HostPlus Cup Archives

Devils vs Dolphins: A Rivalry Reignited in Hostplus Cup Preliminary Final

The Norths Devils are set for a high-stakes Hostplus Cup preliminary final against rivals Redcliffe Dolphins this Sunday, 1 September. Devils vs Dolphins kick off 2:10 p.m. at Bishop Park.

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Devils vs Dolphins

The intense rivalry between the two clubs remains as fierce as ever. The 2024 season saw each team secure a victory in their regular-season meetings, making Sunday’s match not just about finals progression but also a decisive tiebreaker in this season’s head-to-head battles.

Both teams finished the regular season with identical 13-7 records. The Devils pipped second place over the Dolphins due to a +17 edge in points differential, granting Norths the advantage of playing at home in this crucial encounter.

This upcoming rivalry game is also a rematch of the 2022 grand final, where the Devils secured a 16-10 victory to claim their third Queensland Cup.

Nroths Devils team list vs the Redcliffe Dolphins. Photo Credit: Norths Devils RLFC

Veteran player Jacob Gagan is set to make his 50th appearance for the Devils. Known for his tactical acumen and leadership on the field, Gagan’s experience is expected to be a key factor as Norths navigate the pressures of finals football.

Bouncing back

Despite a setback in their final regular-season match against the Sunshine Coast Falcons, coach Dave Elliott remains confident. He views the finals as a fresh start, focusing on the team’s resilience and readiness to perform under pressure.

Resilience has been a hallmark of the Devils. In 2021, after a surprise loss in their final regular-season game, they bounced back with a strong performance in the finals—securing their second-ever premiership.

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Devils supporters can expect an intense and physical encounter at Bishop Park. The energy of the home crowd is anticipated to play a significant role in what promises to be a closely contested match.

Published 28-August-2024

Devils vs Capras: Norths Face Uphill Battle Against League Leaders

The Norths Devils return home to face the league-leading CQ Capras this Saturday, April 13. The Devils will be looking to bounce back after a tough 26-20 loss to the Wynnum Manly Seagulls last weekend. Devils vs Capras kickoff 4:00 p.m. at Bishop Park.

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Devils attack struggles as the defence excels

The Devils (2-2) played well in patches against the Seagulls, with tries from Jacob Gagan (twice), Manase Kaho, and Tesi Niu keeping them in the contest. However, the team is still adjusting to new combinations, and the lack of cohesion in attack proved costly.

On the defensive end, the Devils have been impressive, conceding the least points of all teams that have played four matches so far. However, a rare lapse in defence allowed Delouise Hoeter and Sione Hopoate to score two tries in quick succession in the first half, making the Devils’ task much harder.

The CQ Capras (3-1), on the other hand, will be looking to maintain their position at the top of the ladder and continue their strong start to the season.

Devils vs Capras, head-to-head

Devils vs Capras 2023 — Photo Credit: QRL

Despite holding a dominant 15-2 head-to-head record over the Capras, the Devils will be wary of the visitors, who are coming off a strong start to the 2024 season.

Interestingly, the Devils suffered one of those two losses last season at Bishop Park. The Devils struggled to make an impact, managing no tries while their players accumulated more sin bins than points on the scoreboard. The final score was a lopsided 34-0 in favor of the Capras.

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The Devils will need to be at their best if they hope to overcome the league leaders and avenge their brutal home loss in 2023. With the team still finding its footing, the match against the Capras promises to be a tough challenge for the Devils.

Published 11-April-2024

Liam Horne: From Borrowed Boots to 50th Hostplus Cup Appearance

He’s a 26-year-old sparky who’s played five-eighth, hooker and lock for the Norths Devils and his versatility has been a big reason for a remarkable rise that has led to an international call-up for PNG and just last week, his 50th 1st grade game for the Devils.

Born in Port Moresby but raised in Australia, Liam Horne made his first grade debut in 2019 against the Tweed Seagulls; was part of the 2021 Intrust Super Cup Premiership Winners; and last year, ran out in the Pacific Test against Fiji.

It all started when he began playing for the Norths Devils Juniors at the age of 10, collecting trophies with the Colts and the Under 18s on the way to making first grade.

From Borrowed Boots to First Grade

Devils Junior Liam Horne Celebrates Milestone 50th Hostplus Cup Match

Reflecting on his debut against Tweed four years ago, Horne remembers that day as one that took an unexpected turn. Expecting to watch from the bench, Horne lent his boots to former junior teammate David Fauid.

After an injury to Michael Sio during the warm-up, he found himself thrust into action. Borrowing boots from a Colts player, he battled through the relentless rain despite Tweed dominating the game.

Known for his tenacity and powerful running style, Horne gained a reputation as one of the toughest runners in the competition, despite his modest 90-kg frame.

His tireless efforts have resulted in eight tries this season, catching the eye of Papua New Guinea selectors and earning him a crack at the international scene.

Horne also played a pivotal role in the Devils’ 2022 title repeat. Playing a standout game in the Grand Final against Redcliffe, he was a vital part of one of the team’s three tries during their 16-10 victory.

Horne admits that he has also had to cultivate self-belief to establish himself as a regular first-grader. He now aspires to secure a full-time role within an NRL squad, training with the Brisbane Broncos during the previous offseason.

As Devils junior Liam Horne celebrates his half-century, his journey from borrowed boots to a key player on the team is a testament to his determination and passion for his sport.

Expressing gratitude to everyone who has contributed to his development as a player, Horne acknowledged the club’s support and guidance throughout his career.

Published 6 July 2023