The Norths Devils have secured their place in the Hostplus Cup grand final, defeating the PNG Hunters 46-30 at Bishop Park. This Devils vs Hunters preliminary final victory marks the Norths’ eighth consecutive finals win, further extending their cup record.
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Show of dominance
Despite the final scoreline, the preliminary final was a closely contested affair. The Devils started strong, racing to a 16-0 lead within the first 17 minutes. The Hunters quickly responded, narrowing the gap to 16-12 with two tries, but Tesi Niu’s powerful score before halftime pushed the Devils’ lead to 22-12.
Julian Christian’s try early in the second half kept the Devils in control, and from that point on, the result was never in doubt. Christian’s try ensured that the Hunters struggled to regain momentum, and the Devils maintained their advantage throughout the remainder of the game.
With their impressive victory, the Devils now turn their attention to the grand final.
Towards the grand final
The team appears to be in top form as the Devils prepare for their third grand final in four years, with all players from the preliminary final are expected to be available for the season decider.
Norths head coach Dave Elliott is optimistic about the week ahead, highlighting the mix of experienced and first-time grand final players. “We have some players who have been through grand final weeks before and others getting ready for their first grand final so it will be a special week,” he said.
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Fans can expect a high-stakes grand final as the Devils aim to cement their dominance over long-time rivals, the Redcliffe Dolphins, whom they beat in a grand final two years earlier. The stage is set for another thrilling chapter in the Norths Devils’ storied history.
Published 16-September-2024
This pre-match article was published on 09-September-2024.
Devils vs Hunters: Norths Aim for Third Grand Final in Four Years
The Norths Devils are set for a do-or-die Hostplus Cup preliminary final against the PNG Hunters this Sunday, 15 September, with a dominant record of three grand finals in four seasons on the cards for Nundah. Devils vs Hunters kick off 2:10 p.m. at Bishop Park.
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A test of strength
Coming off a commanding 46-18 victory over Redcliffe a week ago, where eight different players crossed the try-line, the Devils showcased the depth that could prove vital in Sunday’s matchup.
This dominant early finals performance earned them a bye, putting them in prime position for what promises to be a close, physical encounter.
Devils talisman Jack Ahearn played a pivotal role in the win over Redcliffe and is expected to rise to the occasion once more in the upcoming high-stakes clash. Hooker Kierran Moseley will be key in orchestrating the team’s attack, while Sam Elliott will be all over the field, breaking up plays and creating opportunities of his own.
Devils vs Hunters
The Devils have proven themselves under pressure, boasting an impressive seven consecutive finals wins (that is, after missing the finals altogether last year).
However, the Hunters enter this match riding a wave of confidence after their gritty 24-10 semi-final victory over the Sunshine Coast Falcons.
Notably, the Hunters also handed the Devils one of their rare home losses earlier this season, securing a narrow 20-18 win at Bishop Park in Round 17, thanks to a last-minute try from Brandon Nima and a conversion from Jamie Mavoko.
Devils coach Dave Elliott remains focused on their well-established game plan. “We’ve got belief and trust in each other, and we need to stick to our game plan and play the footy we know we can play,” Elliott said.
His words reflect the team’s focus on consistency and execution, knowing that sticking to their processes has carried them through high-pressure moments in the past.
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As the Devils chase their third grand final appearance in four years, the support of the home crowd at Bishop Park is a deciding factor. Finals football brings an unmatched intensity, and the Devils are calling on their fans to create a fortress-like atmosphere—every voice at Bishop Park counts.
