Hostplus Cup: Round 1 vs Wynnum-Manly Seagulls (Catchup game)
Round 1 catch up of the Hostplus Cup is coming up this Easter Saturday as the team are at Piggabeen for the first time in 2025 as they take on the Wynnum Manly Seagulls in the ‘Battle of the Fries’ sponsored by McDonalds
Kick off at 2:00pm
The team are looking to bounce back strong after consecutive losses to the Bears, Jets and Hunters and it does not get any easier this weekend facing a tough and physical Seagulls side.
Check out the team list below:
Eximm CEO joins LANDY Ladies Leaders in League Panel
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are excited to have Eximm CEO Vicki Tod join our LANDY Ladies Leaders in League panel on Friday 16th May.
Vicki Tod has been the CEO of Eximm since October 2018, bringing over 20 years of experience in the legal industry and a strong background in management. Under her leadership, Eximm has seen significant growth and success, expanding its services and strengthening its market presence across Queensland and Northern New South Wales. Vicki’s vision for Eximm focuses on building, securing, and maintaining valuable relationships while fostering a culture of excellence and innovation within the company.
Beyond the boardroom, Vicki is personally invested in various philanthropic endeavours and serves on the boards of several nonprofit organizations including her role as Non-Executive Director of Ohana for Youth whose mission is to empower young people with the skills to achieve success. Through an offering of education and work skills to disengaged and special needs children, the aim is to develop 21st century citizens, who become life-long learners, who are productive, compassionate and engaged participants in their communities. Vicki is not only dedicated to driving business success but is also deeply committed to making a positive impact on society. Most recently, Vicki has also become a passionate advocate for breast cancer awareness and support. She has become actively involved in various initiatives aimed at improving breast cancer detection and treatment and her commitment to women’s health and her leadership in the business community make her a highly respected figure and an inspiring role model.
We are honoured to have Vicki Tod as a guest panelist at our upcoming event, where she will share her insights on leadership, business growth, and her advocacy work.
Olympic Gold Swimmer Leisel Jones joins the LANDY Ladies Leaders in League panel

Tweed Seagulls Board Member joins panel for LANDY Ladies Leaders in League
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are excited to announce Tweed Seagulls Board member Brigid Davey-Skelton will be joining the panel for the upcoming LANDY Ladies Leaders in League Lunch on Friday 16th May.
Brigid Davey-Skelton is an accomplished business leader, board member, and a passionate advocate for women’s sports, she has played a pivotal role in promoting diversity and inclusion within the football community.
Having served in various leadership roles, Brigid has a proven track record of driving strategic initiatives and fostering partnerships that enhance club visibility and engagement. Her expertise in marketing, branding, finance and operations has been instrumental in guiding the club’s growth and sustainability.
In her role as a board director, Brigid aims to leverage her extensive network and experience to elevate the club’s profile and ensure a strong future for the sport and for female rugby league players.
To purchase tickets head to https://events.humanitix.com/landy-ladies-leaders-in-league
Junior Pathways: Semi Final & Round 7 Team Lists
It’s a thrilling week ahead for our Seagulls Junior Pathway teams as the Harvey Norman U17 and Harvey Norman U19squads advance to the Semi-Finals, set to face the Brisbane Tigers at Totally Workwear Stadium.
The Harvey Norman U17s will compete alongside the Tigers, Capras, and Falcons, while the Harvey Norman U19s battle it out against the Cutters, Clydesdales, and Tigers for a spot in the Grand Final. With last year’s Semi-Final loss (40-12) to the Tigers, the U19 squad is determined to go one step further this season.
Unfortunately, our Cyril Connell Cup side did not progress to the finals after a hard-fought loss to the Devils on Monday night, combined with the Bears’ victory over Redcliffe.
Meanwhile, the Mal Meninga Cup team continues their regular season campaign. They’ll travel to Ipswich tonight for a catch-up match against the Jets, before backing up on Saturday afternoon against the Northern Pride at 5:30 PM at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Team Lists & Kick Off times below:
Harvey Norman U17 sponsored by EML
12:30pm kick off Saturday 5 April vs Brisbane Tigers
- Rhianna Browning
- Molly Benjamin
- Milla Rogers
- Summah Ryan
- Eadee Damro
- Lacey Pedlow
- Torah Luadaka (C)
- Sophia Siulepa
- Diamond Graham
- Mercedez Lisone-Siaea
- Cienna Dumas
- Avalon Price
- Affrica-Jade Hippi
- Iris Skeen
- Ayla Peters
- Jaliriah Glenbar
- Taylor Kolc
- Taharnee Byrnes
Coach: Veronica White
Harvey Norman U19 sponsored by Greenmount Timber
2:00pm kick off Saturday 5 April vs Brisbane Tigers
- Joshalynn Walker
- Shanarlii Peckham
- Phoenix Raine-Hippi (C)
- Martina Williams
- Summer Barton
- Savannah Roberts-Hickling
- Natalia Hickling
- Saskia Croyston
- Mackenzie Croyston
- Kaliyah Browning
- Sienna Smith (C)
- Kiara Wright
- Grace Maxwell
- Skylah Samson
- Kaylee Booth
- Tedashii Cora
- Mikalah Teale
- Ava Kinikinilau
Coach: Anthony Swain
Mal Meninga Cup sponsored by Coolangatta Hotel
7:00pm kick off Tuesday 1 April vs Ipswich Jets
- Josh Donovan
- Beau Hartmann
- Hawaiki Morrison
- Sunny Kama
- Brody Malcolm
- Javon Andrews
- Taj Lateo
- Torino Jackson
- Hudson Towell
- Bodhi Sharpley
- Jye Watton
- Cruz Dangerfield
- Isaac Harrison
- Hadley Smith
- Billy Wellard
- Ethan Jackson
- Toran O’Donnell
Coach: Sam Meskell
Hostplus Cup Round 5 Team List vs PNG Hunters
Round 5 of the Hostplus Cup is coming up this weekend as the team head to CBUS Super Stadium on Saturday 5 April against the PNG Hunters in the curtain raiser to the Titans vs Dolphins.
Kick off at 2:10pm
The team are looking to bounce back strong after back to back losses against the Bears & Jets and it does not get any easier this weekend facing a tough and physical Hunters side who are coming off a strong 40-6 points victory over the Tigers.
Check out the team list below:
Tweed Seagulls RLFC Visit Tabulam Public School
Last week, our team had the pleasure of visiting Tabulam Public School to spend some quality time with the students. Tabulam, affectionately known as Rio, is a terrific little community located on the southwestern edge of the Northern Rivers, just below the range before you head up to Tenterfield. It is where the Rocky River runs into the mighty Clarence River. This town is a true rugby league haven, renowned for its rugby league talent and the beloved Tabulam Turtle Divers team.
Many players who have donned the Tweed Seagulls RLFC jersey have strong ties to this close-knit community. Not only have we seen talent with links to Tabulam within our ranks, but the town has claims to players who have made their mark on the larger stage, including Billy Walker, Ryan Walker, Alby Torrens, Roy Bell, and Cody Walker, to name a few. As a club, we recognise and appreciate the significant contributions that communities like Tabulam make to our success.
The Principal of Tabulam Public School, Shaun Piccoli, hails from Casino, but it’s evident that Aunty Carmel McGrady is the heart and soul of the school. The staff at Tabulam Public School do an outstanding job, and the students are some of the most well-behaved and respectful we’ve encountered. This is a testament to the dedication of the school staff and the supportive families and community. It’s no surprise that the school’s attendance rates are well above the state average.
Our visit was organised in collaboration with Mr. Piccoli, with staff Nathan Peats, John Hutchinson, Shaun Davison, and Brad Birney all making the trip. We were also thrilled to have the legendary Preston Campbell and Gold Coast Titans’ Jaime Chapman join us, much to the delight of the students. The kids had plenty of tough questions for Nathan, Preston, and Jaime, and after a lively Q&A session, we conducted skill drills with the older students before enjoying a game of touch footy. The entire school then gathered for photos and autographs.
We were honoured to each receive two books from Aunty Carmel: a guide to turtle diving (binging) and a guide to catfishing (wajing). We look forward to putting our new skills to the test later this year when we pay another visit to Tabulam.
Olympic Gold Medalist joins panel for LANDY Ladies Leaders in League
Tweed Seagulls are thrilled to confirm Olympic Gold Medalist Sally Pearson will be joining the panel of guest speakers at the LANDY Ladies Leaders in League Lunch on Friday 16th May.
Pearson is an Australian former Olympic hurdler, she specialised in the 100-meter hurdles. Pearson achieved international acclaim when she won the gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics, a victory that solidified her status as one of the world’s top athletes in the event.
Her career is also marked by numerous accolades, including World Championship titles in 2009 and 2015. Known for her speed, technique, and determination, Pearson’s career was further highlighted by her strong performances at the Commonwealth Games.
After overcoming significant injuries, she retired from competitive athletics in 2019. Pearson remains an inspiration in the world of track and field for her resilience and success on the global stage.
To purchase tickets to the LANDY Ladies Leaders in League head to https://events.humanitix.com/landy-ladies-leaders-in-league
QRL Independent Director Renita Garard joins LANDY Ladies Leaders in League Panel
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are excited to announce that QRL Independent Director Renita Garard joins our LANDY Ladies Leaders in League Panel for 2025.
The LANDY Ladies Leaders in League takes place at Seagulls Club on Friday 16th May at 12:00pm.
Renita Garard AM was appointed as an Independent Director to the QRL Board in June 2017.
She is a dual Olympic gold medallist, having been a member of the Australian Women’s Hockey team from 1993 to 2000, while off the sporting field, she has fulfilled board roles with both the International Hockey Federation and Hockey Australia, and the Queensland Academy of Sport.
She is currently the Board Chair of the 4 Aussie Heroes Foundation Limited, and a Board Member of Embark Early Education Limited and The Energy Collective Limited. Renita is Chair of the QRL’s Audit & Risk Committee.
To purchase tickets to the LANDY Ladies Leaders in League head to https://events.humanitix.com/landy-ladies-leaders-in-league
Junior Pathways: Round 4 Catchup & Round 6 Team Lists
The Round 4 catch-up is here for our Junior Pathway Harvey Norman squads as they face off against the Wynnum Manly Seagulls. Originally postponed due to Cyclone Alfred, this game is now set to take place at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Wednesday night.
The Harvey Norman U17 team will then back up this weekend to take on the Norths Devils on Saturday. The team list for Wednesday night’s clash is below. The U19 girls will have the bye this weekend.
Both boys’ teams, coming off impressive wins against Burleigh, will face different opposition this weekend. The Cyril Connell team will take on the Norths Devils on Saturday at Piggabeen, while the Mal Meninga Cup squad will travel to Ipswich on Sunday to face the Ipswich Jets.
Team Lists & Kick Off times below:
Harvey Norman U17 sponsored by EML
6:00pm kick off Wednesday 26 March
- Rhianna Browning
- Jaliriah Glenbar
- Summah Ryan
- Eadee Damrow
- Nia Brooks
- Lacey Pedlow
- Torah Luadaka (C)
- Mercedez Lisone-Siaea
- Diamond Graham
- Iris Skeen
- Cienna Dumas
- Avalon Price
- Affrica-Jade Hippi
- Sophia Siulepa
- Milla Rogers
- Molly Benjamin
- Dakota Smith
Coach: Veronica White
Harvey Norman U19 sponsored by Greenmount Timber
7:30pm kick off Wednesday 26 March
- Skylah Samson
- Joshalynn Walker
- Phoenix Raine-Hippi (C)
- Martina Williams
- Shanarlii Peckham
- Savannah Roberts-Hickling
- Yamun-Ginda Kelly-Buchanan
- Saskia Croyston
- Mackenzie Croyston
- Kaliyah Browning
- Sienna Smith (C)
- Kiara Wright
- Grace Maxwell
- Elle Hannigan
- Kaylee Booth
- Ava Kinikinilau
- Laura Parsons
Coach: Anthony Swain
Cyril Connell Cup sponsored by Identified Services
11:00am kick off Saturday 29 March
- Seth Coe
- Zai Hunnybun
- Storm Enoka
- Taedyn Keepa-Tamati
- Basil Coates
- James Smith
- Sam Wall
- Josiah Fa’aoso
- Jai Bilish (C)
- Viliami Fifita
- Kalani Patu
- Austin Desmond
- Kobi Hauraki
- Gazniah To’omaga
- Troy Ellis
- Noah Reti
- Leijin Mikasa
Coach: Chris Patison
Mal Meninga Cup sponsored by Coolangatta Hotel
2:20pm kick off Sunday 30 March
- Ray Puru
- Josh Donovan
- Sam Stephenson
- Sunny Kama
- Brody Malcolm
- Javon Andrews
- Zane Harrison (C)
- Isaac Harrison (C)
- Hudson Towell
- Bodhi Sharpley
- Taylan To’a
- Cruz Dangerfield
- Cooper Bai
- Hadley Smith
- Billy Wellard
- Torino Jackson
- Jye Watton
- Taj Lateo
Coach: Sam Meskell
We look forward to an exciting weekend of rugby League.
Hostplus Cup: Round 4 Team List vs Ipswich Jets
Round 4 of the Hostplus Cup is upon us, and it’s a showdown between the Gold Coast Titans affiliate clubs as we take on the Ipswich Jets at North Ipswich Reserve on Sunday 30 March.
Just falling short to the Bears in round 3 after a second half comeback the Hostplus Cup squad are looking to bounce back this weekend against a new look Jets team who are coming off a winning against the Tigers.
Check out the team list below:
Bianca Dye to Host upcoming LANDY Ladies Leaders in League Luncheon
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are very excited to announce Radio & TV personality Bianca Dye will be hosting our upcoming LANDY Ladies Leaders in League Lunch for 2025.
Bianca Dye is one of Australia’s most cherished media personalities, having captivated and connected with audiences from all walks of life for over 25 years. Throughout her career as a multi-award-winning commercial radio and TV broadcaster, keynote speaker, host, author, presenter and passionate advocate for mental health and numerous charities.
The LANDY Leaders in League event originally known as a breakfast event, has shifted time slots this year after discussions with our community and we as a club are very excited and looking forward to this new change with LANDY also on board as the exclusive major event sponsor.
Details of the event below:
Date: Friday 16th May
Time: 12pm for 12:30pm start
Where: LOT TWO @Seagulls Club
Tickets will be on sale from 8am Saturday 22nd March
Junior Pathways (Males) : Round 4 Team Lists vs Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Part 1 of the Round 4 catch up games are here taking place at Piggabeen Sports Complex tomorrow night Wednesday 19th March as the Cyril Connell Cup & Mal Meninga Cup teams take on Wynnum Manly Seagulls.
Washed out & postponed due to Cyclone Alfred, the teams will be backing up mid week after 2 solid wins in Round 5 against the Tigers.
Kick off times & team lists below:
Cyril Connell Cup sponsored by Identified Services
6:30pm kick off
- Harley Petersen
- Zai Hunnybun
- Seth Coe
- Judah Marsden
- Basil Coates
- James Smith
- Sam Wall
- Josiah Fa’aoso
- Jai Bilish (C)
- Viliami Fifita
- Kalani Patu
- Jyah White
- Kobi Hauraki
- Brooklyn Campbell
- Austin Desmond
- Troy Ellis
- Noah Reti
- Lyric Poto
Coach: Chris Patison
Mal Meninga Cup sponsored by Coolangatta Hotel
8:00pm kick off
- Ray Puru
- Beau Hartmann
- Hudson Pratt
- Josh Donovan
- Brody Malcolm
- Javon Andrews
- Taj Lateo
- Isaac Harrison
- Hudson Towell
- Bodhi Sharpley
- Toran O’Donnell
- Cruz Dangerfield
- Billy Wellard
- Hadley Smith
- Roko Bilish
- Marlie Barry
- Jye Watton
- Dylan Watkins
Coach: Sam Meskell
Good luck to both teams!!!
Hostplus Cup: Round 3 Team List vs Burleigh Bears
Round 3 of the Hostplus Cup is here, and it’s one of the most eagerly awaited rounds of the season. This weekend, we go head-to-head with our fierce rivals from up the coast, the Burleigh Bears, in the first part of Rivalry Round.
2025 marks a fresh start, and we’re focused on this year, leaving last year’s results behind. The Bears bested us in both encounters in 2024, with scores of 56-14 and 38-12. However, after a hard-fought, wet Round 2 victory over the Pride, we’re heading into this match with confidence and ready for a tough, physical showdown.
This clash is the main game of the QRL weekend, scheduled to kick off at 2:10 PM on Sunday, March 23rd. Don’t miss out—tune in to watch live on Kayo, 9Now, and Qplus.tv.
Check out the team list below:
Junior Pathways (Females): Round 6 Team Lists vs Burleigh Bears
Round 6 for our Junior Pathway Squads is here and teams are in ready to take on the Burleigh Bears this weekend at UAA Park for the first instalment of Rivalry Round for 2025.
A tough Round 5 for our Harvey Norman U17 & U19 female teams as they went down in defeat to two strong Brisbane Tigers squads, so we are expecting a big bounce back this weekend against fierce rivals Burleigh.
Below are the Harvey Norman U17 & U19 squad lists as the male squads will be released on Thursday this week due to their catch up game at Piggabeen tomorrow night.
Team Lists & Kick Off times below:
Harvey Norman U17 sponsored by EML
9:50am kick off
- Lacey McLaren
- Taharnee Byrnes
- Eadee Damro
- Rhianna Browning
- Jaliriah Glenbar
- Lacey Pedlow
- Torah Luadaka (C)
- Mercedez Lisone-Siaea
- Diamond Graham
- Sophia Siulepa
- Avalon Price
- Cienna Dumas
- Affrica-Jade Hippi
- Iris Skeen
- Summah Ryan
- Ayla Peters
- Nia Brooks
Coach: Veronica White
Harvey Norman U19 sponsored by Greenmount Timber
11:20am kick off
- Skylah Samson
- Joshalynn Walker
- Phoenix Raine-Hippi (C)
- Martina Williams
- Shanarlii Peckham
- Savannah Roberts-Hickling
- Natalia Hickling
- Saskia Croyston
- Mackenzie Croyston
- Kaliyah Browning
- Sienna Smith
- Kiara Wright
- Grace Maxwell
- Yamun Ginda-Kelly
- Kaylee Booth
- Tedashii Cora
- Mikalah Teale
- Laura Parsons
Coach: Anthony Swain
Junior Pathways: Round 5 Team Lists vs Brisbane Tigers
Round 5 for our Junior Pathway Squads is here and teams are in ready to take on Brisbane Tigers this weekend at Totally Workwear Stadium.
A weekend off due to the impact of Cyclone Alfred sees our teams fresh and ready to go. Our two 17 sides have had the 2 weeks off due to having the bye prior to the postponed weekend and the Harvey Norman U19 & Mal Meninga Cup coming off big wins against the Falcons in Round 3.
The reason for the big kick off break between Harvey Norman U19 & Mal Meninga Cup is due to the Brisbane Tigers Hostplus Cup side hosting the QRL TV time slot.
Team Lists & Kick Off times below:
Harvey Norman U17 sponsored by EML
9:20am kick off
- Lacey McLaren
- Ayla Peters
- Eadee Damro
- Nia Brooks
- Jaliriah Glenbar
- Iris Skeen
- Torah Luadaka (C)
- Mercedez Lisone-Siaea
- Lacey Pedlow
- Sophia Siulepa
- Summah Ryan
- Cienna Dumas
- Affrica-Jade Hippi
- Avalon Price
- Rhianna Browning
- Molly Benjamin
- Diamond Graham
- Rhani Slockee
Coach: Veronica White
Cyril Connell Cup sponsored by Identified Services
10:40am kick off
- Harley Petersen
- Zai Hunnybun
- Seth Coe
- Judah Marsden
- Basil Coates
- James Smith
- Sam Wall
- Josiah Fa’aoso
- Jai Bilish (C)
- Viliami Fifita
- Kalani Patu
- Jyah White
- Kobi Hauraki
- Brooklyn Campbell
- Austin Desmond
- Troy Ellis
- Noah Reti
- Lyric Poto
Coach: Chris Patison
Harvey Norman U19 sponsored by Greenmount Timber
12:00pm kick off
- Joshalynn Walker
- Shelera Williams
- Phoenix Raine-Hippi (C)
- Shanarlii Peckham
- Summer Barton
- Savannah Roberts-Hickling
- Natalia Hickling
- Saskia Croyston
- Mackenzie Croyston
- Kaliyah Browning
- Sienna Smith
- Martina Williams
- Grace Maxwell
- Kaylee Booth
- Tedashii Cora
- Kiara Wright
- Mikalah Teale
- Amity Burke
Coach: Anthony Swain
Mal Meninga Cup sponsored by Coolangatta Hotel
4:10pm kick off
- Ray Puru
- Josh Donovan
- Sam Stephenson
- Hawaiki Morrison
- Brody Malcolm
- Javon Andrews
- Zane Harrison (C)
- Isaac Harrison (C)
- Hudson Towell
- Bodhi Sharpley
- Taylan To’a
- Cruz Dangerfield
- Cooper Bai
- Hadley Smith
- Billy Wellard
- Torino Jackson
- Toran O’Donnell
- Taj Lateo
- Roko Bilish
- Jye Watton
Coach: Sam Meskell
We look forward to an exciting weekend of rugby League at Totally Workwear Stadium
Hostplus Cup: Round 2 Team List vs Northern Pride
Officially unofficially Round 1 for our Hostplus Cup squad due to Cyclone Alfred causing impact to the Round 1 schedule.
This weekend (Round 2) our squad travels to Cairns to take on the Minor Premiers from 2024 the Northern Pride at Barlow Park with kick off commencing at 5:30pm
Squad list below:
Hostplus Cup: Round 1 vs Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Round 1 is here for the Hostplus Cup squad as they take on the Wynnum Manly Seagulls in the Maccas “Battle of the Fries” this weekend Saturday 8th March 5pm at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
A lot of fresh faces to the team in 2025 will see quite a few new debutants lineup with the likes of Simpkins, Hayman, Kirk, Ploegsma, Cook, Steinwede & Ngatuere-Wroe to don the Seagulls colours for the first time.
Full line up below:
Support Tweed Seagulls & Elevate Local Pathways with RBR Property Consultants
Tweed Seagulls RLFC is thrilled to announce the continued support of RBR Property Consultants in 2025! A long-time partner of the club, RBR is once again backing our journey as an apparel sponsor, proudly featuring on the back of our Mal Meninga Cup side—widely recognised as the premier junior representative team in Australia.
But their commitment doesn’t stop there. RBR Principal, Lenny McLennan, has taken his support to the next level, entering into an affiliation agreementthat directly benefits our development, pathway, and community programs across the Northern Rivers and Gold Coast regions.
How This Partnership Supports Our Community
For every property bought, sold, or rental management agreement transferred to RBR, an additional $1,000 will be donated to Tweed Seagulls’ programs—helping us continue the vital work of developing the next generation of players and delivering impactful community initiatives.
How You Can Get Involved
Getting involved is easy! Simply mention Tweed Seagulls RLFC when you contact Lenny McLennan and the RBR team, or reach out to Brad Birney at br*********@***************om.au to be introduced to RBR directly.
