victory for Capras.
Iziah Broome gave his side the start they wanted when he crossed twice early, and from there the Capras started placing building blocks toward victory.
But the Pride recovered the more the second half progressed, with Kyan Sheppard, Ratu Kikau and Jett Boggian finding tries to set up an exciting ending.
Capras coach Peter Rogers said he enjoyed the way his side showed grit and determination when things were not always going for them.
But he said it was important the side improved its ball control. “That will make things a lot easier for us,’’ he said.
“It was a great team effort today,’’ he added.
On the other hand Pride coach Bevan Walker said the effort was great but the execution was poor. “Which means an attitude check is required,’’ he said.
CONNELL CUP
At mighty Browne Park, the Capras Connell boys notched their first win of the season, 28-18, over a fast finishing Pride.
Pride surged late and hard, but the damage was done early when CQ scored five tries to nil across the first 42 minutes.
“I was really happy with three quarters of our game,’’ said Capras coach Duane Carpenter.
“We had some lapses and errors in certain stints, but for the most part we were good.
“The big improvement from last week is we played to our standards and played a brand of footy we want to be known for. That was great to see.’’
Capras started like a train rolling through downtown Rockhampton - Elijah McKay and Harrison Meilland - scored early, before ironman forward Zac Bateman deservedly crossed.
Later Capras Harvey Mahoney and Chayce Bayles crossed and it was all Capras.
Then the Pride won the rest of the match, reducing the margin to 10 points before the clock wound down.
Best in the match was Capras hooker Jay Marsh, second rower Zac Bateman and centre Eli McKay. Bateman and McKay were brutal in defence.
In addition Capras middle forwards, including starting props Parker Gallagher and Henry Kallquist, did well in the wet.
HN UNDER-17S
A first half double by Maycee Brown helped the Capras to a 30-10 win over the Pride.
Capras swept to the first three tries of the match - with edge forward Chanelle Williams opening the scoring early, followed by Brown’s two tries off the interchange bench.
The Pride then gained some parity with their rivals, and as a result NQ fullback Jordan Woods scored to reward her side.
But Capras edge forward Chanelle Williams crossed for her second try and the CQ outfit had space again.
“The improvement in our team’s intensity in defence and completion of our sets were very pleasing, and as a result points went on the board,’’ said Capras coach Nikki Carpenter.
Carpenter said her team’s spine players - fullback Zoe Robson, halves Caydence Fouracre and Madeline Johnson, and hooker Chloe Powell - kept the team on track.
Also impressive were individuals like edge forward Chanelle Williams, winger Teleah Cassar, centre Keeley Marsden and winger Freya Hansen shining in the gloom.
Again for the Pride, Elishama Suavai at edge forward was the best for her side.
HN UNDER-19s
The Capras started like a house on fire to register a 26-6 victory over the Pride at Marley Brown Oval, Gladstone.
Capras coach Cedric Auda said the game was a great chance for his players to showcase their skills to the Gladstone community which is a big part of the Capras family.
He thanked the Pride girls for making the long trip down as well.
On the field, Auda said his middle forwards, including starting props Rosie Mallinson and Lilly Field, set a platform which created chances for the edge players.
The left edge was particularly effective, with the connection of fullback Malu-Sianne Auda, five-eight Mackayla Oakley, winger Rianna Moore, edge forward Mattice McLeod and centre Mackayla Champion impressive.
It was a strong start by Capras.
Gabrielle Yarrow and Rianna Moore scored within the first 10 minutes to get the Capras off to a flyer and from there a Mackayla Champion double and some gutsy defence did the job for the Central Queensland team.
Mia Curtis and Mattice McLoed scored for the Capras in a six tries to one victory over the Pride, whose lone try scorer was the trusty Lisa Waireg.
Pride coach Floria King-Smith said the team displayed some good patches in attack, particularly down the right hand side.
“Edette Ritchter (centre) was consistently good in defence and attack,’’ coach King-Smith praised.
She said Lilly-Jay Licence was also good in the middle, while Kimberley Bryant at hooker displayed great awareness.
