Tag: QRL

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.

Published 09-September-2024

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