An Exclusive Bonus for Supporters
As a token of appreciation, anyone who participates in this affiliation program will receive 2 tickets to the highly sought-after Tweed Seagulls Lions Long Lunch in August, valued at $360. (Tickets are triggered once the contract is signed.)
This is a win-win for everyone—whether you’re buying, selling, or leasing, you’re not only working with one of the best property teams in the region, but you’re also making a direct impact on the local community.
Join us in strengthening the pathways, development, and community programs that shape the future of our game. Stronger Together!!!
2025 Tweed Seagulls RISE Player Registrations open
The 2025 Tweed Seagulls RISE Program player applications are now open!
The opportunity to engage in the Tweed Seagulls RISE Program provides our players with a valuable growth mindset that extends beyond the field. This program enhances their skills, techniques, well-being, and overall development. At Tweed Seagulls, we will conduct five training sessions, culminating in a competition day against other RISE Programs
Please see below for age groups & registration links: (Click on age to open link)
Date/Time/Locations:
Session 1: Sunday 18th May 2025 – 8am to 11.30am at Tweed Seagulls, Piggabeen
Session 2: Sunday 15th June 2025 – 8am – 10.30am at Tugun Seahawks, Tugun
Session 3: Sunday 27th July 2025 – 8am – 10.30am at Tugun Seahawks, Tugun
Session 4 and 5: Sunday 31st August 2025 – 8am – 1.30pm at Tweed Seagulls, Piggabeen (snacks provided)
Competition Day: 20th September 2025
For any inquiries, please contact the Programs Manager, Peta Thierjung.
Junior Pathways: Round 3 Team Lists vs Sunshine Coast Falcons
Round 3 for our Junior Pathway Squads on Saturday 1st March as they head back to Piggabeen Sports Complex for the first time this season after visits to Tugun & Marsden.
A fantastic result in Round 2 for all squads as they came away with the wins against some tough South Logan Magpies sides.
Round 3 sees our two U17 squads have a bye so there will only be the Harvey Norman U19 & Mal Meninga Cup matches this weekend.
Team Lists & Kick Off times below:
Harvey Norman U19 sponsored by Greenmount Timber & Building Supplies
11:30am kick off
- Joshalynn Walker
- Shelera Williams
- Phoenix Raine-Hippi (C)
- Martina Williams
- Summer Barton
- Savannah Roberts-Hickling
- Natalia Hickling
- Saskia Croyston
- Mackenzie Croyston
- Kaliyah Browning
- Sienna Smith
- Kiara Wright
- Grace Maxwell
- Elle Hannigan
- Tedashii Cora
- Mikalah Teale
- Saraya Smith
Coach: Anthony Swain
Mal Meninga Cup sponsored by Coolangatta Hotel
1:00pm kick off
- Ray Puru
- Josh Donovan
- Sam Stephenson
- Hawaiki Morrison
- Sunny Kama
- Javon Andrews
- Zane Harrison (C)
- Isaac Harrison (C)
- Corey Pearse
- Bodhi Sharpley
- Taylan To’a
- Cruz Dangerfield
- Cooper Bai
- Hadley Smith
- Billy Wellard
- Torino Jackson
- Zac Kumbamong
- Taj Lateo
- Toran O’Donnell
- Roko Billish
Coach: Sam Meskell
We look forward to an exciting weekend of rugby League at Piggabeen.
Paton & Keen inducted as Seagulls life members
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are thrilled to announce that Club Chairman Ian Paton & Club Director Terence Keen have been appointed Life Members of the club.
The announcement was made at our Annual Season Launch Breakfast by former CEO Matthew Francis & Vice Chair Darryn Staff.
It has been 13 years since the last member was inducted into the life members of the Seagulls and Darryn Staff stated “It feels like the perfect time to induct Rex & Notso, the contribution and influence they have had on the club is second to none and we are very excited apart of our life members”
Both Ian & Terence started their rugby league careers in Sydney but ventured north to the Tweed where they didn’t look back. After retirement both men moved into the coaching & business side of the Seagulls and have played and still play very important roles at the club.
Congratulations Ian Paton & Terence Keen
(Image from left to right) Terence Keen, Darryn Staff, Ian Paton, Matthew Francis, Frank Stanton
Junior Pathways: Round 2 Team Lists vs Souths Logan Magpies
Round 2 of our Junior Pathway Squads will take place on Saturday, February 22nd, as they travel to Marsden State High School to compete against the Souths Logan Magpies.
Following a strong performance in Round 1, all squads secured impressive victories against the Dolphins.
Team Lists & Kick Off times below:
Harvey Norman U17 sponsored by EML
11:50am kick off
- Lacey McLaren
- Lacey Pedlow
- Eadee Damro
- Nia Brooks
- Molly Benjamin
- Iris Skeen
- Torah Luadaka (C)
- Mercedez Lisone-Siaea
- Diamond Graham
- Sophia Siulepa
- Summah Ryan
- Cienna Dumas
- Africa-Jade Hippi
- Ayla Peters
- Milla Rogers
- Jessica Cropp
- Rhani Slockee
- Jaliriah Glenbar
Coach: Veronica White
Harvey Norman U19 sponsored by Greenmount Timber & Building Supplies
1:20pm kick off
- Joshalynn Walker
- Shelera Williams
- Phoenix Raine-Hippi (C)
- Shanarlii Peckham
- Summer Barton
- Savannah Roberts-Hickling
- Natalia Hickling
- Mikalah Teale
- Mackenzie Croyston
- Kaliyah Browning
- Kiara Wright
- Martina Williams
- Grace Maxwell
- Kaylee Booth
- Tedashii Cora
- Saskia Croyston
- Chelsea Coleman
- Elle Hannigan
Coach: Anthony Swain
Cyril Connell Cup sponsored by Identified Services
2:50pm kick off
- Seth Coe
- Levi Handyside
- Storm Enoka
- Eli Vea
- Basil Coates
- James Smith
- Harley Petersen
- Josiah Fa’aoso
- Jai Bilish (C)
- Viliami Fifita
- Kalani Patu
- Jyah White
- Kobi Hauraki
- Brooklyn Campbell
- Austin Desmond
- Troy Ellis
- Leijin Mikasa
- Lyric Poto
- Taedyn Keepa-Tamati
Coach: Chris Patison
Mal Meninga Cup sponsored by Coolangatta Hotel
4:10pm kick off
- Ray Puru
- Hudson Pratt
- Josh Donovan
- Hawaiki Morrison
- Brody Malcolm
- Javon Andrews
- Taj Lateo
- Torino Jackson
- Hadley Smith
- Bodhi Sharpley
- Taylan To’a
- Cruz Dangerfield
- Isaac Harrison
- Hudson Towell
- Billy Wellard
- Zac Kumbamong
- Toran O’Donnell
Coach: Sam Meskell
We look forward to an exciting weekend of rugby League at Marsden State High School.
Junior Pathways: Round 1 Team Lists vs Redcliffe Dolphins
Round 1 for our Junior Pathway Squads has arrived! This weekend Tweed Seagulls RLFC 4 squads will face the Redcliffe Dolphins on Saturday 15th February at Tugun RLFC
Team Lists & Kick Off times below:
Harvey Norman U17 sponsored by EML
9:45am kick off
- Lacey McLaren
- Lacey Pedlow
- Jalirah Glenbar
- Nia Brooks
- Eadee Damro
- Ayla Peters
- Torah Luadaka (C)
- Mercedez Lisone-Siaea
- Diamond Graham
- Sophia Siulepa
- Summah Ryan
- Taylor Kolc
- Cienna Dumas
- Jessica Cropp
- Milla Rogers
- Jorja Hanson
- Iris Skeen
Coach: Veronica White
Harvey Norman U19 sponsored by Greenmount Timber
11:15am kick off
- Skylah Samson
- Summer Barton
- Phoenix Raine-Hippi (C)
- Shanarlii Peckham
- Joshalynn Walker
- Savannah Roberts-Hickling
- Natalia Hickling
- Kaliyah Browning
- Mackenzie Croyston
- Saskia Croyston
- Sienna Smith (C)
- Martina Williams
- Grace Maxwell
- Kiara Wright
- Mikalah Teale
- Claire Cropp
- Kaylee Booth
- Ava Kinikinilau
Coach: Anthony Swain
Cyril Connell Cup sponsored by Identified Services
12:40pm kick off
- Seth Coe
- Levi Handyside
- Storm Enoka
- Eli Vea
- Basil Coates
- James Smith
- Harley Petersen
- Josiah Fa’aoso
- Jai Bilish (C)
- Viliami Fifita
- Kalani Patu
- Jyah White
- Kobi Hauraki
- Brooklyn Campbell
- Austin Desmond
- Troy Ellis
- Leijin Mikasa
- Lyric Poto
- Noah Reti
Coach: Chris Patison
Mal Meninga Cup sponsored by Coolangatta Hotel
2:10pm kick off
- Ray Puru
- Hudson Pratt
- Josh Donovan
- Hawaiki Morrison
- Brody Malcolm
- Javon Andrews
- Taj Lateo
- Torino Jackson
- Hadley Smith
- Bodhi Sharpley
- Taylan To’a
- Cruz Dangerfield
- Isaac Harrison
- Hudson Towell
- Billy Wellard
- Zac Kumbamong
- Toran O’Donnell
- Roko Bilish
- Devin Bates-Wellington
Coach: Sam Meskell
We look forward to an exciting weekend of rugby League
2025 RISE Program Coach Application open
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are excited to announce the 2025 RISE Program Coach Applications are now open.
Application form: https://forms.office.com/r/HacVQpyp0f
We are proud to deliver our own RISE Program in 2025, providing a valuable opportunity for coaches who are committed to growth and aspire to contribute to the QRL Player Pathway Programs.
At Tweed Seagulls, our values align closely with the principles of the RISE Program. We are dedicated to prioritising our people and fostering an environment that empowers participants to develop, compete, and reach their full potential.If you share this vision, we encourage you to apply.
KEY DATES: Sunday 25 May, Sunday 15 June, Sunday 27 July, Sunday 31 August
Applications close 3rd March
Community sponsorship partners catch-up
On Tuesday, 4th February, we had the pleasure of bringing together our Community Sponsorship Partners for a great discussion at our fantastic Principal Sponsor, Seagulls Club. This was the first of three meetings we’ve got lined up for the year, giving us a chance to chat about our community programs, explore ways we can support our sponsors, and open the floor to anything else that’s on their minds. The goal? To create a space where people feel comfortable discussing the tough conversations, sharing ideas, and working together for the greater good.
We were lucky to have some incredible people volunteer their time to support the conversation:
We were also joined by Superintendents Scott Tanner and Dave Roptell from the Tweed-Byron and Richmond Districts, along with members of their team.
A big welcome to our new Community Partners, Alison Morrisey from AON and Abigail Koch from Gold Coast Airport. Gold Coast Airport has stepped further into the community space this year, supporting our inaugural Female Indigenous Program and the pilot All-Abilities Program set to run later this year. This follows two years as the major sponsor of our BMD Premiership side.
We also had Jed Martin from HIWAY and Paul Coughlan from Eximm in the room, with HIWAY and Eximm both on board as inaugural Community Partners in 2024. Eximm is continuing its fantastic support of the Indigenous Round for the third year running, while HIWAY has increased its backing to become the major sponsor of our BMD Premiership side.
Unfortunately, Cool-a-bah Cooling & Refrigeration and SEE Civil couldn’t make it this time, but they’ll be playing an important role moving forward.
It was a productive meeting, with Nathan Peats and Shaun Davison sharing updates on their community work, including the NRL RISE Programs on the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers, as well as progress in the Male and Female Indigenous Programs. John “Hutcho” Hutchinson spoke about his experiences running successful programs like Trade Up and the NRL School to Work initiative during his time with the NRL.
Our CEO, Brendon Lindsay, reinforced our commitment to not just being a rugby league club, but giving back and supporting the communities that support us. He acknowledged that this aligns with our sponsors’ growing focus on corporate social responsibility.
The Police also shared some great success stories, including Tweed Seagulls RLFCsupporting programs at PCYC, an upcoming initiative at a local school. They also discussed the pilot Hometown Hero program in Casino, which has had a fantastic start with potential for expansion.
We also heard from Jed Martin, who updated us on the positive work Ken Hall is doing with the community in Tabulam. Tweed Seagulls connected Ken with the community early last year through the HIWAY link to our Community Programs.
The meeting sparked some valuable discussions and fresh ideas that we can build on—not just for our group, but for the wider community and our incredible network of sponsorship partners. Looking forward to what’s ahead!
Madison Sport partners with Seagulls + Affiliation Program
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are thrilled to announce a new partnership with Madison Sport for the 2025 Season.
Director of Madison Sport Richard Morrison stated “Like Madison, the Tweed Seagulls have a long and proud rugby league history. Madison is excited to join forces with the Seagulls for season 2025 to offer the comfort and peace of mind of the game’s best protective equipment”
“We are thrilled to welcome Madison Sport as a partner for the 2025 season. The Madison brand is iconic in rugby league, with some of the game’s biggest names wearing their headgear. As an official supplier of QRL, Madison Sport is a perfect match for our club. We’re also excited to collaborate with Madison to explore ways to support community clubs and players across the Northern Rivers NSW and Gold Coast regions” said Tweed Seagulls RLFC Corporate & Community Manager Brad Birney
Along with the partnership will also be an affiliation program, where you will be able to receive 10% off a selected range off the Madison Sport website using discount code SEAGULLS10
Please use the link below
Toshiba joins Seagulls for multi year sponsorship
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are excited to announce Toshiba as our new sponsor for 2025 and 2026!
This partnership brings more exciting opportunities for the club, with Seagulls confident it will be a win-win, contributing to the clubs success both on and off the field.
Tweed Seagulls Corporate & Community Manager, Brad Birney, shared: “It’s fantastic to welcome such a well-known and trusted brand like Toshiba. Our players will proudly represent the company on game day, and we’re looking forward to building a strong relationship that creates a positive impact for the club and the community.”
Toshiba, known for their high-quality and reliable Air Conditioning products, backs their range with an impressive 7-year warranty, offering peace of mind to their customers.
Gerard Cassidy, State Manager for QLD & NT, said: “We’re really excited to partner with the Tweed Seagulls, thanks to the introduction by long time Seagulls sponsor Bill Townsend from Cool-a-bah Cooling and Electrical. We’re looking forward to supporting the club’s success and strengthening our ties within the Tweed community. It is also a great opportunity to connect into the Tweed Seagulls large corporate network”
The Toshiba logo will appear on the sleeve of playing jerseys for all three male teams.
Sideways Surf join Seagulls






HIWAY confirmed as new major sponsor for 2025 BMD Premiership team
We’re thrilled to welcome HIWAY back on board for 2025! Last year marked their first year with the club as a Community Support Partner, and their commitment continues to grow. In 2025, not only will they remain actively involved in our community initiatives, but they’ve also stepped up as the major sponsor for our BMD Premiership side for the upcoming season.
Paul Rhoden, General Manager of HIWAY, shared his excitement, stating, “We are proud to continue our sponsorship of the Tweed Seagulls for the 2025-26 season, reaffirming our commitment to grassroots sports and fostering inclusivity within our community. This partnership allows us the privilege of supporting programs that empower rural and disadvantaged Indigenous communities by creating opportunities in men’s, women’s, and all-abilities rugby league. At HIWAY, we believe in the power of sport to bring people together and inspire positive change. Becoming the major sponsor of the BMD Premiership and contributing to the growth of female rugby league is an achievement we hold with great pride.”
HIWAY’s dedication to supporting our community is truly inspiring—you might spot them working with Tweed Shire Council. Additionally, they’ve generously donated their time to assist Jubullum Village in Tabulam with creating a community-led strategic plan.
Nathan Peats Joins Tweed Seagulls
The Tweed Seagulls Rugby League Club is thrilled to welcome Nathan Peats to our team in the role of Community Development Officer.
Nathan brings a wealth of experience and passion to the role, having had an exceptional rugby league career, including stints with the Gold Coast Titans, Parramatta Eels, and South Sydney Rabbitohs, as well as representing New South Wales in State of Origin. His deep understanding of the game and what it takes to succeed in it make him the perfect fit to help us foster strong connections with the community.
As Development Officer, Nathan will focus on building pathways for young athletes, delivering grassroots programs, and promoting the values of inclusion, teamwork, and resilience both on and off the field. His commitment to giving back to the sport he loves will help inspire the next generation of Seagulls and strengthen our ties with the local community on the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers.
When asked what the attraction to the role was, Nathan stated “Just to be part and work for the community in the footy side of things, I’ve been working with the Broncos this year in mainly the community side of stuff and to be able to do it around the area that I live in. Being involved in footy is something I’ve known my whole life and something I want to be involved in”
CEO Brendon Lindsay says “Nathan is well known within our community for his on-field performances but what really shone through in our recruitment process was his experience and passion for delivering community programs. One of his key focuses will be to lead a Tweed Seagulls RISE Program for aspirational coaches and players registered to clubs on the Gold Coast”
Please join us in welcoming Nathan to the Seagulls family as we continue to grow together both as a club and a community!
#WelcomeNathanPeats #SeagullsFamily #CommunityFocused
2025 Hostplus Cup Draw Revealed
The 2025 Hostplus Cup draw has been released by the Queensland Rugby League. The Seagulls will host the opening round at Piggabeen against opposition Seagulls Wynnum before heading on the road for the next 3 games taking on the Pride, Bears & Jets before taking the next game against the PNG Hunters to CBUS Super Stadium.
See below for full draw:
Round 1: Sat 8 March vs Wynnum Manly Seagulls @Piggabeen Sports Complex / Kick off 5:00pm
Round 2: Sat 15 March vs Northern Pride @Barlow Park, Cairns / Kick off 5:30pm
Round 3: Sun 23 March vs Burleigh Bears @UAA Park, Burleigh / Kick off 2:10pm (Rivalry Round)
Round 4: Sunday 30 March vs Ipswich Jets @North Ipswich Reserve / Kick off 3:00pm
Round 5: Sat 5 April vs PNG Hunters @CBUS Super Stadium, Robina / Kick off 1:00pm
Round 6: vs BYE
Round 7: Sat 26 April vs Mackay Cutters @BB Print Stadium, Mackay / Kick off 3:00pm
Round 8: Sun 4 May vs Western Clydesdales @Piggabeen Sports Complex / Kick off 2:00pm
Round 9: Sat 17 May vs Sunshine Coast Falcons @Sunshine Coast Stadium / Kick off 5:00pm
Round 10: Sat. 24 May vs Brisbane Tigers @Piggabeen Sports Complex / Kick off 3:00pm
Round 11: Sat 31 May vs Norths Devils @Bishop Park, Nundah / Kick off 5:00pm
Round 12: vs BYE
Round 13: Sat 14 June vs Mackay Cutters @Piggabeen Sports Complex / Kick off 3:00pm
Round 14: Sat 21 June vs Redcliffe Dolphins @Kayo Stadium, Redcliffe/ Kick off 4:00pm
Round 15: Sat 28 June vs Burleigh Bears @Piggabeen Sports Complex / Kick off 3:00pm (Rivalry Round)
Round 16: Sun 6 July vs Western Clydesdales @Toowoomba Sports Ground / Kick off 2:30pm
Round 17: Sun 13 Julyvs Souths Logan Magpies @Piggabeen Sports Complex / Kick off 3:00pm (Indigenous Round)
Round 18: Sat 19 July vs Central Queensland Capras @Rugby Park, Rockhampton / Kick off 4:00pm
Round 19: St 26 July vs Sunshine Coast Falcons @TBA Venue / Kick off TBA (Country Round)
Round 20: Sat 9 August vs Brisbane Tigers @Totally Workwear Stadium, Brisbane / Kick off 3:00pm
Round 21: vs BYE
Round 22: Sun 24 August vs Northern Pride @Piggabeen Sports Complex / Kick off 3:00pm
Round 23: Sat 30 August vs Townsville Blackhawks @Piggabeen Sports Complex / Kick off 3:00pm
**Please note game times/dates may change subject to QRL**
Tweed Seagulls Women Fly High at Hard Fizz Greenmount Beach Oztag Tournament
On Saturday, November 23rd, the Tweed Seagulls showcased their talent and team spirit at the Hard Fizz Greenmount Beach Oztag Tournament. With a brillian beachside backdrop, the well-organised event attracted a great turnout of teams, creating a cracking competitive atmosphere.
A few old stagers from the Seagulls office joined forces with the North Sydney Bears, playing alongside NRL legends such as Michael Buettner, Nigel Roy, Craig Field, and Matt Seers, with Seagulls CEO Brendon Lindsay himself a former first-grader at Gold Coast Chargers. Despite the team’s average age exceeding their opponents by at least two decades, they did manage to scrape out a good win and kept the younger blokes on their toes in the other matches.
Tweed Seagulls RLFC also entered two of their own teams in the Open Men’s and Open Women’s divisions.
- Open Men’s Team: A mix of Hostplus Cup squad members and rising junior stars started strong with an impressive victory in their opening match. While they narrowly missed out on the finals, they created some great highlight reel moments.
- Open Women’s Team: The standout stars of the day were the Open Women’s team, who delivered an outstanding performance. They went undefeated across six games, conceding just a few tries throughout the tournament to claim the Open Women’s title. The team featured some outstanding talent, with several players destined for future NRLW success.
The Tweed Seagulls love supporting these local events. Additionally, the Tweed Seagulls also made sure they supported the Seagulls Beach Bar, which was operated by their premier sponsor The Seagulls Club.
Congratulations to all the players, organisers, and supporters who made the day a resounding success and Tweed Seagulls look forward to being back on deck in 2025.
Cool-A-Bah provide work opportunity to new recruit
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are proud to announce that one of our premier sponsors, Cool-A-Bah Cooling & Electrical, has provided newly recruited player Jay Kirk a full-time position within their team.
This exciting partnership highlights Cool-A-Bah’s ongoing commitment to supporting not only the Tweed Seagulls but also the personal and professional development of our players.
Bill Townsend, passionate rugby league fan & Director of Cool-A-Bah Cooling & Electrical stated “Well it’s really hard to get good staff, and I got talking to a few of the Seagulls boys and they said we’ve got this bloke called Jay coming up from Sydney. I said oh yeah I’ll take a look at him and I saw his picture and thought he’s a good looking lad, so he’ll fit in well here cause we are good looking bunch of blokes so we thought we’d give me a crack and he’s killing it. He’s been here a week and we’re loving it, the boys and the team love having him here and he’s fit in really well”
Jay Kirk, who has recently joined the Seagulls ahead of the 2025 season after spending time in the West Tigers system, will now be balancing his rugby league career with a rewarding role at Cool-A-Bah Cooling & Electrical. This unique opportunity allows Kirk to focus on his rugby league development while also building on his career off the field thanks to Cool-A-Bah Cooling & Electrical.
“Yeah it’s good, the culture here is good, the boys are young and having a boss like Bill everyone gets along and work gets done. It’s a good balance between mates and working to get stuff done. I am really enjoying it and having fun, there’s upsides to all of it and keen to keep working hard for Bill and putting in for the company” Kirk said.
