Tag: rugby league

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.

Read: Rooming Accommodation Proposed for Nudgee, Locals Worry About Parking Impacts

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

Montaya Hudson: An Unstoppable Force for Norths Devils

At just 18 years old, Montaya Hudson has already established herself as a rising star in rugby league. The young dynamo from the Norths Devils who hails from Mt Isa was named in the Queensland Under-19 women’s squad, a testament to her undeniable talent.

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With her electrifying performances and unwavering dedication, Hudson is poised to make a lasting impact on the game she loves.

Family roots and early beginnings

Rugby league runs deep in Hudson’s veins. Her father and brothers, one of whom is part of the North Queensland Cowboys’ junior system, have all embraced the sport’s rugged spirit. It was this family tradition that ignited Hudson’s passion for rugby league from an early age.

Despite being too young to compete in the 2023 Harvey Norman Women’s National Championships, Hudson’s talent caught the attention of the Queensland Sapphires, the state’s premier development program.

She seized this invaluable opportunity, training alongside the best in the state and gaining invaluable experience that would shape her future.

Breakthrough season with Brisbane Tigers

Hudson’s breakthrough came in the 2023 BMD Premiership, where she joined the Brisbane Tigers under the guidance of Queensland Maroons great and coach Adrian Vowles.

“Vowlesy is really good. He has a lot of knowledge, is a great guy, good coach… just knows what he’s doing,” Hudson reflected.

It was there that she honed her skills, learned from seasoned professionals, and began to make her mark on the rugby league landscape.

Further development with Norths Devils

The 2024 season saw Hudson take another significant step forward, joining Meg Ward’s Norths Devils in the BMD Premiership. Her growing reputation also earned her a well-deserved selection for the Queensland Under-19 Emerging Squad.

Her season with the Norths Devils was nothing short of exceptional. In 10 appearances, she scored an impressive 6 tries and provided 7 try assists, showcasing her ability to create scoring opportunities for herself and her teammates.

Photo Credit: QRL

She also broke 20 tackles and made 3 line breaks while racking up a total of 634 running metres, averaging 63 metres per game.

One of the standout moments of Hudson’s season was her try in the BMD Premiership grand final against the Mackay Cutters — the sole one for the Devils. Despite the 16-6 loss, Hudson’s try was a moment of pure brilliance, and perhaps a peek at her full potential.

Future prospects and inspiration

Norths Devils U19 Emerging Squad
Photo Credit: Facebook/Norths Devils Rugby League Football Club

Looking ahead, Hudson’s focus remains steadfast: making her stamp in the Under-19 interstate clash against New South Wales and continuing her growth with the Brisbane Broncos on a development contract. The prestige of representing the Broncos is not lost on the young star.

Hudson draws inspiration from players like Tamika Upton, a Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons star and 2023 Dally M medal winner. Competing against Upton in the BMD Premiership has been an “eye-opening” experience for Hudson, motivating her to improve continuously and reach new heights.

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Montaya Hudson’s journey from the small town of Mt Isa to the bright lights of Brisbane is a testament to her talent, resilience, and unwavering passion for rugby league. As she continues to hone her skills and gain experience, the rugby league world eagerly anticipates the next chapter in her inspiring story.

Published 14-June-2024

Devils vs Clydesdales: Norths Seek Redemption from 2023

The Norths Devils are gearing up for a crucial clash against the Western Clydesdales in round 7 of the Hostplus Cup this Saturday, April 26. After a challenging game on the road, the Devils are eager to capitalise on their return to familiar territory and reclaim their winning form. Devils vs Clydesdales kickoff  at 5:00 p.m. at Bishop Park.

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Lessons from Cairns

Devils vs Pride 2024
Photo Credit: Facebook / Norths Devils Rugby League Football Club

Last week’s performance against Northern Pride in Cairns highlighted areas for improvement for the Devils. Despite moments of excellence, defensive lapses and errors plagued their gameplay, resulting in a 38-12 loss.

With a 3-3 win-loss record built on fluctuating results, the Devils recognize the need to develop consistency as a squad with fifteen new players.

Devils vs Clydesdales, redemption on the agenda

The Norths Devils lost their only matchup 42-34 so far against Clydesdale, who returned to the QRL just last season. This sole defeat came at the most crucial time, denying the Devils a chance to compete in the 2023 finals round. A win this Saturday would help redeem last season’s woes and assert the Devils among the league’s top teams this season.

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Looking forward, the Devils will have a bye before returning to Bishop Park on May 12 to face the Brisbane Tigers. With a challenging start to the season against a tough schedule, the Devils are determined to find their stride and secure a strong foothold in the league standings.

Published 26-April-2024