“We will be working on ball security and making good decisions under fatigue,’’ she added.
BULLS V FALCONS
MENINGA CUP
The Sunshine Coast enjoyed a 46-6 victory over the Wide Bay Bulls late today.
It was an eight try scoring effort, with Clive McCormack crossing for three tries, while Cooper Clarke, Tyrell Hopkins, Callum Ballantyne, Joseph Meikle and Ezekiel Monckton also crossing late.
Falcons coach Cam Boaza the aim was to be simple and do individual jobs well.
“Road trips are a bit of the unknown at this level and Wide Bay can play some tough footy,’’ Boaza said.
“We wanted to complete well and finish our sets well and they did that.
“We pushed a few passes and bombed a couple of tries but they worked hard to stay on the plan and had some good opportunities to score.’’
Falcons’ edge forward Tyrell Hopkins was the best on the field with strong carries, but it was his defence which shone brightest.
No. 13 Mitch Bebbington also tackled himself to a standstill.
“I thought our outside backs were also very good and di a lot of the grunt work out of yardage,’’ coach Boaza said.
CONNELL CUP
Sunshine Coast coach Timothy Baldwin said while his team was still a work in progress, he enjoyed their effort today against the Bulls.
The Falcons won 34-6, with the Sunny Coast scoring the first six tries of the game.
Baldwin said it was important his side played well, and after starting a little flat, he noted the group had good shape and maintained a good standard.
But despite the effort, he said consistency was the key.
“We put ourselves in good positions but the execution fell short,’’ Baldwin said.
He said captain and No. 13 Jackson Koina was outstanding, while hooker Tyson Fallon-May was lively and, off the bench, Miller Thompson did well at dummy half and No. 13.
He said edge forward Zayde Carfantan also did well.
HN UNDER-17S
The Falcons girls got on a roll early and maintained the rage to beat the gutsy Bulls which tried hard throughout. Falcons on 32-nil.
A try by Sarah McGuire after four minutes gave her side a quick start, before the Falcons were confronted by a willing Bulls side which went toe to toe with their rivals.
Indeed, the Bulls looked in danger of losing their jersey hold on the Falcons on several occasions, but refused to throw in the towel.
However, Falcons captain Makayla Elliott then left her thumb print on the contest. The mobile prop went the blind, unloading in contact to put Ella Willison over in the corner.
Not long after Falcons dummy half Emily Maher then scorched the surface with blinding pace. She went right down the centre of the field and at one stage looked like she might score 60m a solo try.
But it was off the back of her run that Marley Chan crashed over.
The Bulls again worked hard, but the Sunshine Coast’s strike power was too much.
Left centre Tahlee Donald was then given quick exit ball and away she went, sprinting with grace and style 70m to score.
Bulls winger Lucy Medlock chased Donald all the way, never giving up which said a lot about Wide Bay, but Donald had the pace.
But just when you through the Falcons may run away with the game, a dogged Bulls outfit fought hard, reducing their rivals to a 14-nil halftime lead.
Sunshine Coast coach Jo Kerr praised her team’s defence and was delighted to see a nil score on the Bulls side.
“Sarah McGuire (second row) was great as was Mayayla Elliott (prop),’’ coach Kerr said.
Kerr admired plenty about Wide Bay. “I admired their tenacity despite the score. They kept working hard and kept us working hard. They have impressed massively from last year.’’
HN UNDER-19S
The Sunshine Coast Falcons enjoyed a big win over the Bulls, 54-0.
Sienna Wheeler and Takoda Thompson both scored two tries, while Shae Prescott, Chekyrah Pita, Shannyn Harm, Jorden Bloomfield, Caitlyn Smith and Violet Whitby all crossed.
Falcons coach Joshua Shuttlewood said he was most pleased with the team’s structure, and how the group earned the right to play expansive attacking rugby league.
“We had a goal to keep the opposition to zero,’’ Shuttlewood said.
Best for the Falcons was prop Sienna Wheeler and captain and No. 13 Takoda Thompson.
Originally published as From bruise brothers, runaway tries and prowling Tigers - how round 3 unfolded
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