Corporate & Community Manager at Tweed Seagulls RLFC Brad Birney stated “Bill Townsend is a true champion of the Tweed Seagulls RLFC. You’ll find Bill at just about every game and event, always bringing his positive energy and enthusiasm that’s hard to miss. Bill doesn’t stop at just showing up—he’s gone above and beyond to support the club. He’s even helped bring other partners on board, showing how much he believes in what we’re building together.
Recently, Bill took it a step further by giving one of our new recruits, Jay, a start as an electrician. It’s just another example of how Bill’s passion for the Seagulls extends beyond the field.
We’re so lucky to have Bill as part of the Seagulls family, and we can’t wait for more years of his support—and plenty more of his legendary yarns”
BMD Female Player Combine
The Tweed Seagulls BMD Female Player Combine is coming your way on February 8th, 2025 at Piggabeen Sports Complex! 🏉🔥
If you have an interest in playing BMD level competition, this is your chance to show off your ability through some skills & performance testing to be followed by a game.
Whether you’re looking to take your game to the next level or want to see what it’s like to be a part of a strong female program, this is the place to be!
This is available to players Australia wide. To register your interest in attending the day please click the link below
https://forms.office.com/r/zfuyQHiFTZ
Week 1 of Pre Season kicks off for 2025 season
Week 1 of pre season has kicked off for the Hostplus Cup team with familiar faces returning along with a lot of new faces getting their first runs in at Piggabeen.
Newly recruited players Kieran Hayman & Ethan Clark-Wood arrived on Monday to get a few sessions in with the team before they head up to Parkwood to join the Gold Coast Titans for a pre season train and trial alongside Luke Burton & Jayden Wright.
We caught up with the 2024 coaches award winner Harry Croker in his return to Piggabeen for his second pre season as a Seagull. “Pre Season has been tough so far, started off with a fair bit of running which is always expected to start the pre season off. My body is certainly feeling it especially my legs with that extra running.
“The new squad looks good, a lot of fresh faces and older faces returning but from the first few sessions you can see how much the boys want to work hard. So looking forward to a big season ahead”
Toby Marks onboard for 2025
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are excited to announce the re-signing of Toby Marks for the 2025 season.
Marks, joined the Seagulls in 2024 on a train & trial deal making his debut in round 1 against the Northern Pride. Marks finished the 2024 season with 7 appearances in the Seagulls colours.
We look forward to seeing Toby Marks back in 2025.
Donovan back for 2025
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are excited to announce the re-signing of Malakhi Donovan for the 2025 season.
Donovan, the 2024 Rookie of the year, joined the Seagulls Hostplus Cup side in 2024 after being apart of the Hastings Deering Colts team in 2023. Donovan made his cup debut in round 1 against the Northern Pride. Donovan finished the 2024 season with 10 games and 6 tries.
We look forward to seeing what 2025 has install for Malakhi Donovan.
2025 Junior Pathway squads announced
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are pleased to announce our 2025 Junior Pathway squads for 2025.
Off the back of a successful 2024 season, with the inclusion of the Harvey Norman U17s, Semi Final appearance for Harvey Norman U19s and a Grand Final victory for the Mal Meninga Cup team we look forward to seeing what 2025 has in stall for our 4 teams.
Harvey Norman U17s sponsored by EML
Affrica-Jade Hippi
Abby Partridge
Ayla Peters
Dakota Smith
Diamond Graham
Jaliriah Glenbar
Jorja Hanson
Lacey Pedlow
Lacy McLaren
Lailah Hickling
Mercedez Lisone-Siaea
Molly Benjamin
Nia Brooks
Rhianna Browning
Summer Ryan
Taharnee Byrnes
Tahlia Gosling
Taylor Kolc
Torah Luadaka
Cyril Connell Cup sponsored by Identified Services
Ashton McDermid
Basil Coates
Brooklyn Campbell
Chance De-Thierry
Cooper Wong
Gazniah To’omaga
Jai Billish
James Smith
Joseph Barber
Josiah Fa’Aoso
Judah Marsden
Jyah White
Kalani Patu
Kobe Hauraki
Leijin Mikasa
Levi Handyside
Lewis McDermid
Lyric Poto
Sam Wall
Seth Coe
Taedyn Keepa-Tamati
Troy Ellis
Viliami Fifita
Zai Hunnybun
Harvey Norman U19s sponsored by Greenmount Timber
Aatiyah Kelly
Amity Burke
Ava Kanikinilau
Chelsea Coleman
Claire Cropp
Elle Hannigan
Gabrielle To’o
Grace Maxwell
Izabella Bower
Joshalynn Walker
Kaiya Tom
Kaliyah Browning
Kaylee Booth
Kiara Wright
Laura Parsons
Mackenzie Croyston
Martina Williams
Mikalah Teale
Miriam Mirupasi
Natalia Hickling
Phoenix Raine-Hippi
Saskia Croyston
Savannah Roberts-Hickling
Shanarlii Peckham
Shaniqua Williams
Shelera Williams
Shyanne Martin
Sienna Smith
Skylah Samson
Summer Barton
Tedashii Cora
Yamun-Ginda Kelly
Mal Meninga Cup sponsored by Coolangatta Hotel
Beau Hartmann
Billy Wellard
Bodhi Sharpley
Boston Hubbard
Brody Malcolm
Cooper Bai
Cory Pearse
Devin Bates
Dylan Watkins
Ethan Jackson
Hadley Smith
Hawaiki Morrison
Hiawe King
Hudson Pratt
Hudson Towell
Isaac Harrison
Jack Schmidt
Jack White
Javon Andrews
Josh Donovan
Jye Watton
Marley McLaren
Nelson Maka’afi
Ray Puru
Reuben Tamariki
Roko Billish
Sam Stephenson
Santino Tevaga
Sunny Kama
Taj Lateo
Toran O’Donnell
Torino Jackson
Will Picken
Zac Kumbamong
Zane Harrison
Croker re-signs for 2025
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are excited to announce the re-signing of Harry Croker for the 2025 season.
Croker, 22, joined the Seagulls in 2024 making his debut in round 1 against the Northern Pride and finished the season being one of two players to play every game throughout the year.
Croker certainly impressed coach Penna during the season as he took away the Coaches Award at the Annual Seagulls awards night.
We look forward to seeing Croker back in 2025 for another big season.
Jackson Owen is back for 2025 season
Tweed Seagulls RLFC is pleased to announce the re-signing of Jackson Owen for the 2025 season.
Owen joined the Seagulls in 2024, making an impactful debut in Round 1 against the Northern Pride. He concluded the 2024 season having played 18 matches in the Seagulls’ colors.
We look forward to Jackson Owen’s continued development and impact on the team in the 2025 season.
Burton locked in for 2025
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are thrilled to announce the re-signing of front rower Luke Burton for the 2025 season.
Burton, 25 years of age, has made 36 appearances for the Seagulls since debuting for the club in 2021
We look forward to seeing what 2025 has install for Luke Burton
Vuna commits to Seagulls for 2025
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are delighted to announce the re-signing of Joseph Vuna for the 2025 season.
Vuna, 26 years of age, has made 38 appearances for the Seagulls, 17 of those games coming from the 2024 season.
One of the Seagulls key forwards, we look forward to seeing what 2025 has install.
Lindon McGrady re-signed for 2025 season
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are excited to announce the re-signing of Lindon McGrady for the 2025 season.
McGrady, 31 years of age, has made 137 appearances for the Seagulls since joining the club in 2017.
McGrady was one of two players to play every game in 2024 for the Seagulls.
We look forward to seeing what 2025 has install for Lindon McGrady.
Lamar Manuel-Liolevave locked in for 2025
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are delighted to announce the re-signing of Lamar Manuel-Liolevave for the 2025 season.
Manuel-Liolevave who is 28 years of age, has made 142 appearances for the Seagulls since joining the club in 2017.
We look forward to seeing what 2025 has install for Lamar.
Tweed Seagulls join forces with Dynasty Sport
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are excited to announce Dynasty Sport as the new apparel partner for 2025 & 2026.
Brendon Lindsay, the Seagulls CEO said “We are excited to be partnering with Dynasty Sport for the next two years. They have a strong presence within Rugby League and we look forward to forging a strong partnership”
Dynasty Sport is also the official apparel partner for our NRL affiliate team, the Gold Coast Titans. We are excited about the opportunity to collaborate with them.
A spokesperson for Dynasty Sport commented on the new partnership “We are proud to have such a traditional club like Seagulls wearing Dynasty Sport and we are very excited by the partnership and we are looking forward to developing further relationships with local Northern Rivers Clubs”
A new era for the Tweed Seagulls RLFC.
Tweed Seagulls RLFC visit Coraki
On Thursday, September 5th, Tweed Seagulls staff Shaun Davison, John Hutchinson, and Brad Birney traveled to Coraki to support the inaugural Richmond River Cup. Joining forces with NRL Development’s Pauline Wagner and Casino RSM Cougars’ Elle Hannigan, the team led a skills development session that set the stage for an exciting matchup between Stage 5 & 6 girls from St Mary’s Primary School in Casino and St Joseph’s Primary School in Coraki.
The event showcased some incredible football talent, with the girls impressing everyone with their natural ability. Despite many not currently playing rugby league on weekends, the skill on display suggests we’ll be seeing more of them on the field in the future. The players of the match received Tweed Seagulls training singlets from our EML Female Pathway Program.
The turnout from parents and the wider community added to the fantastic atmosphere, with the girls being made feel like NRLW stars as they ran through the tunnel.
St Josephs Acting Principal, Sam Irvine, who was instrumental in organising the day said, “we really appreciate the effort by Tweed Seagulls today. There was a heap of positive feedback from the community and that it meant a lot to them that you guys came along”.
In addition to the Richmond River Cup, Tweed Seagulls also had the opportunity to catch up with members of the U17 Bundjalung Baygal side, Levi Caldwell, Mel Williams and Joaquan Roberts-Welsh. The team are preparing for the upcoming NSW Koori Knockout. Tweed Seagulls are proud to support the team, donating a portion of the funds raised from the 2024 Indigenous Journey auction to help the U17 Baygal side on their journey.
This event is a testament to the growing support for female participation in rugby league and Tweed’s ongoing commitment to fostering unity and progress within the sport and the community. We love being able to get out to communities and support these important programs, and being a part of rugby league driving positive change.
DAVID PENNA RE-SIGNS AS HOSTPLUS CUP HEAD COACH FOR 2025
Tweed Seagulls RLFC can officially confirm, David Penna has re-committed as the Head Coach for the 2025 Hostplus Cup season.
Penna, who has been at the helm since 2023, will continue to lead the team as they aim to build on this seasons performances.
“We are thrilled to announce the re-signing of David as the 2025 Hostplus Cup Coach. As a statewide club we take our role of connecting our community clubs to our NRL affiliate very seriously and David’s people first holistic approach to coaching aligns with our club’s purpose and vision of being a strong pathway club. He is a great human and I look forward to supporting him and his coaching staff over the next few months to ensure we continue to grow and improve in areas identified” Seagulls CEO Brendon Lindsay said.
Speaking with Penna on the reason behind his decision to re-sign with the club, he mentioned “I’ve loved what I’ve been doing the last couple of years, I think we are going in the right direction. I know it didn’t pan out the way we wanted it to this season but we have a lot of good players here, new players coming to the club so I’m just excited and love doing what I’m doing”
2025 is a fresh start for Penna & the Seagulls and the excitement of getting back to work has already started “I’m really looking forward to working with the players and being around all the staff, the challenges of the pre season and making sure we get it all right and looking forward to doing it all again” Penna mentioned.
Lastly, every coach has expectations & the re-signed coach knows what he is looking for heading into next year “We’ve all got high expectations and everybody wants to win a competition but for us as a club we just want to be able to be consistent and play the footy we know we are capable of each week and if we do that then we give ourself a chance to be at the right end of the ladder at the right time of the year”
We wish Penna all the best for the 2025 season.
Davison named as new BMD Premiership Head Coach
Tweed Seagulls RLFC are very happy to announce the appointment of Shaun Davison as the 2025 BMD Premiership Head Coach.
“It is an honour to be named head coach of the Tweed Seagulls BMD side in 2025. It is an incredible opportunity. I’m eager to bring my experience, ideas, and passion for the game to the team. I look forward to working with the players and helping them develop their games. There’s a strong foundation already, and I’m excited to see how we can build on this and grow individually and as a team”
“Success for this team will be a collaborative effort between staff and players. Before the pre-season starts, we will sit down and define what success looks like for us. I want to instill the importance of not winning but creating winning habits, finding some important metrics the girls want to implement, and then having a laser focus on this. I want all the players to look back at the end of the season and be proud of what they have accomplished and how they have represented themselves, the community, and the club. And most of all, I want all the ladies to enjoy their football and embrace the challenges ahead”
Speaking on culture “I won’t use the word culture too much; what we create will be built on our actions and habits. That will decide our culture—resilience, accountability, belonging, and continuous improvement will be some of the focus areas. I want the players to take ownership of their development individually and as a team. I’ll emphasise hard work, respect for each other, and a commitment to pushing our limits. We will give our best, and create a meaning of what it is to be a Tweed Seagull”
Davison coached two Northern Rivers Titans Andrew John Cups sides to win the NSW Country Championships in 2019 & 2022 which included players like Tom Weaver, Oskar Bryant, and Zane Harrison.
Also on the coaching resume is U16 NSW Country Coach 2019, 2021, 2023 & 2024, 2022 RISE Head Coach, 5 x Group One Junior Premierships, current Future Titans Academy coach plus many more.
Tweed Seagulls RLFC CEO Brendon Lindsay commented on the appointment of Davison as the new Head Coach.
“Shaun has extensive experience in coaching both females and males gained over many years in the Northern Rivers. He currently works between our club and the Titans in a Development and Pathway role, and we see this appointment as an important step to strengthen and streamline our female program.
“Shaun’s coaching philosophy aligns to our clubs’ belief of developing people first. He is meticulous in his preparation and overall a quality human.”
We wish Davison all the best in 2025
Principal Partner TopSport Onboard for 2025
Tweed Seagulls are delighted to announce the extension of it’s sponsorship with TopSport for the 2025 season.
As a principal partner of the Seagulls, the club is thrilled to continue this significant collaboration and look forward to further strengthening our partnership and achieving new milestones together.
Speaking with TopSport CEO Tristan Merlehan, he stated “We love the relationship with the Seagulls, it was our first ever partnership since we started TopSport. We love the local element and we want to continue to support the Seagulls as long as we can, so very excited. I love the trojectory of the club and the direction it’s going, the re-development of Piggabeen and everything is ticking along with a lot of excitement around the club and look forward to being involved in 2025”
TopSport are not just a principal partner of the Seagulls, they also have a weekly feature on our social channels with the TopSport Charity Bet which allows one of our partners to place a $100 bet on the main Friday night NRL game.
Brendon Lindsay, the Seagulls CEO is very happy to have TopSport on for 2025. “Very Excited, it’s great to have Tristan and TopSport back on board with the Seagulls again. We’ve had a long standing association & relationship with TopSport and it will be great to continue that in 2025”
For over 35 years TopSport has been one of Australia’s few wholly Australian-owned corporate bookmakers providing a sports betting experience, that delivers personal service 24/7.
Corporate & Community Manager Brad Birney, loves the value that Tristan brings to the club. “At the Seagulls we just love how passionate Tristan is about the Seagulls obviously with us being their first sponsorship that they had done when they started. Establishing in Tweed I think that passion is quite evident with Tristan and how he feels about the Seagulls. Tristan has always supported us and helped us out with our other partners, contributes to raffles for our events, does the charity bet for us every week which he sponsors so its not just a transactional sponsorship, its something he definitely takes pride in”
We look forward to the growing relationship between Tweed Seagulls RLFC & TopSport in 2025.
Will Brimson Retires from Rugby League
Tweed Seagulls RLFC Celebrates Women in Rugby League and Business at Successful Leaders in League Breakfast
On Wednesday 15th May 2024, the Tweed Seagulls RLFC hosted a highly successful Leaders in League Breakfast at Seagulls, celebrating the significant contributions of women to both rugby league and business. The event also highlighted the club’s community programs. There were over 150 business leaders and community members from the Northern Rivers NSW and Gold Coast who attended.
The breakfast featured an esteemed business panel including Rebecca Frizelle OAM (Part-Owner & Director Gold Coast Titans), Shannon McFadden (Chief Strategy, Sustainability and People Officer Queensland Airports), Oliver Horn (CEO Nutra Organics), and Samantha Bliss (Independent Director QRL), who shared their insights and experiences.
A football panel comprising Jo Barrett (Gold Coast Titans NRLW Program Manager), David Penna (Tweed Seagulls Head of Football), Georgia Elliston (BMD Premiership Tweed Seagulls), and Bridget Hoy (BMD Premiership Tweed Seagulls) provided valuable perspectives on the female game and where they see it heading.
A highlight of the event was the unveiling of the 2024 Eximm Sport Indigenous Jersey, titled “Birds of a Feather,” designed by local artist Christine Slabb and presented by Matty Francis.
The club also announced the 2024 Gold Coast Airport Female Tom Searle Scholarship recipients: Kali Ainsworth and Kaylee Booth. Kali, hailing from Casino and a member of the U19 Harvey Norman side, aspires to play in the NRLW and work with children as a SLSO. Kaylee, captain of the U17 Harvey Norman side and player for the Tweed Heads Seagulls JRL, aims to pursue a career in the Fisheries and also dreams of playing in the NRLW. These two girls are a great example of the Tweed Seagulls commitment to the female game and the pathway opportunities Tweed Seagulls are providing Northern Rivers players to the elite level.
The event’s success was attributed to the attendees and our wonderful partners. CEO Brendon Lindsay extended special thanks to EML Group, Gold Coast Airport, and Greenmount Timber & Building Supplies for their steadfast support of our female program. Additionally, we acknowledge Eximm and Hiway Group (Hiway Stabilizers), The Recycling Solutions Specialists, for their pivotal role in the club’s community programs.
A special mention goes to our MC, Mickey Coleman, for his outstanding contribution to the event.
“Engaging with the Northern Rivers Community: Tweed Seagulls RLFC’s Active Outreach”
Tweed Seagulls RLFC has been actively engaging with the Northern Rivers community over the past few months as part of our ongoing Eximm Community Programs
In January, the Tweed Seagulls travelled to Lismore to join RedINC and PCYC in hosting a school holiday clinic, supported by the Gold Coast Titans and the NRL Development team. Following on from this, the Seagulls, in collaboration with the Titans, provided tickets for these children to attend the Titans vs Sea Eagles game at Cbus Super Stadium, where the Tweed Seagulls faced off against the Ipswich Jets as a curtain-raiser.
Our dedication to supporting the community led us to Jubullum Village in Tabulam, at the invitation of the community, facilitated by former Seagulls player Ryan Walker where we took part in a healing circle. Recently, our community, wellbeing, and development team returned to Tabulam to assist with future planning and youth development. These efforts were spearheaded by Richmond Police District Superintendent Scott Tanner and his dedicated team. Additionally, our valued partner, Hiway Stabilizers, generously provided the expertise of a consultant to assist with a community-led plan for the village. We were also fortunate to have Kristian Heffernan from NSWRL, Seagulls and Titans player Jaime Chapman—who is among the world’s leading rugby league players—and the esteemed Preston Campbell join us in this initiative.
During our visit to Tabulam, we had the pleasure of meeting with Shaun Piccolli, the Principal of Tabulam Public School. It was inspiring to learn about the positive developments taking place at the school. With an impressive 92% attendance rate, it’s evident that the staff, parents, and community are deeply committed to creating better opportunities for their children.
In addition, we’ve been active in supporting the Tweed and Southern Gold Coast business communities by attending their outstanding chamber events. At a recent Tweed Chamber After Dark event at the Pink Hotel in Coolangatta, we donated 2 tickets to a VIP Corporate area experience for our home game against the Brisbane Tigers.
Our community and development team also had the opportunity to engage with the public at the Ballina Thrillfest, running a “pass the ball” competition and distributing prizes in collaboration with the NRL Development team. We were invited by Lauren Jane, who was part of the Ballina Youth Committee who organised this great initiative.
We have also been fortunate to partner with PCYC Tweed Heads to bring a Youth Hub to our home games. Corey Oliver and his team do an incredible job working with the regions youth, supported by Tweed Byron Police District Superintendent Dave Roptell and his team.
Continuing our commitment to local clubs in the Northern Rivers region, we’ve continued to support coach education and player development with recent initiatives led by our Development and Pathway Coordinator, Shaun Davison and our Head of Football and Hostplus Cup coach Dave Penna. These opportunities included:
- A Coach Immersion Workshop facilitated by our Head of Football and Hostplus Cup Coach, Dave Penna.
- A Game Day Behind-the-Scenes experience offering coaches an inside look at game day preparations when the Seagulls played as a curtain-raiser to the Gold Coast Titans.
- Female Rugby League clinics conducted in both Casino & South Grafton, led by Shaun Davison with NRL Development team support.
- A full development day for the Northern Rivers U17 Lisa Fiaola squad, featuring BMD S&C Coach Carly McGrath and a Q&A session with NRLW players Jess Elliston, Dannii Perese, and Ivana Lolesio.
The Tweed Seagulls are committed to backing the communities that stand behind them, as well as supporting the Gold Coast Titans in the significant Northern Rivers catchment area of NSW. At Tweed Seagulls we strongly believe that rugby league can serve as a catalyst for positive outcomes and play a pivotal role in driving meaningful change in communities facing challenges.
Welcome aboard our 2024 Jersey Number Sponsors
The Tweed Seagulls are delighted to unveil our jersey number sponsors for the 2024 season. We consider it a great honor to have these businesses as part of our team. With our growing network now of over 50 partners, the Tweed Seagulls provide an exceptional platform for our sponsors to engage with and explore potential collaborations or partnership opportunities.
1# Seima
2# Nublank Caps
3# Cool-A-Bah Cooling
4# Virtus Mortage Broking Services
5# 2 Reds
6# 88 Plumbing
7# Level Plumbing
8# Invisible Business Solutions
9# The Daily Grind Coffee Bar
10# Coastline Panel & Paint
11# Days Like These
12# Ella Bache Coolangatta
13# The Meatsmiths
14# Angel Bay
15# PCYC Tweed Heads
16# Seagulls Club
17# The Secret Burden
The Tweed Seagulls offer various ways for businesses to engage with our club. If you’re interested in being part of our journey, don’t hesitate to get in touch, and we’ll tailor a partnership package to align with your business’s requirements.
#strongertogether
Tweed Seagulls 2024 Essential Coffee Season Launch Highlights
On Thursday, February 22nd, the Tweed Seagulls held their highly anticipated season launch at Seagulls Club, bolstered by the support of one of our crucial partners, Essential Coffee.
Approximately 180 enthusiastic supporters attended the breakfast to hear what lies ahead for the Tweed Seagulls in 2024, including many of the club’s important partners. Addressing the guests, CEO Brendan Lindsay underscored the club’s vital function in offering pathways for young talents aspiring to reach NRL and NRLW levels, while also highlighting the club’s dedication to community initiatives and its recognition of the significance of that work in ensuring long-term sustainability. QRL Director Brian Canavan reiterated Tweed’s crucial position in the Queensland state-wide competition, and the significant role the club plays in the development of young players in the region.
The event featured all-star panels, with the male ensemble boasting NRL Premiership-winning coach and newly appointed Gold Coast Titans head coach, Des Hasler, alongside Titans star David Fifita, Tweed Seagulls’ Head of Football David Penna, and star Tweed players Will Brimson and Lamar Liolevave.
An equally impressive female panel followed, headlined by Titans Head Coach and reigning NRWL Dally M Coach of the Year, Karyn Murphy, flanked by two of the world’s best players Jaime Chapman and Jess Elliston, who proudly represent the Tweed Seagulls.
The panels captivated the audience, offering invaluable insights into the upcoming seasons for both Tweed Seagulls and Gold Coast Titans, while also shedding light on the developmental pathways available for aspiring talents from Northern Rivers NSW and the Gold Coast.
Additionally, the club extends its heartfelt appreciation to partners who generously contributed gifts to the launch, including See Civil, Maccas, Cool-a-bah Cooling & Electrical Services, CMBT, Gold Coast Titans, Seagulls Club, Fitstop, Rainbow Bay Realty, BOQ Coolangatta, and TopSport, who donated the major raffle prize of a 12-seat outdoor box to a Titans game, along with a $250 Top Sport voucher and a $250 Charity Bet.
Tweed Seagulls x Gold Coast Airport
The collaboration between the Tweed Seagulls Women’s team and Gold Coast Airport has been a cornerstone of the team’s identity since its inception in 2019. Gold Coast Airport has proudly held the front-of-jersey naming rights sponsorship for the team since they joined the QRL statewide competition, and this partnership has evolved into a mutually beneficial alliance.
In anticipation of the 2024 BMD Premiership season, Gold Coast Airport and the Tweed Seagulls Women’s Team have announced the extension of their valuable partnership. Gold Coast Airport (GCA) played a pivotal role as the founding sponsor, igniting the Tweed Seagulls’ mission to promote female rugby league in our region. Six years on, their commitment to this cause remains steadfast, contributing to the sport’s rapid growth in female participation.
Built upon shared values and a vision to empower local female athletes, the partnership provides a platform for them to excel both on and off the field.
Brendon Lindsay, CEO of Tweed Seagulls, eagerly welcomed the return of Gold Coast Airport as the team’s major sponsor for the 2024 BMD season, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support over the past six years. Lindsay looks forward to nurturing this enduring partnership in the years to come.
Brian McGuckin, Chief Property and Planning Officer of Queensland Airports Limited, echoed this sentiment, expressing GCA’s delight in renewing this significant partnership with Tweed Seagulls. He emphasised GCA’s longstanding commitment to supporting women in sports, a cause they have championed for years.
The participation of Australian Jillaroo legend Tarryn Aiken and Australian PM XIII star Jasmin Morrissey, both part of the Tweed Seagulls lineup for the 2024 BMD Cup, created excitement at the season’s kickoff.
Beyond business ties, the partnership between Tweed Seagulls and GCA extends into the community, advocating for inclusion and diversity. Both organisations are dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for individuals from all backgrounds and promoting equal opportunities.
A portion of Gold Coast Airport’s sponsorship is allocated to the Tom Searle Scholarship, supporting young athletes in their academic or professional endeavors. By endorsing this scholarship, GCA reaffirms its commitment to nurturing local talent and enhancing the community’s well-being. The recipients of the Tom Searle Scholarship will be announced at the 2024 Ladies Leaders in League Breakfast, scheduled for Wednesday, May 15th.
LISMORE SCHOOL HOLIDAY CLINIC A SUCCESS
In a collaborative effort on Tuesday, January 23rd, Tweed Seagulls teamed up with RedInc and PCYC Lismore, supported by NRL Development Officers, to successfully organise a School Holiday Clinic in Lismore. The program was enriched by the participation of Tweed Seagulls Development Coordinator Shaun Davison, Seagulls Head of Football David Penna, Seagulls Wellbeing Manager John Hutchinson, and Seagulls & Titans star Jaime Chapman, alongside Northern Rivers juniors Kharis Birney, Charlotte Day, and Noah Vakararawa.
The clinic made a lasting impression, with all participating children thrilled to receive Tweed Seagulls caps and packs from the NRL, NSWRL, and the Gold Coast Titans. This initiative was made possible through the generous support of Eximm, a valued partner of Seagulls in the Eximm Nest Community Programs.
Tweed Seagulls Community and Corporate Manager Brad Birney expressed satisfaction, stating “The day proved to be highly successful, enjoyed by both the kids and the adults in attendance. It was a great example of why collaboration works. Seagulls remains dedicated to utilising rugby league as a vehicle to strengthen connections within communities, instill crucial life skills, and contribute positively to the overall well-being of young individuals”.
Looking ahead, Tweed Seagulls aims to broaden the impact of such programs on the Northern Rivers through its Eximm Nest Community Programs. The objective is to utilise rugby league as a catalyst for building stronger community connections, imparting essential life skills, and enhancing the overall well-being of young individuals. Additionally, the goal is to inspire greater participation and involvement in rugby league, fostering a sense of community engagement and highlighting the positive impact of the sport.
Round 21 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Ipswich Jets
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed this weekend by Eximm, in our inaugural Indigenous Recognition Round, host the Ipswich Jets at Piggabeen Sports Complex in Round 21 as they look to cement their place in the Top 8.
The fight for finals took a hit last week as the Seagulls fell to the Northern Pride 34-24 at home. Still, they remain firmly in the frame at 7th on the ladder with two rounds to play. It’s a defeat that mirrors many of the others this season as Tweed looked dangerous at times, played with a lead for periods, but ultimately paid the price for turning the ball over too often.
“When we want to play footy we look good. We got in front a couple of times but couldn’t go on with it,” Coach Dave Penna said after the match.
The Seagulls broke more tackles (27 v 23), made more line breaks (6 v 3) and averaged more metres per set (47.8m v 43.4m) but their seven errors, seven penalties and four infringements proved too much in the end. The 46% possession and 75% completion rate will no doubt be something that is mentioned throughout the week.
Lindon McGrady offered some bright sparks throughout the match from fullback, the outside backs piled up points and Kaleb Ngamanu cracked 200 running metres for the second time this season. Tweed weren’t short of positives in the 80 minutes and much of the same squad will have an opportunity to right the wrongs against the Jets this week.
Kruise Leeming has improved with every match he has played for the Seagulls but an injury to Titans hooker, Sam Verrills, sees Leeming return to the NRL with Brent Woolf named to slot in at hooker. Woolf’s move returns Jaron Purcell to lock where he has started nine times this season with Joe Vuna elevated from the bench to the back row. Ryland Jacobs is a big in for Tweed. He missed the last match but has been named to start on the wing with the versatile Ioane Seiuli to come off the bench on Sunday.
The Jets held the somewhat unlucky honour of playing the Sunshine Coast Falcons in Ryan Papenhuyzen’s return to footy and with Justin Olam fired up in the centres last week. While the Jets started slowly to fall 24-0 behind in the 43rd minute, they held the Falcons scoreless for the remainder of the match and finished strong themselves in going down 24-10. From a numbers perspective, Dominic Macumboy’s six tackle breaks in limited opportunities with the ball make him one to watch this week.
While the Seagulls handled them convincingly to the tune of 54-14 back in Round 10, the Jets are an improved side. Their attack is on the up to have scored 20+ points in five of their last eight games.
The return of Manaia Cherrington has helped with the Kiwi hooker a dangerous prospect out of dummy half. Jayden Corrigan needs no introduction at Piggabeen. The 27-year-old Jets fullback is lining up for his third game against his former club this season having started the year with the Western Clydesdales before making the switch in Round 7. He’s a tackle-breaker and try-scorer and one the Seagulls will need to contain.
While the Jets are without a win this season, the Seagulls won’t be taking them lightly. They’re a high-offload team that despite the results throughout the year, is still improving each week. With this their last game of the 2023 Hostplus Cup season, expect the Jets to make things difficult for the Seagulls on Sunday afternoon.
Players To Watch
Ryland Jacobs is back on the wing this week to give the Seagulls what appears to be their first-choice backline at the pointy end of the season. With 11 tries in 17 games to go along with four try assists, 60 tackle breaks and ten line breaks, the 27-year-old is a key contributor to the Seagulls’ edge and one of the best-attacking players in the competition.
Tweed took a different approach to getting Treymain Spry more involved in the game by sending him back to field yardage kicks last week. The Hostplus Cup leader in linebreaks added one more to his tally from the back and it will be interesting to see if that approach continues upon Jacobs’ return and how else they can find ways to involve the roaming centre.
Ryan Walker made his Seagulls debut in the last 12 minutes of the game against the Pride. Harkening back to his 2009 Queensland Cup Premiership with the Sunshine Coast team, formerly dubbed the “Sea Eagles,” Walker’s return to action stirred memories of his championship days.
Opposing teams may not know what to expect from Walker, named as 18th man, with two games remaining in the regular season, he is working hard to prove himself again a premiership-winning player, hopeful to give the Seagulls an advantage in the upcoming finals.
Coaches Comments
The Seagulls were left disappointed with the performance last week but are eager to correct their mistakes this time around.
“It was a disappointing result; the boys are feeling it, Penna said.
“More in our own efforts and how we played but we’ve got to move on.
“Our focus has been on us this week, making sure that we put a performance on the field that we know we can put together. That’s our main thing. We just need to play well and if we play well, the rest will take care of itself.
“If we walk off the field to know that we played well and played how we’ve trained, do the simple things that we’ve worked really hard to do, then I can’t ask any more than that.”
While the Jets are without a win this year, Penna knows no side in the Hostplus Cup can be taken lightly.
“They’ve got plenty of talent and skill in the halves and their spine,” said Penna.
“Like I said, we just have to be really good defensively. We have to stick to our process and work for each other, and when we get the football, don’t give them too much ball.
“That’s the key to Tweed playing really well.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
GOLD COAST TITANS AND TWEED SEAGULLS FORGE STRONGER BONDS THROUGH ENHANCED AFFILIATION
The Gold Coast Titans and Tweed Seagulls are set to strengthen their collaborative efforts in nurturing and elevating Rugby League talent pathways across the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers regions. The enduring affiliation between these two clubs is primed to flourish.
Under a newly inked agreement, the Titans and Seagulls are poised to join forces until 2025, solidifying Tweed’s pivotal role in nurturing elite pathways for both male and female players.
Steve Mitchell, Titans CEO, emphasised that this partnership underscores the unwavering dedication of both clubs to bolster local talent. He stated,
“Tweed Seagulls resonate with our core values, sharing our commitment to nurturing local talent and offering aspiring youngsters who grew up playing Rugby League on the Coast a home-ground advantage.”
Excitingly, this affiliation will, for the first time, encompass comprehensive men’s and women’s programs, a testament to the burgeoning growth of the women’s Rugby League on the Coast. Together with Seagulls, the collaborative initiative includes the appointment of an additional development officer for the region. This strategic move is aimed at bolstering coach education and player progression within the community.
Momentum surges as this collaboration aligns with Tweed Seagulls’ illustrious legacy and their enduring focus on empowering athletes in the region for success. Both parties share the sentiment, as the affiliation extends for an additional two seasons.
Brendon Lindsay, CEO of Tweed Seagulls, articulated his eagerness to nurture the burgeoning relationship between the two clubs. He highlighted the natural synergy between the Gold Coast Titans and the local community, stating,
“Our association with the Titans is a natural fit, serving our community while connecting grassroots Rugby League with the NRL. This newfound collaboration will enable us to establish robust pathways for male and female players and staff from the Northern Rivers and Gold Coast, seamlessly guiding them to the Titans.”
Moreover, an extra development resource is set to underscore this partnership, fortifying both clubs’ outreach within their respective catchment areas. This strategic investment underscores the unyielding commitment of both organisations to the grassroots fabric of Rugby League.
The path ahead is resplendent with promise as the Gold Coast Titans and Tweed Seagulls are committed to charting a course that realises their shared aspirations. A partnership based on dedication promises an inspiring fusion of talent, community, and Rugby League excellence.
Round 20 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Northern Pride
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, played host to the Northern Pride at Piggabeen Sports Complex in Round 20 but the visitors left with the competition points.
The Pride earned the first good opportunity in attack but the Seagulls defence turned them away in a positive defensive start for the home side.
The contrasting styles of the two teams in yardage translated into an early arm-wrestle as Tweed searched for easy metres on the edges while the Pride took a more direct approach one-off the ruck through the middle.
A Lindon McGrady linebreak from a kick return threatened to break the game open, but his error let the visitors off the hook. It wasn’t long before a penalty provided Tweed with their first chance for points, though.
Tom Weaver continued to display his development as a ball player by sending Treymain Spry over the line in the 7th minute. Starting straight on his run before skipping out and using a lead runner to every so slightly engage the three-in defender, the young half threw a perfect out-ball for Spry to barge over for the opener.
Tweed took the opportunity after points to pin the Pride deep in their own end before Kruise Leeming broke into the backfield on the following set. While the hooker’s linebreak ended in an error, it exposed an area in the opposition where Leeming found regular success throughout the match.
The right edge continued to look a fruitful avenue for the Seagulls as Ioane Seiuli went close down the sideline but the Pride managed to level the scores in the 16th minute when Ewan Moore hit and spun his way over the line.
Tweed answered back with a strong yardage set; targeting the space around the ruck for easy metres up the field. Leeming looked to play Lamar Manuel-Liolevave over close to the line only for the defence to pull him down just short. Looking the more dangerous of the two teams with the ball, Tweed retook the lead in the 25th minute.
A strong Brent Woolf carry ahead of a Leeming offload scrambled the defensive line and left them short on the edge. Spotting the advantage, Will Brimson took it deep into the line before cutting out his backrower and finding Lee Turner to score.
Coach Dave Penna spoke during the week about the importance of completing sets against a high-possession and high-completion side like the Pride. Still, errors around halfway kept the door ajar for the opposition and it wasn’t long before Moore scored his second to bring the scores back level at 12-all.
While being named in the centres and filling the spot in attack, Spry often defended on the wing to end sets. As a powerful ball carrier on returns, it was only a matter of time before he broke into the backfield and contributed to points. Pushing up following Spry’s lengthy carry, McGrady stepped back inside while getting his arms free to release an offload to Kaleb Ngamanu who dotted down under the sticks to see Tweed go into the sheds with an 18-12 lead.
The trend of the first half continued in the second as the Pride once again answered back to points with some of their own. Moore’s third try of the afternoon pulled the visitors level. Unfortunately for Tweed, the trend of errors around halfway continued, too. While threatening, Will Brimson’s wrap around the left edge was ruled as an obstruction with the Pride taking the bonus field poison and turning it into a 22-18 lead through Daniel Woodhouse on the left wing.
In desperate need of something to swing momentum, Tweed earned it through a strong defensive set leading to a shanked kick on the last. Brimson’s grubber to end the following set left Seamus King-Smith to scramble out of his own corner. With pressure building, a big Ngamanu tackle on Dantoray Lui produced an error putting Tweed hot on the attack but the 5th-tackle kick ended up with Justin Frain under the posts for the visitors.
The try and ten-point deficit lit a spark in the Seagulls. Consecutive completed sets and an inspired yardage game ended with Joe Vuna crashing over to leave Tweed with eight minutes to chase four points.
The idea of a late comeback took a hit when Luke Burton was marched to the bin. Pulled back and held down long after the tackle, Burton voiced his displeasure and spent the last four minutes sitting on the sideline. With the penalty and extra man, Jaymon Moore put the game beyond doubt for the Pride to claim a 34-24 win.
Defeat leaves the Seagulls on the edge of the Top 8 given the congested ladder. However, with two games at home against the Jets and Falcons to come and a superior points differential to those around them, they remain in the frame of finals footy with two rounds to play.
Key Takeaways
Tweed has two more games to iron out and execute the game plan across 80 minutes.
When maintaining possession and forcing the opposition to work out of their own end, few teams in the Hostplus Cup can keep up with the Seagulls. Their attack is among the best in the competition and can always be relied upon to produce points if given enough chance to attack close to the line.
However, failing to complete cost them too many chances with the ball and provided the Pride with too many this week.
Coaches Comments
It’s not the first time this season that Dave Penna and the Seagulls have been left counting the cost of errors and a low completion rate. Struggling to get into the grind, they gave the Pride too many chances with the ball.
“It’s an attitude thing for us,” Penna said.
“When we want to play footy we look good. We got in front a couple of times but couldn’t go on with it.”
The attitude changed in the last ten minutes when forced to chase a ten-point deficit but it was too little too late.
“We scored our tries too easy,” said Penna.
“We didn’t earn them and ended up falling over in the end.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 20 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Northern Pride
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, are back at Piggabeen Sports Complex for the first time since Round 13 when they take on the Northern Pride on Saturday afternoon.
The Seagulls have had two weeks to rest and recover from their 32-18 win over the Brisbane Tigers in Round 18. Responding well to a disappointing outing a week earlier, Dave Penna’s side got their season back on track with an impressive and much-need performance.
“We put it together today,” Penna said after the match.
“We defended well, worked hard for one another, and our attack has been great all year. We knew that if we do those simple things well we will put ourselves right in this competition. It was really pleasing.”
Lindon McGrady put on a clinic as the Seagulls pulled away after going 12-6 down early. The veteran fullback scored two tries, handed out three try assists and finished up with 251 running metres in one of the best individual performances competition-wide this season. As usual, the rest of the back five clocked up over 100 metres each as Tweed ran for 2,075 metres for the match.
In contrast to a week earlier when Tweed struggled to maintain possession, they played with 54% of it against the Tigers. Luke Burton laid the platform through the middle with 168 running metres and the third-best attack in the Hostplus Cup piled up the points.
With extra time to nurse a few niggles and get the body right, Penna has been able to name much of the same side again this week. Joe Vuna is the only new face. He comes onto the bench for Ryan Jones in an otherwise unchanged 17.
The Pride, who entered Round 19 on a three-game losing streak, ended it in style. While they didn’t take the chocolates away from UAA Park, the Pride pushed the high-flying Burleigh Bears to a 22-22 draw. A Christopher Ostwald 78th-minute try pulled the visitors to within two before Evan Child knocked over the conversion to level the scores and push the Pride into the Top 8.
Kyle Feldt played one game for the Townsville Blackhawks back in Round 16 but has been named to play his second game for the Pride in the centres this week. The 188-game NRL veteran will be a significant threat in attack and no doubt a target on the last tackle close to the line. Further up the field, Daniel Hindmarsh-Takyi is one to watch for the visitors. As one of the hardest-working middle forwards in the competition, he averages 151 running metres per game while leading the Hostplus Cup in total post-contact metres and third in total run metres.
Will Partridge is another name that might jump out to some on the Pride team list. It’s almost a year since these two teams last met with a Partridge double and three conversions keeping them close as the Seagulls claimed a 24-18 victory.
The Pride are a high-possession and high-completion team. They’re in the Top 5 in both categories and will apply constant pressure. While the Seagulls have put together periods of dominance – getting up the field in yardage, maintaining possession and turning the ball over in the right areas – stringing it across 80 minutes has been a work in progress.
If the Seagulls can replicate their Round 18 performance again this week, they’ll go a long way to cementing themselves in the Top 8 ahead of two more games at home to finish the regular season.
Player to Watch
He played only five games in 2021 but 24-year-old Luke Burton has been a regular feature of the Seagulls pack this season. Starting seven games and coming off the bench for another seven, he’s improving every week and was a standout in Tweed’s win over the Brisbane Tigers in Round 18.
While his 168 running metres impressed, it’s his work around the ball that saw him rewarded with a linebreak and first try assist of his Hostplus Cup career. Pushing up in support around the always-dangerous Lamar Manuel-Liolevave, Burton burst into the backfield before calmly drawing the fullback and finding Lindon McGrady pushing up in support.
Given the Pride will look to build pressure by keeping hold of the ball and playing patiently in attack, Burton’s work in yardage will be crucial to the Seagulls getting up the field and applying pressure of their own. If Burton and the Tweed pack can earn enough opportunities to attack in good ball, their third-ranked attack scoring 29.8 points per game will do the rest.
Coaches Comments
It’s been a long time between games for the Seagulls but coach Dave Penna is eager to get back into it.
“We’ve obviously had a few bumps and bruises and tried to manage through them,” Penna said about the two-week break.
“We got the boys back in and made them well aware of what they needed to do. It’s good to be back with a bit of purpose.”
The break to nurse bumps and bruises came at the right time as the Seagulls look to carve out their first-choice 17 ahead of a hopeful run through the finals.
“We’ve got a few boys that have been in and out and we’re still trying to figure out what the right side is and how we can make it work,” said Penna.
“That can be a little bit challenging with what is going on with the Titans each week but at this stage of the year – we’ve lost a few and got a few injured – we’re comfortable with the squad.”
The job isn’t done yet but as it stands, the Seagulls are in a finals spot.
“Since day one we’ve planned for this time of the year, what it takes to win those games. It’s still something that we get better at each week in some areas and then drop off in others. It’s the main focus around what’s required at the business end of the year.
“The boys know what it takes to win those games, we’ve just got to get there!”
The Pride offer a stern test of what it takes to win those games as a high-completion and high-possession football side.
“We spoke about that last night. They’re a really good football side. They don’t make a lot of errors, they ask a lot of questions, and you’ve got to play solid footy for 80 minutes.
“We’ve got three weeks left where we’re playing teams that are all like that, so it’s a good challenge for us.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Tweed Seagulls RLFC With the Support of Eximm Unveil Artwork for Inaugural Indigenous Jersey
The Tweed Seagulls Rugby League Football Club has formed a new partnership with Eximm, which will provide us with additional support to launch our inaugural Indigenous Jersey for 2023. The Hostplus Cup side will wear the Indigenous Jerseys during our round twenty-one match against the Ipswich Jets. The jersey will celebrate and honour the rich cultural inheritance of the Indigenous peoples of the Bundjalung nation in which the club resides. We show equal respect to all Indigenous Australians and Torres Strait Islander people and warmly invite the Seagulls community to join us in a celebration of culture on this day.
The Tweed Seagulls RLFC, Eximm, and the Banaam group worked together to create a captivating jersey shown in the image below. Banaam Group is a consultancy that applies Indigenous cultural principles to the business world. They represent Bundjalung country and have played a vital role in the design process. Through collaboration with artists, they have gathered tales directly from elders to ensure that the artwork accurately portrays the region’s story.
The artwork, skilfully crafted by artist Malachi Urquhart under the guidance and taught art styles of Kyle Slaab, showcases the story of the Three Brothers. Aboriginal dream-time legend has it that these founding brothers Mamoonth, Yarbirri and Birrung in the very beginning, travelled from far across the sea, arriving on the Australian coast near the Clarence River. Their canoe however, was blown out to sea in a storm, so the brothers decided to build new canoes in order to return to their homeland.
They completed building the canoes but could find no sign of their mother, who had gone to look for food, so they set off without her. On returning to find she had been left behind, their mother climbed to the top of the hill at Goanna Headland near Evans Head and cursed them for abandoning her. She called to the ocean in anger.
The water rose, creating the first waves on the North Coast, and the wild seas forced the brothers back to land at Bullinah (known as Ballina). Once the seas had abated, one of the brothers returned south to find their mother. The brothers decided they spread out across the land. One went north, another west and the third to the south, forming the three branches of the Bundjalung people.
Today, this historical landing remains an important cultural symbol, celebrated by thousands of years of tradition and protected by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
For this round, The Seagulls Club, our major partner, have generously given up their spot on the front of the jersey to make room for incoming sponsorship from Eximm. This sponsorship will assist the Banaam Group in their continual commitment to passing on the stories of the region to Indigenous youth.
Eximm believes in the importance of connecting community and are proud to sponsor this years Seagulls Indigenous Jersey as part of our long history of supporting our indigenous local communities in the Tweed and Gold Coast. We see sport as a powerful platform to foster understanding and unity within our communities here in Northern NSW and South East Queensland.
Eximm are proud to partner with Tweed Seagulls Rugby League Football Club as we share our aligned values and focus on the celebration of Indigenous community and culture.
Banaam will organise all cultural aspects of the event to enhance the authenticity and importance of the celebration. This will involve conducting educational workshops with the players in the weeks preceding the game, during which they will gain knowledge about the histories, cultures, and accomplishments of the Indigenous peoples.
The Preston Campbell Foundation has played a significant role in guiding the club’s decision-making process for building an Indigenous program. The foundation has provided support for catering at events and VIP services on game day. For this event, our foundation will provide education and offer Indigenous foods to our sponsors and VIP guests as a part of the cultural celebration.
As the players don their jerseys and step onto the field, they remind us that Rugby League is more than just a game. It provides a chance for Australians to come together, embrace shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and unite as one.
Tweed Seagulls RLFC Embark on a New Era with Piggabeen Sports Complex Upgrades
A momentous occasion unfolded today as the Member for Tweed, Geoff Provest, presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for Stage 1 of the Piggabeen Sports Complex upgrades, signalling the dawn of a new era for rugby league on the Tweed.
Accompanied by representatives from Tweed Seagulls Ian Paton (Chairman), Brendon Lindsay (CEO), Tweed Shire Council, Bruna Sutherland, as well as the contractors, Boyds Bay (Glen and Tom Dawney), Mr. Provest emphasised the profound impact of the Tweed Seagulls on the sport’s history and the broader community.
“Tweed Seagulls boast a remarkable legacy in the sport of rugby league, and their commitment to the greater community is equally commendable. Through this endeavour, more local residents will relish the benefits of engaging in sports and active recreation,” stated Mr. Provest.
Brendon Lindsay, the CEO of Tweed Seagulls, expressed his enthusiasm, saying,
“For the past three years, our club has worked hand in hand with Tweed Shire Council, meticulously crafting a comprehensive MasterPlan for Piggabeen. It has played a pivotal role in securing funding, with invaluable support from Geoff.”
The commencement of Stage 1 marks the realisation of this master plan, and we are thankful to the Tweed Shire Council for their continued support to ensure the successful implementation of the entire project for the betterment of the community.
Acknowledging the funding received for the facility’s upgrade, Brendon Lindsay added,
“Geoff’s and Council’s support is deeply appreciated as it enables us to enhance the facilities, creating a more functional and inviting space that local clubs and residents can fully enjoy.”
The Tweed Seagulls, Tweed Shire Council, and all stakeholders involved are thrilled to witness the commencement of this transformative project that promises to enrich the lives of countless individuals through enhanced sports and recreational opportunities.
Round 18 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Brisbane Tigers
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, travelled to Kilcoy Sports Centre for Country Round and returned home with two valuable competition points following their 38-12 victory over the Brisbane Tigers.
Brent Woolf went close to scoring early, prompting a strip penalty as the Tigers desperately tried to defend their line. However, after settling to the middle and spreading the ball to the left edge, Lindon McGrady shaped to throw it one pass further before stepping back inside and through the line to score.
Both sides worked up the field well in yardage, forcing the other to work from deep inside their own end to return the favour. One strong Tigers defensive set proved decisive, though. Following a lengthy return and their first visit into the Seagulls’ 20-metre zone, the Tigers forced a repeat set and turned it into points through Leivaha Pulu.
One try became two as the Tigers scored only two minutes later. Having defended the kickoff set well, McGrady couldn’t keep hold of the 5th-tackle kick with Corey Thompson there to dot down on the following tackle.
It looked as though the Tigers might make it three in three minutes as they broke into the backfield shortly after the kickoff, but a scrambling Seagulls defence recovered and forced an error before starting to play themselves back into the match.
Another McGrady linebreak assist put Jacob McCudden through the line but he couldn’t quite find the pass to level the scores. Lee Turner couldn’t keep hold of the ball while reaching out to score following a short side raid. The close calls did allow Tweed to reassert themselves in the territory battle, though.
A scheming Treymain Spry run pushed the Seagulls further into Tigers territory as Will Brimson forced a dropout – one that flew out on the full. With the penalty out in front of the posts, Tweed looked to the right through Ryland Jacobs before a long shift from one side of the field to the other ended with Kaleb Ngamanu over in the corner.
As has been the case so often in recent weeks, Tweed looked comfortable in attack. They worked up the field through the middle and peppered the edges for points in good ball. Also, the case: Errors in yardage. The Seagulls presented the Tigers with an opportunity to attack in good ball but forced an error of their own.
Getting back to the plan and keeping possession, Tweed finished the first half with a lead as Brimson sold a dummy similar to McGrady’s earlier to put his side 18-12 in front.
The first half can be summed up as a tale of two halves in itself with the Seagulls dominating for lengthy periods but spending the majority of it behind on the scoreboard.
The Tigers earned the first dangerous shot of the second half in attack but with McGrady’s work to sweep up the grubber and a Jacobs carry producing a penalty, Tweed soon found themselves with an attacking opportunity of their own. For a third time, a try looked within reach as Daniel Ross lost possession falling towards the line.
After defending back-to-back penalties and a raid on their line, Tweed regained control of the yardage battle. McGrady’s boot proved particularly influential in keeping Brisbane deep in their own end.
With the foundation set, McGrady played a key part in two tries in as many minutes for Tweed to take a commanding 30-12 lead into the final 15 minutes.
First, his bomb defusal and break into the backfield put Treymain Spry over.
On the next set, The Prince of Piggabeen pushed up in support following a Luke Burton linebreak set up by a superb short ball by Lamar Manuel-Liolevave. The big middle forward looked long and played short to throw a peach of a pass for points.
Jacobs added another try to his tally for the season as Tweed continued to pull away through to the final siren. Following a disappointing defeat last week, the Seagulls responded well to record a convincing 38-12 win over a top-four opposition and give their finals chances a significant boost.
Key Takeaways
Dave Penna has mentioned it plenty in recent weeks, but when the Seagulls stick to the plan and maintain possession, they can keep up with any side in the competition.
Despite falling behind again this week, Tweed put together enough good periods with the ball to put themselves in front at the break. Their finish to the first half, in particular, showed exactly what they’re capable of as they put pressure on the middle defence before capitalising for points out wide.
Playing patient footy to start the second half, Tweed flew into the finish as the pressure they’d built broke down the Tigers’ defence.
The Seagulls have been in this position a few times in recent weeks and were able to learn from their mistakes to take the lead and embrace the grind before extending it this time around.
Coaches Comments
Coach Dave Penna was pleased with the response of his side this week after a frustrating loss in Round 17.
“It was a different footy side,” Penna said.
“We put it together today. We defended well, worked hard for one another, and our attack has been great all year. We knew that if we do those simple things well we will put ourselves right in this competition. It was really pleasing.”
It did threaten to go similar to last week when Tweed needed to climb back from an early deficit but they were able to learn from their mistakes and finish it off this time.
“The best thing that is really pleasing at the moment is we saw some real signs of blokes learning from mistakes, things they’ve been doing, and not doing them now. As a coach, that’s the pleasing part. We’re trying to get better and educate ourselves on how to win tough games when you’re tired and behind.”
They did just that in Round 18 and will have a few weeks now to rest and recover ahead of a big finish to the regular season.
“We’ve been going 12 weeks now with trips to PNG and all over Queensland – planes, trains and automobiles. Some of our boys a pretty banged up, so we’re going to give them some time off this week.
“We’ve put ourselves in with a chance to play in the finals. We’ve got three home games to finish, so it’s come at a good time for us.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 18 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Brisbane Tigers
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, are on the road again in Round 18. This time they travel to Kilcoy for Country Round to take on the Brisbane Tigers.
The Seagulls will be desperate to right the wrongs of their 26-24 defeat to the Redcliffe Dolphins in Round 17. Dave Penna’s side did enough to fight back from an early deficit and take a late lead but errors in the wrong part of the field kept the door ajar for the home side as Trai Fuller crashed over late in the piece.
“We played some good footy. Some boys had some good games but we killed ourselves in the end. Errors in the wrong places at the wrong times and not defending kicks. It’s an Achilles heel of ours and we’ve got to get rid of it if we’re to go any further in this competition,” Penna said after the match.
Possession is a key element to winning football and Tweed’s 11 errors translated into just 46% possession. While they looked comfortable enough at times in defence, a quality attacking side like the Dolphins will break through eventually. Nonetheless, there were positives to take from an attacking standpoint as, even while 18-6 behind, it looked as though the Seagulls weren’t far off.
Will Brimson ended up as one of those boys playing a good one. He led the Seagulls with 181 running metres for the match, along with a try assist. He regularly took the line on and asked questions of the defence as Tweed’s left edge looked the most threatening throughout.
Jaron Purcell again performed well through the middle of the field. The workhorse lock made a team-high 39 tackles while running for 100 metres and breaking six tackles with the ball.
Little changes for the Seagulls list this week. Ioane Seiuli drops out with Purcell shifting to the edge and Brent Woolf to lock. Connor Zeibell has earned a spot on the bench early in the week. Should he feature on Saturday, it will be just the second game of his career after making his debut against the Norths Devils in Round 3.
This shapes as a pivotal match for the Seagulls as they hang onto a spot inside the Top 8. Six points separate 6th from 12th with Tweed currently occupying 8th on 20 points, five behind the Tigers at 4th on the Hostplus Cup ladder.
Four tries from George Jennings propelled the Tigers past the Western Clydesdales 34-18 last week. Slow to start across the first 30 minutes of the match, Jennings finished the first half with three tries for the Tigers to take a 12-6 lead into the break before pulling away in the second half.
The Tigers won both regular season meetings in 2022 before the Seagulls won the match that mattered most in Week 1 of the Finals. A Brimson double and 173 running metres ended up as the difference on that occasion.
Brimson is again one to watch in Round 18, but for the Tigers, Jonah Pezet is the focus. The 20-year-old has featured six times for the Melbourne Storm this season and five times for the Tigers. His numbers don’t jump off the page: 1 try, 2 try assists, 2 line break assists and 96 metres per game. Still, he’s a quality player that makes good decisions at speed and won’t be afraid to take the Seagulls line on if given the space. Out wide, the Tigers play with noted try scorers George Jennings (4 tries last week) and Corey Thompson (7 tries in 10 games this season).
It has been a month since the Seagulls last played in Tweed, and with a bye next week before their return to Piggabeen against the Devils, they’ll have this match circled as a big one. With three consecutive games at home to finish the regular season after the bye, they’ll put themselves in a promising position for finals football with a win on Saturday afternoon.
Player To Watch
Kruise Leeming has started to find his feet in this Tweed Seagulls side. In a difficult position coming into a new side with little experience playing with those around him to start, he’s looking more comfortable every week.
His running game has caused havoc around the ruck in recent weeks to average 124 running metres per game in his last two matches. He jumps out and darts in behind the markers, scrambling the defence and opening up space wider for the likes of Will Brimson, Brent Woolf and Tom Weaver to work their magic. Adding a kicking game to the equation last week, Leeming is taking a more hands-on approach the leading the team around the field and features in an intriguing head-to-head battle with Tristan Hope who has impressed for eight tries and six try assists in 14 appearances this year.
Coaches Comments
Tweed are looking to shake off a disappointing result in Round 17 and has put a focus on the little things this week.
“We had a good hard look at ourselves and our effort areas,” said coach Dave Penna.
“That was probably the key to what happened last week. It’s an issue we addressed as a team and is something we’ve been really focused on this week at training.
“Everybody was disappointed but we’ve got to regather and go again.”
While the visit to Cbus Super Stadium is marked as a Seagulls home game, they’ve been away from Piggabeen for a month. Still, Penna isn’t making any excuses.
“We’ve been going ten weeks straight,” Penna said.
“We knew we were going to get into a situation but we can’t make excuses. We put ourselves in the game, we scored enough points to win the game and led with 16 minutes to go and we came up with some poor effort areas within our game, right through our game, and it cost points.
“As a club, there are no excuses for those things.”
It doesn’t get any easier this week as the Seagulls come up against one of the Hostplus Cup’s top sides in the Tigers.
“That’s where we’ve been for six or seven weeks. We know we’d go through this tough period. We’ve played all top six sides in the last five weeks and we’ve got one more to go.
“For us, we know they’re a quality football side. They’ve got talent right across the park. We’ve just got to make sure we focus on working hard, like we’ve done against all of the other teams, and work on those little one-per-cent areas that we need to do well in against the top teams.
”If we do that, we put ourselves in with a chance.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 17 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Redcliffe Dolphins
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, fought back from 18-6 behind in the first half before coming up painstakingly short in the second, falling to the Redcliffe Dolphins 26-24 at Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast.
The long pass from the opening kickoff gave us some indication of what the Dolphins had planned for the afternoon. In tip-top conditions on a sunny Sunday afternoon, the Dolphins surged up the field and forced a turnover out of Ryland Jacobs to put the Seagulls defence under early pressure. However, a perfect trap and scrap saw Kruise Leeming fly 40 metres up the field for Tweed to start playing themselves into the match with the ball.
On 5th tackle with the defence still scrambled, Tom Weaver spied an opportunity for the Seagulls to run the ball from 30 metres out. Using a lead runner to occupy the three and four in defenders, Weaver ran deep into the line before firing the ball wide for Kaleb Ngamanu to open the scoring.
Sheldon Pitama went close to levelling the scores shortly after but a desperate Luke Burton tackle stopped the scheming Dolphins hooker from crossing the line. Tweed could only keep them out for a minute longer, though. A Cody Hunter chip kick into the in-goal ended with Levi Wilson falling on the ball for a 6-all scoreboard after 14 minutes.
Pitama and Trai Fuller continued to cause havoc around the Seagulls ruck as the pair linked up to push the Dolphins up the field out of yardage. Where Tweed were forced to kick long to finish their sets, Redcliffe kicked from attacking positions. While lucky to get the bounce and strip, by kicking from only 40 metres out, the Dolphins were in a position to make the most of their luck and pull 12-6 ahead via Tyson Cleal.
Defending the kickoff set and desperate get into the arm wrestle Tweed had no trouble getting up the field to turn the ball over 10 metres from the line. Like his opposite, Kruise Leeming found joy around the ruck in yardage. However, fortuitous outcome from a kick contest ended with the Dolphins setting a scrum 20 metres out for James Walsh to score.
More than competitive in yardage and lethal in good ball, Tweed found themselves 18-6 behind. Needing some luck or a call themselves, a relieving penalty put the Seagulls into attacking position, and just as they did earlier in the match when within striking distance, a long shift opened up the middle of the defence for Jaron Purcell to crash through on the following tackle.
A Will Brimson intercept turned Tweeds’ defence into attack shortly before halftime but the 18-12 scoreline held through to oranges.
Tweed returned straight back to their shifting attack out of yardage to end their first set of the second half with a kick from 20 metres out. With it, a favourable bounce and some Ioane Seiuli magic returned the game to level pegging.
As the game developed into an arm wrestle, field position and set completions became crucial. A Fuller grubber forced a Tweed dropout but Lee Turner managed to reel in a short one to end the Redcliffe attacking raid.
The Seagulls waited for their moment, pinning the Dolphins in their own end and trusting their defence to maintain the ascendency in field position.
That moment came in the 59th minute when presented with a full attacking set inside the Dolphins’ 20-metre line.
Brimson and Ngamanu linked up to ice the opportunity and give Tweed the lead for the first time since the 11th minute of the match.
It wouldn’t last to the final whistle, though.
Once again the Dolphins managed to force a dropout but McGrady’s short grubber quickly turned possession. A bouncing ball into touch was soon deemed to have been touched by a Seagulls player presenting the Dolphins with a full set attacking the line. However, Spry’s jamming tackle ended the raid.
But a Tweed error in yardage kept the door ajar and Fuller walked through it to score with seven minutes to play.
A Purcell error turned the ball over only 30 metres from the Tweed line. Desperately looking to wrap up the ball and stop an offload in the ensuing set, Weaver’s strip penalty allowed Hunter to kick the Dolphins 26-24 in front.
Hearts raced to finish. A Redcliffe error gave Tweed one last throw of the dice. Looking for Treymain Spry from the scrum, the big centre juggled a pass but kept hold of it for one last shift. A looping McGrady pass went close to putting Ngamanu over in the corner, but in the end, a scrambling Dolphins defence held on for a 26-24 win.
Key Takeaways
The Tweed attack continues to play as one of the best in the competition. Despite Redcliffe scoring three tries in 12 minutes throughout the middling period of the first half, it always felt as though it wouldn’t take much for Tweed to play themselves back into the game.
When given the chance, Weaver, Brimson and McGrady manufactured points with the left edge especially dangerous throughout. However, by turning the ball over in the wrong parts of the field, Tweed couldn’t generate enough chances to attack the line and pile up the points needed for victory.
McGrady’s ability to turn an opposition forced dropout into Tweed possession is incredible. Twice he managed to pull off the squib kick to flip possession at important moments.
Coaches Comments
Coach Dave Penna only needed one word to sum up the match.
“Frustrating.”
“There are plenty of positives to take out of it,” Penna said.
“We played some good footy. Some boys had some good games but we killed ourselves in the end. Errors in the wrong places at the wrong times and not defending kicks. It’s an Achilles heel of ours and we’ve got to get rid of it if we’re to go any further in this competition.”
There was a period in the match when it looked as though Tweed had put themselves in a position to go on with it.
“We got in front and just had to keep grinding away but kept coming up with errors,” said Penna.
“We just can’t afford to not compete in these areas.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 17 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Redcliffe Dolphins
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, head up to Redcliffe to take on the Dolphins in the inaugural Liam Hampson Cup on Sunday afternoon.
The newly formed cup commemorates the late Liam Hampson and also serves as a platform to recognise and support Hampo’s Youth Foundation—an inspiring initiative established to carry forward his legacy.
The Seagulls come into this one on the back of an impressive 30-16 win over the Norths Devils in Round 16. Kruise Leeming and Brent Woolf dominated behind the ruck to pick the Devils markers to pieces and lay the groundwork for points on the edges.
Possession ended up evenly split, but Tweed made their mark in yardage. With 11 players finishing up with over 100 metres to their name, the Seagulls ran for 350 more metres than the Devils on the day. Treymain Spry led the way with 179 metres of his own with five tackle breaks, one try and a superb try assist to boot.
Through the middle, Jaron Purcell once again impressed for 176 running metres while Jaron McCudden continued his season of big numbers with 117 metres and a team-high six tackle breaks and 32 tackles.
Leeming has been named to make his fourth start for the club this week with Brent Woolf to come off the bench. Meanwhile, Spry once again headlines a stellar backline with Tom Weaver and Will Brimson pulling the strings in the halves.
It will be a year to the day since these two teams last met. While Tweed’s Scott Galeano opened the scoring for the match, Redcliffe went on to score 30 unanswered points to take the chocolates with relative ease. This one is sure to be a lot closer, though.
Just one competition point separates the two teams on the ladder with Redcliffe’s quite remarkable three draws making up for winning one fewer game than Tweed’s nine for the year. The attack and defence numbers again paint the picture of an even contest. The Seagulls average 29.6 points per game to be one of the best-attacking teams in the Hostplus Cup to Redcliffe’s 28 points per game. In defence, however, the Dolphins pull slightly in front conceding 22.2 points per game to the Seagulls’ 23.9 points.
Redcliffe recorded their third draw of the season last week against the Townsville Blackhawks. Despite playing 79 minutes with an extra man and scoring two early tries, the Dolphins conceded three tries in 12 minutes to finish the first half. With only one try each after the break, a Thomas Duffy penalty goal in the 79th minute leveled up the scores.
Cousins Lindon and Brayden McGrady go head-to-head this week. Brayden made his NRL debut for the Dolphins a fortnight ago following a strong start to the year scoring 10 tries in 11 games. A prolific try scorer, he is one the Seagulls will be keeping a close eye on in this one. Trai Fuller is another. The 78-game Hostplus Cup veteran is well-known around the competition and continues to get better to have scored seven tries while handing out 10 try assists in 13 games this season.
Tweed and Redcliffe face an emotional build-up to Sunday afternoon in a fixture that will shake up the Top 8 with both sides facing the prospect of finishing the round as high as 5th or as low as 9th.
Player to Watch
A close friend of the late Liam Hampson, Will Brimson will be playing with a little bit extra in this one.
A key part of Tweed’s success this year, the 27-year-old is taken a Mr. Fix It approach to his role in the side starting as a five-eighth, centre and lock so far this season. Named at five-eighth for this one, Brimson has scored two tries and handed out six try assists in his seven games wearing #6 this year.
Brimson is a big body and strong runner of the ball. He averages 102 running metres per game as a five-eighth to constantly act as a running threat while getting deep into the line and compressing the defence before firing a pass wide. Tweed plays with a lot of width and look to get the ball wide early and often. Keep an eye on how Brimson straightens the attack and works the space around the three-in defender to create space for Lee Turner and Kaleb Ngamanu on the left edge.
Coaches Comments
Every game is important but there is a little bit more involved this week than most.
“We’ve got the Liam Hampson Cup this week which is obviously going to be an emotional day for the boys – for both teams,” Penna said.
“On the day, the boys who were close to Liam, it’s about making sure they’re okay and once the whistle goes it’s a game of footy.”
Toby Sexton’s departure has opened the door for Will Brimson to return to the halves for the rest of the year.
“Brimmo has been out five-eighth for a number of years now,” said Penna.
“For a while there he was playing a fair bit of #13 working alongside Toby and Tommy but Toby has moved on, and that’s great for Tob’s, but for us as club Brimmo slots straight in there and in a couple of week time he and Tom will be flowing again.”
The two teams are fairly even on the ladder and the expectation is for a tough one on Sunday afternoon.
“They have got great line speed, they’re in your face, they run the ball hard and have some quality outside backs and big middles. It’s going to be a tough game of footy.
“They’re sitting in the Top 8 for a reason. They’ve got a lot of experience and I’m expecting a really hard game.
“We’re going to have to be at our best to give ourselves a chance.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
LAUNCH – LIAM HAMPSON CUP
The Liam Hampson Cup, a momentous occasion that will unfold on Sunday, the 9th of July 2023, is a powerful testament to the enduring impact of a remarkable individual. This highly anticipated match, serving as the curtain raiser to the NRL game where the Titans face the Dolphins, holds immense significance as it not only commemorates the late Liam Hampson but also serves as a platform to recognise and support Hampo’s Youth Foundation—an inspiring initiative established to carry forward his legacy.
Honouring the former Queensland Cup hooker who tragically passed away last October, our round 17 Hostplus Cup fixture will kick-start a Super Sunday of rugby league at 1:15pm at Cbus Super Stadium.
Liam’s mum Lorna Morton is proud to have both clubs pay tribute to the crafty No. 9 in this way, with the inaugural match to become a perpetual clash between Hampson’s two former sides.
“It’s such a great honour for our family and to honour Liam’s legacy,” she said.
“Liam played for both Tweed and Redcliffe and a lot of his mates still play in the Q Cup, so we want everyone to get down here at 1.15pm for the curtain-raiser to support Tweed and the Dolphins before the main game.
“There will be a Liam Hampson Cup awarded to the winning team and also a Liam Hampson Medal awarded to the best player and our family will be choosing that medallist.”
The Liam Hampson Cup is a poignant reminder that the impact of an individual’s life extends far beyond their time on this Earth. It stands as a rallying cry for unity and solidarity, inspiring all who witness it to contribute towards a brighter future. By recognising and supporting Hampo’s Youth Foundation, the Cup emphasises the significance of investing in the dreams and aspirations of young individuals, enabling them to realise their full potential and make a positive difference in the world.
Close friend and Titans star AJ Brimson is also humbled to play a big role on the day, watching his big brother Will and his best mates in action from the sidelines before running out for the Gold Coast in his NRL clash against the Dolphins.
“It’s very close to home… especially for Liam and his family,” Brimson said.
“To have my brother there [playing for Tweed] and all the boys that he’s played with at both clubs, it’s definitely going to be special for the two teams.
“I know they’ll both genuinely want to get the win for Hampo on that day.”
Hampo’s Youth Foundation – a charity setup in Liam’s honour to help young people reach their potential – will also be the 50-50 raffle beneficiary in the Round 19 fixture, with donations available to be made on the day across the venue.
Should you wish to purchase general admission tickets to the game, Titans are pleased to offer Tweed Seagulls supporters a discounted 15% ticket price. You can grab these tickets using the following link:
https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/Show.aspx?sh=TITANS0623
The password to access these discounted tickets is:
THSeagulls
Round 16 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Norths Devils
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, bounced back from their Round 15 defeat to beat the Norths Devils 30-16 at Bishop Park, Brisbane.
Tweed threatened in their first visit into the Devils 20. Compressing the middle through a strong Lamar Manuel-Liolevave carry, Tom Weaver floated a pass over to Ryland Jacobs, but the Seagulls winger couldn’t stay in the field of play.
The Devils responded with a close call of their own as Bryce Donovan went near enough to be called for a double movement as he promoted the football over the line. Tweed used the penalty to surge up the field and turn the ball over one metre short of the Norths line. Coach Dave Penna has repeatedly spoken about where on the field the Seagulls turn the ball over and that seemed to be the focus early on in this one. Taking control of the territory battle and earning more tackles inside the Devils’ 20, Kruise Leeming produced an exceptional individual try to open the scoring.
Manuel-Liolevave again acted as the trigger before Leeming jumped out from dummy half and rolled one in behind the defensive line to regather himself.
Leeming became the distributor on the next set.
Spotting the defender slow to marker, Leeming jumped out and followed him back into the line, beating him back on the inside and handing a pass off to Luke Burton pushing up in support.
Norths didn’t do themselves any favours by giving away a penalty in their kickoff set in defence. With the extra field position Tweed once again looked to turn the ball over in strong areas, forcing a knock-on out of the Devils centre and another set in attack. Treymain Spry only needed one tackle to turn it into points as he stood up his opposite and flicked a pass out the back to Jacobs on the touchline for an 18-0 lead only 20 minutes into the match.
Tweed managed to force errors out of the Devils but one of their own soon turned into points for the home side. Collecting a knock-on from inside their own half and flying up the field, the Devils used the rare opportunity to attack the Seagulls line to cut the deficit to 14 through Jonathon Reuben.
Conceding points refocused the Seagulls attack as they once again returned to what worked: Turning the ball over close to the opposition line and building pressure. An unlucky bounce of the ball away from a sprawling Jacobs is all that stopped Tweed from adding to their lead before the break.
Tweed regained control of the territory battle early on in the second half. A Will Brimson kick forced the Devils to work deep out of their own end before only being able to kick it to the Seagulls 30 metre line in response. However, a heavy Lindon McGrady grubber provided the Devils with seven tackles and Reuben scored his second to make it 18-10 in the 50th minute.
One try became two for the Devils as they cut the deficit to two points on the following set through Kahli Junior Kali.
The reintroduction of Manuel-Liolevave added some starch to the Seagulls middle. Leeming’s speed around the ruck helped to move the side up the field as fatigue started to play its part in the defence. But unlike the first half where Tweed completed their sets and finished them in strong positions, errors, strips and yardage penalties plagued them in the second.
Desperate to stop the rut and regain their sizeable lead, Tweed looked to their dangerous right edge in yardage. Again Leeming’s speed proved pivotal in the action as he spotted a big middle defending on the short side before sending Spry down the sideline. Returning the ball back to the left edge, Jacob McCudden found a blade of white grass with the ball as he crashed over the line in the 62nd minute.
Rinse and repeat for the match winner.
A Leeming scoot at speed ended with Spry breaking through the line and dotting down under the posts for a 30-16 lead heading into the final six minutes.
Maintaining the margin through to the final whistle, the Seagulls picked up a valuable two competition points to jump back into the Top 8 ahead of an emotional fixture against the Redcliffe Dolphins for the Liam Hampson Cup on Sunday afternoon.
Key Takeaways
Featuring for the third time in Tweed colours, Kruise Leeming produced his best performance so far for the club in this one.
Credit first needs to go to the pack. Lamar Manuel-Liolevave, Luke Burton and Jaron Purcell laid the platform early on to get Tweed up the field. Leeming did his best work around players slow to marker, and it’s the destructive carries of his middles that slow them down.
Using his speed to jump out from dummy half and engage middle defenders, Leeming created more space for his edges and played a major part in Tweed piling up 30 points.
“He’s a quality player,” Penna said after the match.
“He doesn’t get much footy up at the top but his attitude when he comes to us is second to none.”
Coaches Comments
Coach Dave Penna was pleased with his team’s response to their loss a week earlier.
“It was a tough week last week but the bounceback today was very pleasing,” Penna said.
The response revolved around a strong start as Tweed turned pressure into points.
“It’s just how we need to play footy,” Penna said.
“Give ourselves an opportunity in good ball and hang onto it.
“Our completions aren’t where they need to be but it’s something that we’re aware of and the boys are working really hard at it. It’s just hard when you’re trying to play footy and preserve the ball as well. At times it’s a fine line but the more when can hold onto it the better side we are.“
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 16 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Norths Devils
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, head up to Bishop Park in Brisbane to take on the Norths Devils in Round 16.
While fighting their way back to a second half lead, the extra defence after falling 14-0 behind inside 14 minutes cost Tweed in the end.
“Early in the game we just didn’t turn up defensively. We didn’t turn up. We were a bit nervous, a bit grabby. We paid for it in the end,”
coach Dave Penna said after the match.
Despite the slow start, an improved yardage game helped the Seagulls pull 22-14 in front in the 55th minute. Treymain Spry (155m), Kaleb Ngamanu (151m), Lee Turner (224m) and Ryland Jacobs (141m) combined for 671 metres for the match to push the Seagulls up the field and into attacking territory. From there, Tom Weaver and Toby Sexton added another try assist each to their season tally with Weaver scoring one of his own as the Seagulls attack piled up the points when presented with the opportunity.
The key this week will be to improve on the 33 missed tackles and 12 ineffective tackles while keeping on the right side of the officials after being whistled for ten penalties to Burleigh’s four.
The start will be a major focus this week and the return of Lindon McGrady will help. The Tweed captain hasn’t played since Round 13 but his 111 games worth of experience has been named to return on Sunday. McGrady at fullback pushes Treymain Spry back into the centres and Logan Radzievic out of the side. Joe Vuna and Kruise Leeming also won’t feature with Lamar Manuel-Liolevave back into prop and Brent Woolf wearing #9 this week.
It’s the second time these two teams have met in 2023. While the Devils put together a comeback of their own in the second half, a 32-0 Seagulls lead propelled them to a 32-26 win back in Round 3. A Sexton masterclass in engaging the middle defence allowed Weaver to pick up four try assists as the Seagulls attack caught fire.
Tweed will need a repeat in the rematch after the Devils hung 40 points on the second-placed Souths Logan Magpies in Round 15.
A week after getting past the Dolphins thanks to a 76th-minute Bryce Donovan field goal in Round 14, the Devils used a Jonathon Reuben hattrick to put 40 points past a Magpies defence that entered the match conceding only 18 points per game.
Reuben is a prolific try scorer with his 13 this season putting him 2nd in the competition after 15 rounds. Alongside Reuben, Jack Ahearn needs no introduction as he runs out for his 157th Hostplus Cup appearance on Sunday afternoon. Ahearn’s influence from fullback is similar to the Seagulls’ Lindon McGrady with his ball playing a particularly important feature of the Norths attack.
The big win last week did wonders for the Devils’ points differential. While four points behind the Seagulls at 8th, their +36 is as good as another win when put against other sides fighting for a finals spot. With an opportunity to separate themselves from 9th and beyond, Tweed will be eager to right the wrongs of last week and pick up the two competition points on Sunday afternoon.
Player To Watch
Tom Weaver handed out a career-high four try assists in his last match against the Devils. With six more in the ten games since then, the 20-year-old is looking more comfortable every week. His combination with Kaleb Ngamanu (12 tries this season) and Lee Turner (7 tries and 8 try assists) on the left edge, in particular, has developed into one of the most potent attacking avenues in the competition.
While the numbers display Weaver’s talents in attack, Coach Dave Penna has spoken more about the work he puts into his defence throughout the season.
The Bears, just as they did in Round 3, asked him to make a season-high 18 tackles last week with Weaver handling the attention well. He will have a tackle-breaking Connor Broadhurst and try-scoring Jonathon Reuben on his side of the field this week in another big test.
“Tommy’s working hard,” Penna said during the week.
“He’s brave and he’s tough. He’ll keep working hard at that and I’ve got complete faith in him.”
Coaches Comments
Tweed has a longer week between games but hasn’t forgotten about the positives and areas to work on from Round 15.
“There were still a few boys a bit disappointed on Tuesday but we’ve got to move on,” Penna said.
“The best way we can do that is to play our best footy.”
On a more positive note, the Seagulls know their best footy and showed as much at times against the Bears. While the result didn’t fall the right way in the end last week, we saw what they can do when sticking to the processes.
“There were about 22 minutes there during the game where we didn’t play,” said Penna.
“We didn’t do what we trained to do. Against a quality football team, that’s where they hurt us.
“The rest of the game we stuck to what we wanted, did what we needed to do and achieved what I thought was our best footy.”
Achieving their best footy starts in defence, though.
“It’s one thing we prided ourselves on at the start of the year and did really well but we’ve dropped off that. It’s been a big focus for us this week.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 15 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Burleigh Bears
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, fought back after a slow start but fell to the Burleigh Bears 36-22 at UAA Park, Gold Coast.
The Bears managed to force Treymain Spry over the touchline following an early yardage kick which soon led to points for the home side. Shifting the ball to the left edge, Jacob Alick found himself one-on-one with Toby Sexton and crashed his way over the line to open the scoring.
Burleigh found more success in yardage on the following set as Keano Kini broke into the backfield. However, after managing to reel in the young fullback and finish the defensive set strong, the Seagulls started to play themselves into the match. A Kruise Leeming crash ball on the last didn’t end in points, but it forced the Bears to travel 99 metres if they were to score again.
Travel 99 metres, they did.
A relieving penalty helped the Bears up the field. With it, Kini again broke into the backfield before beating the fullback this time to score and give the home team a 10-0 lead after ten minutes.
The Seagulls did well to reel in a short dropout but an error in yardage provided the Bears with another opportunity to attack in good ball. Shifting left again, Sami Sauiluma crashed his way over for a 14-0 lead inside 15 minutes.
Desperate for a period with the ball, an Emry Pere high shot provided the Seagulls with a chance of their own to attack in good ball. Leeming looked dangerous around the ruck and Sexton stepped inside to put some stress into the defensive line. However, the Bears defence held firm to turn the Seagulls away.
The Tweed back five worked hard in yardage to continue to present chances in good ball but the building pressure didn’t turn into points until the 33rd minute. Spotting the diminutive Kini defending at A on the line, Leeming put his head down and wormed his way over to cut the deficit to ten.
One try turned into two as the Seagulls again spotted Kini on the line as Sexton turned the ball back into Spry and over the Bears fullback to score.
Having conceded early and put themselves on the back foot, Tweed did well to recover and get into the sheds just 14-10 behind.
Tweed made their intentions clear on the very first set of the second half. They wouldn’t be conceding a slow start again as a long shift out of yardage moved them up the field and gave them the ascendency in the field position battle.
Having worked their way into a position to put up an attacking kick, Tom Weaver hung one up for his outside backs leading to a Bears error and a try of his own to give Tweed the lead.
The first 50 minutes ended up evenly split as both sides had their moments with ball with just an extra Tweed conversion the difference between the two. While a Seagulls try extended their lead, the Bears won the majority of the remaining minutes.
A Lee Turner try in the 54th minute extended Tweed’s lead momentarily. Sexton created the second phase following a scheming run through the middle with the momentum of Turner’s carry bouncing him over the line to score.
However, Turner’s opposite soon answered back for the Bears following back-to-back penalties to cut Tweed’s lead to 22-18 heading into the final quarter. Like the Seagulls earlier, one try became two as another Kini linebreak in yardage ended in points for the Bears to retake the lead. They pushed it out further in the 70th minute with former Seagull, Josh Patston, collecting a Guy Hamilton chip kick to score under the posts and make it 30-22 with ten minutes to play.
Pere added his second to keep the scoreboard ticking over to 36-22 where it remained through to the final whistle.
While Tweed fought their way back into the match following a slow start, the extra work required in defence early in the match caught up by the end.
The Seagulls are back on the road again in Round 16 when they travel to Bishop Park to take on the Norths Devils on Sunday afternoon.
Key Takeaways
Tweed put pressure on themselves by conceding early points but the back five played a big part in pulling them back into the game. Trymain Spry, Kaleb Ngamanu and Ryland Jacobs all made significant carries early into the set, generating the yardage needed for the Seagulls to fight their way back into the match. Toby Sexton and Tom Weaver managed to turn enough of those opportunities into points and even a lead.
The Seagulls let themselves down defensively, though. Having found a way back into the match and pulling ahead early into the second half, they couldn’t turn the Bears away often enough. The defensive workload to start the match bit them by the end as the home side ran riot to finish.
“Early in the game we just didn’t turn up defensively. We didn’t turn up. We were a bit nervous, a bit grabby. We paid for it in the end,” coach Dave Penna said after the match.
Coaches Comments
Despite the start and the final result, coach Dave Penna was pleased with how his team responded.
“We had quite a young side that started really nervous and the damage was down in that first 15 minutes or so,” Penna said.
“But I was really pleased with how they fought back and got themselves back into the game just before halftime. And our first 20 minutes, we played the footy we know we can play and got ourselves in front, but in the end, a bit of class and experience from them, the momentum swang and they ran away with the game in the end.
“Hopefully the boys learn a lesson from it and make sure that we rally again.”
With the Devils coming up, Penna will take a few positives out of this one and into the next.
“You have to take the positives out of what came out of that today, and there were some positives. We put 30 minutes together and showed what we’re capable of doing. We just need to learn how to do that for 50, 60, 70 minutes.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 15 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Burleigh Bears
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, are on the road again this week as they take on the Burleigh Bears at UAA Park, Gold Coast.
The Seagulls maintained their place inside the Top 8 with a hard-fought 32-28 win over the Mackay Cutters last week. Despite their place on the ladder, Mackay produced exactly the performance Tweed coach Dave Penna predicted pregame as they pushed his side to the end.
“Like I said to you during the week, they’re a good footy side,” said Penna.
“They complete their sets, they do everything they need to do and they make it hard for you.”
Mackay did just that to keep Tweed to 48% possession, 68% completions and 1,491 running metres. However, with one of the most reliable and threatening attacks in the Hostplus Cup, the Seagulls are always a chance in a shootout and found enough points in the end.
Treymain Spry added three line break assists and two try assists to his season tally at fullback. Meanwhile, the rest of the back five all crossed the line with Jojo Fifita’s 165 running metres, two line breaks and six tackle breaks a particularly notable haul.
While Spry did a job at the back in Round 14, Lindon McGrady has been named to make his return this week moving Spry back to the centres with Fifita not named for this one. Despite not being able to finish the game last week, Brent Woolf and Lamar Manuel-Liolevave are both in the 17 for Saturday.
Far from their best but gutsy in the face of the travel and early injuries against the Cutters, Penna spoke about the side licking their wounds and getting back up for Round 15 against a Bears side currently 2nd on the Hostplus Cup ladder and coming in fresh off a bye.
Winners of seven of their eight games before the bye, the Bears are in impressive form. Their only defeat came against the table-topping Magpies sandwiched between a massive 52-0 win over the Jets and a 28-22 victory over the Devils. Notably, the Bears haven’t lost at home this season. Often playing in front of a big crowd that sits loud and close to the sideline, the Bears have used that support to win all six games at UAA Park in 2023.
The Seagulls will take confidence from the fact that the Bears needed a 79th-minute penalty goal to beat them in a tight contest back in Round 3. The two sides played out a grinding 14-12 battle with only one try and two penalty goals kicked after halftime.
Keano Kini is one to watch at the back for the Bears this week. Having spent time at NRL level with the Gold Coast Titans, the 19-year-old plays above his age and size at just 177cm and 83kg. He is good for almost 200 running metres per game and is particularly dangerous out the back of shape on the edges. Kini has picked up eight try assists along with scoring two himself throughout his eight appearances this season. Ken Maumalo is another name plenty will recognise. He made the move from Wests Tigers to the Titans earlier in the year but has spent all of his time with the Bears for eight tries and 164 running metres per game in ten matches.
The Seagulls picked up the two competition points in Round 14 but face a different beast on their own turf this week. Having played out a thriller earlier this year, expect more of the same when the two teams meet again on Saturday afternoon.
Player to watch
Reece Summer plays a key role in this Seagulls side. Coming off the bench and charged with adding a spark to the middle either side of halftime, his carries are often the trigger to some of Tweed’s most dangerous actions.
He crossed for the first try of his career in Round 13 and was particularly pleased about it based on his celebrations and comments from Coach Penna post-match. However, he’s more likely to have an impact to start a set with a hard and energetic carry, just as he did when beating the first defender to poke his head through the line and draw a penalty from the kickoff last week.
In a game that is likely to feature a feeling-out period to start, look for the impact Summer makes off the bench this week.
Coaches Comments
They were left battered and bruised but Dave Penna took plenty away from the Seagulls’ victory over the Cutters last week.
“For us, it was a gutsy win,” Penna said.
“At times we looked really, really good and then other times we needed to be better.
“Again, they’re little things we need to focus on as individuals and as a team.”
It will take a team effort to get past a strong Bears team playing at home for Old Boys Day on Saturday.
“There is plenty that they’re playing for and they obviously don’t need any encouragement for a local derby as well,” said Penna of the occasion at Burleigh.
On his own players, Penna is confident they’ll be able to match the home side’s motivation.
“At the end of the day, the boys know the importance of it.”
“It’s always a game that we really don’t need to get them up for. Both teams know the history of the two clubs. They’re a great club and a great footy team so for us, and myself, it’s a really good challenge to see where we’re at at this time of the year.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 14 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Mackay Cutters
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, made the trip north to take on the Mackay Cutters in Round 14 and returned home with two competition points following their hard-fought 32-28 victory.
The Cutters saw the first opportunity to attack in good ball and looked left and right for a crack in the Seagulls defensive line. Earning a midfield scrum to end the set, Brandon Finnegan broke through the line to put the home side on the board early.
Tweed soon worked their way into the game, though.
Making use of a relieving penalty and kicking themselves into the Mackay half, Tweed started to chip away at the deficit. In what has become a classic Seagulls try this season, Toby Sexton threw a floating pass across two teammates for Ryland Jacobs to cross over in the corner.
The Cutters will have surely been conscious of giving this Seagulls attack – one of the best in the Hostplus Cup – too many opportunities to attack in good ball. Still, poor discipline plagued their defence early with another penalty in yardage leading to points.
Following a crabbing Brent Woolf run across the field, Treymain Spry took possession out the back in his new position at fullback. Holding the pass and putting Jojo Fifita one-on-one with his opposite, Spry added another try assist to his season tally as his centre stepped inside and over the line for a 10-6 Tweed lead after 13 minutes.
Spry added another only five minutes later.
Two penalties in as many tackles again cost the Cutters field position. Just like that, the Seagulls were attacking inside the 20-metre line and, again, they turned the field position into points. Looking left this time, Tom Weaver found Spry out wide. Getting deep into the line at the three-in defender with a lead runner hanging off his hip to engage the man at two-in, Spry created the space for Lee Turner to score his sixth try of the season.
An uncharacteristic Weaver error on the kickoff provided the Cutters with a chance to answer back and stop the flood of points coming at the other end. Shortly after Lamar Manuel-Liolevave was forced from the field following a head knock, Walter Lauenstein crossed over in the corner for the Cutters to cut the lead to four points.
Errors, ruck infringements and penalties defined the later stages of the first half. It came down to whether or not either side could turn the gifted field position into points. Both had their chances while coming up empty but, eventually, a Sexton linebreak led to Jarron Purcell going over under the posts to put Tweed 22-12 in front.
Giving away a penalty of their own, Tweed couldn’t hold onto their double-digit lead through to the break as Garrett Smith crashed over for the home side to be just 22-18 behind.
The two teams played with more control to start the second half. The penalties dried up for a moment and allowed more football to be played. With the ball in play and fatigue entering the game, Tweed started to take control. Their power game through the middle translated into a repeat set and into an Ioane Seiuli try followed. After Fifita brought four Cutters players into the tackle to scramble the defensive line, Jacobs dropped Seiuli back underneath and into the corner to score.
A fired-up Reece Summer returned the ensuing kickoff at speed, beating the first defender and forcing the second to regrip in a desperate attempt to slow down the barnstorming props play-the-ball. He was awarded a penalty for his efforts and only a single blade of white grass stopped Kaleb Ngamanu from scoring in the opposite corner to Seiuli.
In keeping with the back-and-forth nature of the game, Rayden Burns scored in the same corner at the other end to where Ngamanu had just missed out for the Cutters to pull to back within four points.
Fifita did his best to continue the trend with a huge carry and linebreak into the backfield out of yardage but the Cutters defence held firm. The home side managed to ask their own questions of the Tweed defence and eventually found an answer for Finnegan to score his second. With Weaver unable to cleanly collect a grubber bouncing around the posts, Finnegan swept in to give the Cutters a 28-26 lead with seven minutes to play.
The Cutters didn’t get to the end of their kick return set without an error, giving Tweed a clean crack at the line. Spry attracted four defenders on the right edge but couldn’t force his way over the line. Seiuli went close to sliding over on the following tackle. Having found success down the left edge all night for Ngamanu to go close a number of times, the young winger crossed when it counted most.
Through the hands with Sexton engaging the middle along the way, Tweed created enough space for Ngamanu to go over in the corner this time.
A penalty for the Cutters breaking early from a scrum saw the scoreboard tick over once more for the Seagulls to claim a tough 32-28 win.
Seagulls coach Dave Penna mentioned pre-game that the Cutters are a side that will “keep you honest for 80 minutes” and they did just that in this one. Any time Tweed looked to be gaining the ascendancy, they pulled it back and managed to claim a late lead. However, few teams can keep the Seagulls out for long enough to win in a shootout with their attack doing enough to fly home with the two competition points.
Key Takeaways
Lindon McGrady missed this one due to injury but Treymain Spry filled the void well at fullback. He’s always dangerous with the ball and popping up out the back of shape with room to move provided Spry with the time and space to make things happen in attack.
Brent Woolf also left the field in the 15th minute. Excellent off the bench so far this season, Oskar Bryant took his chance to play extended minutes with both hands. As much as the Cutters tried to pick him out in the line, the Seagulls hooker aimed up in defence and forced the crucial error leading to Kaleb Ngamanu’s game-winning try.
With Lamar Manuel-Liolevave also failing to finish this one, Daniel Ross stepped up to play big minutes in the middle while Jesse Jackson’s role on debut only increased in importance.
“He’s a good kid,” Penna said of Jackson.
“He tries hard and he’s from up this way so it was good to give him his debut today.”
Only the Townsville Blackhawks and Mackay Cutters have used more players than Tweeds 34 this season. While rotating through so many players hasn’t always been by design, it pays dividends at times and did so tonight.
Coaches Comments
Losing players to injury and being left with a couple of others limping around on the field, Dave Penna was pleased to escape with the two points.
“It was a gutsy win,” Penna said.
“We ended up in the wars but they did enough.
“It was certainly very entertaining. Not from where I was sitting but if you were watching the game of footy it was very entertaining.”
As expected, the Cutters didn’t roll over easily.
“Like I said to you during the week, they’re a good footy side,” said Penna.
“They complete their sets, they do everything they need to do and they make it hard for you.
“At times we made things really easy and at others, we made things hard for ourselves. But we’re going to lick our wounds, weigh it all up tomorrow and get ready to go again next week in a tough one against Burleigh.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 14 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Mackay Cutters
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, head to BB Print Stadium to take on the Mackay Cutters in Round 14.
The Seagulls come into this one on the back of a well-earned 42-18 win over the Central Queensland Capras last week. Treymain Spry scored a double and set up another while Kaleb Ngamanu scored three for the match. Tweed dominated yardage to finish up with 1,730 running metres, five line breaks and 24 tackle breaks with Spry leading the way (190 metres, 1 line breaks, 3 tackle breaks).
The 42 points puts Tweed up to 360 for the season through 12 games. Only the table-topping Magpies have scored more (366). However, while the 42 points look good on the scoreboard, coach Dave Penna was most pleased with the defensive effort after making it a focus following back-to-back defeats.
“Our attitude towards it was great,” Penna said after the match.
“We still have a few areas we need to work on. They’re a classy footy side and threw plenty at us but we defended them well.”
The back five that found so much success in Round 13 remains largely intact with Jojo Fifita the only change. Ryland Jacobs retakes his spot on the wing after adding middle and edge forward to his list of positions played this season last week. Mr. Fix It has been everywhere for Penna this year and filled another role to play 72 minutes off the bench last week for 50 running metres and 17 tackles.
Ioane Seiuli is back in the side to feature in his first match since scoring four tries against the Ipswich Jets in Round 10. His return pushes Jaron Purcell to lock with Will Brimson out after leaving the field early last week.
The Seagulls will be eager to take their new-found form in defence and build on it in Round 14.
The Cutters currently sit at 14th on the Hostplus Cup ladder and come into this one on the back of a 62-0 thrashing at the hands of the Wynnum-Manly Seagulls. However, they can’t be underestimated. While they disappointed last week, the Cutters beat the Sunshine Coast Falcons on the road and fell to the Brisbane Tigers by only two points in the two games prior. The Cutters did finish on top of Tweed in their last meeting back in Round 12 last year, too. A Laitia Moceidreke try in the 71st minute gave the Cutters a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.
Joshua Smith is one to keep an eye on in the Cutters side on Saturday evening. A strong runner of the ball, he’s averaging 150 metres per game and ranks third in the Hostplus Cup in total post-contact metres. Given Tweed’s strengths at the centre position, Smith is one that can have a big impact on the Cutters performance this week
Five-eighth Adam Cook is another. Mackay averages only 13 points per game, but when they’re scoring, the tries typically come from a Cook pass. He’s a hands-on half that is among the top players in line engagements, try assists and kicking metres.
The Seagulls bounced back from a disappointing two weeks to produce a superb performance in Round 13. With the Hostplus Cup ladder congested from 1st to 9th and every competition point becoming more important as the season goes on, they’ll be eager to bag another two and put themselves firmly inside the Top 8.
Player To Watch
Having moved up from the Newcastle Knights to link up with the Gold Coast Titans and Tweed Seagulls, Jaron Purcell has slot right in at Piggabeen. He has featured in every game so far this season and performed a variety of different roles.
“Jaron puts his hand up every week. He trains hard and he puts in for the team so I’m really happy with how he’s going,” Penna said.
He’s a strong runner of the ball to average just short of 98 running metres per game. Whether it be at lock, on the edge or off the bench, Purcell is a key feature to Tweed’s yardage game that currently ranks 4th in the competition. At lock, he has often filled the ball-playing void left by Sam McIntyre following his departure to the North Queensland Cowboys.
The Tweed outside backs generate big metres and put dents into the defence on the edges, but Purcell’s work in the middle often acts as the trigger. Back in the #13 jersey after spotting up in #11 last week, Purcell is our Seagulls player to watch this week.
Coaches Comments
Tweed will be bouncing into this one following a big win over the Capras.
“[Winning] obviously makes your week a little bit easier but we’ve just been focusing on all of the things we worked hard on last week, that we work hard on them again this week while trying to get better in other areas,” Penna said.
They’ll need to work hard to get past a Cutters side that, while towards the bottom of the table, isn’t one Penna is taking lightly.
“I’ve watched a fair few of their games and they’re a good footy team,” said Penna.
“They’ve just been a little bit unlucky in games. They’re a team that have got high completions and they keep you honest for 80 minutes, so for us, it’s about making sure we do all of those things that we’ve been working hard on and be effective with all of them.
“They work hard for each other and they’ve got a lot of speed in their side, and they’ve got blokes who, in a team that aren’t winning many games of footy, are leading the simple things. Try assists, tackles, all of the things that are the hard-working things which doesn’t surprise me after watching them.”
For Tweed themselves, Penna is happy to have his spine remain intact for consecutive games.
“Each week I’m learning what our best 17 looks like. This is our second or third week in a row that we’ve been able to maintain our six, seven and nine which helps the side.
“We’ve just got to keep working on what looks like our best side.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Save the Date – Celebrating the Tom Searle Scholarship Fund and Legends Reunion
We are thrilled to announce a special event that brings together sports enthusiasts, community leaders, and longtime Tweed supporters like you!
Please mark your calendars for an exciting afternoon of camaraderie, celebration, and fundraising at our Sportsperson’s Fundraising Lunch!
Event: The Lion’s Long Lunch
Date: Friday, 4th August
Time: 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Venue: Seagulls Club, Gollan Drive, Tweed Heads NSW 2485
This unique luncheon serves two important purposes. Firstly, we aim to raise funds for the Tom Searle Scholarship Fund, a noble cause that supports individuals’ success away from the sporting arena.
Tom Searle was renowned for spotting talented young players and helping them achieve the best they could be. When interviewed at last year’s lunch, Preston Campbell spoke of Tom’s genuine interest in his wellbeing and his life away from football and how that helped him.
We aim to keep this legacy alive through the scholarship program while we encourage all our players to have two ‘Plan As’ in pursuing their ambitions on and off the field.
Secondly, we want to reconnect and celebrate the extraordinary history of our club’s old boys and girls, who have played a pivotal role in shaping our rugby league community here on the Tweed Shire and Gold Coast.
With a theme that pays homage to the spirit of sportsmanship, this event promises to be a memorable occasion for all attendees. We will have a lineup of distinguished guest speakers who will share inspiring stories and insights related to sportsmanship and generosity.
Additionally, we will showcase era-specific highlights that will take you down memory lane, reliving the triumphs and memorable moments from our club’s history.
To ensure you don’t miss out on this fantastic event, we will be sending you regular updates and reminders via email and social media. Look forward to updates containing event highlights, guest speaker announcements, and more. Keep an eye on your inbox and stay connected with our social media channels to be in the know!
We kindly request your support in spreading the word about this event within your network. Let’s join hands to make a difference and celebrate the power of Rugby League and community.
Save the date, Friday, 4th August.
Together, we can make an impact and create lasting memories.
Round 13 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs CQ Capras
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, hosted the Central Queensland Capras in Round 13. Having lost back-to-back games in the lead-up to this one, the Seagulls made a statement with a resounding 42-18 win at the Piggabeen Sports Complex.
The Capras wasted no time in turning their first opportunity to attack in good ball into points. Following a threatening shift to the left edge, Blake Moore returned the ball back to the middle with a grubber that deflected off the posts and into the hands of Brandon Roberts to score the opener.
Forcing a repeat set shortly after points applied more pressure on the Tweed defensive line. A penalty forced the home side into making more tackles, too. However, the work Tweed put into their defence throughout the week paid dividends to withstand the attacking raid before a strong yardage set put them in a position to enter the arm wrestle. Using that set to force a poor kick out of the Capras in yardage, Treymain Spry returned it to the house to level the scores in the 14th minute.
Tweed took the confidence from their defence and the points that followed into a dominant period 15 minutes in. Getting up the field in yardage and staying there through a Toby Sexton forced dropout, Lindon McGrady went close to scoring in the left corner. Laying to the numbers through Lamar Manuel-Liolevave and returning to the left corner, Lee Turner crashed his way over the line.
Brent Woolf’s work here can’t be understated. By jumping out to engage the A defender and using the lead line to commit the defender at B, Woolf created the three-v-two matchup out wide for McGrady and Turner to combine for points.
Tweed controlled possession and field position in the quarter before halftime. An accidental offside as the Capras tried to kick their way out of trouble soon turned into a penalty and two points off the boot courtesy of McGrady.
The Capras struggled to work out of their own end towards the back end of the first half. Pushing a pass and looking for a second phase, they provided the home side with another chance to score before the break. Returning to the left edge where they’ve found so much success this season and did so again early into this one, Oskar Bryant spotted two defenders on the short side. One-on-one with his opposite, Turner bounced out to bring the winger into the tackle before sending Kaleb Ngamanu over in the corner.
Despite conceding early, the Seagulls responded well to take control of the game and carry a 20-6 lead into the break.
The home side was presented with an opportunity to build their lead straight out of the sheds as the Capras failed to complete their kickoff set. While Turner couldn’t flick the ball out to Ngamanu on the left wing, Tweed turned it over in the corner and picked up where they left off in terms of their dominance in field position.
Back-to-back Seagulls penalties did provide the Capras with an opportunity to attack in good ball but, once again, the much-improved defence of the home side held firm to turn them away and work up the field themselves. It took ten tackles on their next visit for the Capras to finally crack the line through Brandon Clarke’s barge over from dummy half.
Carrying a 20-12 lead into the final quarter of the match, Tweed quickly returned their lead to 12 and then 18 as Spry ran 90 metres to return another Capras 5th-tackle kick to score the first and Ngamanu collected a Weaver cross-field kick for the second.
Tweeds’ work in the first half put them in a position to win it in the second. While the Capras threatened to mount a comeback following Clarke’s try in the 57th minute, the Seagulls came home with a wet sail to score three tries in ten minutes to put the game out of reach with ten to play. Reece Summer’s first try of his Hostplus Cup career and Ngamanu’s third of the afternoon for his first career hattrick put the cherry on top of a 42-18 victory.
The win acts as a much-needed boost up the ladder for Tweed following back-to-back defeats. The Mackay Cutters now wait for David Penna’s side with the two teams booked to meet at BB Print Stadium on Saturday evening.
Key Takeaways
Add lock and edge backrow to Ryland Jacobs’ list of positions he can fill. He spent time at hooker, in the centres, at fullback and on the wing to start the season. This week, he replaced Will Brimson off the bench to spot up as a middle forward before pushing out to the edge when Oskar Bryant moved into hooker and Brent Woolf to lock.
“He’s Mr. Fix It, for sure,” Penna said after the game.
“Ryland’s effort and commitment to his teammates is second to none in our side.”
Tweed’s left edge returned to its best this week. Having left a few points out there against the Hunters in Round 12, they made sure to pile them up in Round 13. Spry bagged a double on the right edge by returning two Capras kicks to the house but Tweed’s best-constructed tries came down the left channel. Spry managed to feature in the last one himself.
Flipping over from the right to the left in Tweed’s last play of the game, Spry beat the man opposite him for speed and brought the winger into the tackle before handing the ball off for Ngamanu to score his third of the afternoon.
Coaches Comments
Tweed coach Dave Penna was relieved to get the win after a tough couple of weeks for his side.
“I know the boys have been hurting and we haven’t been playing all that well but it was nice to see them all rally around each other,” Penna said.
“It’s been a long week after a tough loss last week, so I’m very pleased as a coach to be where we are.”
Having spent the week with a focus on defence, Penna was pleased with the improvements.
“Our attitude towards it was great.”
“We still have a few areas we need to work on. They’re a classy footy side and threw plenty at us but we defended them well.
“The tries we let in those lapses in concentration.”
While there were a handful of lapses, Tweed know what it takes to win games and stuck to the plan after conceding early.
“If we can defend well and put our kicks into the corners and hold onto the footy, we’ve got a team that can score points,” said Penna.
“We’ve just got to make sure we do the simple things well and today was very pleasing. Even after conceding that first try we got back into rhythm and kept working hard.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 13 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs CQ Capras
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, return to the Piggabeen Sports Complex to take on the Central Queensland Capras on Saturday afternoon.
Tweed will be eager to get back into the winner’s circle following their 34-18 defeat to the Papua New Guinea Hunters in Round 12.
Coach Dave Penna wasn’t making any excuses after the game but conceded the heat in Port Moresby did have an impact on the players.
“The boys struggled with the heat but no excuses,” Penna said.
“We completed at 50% and you can’t win games when you give the opposition that much football.”
Tweed’s completion rate translated into only 46% possession but they managed to keep up with a brutal Hunters pack in yardage. The backline chipped in with Lindon McGrady, Kaleb Ngamanu, Lee Turner and Ryland Jacobs all finishing up with over 100 running metres. Meanwhile, the defence of Joe Vuna and Lamar Manuel-Liolevave put a cap on how far the Hunters could get up the field despite their possession advantage.
The Seagulls add more physicality to the pack this week with Luke Burton returning to the bench. Treymain Spry is also back into the centres where he has dominated to score six tries, hand out three try assists, record 11 line breaks and average 107 running metres per game in nine appearances this season. Tweed were uncharacteristically clunky attacking the edges last week so his return to the right side can reignite what is still the fourth-ranked attack averaging 28.9 points per game.
Round 13 marks as an opportunity for Tweed to get their revenge on a one-point loss in Round 1. Coming back from 16-4 down at halftime to bring the scores level at 22-all with five minutes to play, an Anthony Milford field goal two minutes before the siren ended up as the difference. The Capras have since won seven of their 11 games to be 5th on the Hostplus Cup ladder but did fall to the Brisbane Tigers 20-18 last week.
Bailey Butler is one to keep an eye on in the Capras side this week. He finished up with a season-high 226 running metres in Round 12. He’s cracked 170 metres in five of his last seven matches and leads the competition in post-contact metres. He will be a key figure within the Capras yardage game. Out wide, Brandon Roberts scored a double against the Tigers to take his tally to ten for the season – 2nd in the competition. Familiar to the Seagulls faithful, JJ Collins has also been named to start for his new team after playing 39 games in Tweed colours across the 2021 and 2022 seasons.
Penna spoke about the team coming together and looking at how they want to attack the back end of the season following the loss last week. After conceding only 21 points per game throughout the first ten rounds, the response will no doubt be based around defence after allowing 34+ over the last two rounds. While the Seagulls have slipped out of the Top 8 to now be 9th on the ladder, only two wins separate them from 1st with this week an opportunity to reposition themselves as a finals team.
Players To Watch
Treymain Spry’s return provides the Tweed attack with a big boost this week. The 23-year-old has been in top form throughout the Hostplus Cup season to be a consistent threat within one of the best attacks in the competition. His six tries and three try assists are impressive on paper. He’s a regular feature of Tweed’s good ball attack and a big target for Toby Sexton and Tom Weaver in the halves. However, it’s Spry’s work in yardage that often creates those opportunities.
Tweed often look to shift the ball while working out of their own end and Spry has proven tough to handle on those early shifts with room to move. He has now made 50 appearances for the club with his 107 metres per game the most he has averaged throughout his four-year career.
As Tweed try to play themselves back into form this week, look for Spry to feature heavily with the ball in hand.
Coaches Comments
The Seagulls are back home now but started preparing for this one shortly after their defeat in Papua New Guinea.
“We did all of our talking over there,” Penna said.
“We come back and had a really good session on Tuesday and we’ve got another session tonight [Thursday].
“The boys’ attitude around training has been really good so we’ve just got to keep going forward.”
Having conceded over 30 points in each of the last two games, defence has been a focus at training throughout the week. Still, it comes down to how the 17 approach it individually on Saturday.
“Defence is an attitude thing,” said Penna.
“When you’ve got 17 boys that have got the attitude that it’s important to them to make their tackles and stick to what our systems and what our processes are, then you put yourself in a really good chance of winning games.”
As one of the top attacking teams in the competition, though, they don’t play on leaving the point-scoring behind.
“We still need to focus on our attack, said Penna.
“We’ve been a bit clunky there as well.
“We’ve got to give ourselves more opportunity to build pressure. That’s something in our last couple of losses that we haven’t done well. We’ve got to learn that even if we are behind in games we’ve got to stick to what we know and be patient.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 12 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs PNG Hunters
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, kept up with the Papua New Guinea Hunters before falling away late in their 34-18 loss at PNG Football Stadium, Port Moresby.
Toby Sexton put the Seagulls on the board early. On the back of two big defensive sets pinning the Hunters in their own end of the field, Tweed earned six again in good ball. With it, Sexton showed inside, straightened on his run, sold a dummy wide and crashed his way over the line.
The Hunters were allowed to answer right back, though.
Turning the ball over on the kick return, Tweed found themselves on defence after points. Morea Morea looked to break through off the scrum. Shortly after, Tommy Moide found some space around the ruck to barge his way over a level the scores.
Both teams found success in yardage throughout the first half. Neither was left wanting for opportunities to attack in good ball. The Tweed right edge looked dangerous through Sexton but the Hunters left edge defence jammed well to shut down the play. As Sexton looked left, the Hunters right edge responded in the same way.
Awarded a penalty to soon return to the Hunters’ 20-metre line, the Seagulls made it count. Holding the pass this time as the Hunters edge looked to get out at the Tweed outside backs, a show and go saw McGrady skip through the line for a 12-6 lead after 17 minutes.
While the Seagulls searched down the edges in good ball, the Hunters looked to bash the door down through the middle. Judah Rimbu played short around the ruck to his big forwards charging at the line. When that didn’t work, Joshua Mire rolled one into the in-goal for Junior Igila to bring the scores level in the 31st minute.
One try became two as the Hunters built a lead heading into the break. Again, Tweed wasn’t short of opportunities to score with two scrums and a penalty on the Hunters line after conceding points. However, the Hunters defence scrambled well before Morea scored as the halftime siren sounded.
The middle started to open up for the Hunters in yardage to end the first half but Tweed looked the stronger of the two teams through the middle to start the second. However, Jacob McCuddon and Lee Turner errors broke down the play while attacking the line to leave points out on the field while Oskar Bryant was pulled back centimetres from scoring throughout the first 15 minutes of the second half.
Having weathered the storm, an inspired Junior Rop carry and offload ended with Roderick Tai crossing over in the corner.
Rop’s error on the kickoff provided Tweed with an opportunity to answer back. A Rop penalty for a shoulder charge extended their time attacking the line. But as had been the case earlier, an error close to the line ended the attacking raid. This time, Lindon McGrady was said to have lost possession as he forced his way over the line down the left edge.
It looked as though one try would see the Seagulls fly home with a wet sail. The left edge had proven dangerous enough throughout the game to suggest one try might become two or three in quick succession. An attacking scrum ten metres from the Hunters line put the Seagulls in position to score the first one. Again, the left edge looked likely as Mavoko’s hand stopped McCudden’s slip line from producing points. A Mavoko tackle soon did the same again as Tweed continued to ask plenty of questions down that side of the field.
The theme of the day continued as the Hunters put the game to bed in the 72nd minute. Looking to shift the ball down the left edge in yardage, Weaver’s pass went to ground and into the hands of Tai who sent Solo Wane over to make it 28-12 with seven minutes to play.
McGrady’s short kickoff in response to Wane’s try didn’t travel ten metres with Rop wrapping up a strong individual performance for the Hunters with a try of his own in the 77th minute.
Tweed’s final play of the match ended in points as Kaleb Ngamanu went over in the corner.
The try does well to sum up how dangerous the Tweed attack looked throughout the 80 minutes only to be thwarted by errors with the line in sight.
Regardless of the points left out there in attack, the Seagulls will be disappointed to concede 30+ in back-to-back weeks. They will now return to home and begin preparing to face the Capras at the Piggabeen Sports Complex on Saturday afternoon.
Key Takeaways
The Seagulls weren’t short of try-scoring opportunities and left a lot of points out there in the end.
The Tweed left edge, as it has done all season, looked likely with the ball in hand. Tom Weaver and Toby Sexton created opportunities for those outside them at regular intervals. However, uncharacteristic errors plagued Jacob McCudden, Lee Turner and Lindon McGrady. All three lost the ball with the line in sight throughout the second half. A Hunters hand stopped Ryland Jacobs from going over in the corner in the first half, too.
Through the middle, Joe Vuna made his presence felt. In what can seem like an impossible task when you see how hard the Hunters forwards charge at the line, Vuna matched them in physicality with and without the ball. He ran hard himself and played a big part in how the Seagulls moved up the field. Without the ball, Vuna’s massive shot as a barnstorming Junior Rop returned the kickoff with Tweed down ten points inspired a dangerous period of play as the visitors chased the lead.
Coaches Comments
It’s a difficult trip and one that brings with it unique challenges but coach Dave Penna wasn’t making any excuses for his side.
“We started well,” Penna said.
“The boys struggled with the heat but no excuses. We completed at 50% and you can’t win games when you give the opposition that much football.”
“We need to regroup and have a good look at how we want to attack the back end of the season as a team.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 12 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs PNG Hunters
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, are travelling to Papua New Guinea to take on the Hunters at PNG Football Stadium, Port Moresby.
Tweed are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 38-18 defeat at the hands of the Wynnum-Manly Seagulls last week.
“I’m very disappointed in the way we played,” said coach Dave Penna after the loss.
“There are no excuses, we were outplayed and out-enthused today.
“Wynnum played really well.”
There were a handful of strong performances within the Tweed 17, though.
The Tweed spine looked dangerous early on. Lindon McGrady, Tom Weaver and Toby Sexton all added another try assist to their season tally. Weaver’s, in particular, came via a pin-point floater to Ryland Jacobs in the corner.
Kaleb Ngamanu again put his hand up for the tough carries to finish with a team-high 188 running metres for the afternoon. Jacobs wasn’t far behind with 186 metres as the Tweed back-five often had the team moving up the field. However, 10 errors turned the ball over in the wrong parts of the field and translated into just 47% possession across the 80 minutes. Eventually, the defence started to crack despite it being a strong aspect of the Seagulls’ season heading into Round 11.
Much of the same side has been named with a few notable mentions. McGrady was forced off the field after 65 minutes last week but is set to feature on Saturday. Joe Vuna played in his first game for the club since Round 6 and has been named again for this one. Brent Woolf, who performed exceptionally well as a ball-playing middle in Round 11, will return to dummy half in Round 12 with Oskar Bryant recalled to the bench.
It will be almost a year to the day since these two last met. With the scores level at 12-12 going into the break, the two teams traded second-half tries before McGrady knocked over a field goal to take the lead in the 77th minute. Blake Scott added the extra on the stroke of full time for the Seagulls to take the chocolates with a 24-22 win.
The Papua New Guinea Hunters carried a 16-6 lead into the break over the Northern Pride last week but again lost in a close one 22-16. That’s now back-to-back weeks the Hunters have been within a try of victory and they’ll be desperate to do the job this week as they play their second of four consecutive home games at the PNG Football Stadium in Port Moresby.
Morea Morea is one to look out for in the Hunters lineup. He’s a diminutive figure but one the Seagulls will need to keep an eye on whenever Papua New Guinea look to the edges. Morea is quick off the mark and can beat his man with his feet if given half a chance. In the middle, Junior Rop will demand attention working up the field. The Hunters rank 5th in offloads and Rop has thrown 13 in their last five games himself.
It’s a different week for the Seagulls as they face an unfamiliar trip to Papua New Guinea. With only three competition points separating 3rd and 9th on the ladder, Tweed can climb back into the top six with a victory on Saturday.
Player To Watch
Kaleb Ngamanu is into his second season with the top side and is improving every week on the wing. The 20-year-old has scored nine tries in his 13 appearances this year but it’s his work in yardage that is often most noticeable. He’s never afraid to get involved with a tough carry. His footwork and leg drive allow him to push through the tackle when he does spot half a gap, too. Averaging 161 metres per game, he leads all Seagulls players in yardage and ranks 9th in the Hostplus Cup overall (min. 5 games).
Lee Turner has been one of the most productive attacking players in the competition so far this season and is back in the centres for Round 11. With four tries and six try assists in nine games, the 24-year-old is averaging over one try involvement per game. He’s adding a career-high 123 running metres and 3.2 tackle breaks among the point-scoring plays, too. In fine form and against a Hunters that has struggled in defence at times this season, Turner is set to have a big impact this week.
Coaches Comments
The Seagulls will be eager to get back to their winning ways after a tough loss last week.
“They [Wynnum-Manly] were down on troops so they had blokes turn up and they were just really enthusiastic, ran hard, and did all of the simple things really well. If you do that you always put yourself in with a chance,” Penna said.
“It’s one of those things we’ve just got to move on from, learn from where we went wrong and try to get ourselves back into playing our footy.”
It won’t be easy this week while travelling to Papua New Guinea to take on a physical Hunters outfit.
“We’ve got a bit of travel so it’s been a week where we’ve really focused on ourselves as a team,” said Penna.
“They’re a fantastic team – I love watching them play. They’re physical and aggressive, they run hard they love what they do. We’re going to have to play for 80 minutes and be on our game to even go close to them, so that will be our challenge for Saturday.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
A Creative Pathway from Tweed Seagulls RLFC to the NRL
At the Tweed Seagulls RLFC, we believe in providing opportunities for talented individuals to shine and progress to higher levels, not only on the field but also off it. Dempsey Koenig, a remarkable young creative, recently made a significant career transition from his Trainee role with us to joining the North Queensland Cowboys in the NRL. Dempsey’s journey highlights our pathway system and the exceptional opportunities available for young creatives within our organisation.
When Dempsey first joined us as a Trainee, his primary focus was graphic design. However, as a community club, we encourage our members to embrace diverse roles, and Dempsey exemplified this spirit. In addition to excelling in graphic design, he took charge of photography for the pathway grades and even lent a helping hand as a team manager for our Open Women’s BMD Premiership team.
Dempsey played a vital role in creating, scheduling, and publishing the week-to-week graphics for our club. His dedication and talent were evident in maintaining a high standard that could rival even some NRL clubs. After honing his skills with us for a year, Dempsey seized a remarkable opportunity to support the Head Graphic Designer at the North Queensland Cowboys, where he will continue to showcase his creative talents.
Dempsey’s departure from Tweed Seagulls RLFC is expected to have a minimal impact on our club or its creative department. The announcement emphasises the achievements of our pathway system and the importance of being a supportive organisation.
We take immense pride in offering talented individuals like Dempsey a platform to showcase their skills, grow, and ultimately advance to higher levels. This mindset ensures that Tweed Seagulls RLFC remains a thriving hub for developing and nurturing the next generation of creative talents.
So who’s next?
Round 11 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, played host to the Wynnum-Manly Seagulls in the Battle of the Chip but were left hungry with the visitors finishing on top 38-18.
A Gold Coast Titans bye saw a raft of NRL players turn out for Tweed in this one. Kruise Leeming made his debut for the club while Joe Vuna and Klese Haas also returned for a run at the Piggabeen Sports Complex.
We caught a glimpse of Tweed’s intentions early as they used an early penalty to kick themselves into good ball before throwing a dangerous shift to the right edge. From Kruise Leeming at hooker through Brent Woolf and Toby Sexton, only a touch by the opposition as the ball sailed towards Kaleb Ngamanu on the right wing stopped the home side from opening the scoring.
Being forced to spend a lengthy period in defence, Tweed looked comfortable working their way up the field. However, an error crossing halfway provided Wynnum-Manly with another chance at the line. A chance they turned into points through Oliver Pascoe in the 9th minute.
Tweed were quick to answer back, though.
Brent Woolf’s one-on-one strip turned Tweed’s defence into attack and in a matter of seconds, Ryland Jacobs was catching a Tom Weaver peach to score in the corner.
Lindon McGrady’s goal from the sideline levelled the scores at 6-6 and Tweed got to work on scoring another.
In perfect conditions for running rugby league and with ballplayers in McGrady, Woolf, Weaver, Sexton and Will Brimson scattered across the field in an assortment of roles, Tweed searched down the edges all the way up the field.
Shifting the ball from one side to the other on the 5th tackle, Tweed moved the ball quickly across the field and used a Jacob McCudden line to tie up the three-in defender and sent Weaver over for his first try of the Hostplus Cup season.
An improved Wynnum-Manly defence allowed the game to grow into a grind. As they had done earlier, the visitors managed to force a repeat set and spend back-to-back sets attacking the line which turned into points. This time, Josh Rodgers stepped inside a sliding defence and back into a gaping hole to bring the scores level in the 30th minute.
Wynnum-Manly weren’t done in the first half. With two more before the break, the visitors flew into the sheds with a 24-12 lead. First, Joshua Simm crossed over in the corner before Matthew Milson made the most of a Tweed error defusing a bomb to dot down as the siren sounded.
Tweed made a strong start to the second half with McGrady going close to scoring. However, while William Samuel helped to stop the Tweed fullback from getting over the line, he spent the next ten minutes in the bin for sliding in with his knees and connecting with McGrady’s head.
Daniel Ross will have been nervous about joining Samuel shortly after but escaped from his dangerous tackle with a penalty with Wynnum-Manly opting for goal and a 26-12 lead as they returned to their full complement of players.
The visitors tightened up with the lead and looked to play the percentages. Finishing sets, kicking to corners and holding up in defence through the middle, Wynnum-Manly forced Tweed into chasing the game in the final quarter.
Rodgers added six more points to the chase in the 63rd minute. A third goal-line dropout again ended in points as the Wynnum-Manly five-eighth crashed over from dummy half.
In desperate need of a response, the Tweed back five kicked their team into gear. Ngamanu, Brimson and Jacobs all combined to drag the home side up the field and into attacking position. With it, Sexton rolled one in for his winger to collect and cut the Wynnum-Manly lead to 14 with as many minutes to play.
Tweed left no stone unturned in their search for points. A 5th tackle shift ended with the ball in touch with Ngamanu in space. On the left edge, Jacobs wore one across the chops as he looked to tiptoe down the sideline before being pushed into touch.
Despite Tweed emptying the tank late, the visitors kept their nerve and managed to add to their lead on the stroke of full-time to the end to take the chip with a 38-18 win.
Tweed will now prepare for a trip to Port Moresby to take on the Papua New Guinea Hunters in Round 12.
Key Takeaways
Will Brimson, Lindon McGrady, Toby Sexton and Tom Weaver are four of the best halves in the Hostplus Cup. Add Kruise Leeming at dummy half and Brent Woolf at lock and Tweed played with an embarrassment of ball-playing riches in this one.
When it all came together, Tweed moved the ball with ease. They went around Wynnum-Manly on the last tackle to score their second and looked to shift the ball early and often in yardage. Woolf’s involvement in providing middle service added a particularly dangerous element to the Tweed attack.
However, it didn’t come together often enough throughout the 80 minutes. By turning the ball over in the wrong parts of the field, Tweed didn’t give their high-powered attack enough opportunities to play close to the line.
Coaches Comments
Tweed came into this game following a big win in Round 10 but couldn’t back it up on the day.
“I’m very disappointed in the way we played,” said coach Dave Penna.
“There are no excuses, we were outplayed and out-enthused today.
“Wynnum played really well.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 11 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, host the second edition of the Flockbuster against the Wynum-Manly Seagulls at Piggabeen Sports Complex this week.
Having fallen short in Round 9, the Seagulls responded with a resounding 54-14 win over the Ipswich Jets in Round 10.
“We came up here to do a job and the boys did that well,” Dave Penna said after the match.
“At times we played well and at others, we were a bit silly, but we asked them to do a job and they did that so it’s great.”
Ioane Seiuli bagged four tries as Tweed ran in nine throughout the match behind a strong pack that won the yardage battle by over 800 metres. Luke Burton ran for 106 metres beside Daniel Ross and his 154 metres at an impressive 12.8 metres per carry. Jaron Purcell continued his strong season with 139 metres and a try in 80 minutes at lock.
While Tweed piled up the points last week, it wasn’t perfect.
“We’re giving teams the ball in the wrong areas and we need to really fix that,” said Penna.
Tweed leads the Hostplus Cup in scoring to average 31.3 points per game but where they turn the ball over in Round 11 will be crucial with a Wynum-Manly side averaging 28.2 points per game in town.
Wynnum-Manly are coming in off a win over their own. Although, they allowed the Papua New Guinea Hunters to play themselves back into the match after trailing 28-0 shortly after halftime to scrape home with a 28-24 win.
Deine Mariner and Delouise Hoeter have been called into the Broncos squad for this week but Wynnum-Manly isn’t short of attacking talent. Five-eighth, Josh Rogers, is one of the most productive playmakers in the Hostplus Cup at the moment. Rogers is 2nd in the competition in points scored and his ten try assists so far this season ranks 4th. Meanwhile, only Blake Moore and Guy Hamilton have more linebreak assists than Rogers’ ten.
Defending for the full 80 minutes has been a focus for Tweed since the Round 7 bye and they’ve conceded only 15.3 points per game in the three games since then. However, they can expect to be regularly tested in this one.
These two have met once already this season with Tweed leaving Brisbane with a 44-26 win back in Round 5. A Jojo Fifita double and Ryland Jacobs hattrick kept the scoreboard ticking over as Tweed took a 28-8 lead into the second half before collecting the competition points.
Only two competition points separate the two teams on the ladder as both look to put some distance between themselves and those teams starting to slip away from the Top 8. Regardless of form and ladder position though, the Battle of the Chip is always one to circle on the calendar.
Players to Watch
It seemed to be the case by eye and the numbers eventually confirmed Oskar Bryant ran for a season-high 82 metres last week. He made the most of playing behind a dominant middle and played to the attacking cues Burton, Ross, Purcell and company created.
“We’re playing a lot of eyes up footy where we’re trying to recognise what defences are doing, where there is space, and encourage the boys to play there,” Dave Penna said after the match.
“They’re both [Bryant and Brent Woolf] good at playing what’s in front and they made the most of it today.”
Toby Sexton is another young player improving as the season goes on.
Making his return from injury last week, Sexton laid on a try assist and scored one himself as he picked up where he left off. His ability to engage the line through the middle and provide space for Lindon McGrady and Will Brimson on the edges is a major feature of a Seagulls attack that has scored the most points in the Hosplus Cup through 10 rounds.
Coach’s comments
Tweed has just kicked off a lengthy period of matches without a break so getting the balance right during the week is an important juggling act.
“We just keep moving forward and try to do as much as we can and as little as we can to keep everybody fresh,” Penna said.
They’ll be doing as much as they can to prepare for a Wynum-Manly side that offers plenty with the ball in hand.
“They’re a quality footy side and well-coached,” said Penna.
“We came up against them earlier in the year and it was a good game so I’m expecting nothing different to be honest.”
The Tweed middle has performed well in recent weeks despite a turnover of players filling the positions.
“The boys have got opportunities in the last couple of weeks with Lamar being out, some of the guys that are only at the start of their cup careers. They’re learning plenty and playing well, so it’s very pleasing.”
Lamar Manuel-Liolevave does return this week to give the pack another boost.
“Lamar is one of our leaders. He’s played over 100 games team and wears his heart on his sleeve. Every week he puts in for us – he loves it. He’s going to be very valuable for us, for sure.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 10 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Ipswich Jets
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, bounced back from a loss last week to pile up the points and record a resounding 54-14 win over the Ipswich Jets at North Ipswich Reserve.
Tweed stamped their authority on the match early by completing a strong kickoff set with the ball, pinning the Jets on their own line on the last, and forcing a goal-line dropout on the second tackle to put themselves hot on the attack.
The set ended with Ryland Jacobs clipping the touchline as he dived for the corner but set the standard for the following 79 minutes.
Treymain Spry had no such trouble on Tweed’s next visit into the Ipswich half. Following a lengthy Lindon McGrady kick return and strong Jacobs carry, Tweed sent the ball wide for Spry to wind up. Selling a dummy, running over one defender and carrying another across the line, Spry opened the scoring four minutes in.
The lead didn’t last long, though.
While Ipswich came into this one without a win, they’ve offered fine periods with the ball and used their first chance in attack to get on the board through Mosese Qionomacawa.
Tweed went back to the well in response. A long shift ended with Spry in possession with room to move before the Ipswich defence managed to hold him up over the line.
A scrambling Jets defence held Toby Sexton over the line shortly after as the home side desperately tried to keep themselves in the arm wrestle. Outside of giving away a handful of relieving penalties, Tweed dominated in yardage and simply needed a period of discipline to get the scoreboard ticking over again.
Presented with a penalty of their own, Ioane Seiuli turned it into points as Brent Woolf followed the third man out of the tackle and down the short side for the big back rower to crash over.
The try added a spark to the Seagulls attack. Looking wide early and often in yardage, the visitors had no trouble working their way back up the field after points. Coach Dave Penna spoke during the week about wanting to turn the ball over in the right areas of the field and not make it easy for the opposition by giving away possession in favourable positions.
For the remainder of the half Tweed either turned the ball over inside the Ipswich ten-metre line or not at all. With three tries in as many sets at one point, the Seagulls racked up a 30-4 halftime lead as Seuili grabbed his second, Sexton crossed for one himself, and Oskar Bryant laid one on for Jaron Purcell.
Like the first try of the afternoon, Bryant followed the slow peel down the short side and created the space alongside Sexton to send Seiuli over for his second.
Regathering a charge down and earning another shot at the line on the following set, Sexton shaped to pass to the destructive right edge before selling a dummy to send the defence flying and cutting back inside to score.
Tweed followed the same pattern in the following set. Again they targeted the space around the short side A defender as Bryant skipped through the line and drew the fullback for Purcell to score under the posts.
It all happened within ten minutes, but the Seagulls ran up a score that the Jets wouldn’t be able to chase down in the second half.
Ipswich gave life to the idea of a comeback with an early second half try. Ricco Falaniko crashed his way over following two six-again calls on the Tweed line. The period of ill-discipline that plagued the Seagulls in the first half resurfaced to start the second but like the first half, a try corrected things as Jacobs got the scoring going for the left edge in the 48th minute.
Having contributed to Tweed’s lethal right edge in the first half for a double, Seiuli completed his hattrick with one on the left edge in the 55th minute. He went close to grabbing a fourth ten minutes later before being clipped just short of the line. Seiuli did get there in the end, though.
Ending up with another full set attacking the line after the Jets defence trapped a Sexton grubber but failed to collect it, Tweed inched closer to 50 with Seiuli’s fourth the easiest of the lot.
A McGrady one-on-one tackle saved Tweed from conceding a late consolation try before he scored one of his own to bring up the half-century. The 54-14 win marks the second time Tweed has cracked 50 this season with this their biggest win of the year.
The Seagulls now prepare for the next edition of the Flockbuster with Wynum-Manly Seagulls coming to Piggabeen Sports Complex Round 11.
Key Takeaways
Toby Sexton made his return from injury in this one and picked up where he left off in Round 4. The 22-year-old scored a try and handed out four try assists across the opening four rounds and added more to his try involvement tally in this one. He commanded the right edge as Tweed went a long way to winning the game in the first half.
Sexton was able to work his magic thanks to a strong Seagulls yardage game.
Whether it be through tough carries one off the ruck through the middle or on the end of a shift crossing halfway, Tweed had few problems getting up the field. Spry has been a regular contributor in yardage this season and was heavily involved again in this one. It’s still to be confirmed at the time of writing, but Oskar Bryant likely set a new season-high in running metres with his work around the ruck causing having all the way up the field, too.
Ranked 5th in yardage heading into this one, Tweed will be climbing the list after this performance.
Coaches Comments
While their spots on the ladder suggested that this was one Tweed should win, Coach Dave Penna sent the team out with a job to do.
“We came up here to do a job and the boys did that well,” Penna said.
“At times we played well and at others, we were a bit silly, but we asked them to do a job and they did that so it’s great.”
The halftime score finished in heavy favour of the Seagulls but it wasn’t without putting in the hard work first.
“Credit to them [Ipswish]. They hung right in there for most of that first half and it was only the back end that we got a few points,” said Penna.
That first-half flurry came on the back of some nice work around the ruck from Brent Woolf and Oskar Bryant who looked especially dangerous jumping out from dummy half.
“We’re playing a lot of eyes up footy where we’re trying to recognise what defences are doing, where there is space, and encourage the boys to pay there.”
Tweed scored 54 points but it was Ioane Seiuli who piled up the most as he was rewarded for what has been an excellent start to the season.
“Ioane is working really hard on his game,” Penna said.
“He’s played a lot of positions for us. He’s played on the left, he’s played on the right. It was really pleasing for him to do well today and get the four tries.
“He’s got a great attitude. People don’t realise but he’s working really hard on his game and each week he’s getting better for us. It was really pleasing for him to do well for us today.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 10 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Ipswich Jets
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, are back on the road to face the Ipswich Jets in Round 10.
Round 9 ended up as one that got away for Tweed as they fell to the Souths Logan Magpies. The Seagulls took the lead three times and led 14-10 at halftime, but the Magpies scored twice in the second half to take the chocolates with a 20-14 win. Coach Dave Penna highlighted the fact Tweed managed to put themselves in a position to win the game but gave it away in a handful of poor moments throughout.
“We put ourselves in front in the game on three or four occasions but kept handing them the football when they shouldn’t have had it,” Penna said.
“You can’t win those quality games of footy by giving the opposition as much football as you do. Especially a quality opposition like theirs so we’ll go back to the drawing board.”
Nonetheless, Kaleb Ngamanu impressed for 242 running metres. The young winger is looking more comfortable every week in the grade and is providing consistent yardage as Tweed work away from their own end.
Lee Turner added another two tries to his season tally last week, too. Rarely a week goes by when Turner doesn’t have a hand in points. He’s scored in each of the last three games and handed out four try assists in the week leading up to the try-scoring streak.
In the middle, Jaron Purcell led from the front starting at lock while Luke Burton again impressed starting at prop. Starting his third-consecutive game after opening the season on the bench, Burton ran for a season-high 175 running metres in Round 9.
Turner and the Seagulls outside backs will be eager to continue their fine run of form against a Jets team that has conceded more points than any other in the competition. Giving up 44.75 points per game so far this season, Ipswich hasn’t given themselves much of a chance to be winless through eight games. Still, a new week brings with it another chance and they’re not a side the Seagulls can take lightly. While they’ve struggled to hold out the opposition, Ipswich have managed to score a few themselves to have cracked 20 points three times in eight games including a season-high 28 points in their last match against the Papua New Guinea Hunters in Round 8.
Jayden Corrigan is Jets a name plenty will recognise. The 26-year-old featured for the Seagulls in 2017 but has played for five different clubs in the last three seasons. He started this one with the Clydesdales before making his club debut for the Jets last week. Rhys Jacks is another player to keep an eye on this week. The 91-game Queensland Cup veteran is a key figure in the Jets attack to lead the team in try assists alongside Mania Cherrington and Zacchues Chong-Nee with three this season.
The last fixture between the two clubs brought with it 76 points as Tweed piled them up early to lead 22-6 at the break on their way to a 38-26 win in Round 16 last season. Given Tweed’s form with the ball, the struggles Ipswich have faced this season but their ability to cross the line improving, we can expect another high-scoring affair on Saturday.
Players To Watch
Jaron Purcell is coming off a monster performance in Round 9 where he led the side through the middle of the field with and without the ball.
Stepping in for Sam McIntyre who has since headed north to the Cowboys, Purcell ran for 179 metres on 21 carries while also making a team-high 48 tackles. In his first campaign with the club, Purcell has become a key consistent figure in the 17 to have featured in all eight games so far this season.
Ryland Jacobs has played all over the field throughout the season but has found his home back out on the wing in recent weeks. With six tries this season, he’s already eclipsed his total from 2022 and is just one short of equaling his career-high seven-try season in 2019. Outside Treymain Spry who is consistently threatening with the ball, Jacobs is a good chance of setting a new personal try-scoring record from this week onward.
Coach’s Comments
Coach Dave Penna is eager to get back out there and start to right the wrongs of last week.
“We’re a bit battered and bruised – mainly the pride,” said Penna.
“For us, it’s about our game and what we need to do to play well on the back of not playing so well last week.
“We’ve just got to make sure of defence is right and we complete our sets. That’s the big focus for this week.”
Jayden Corrigan landed at the Jets in Round 8 ahead of the team scoring the most points they have done all season. It’s not the first time Penna has looked into the fullback after facing him as part of the Western Clydesdale’s in Round 2.
“He’s a good player – quick,” Penna said.
“He gets involved a lot and is going to be an asset for them for sure.”
Sam McIntyre had been an asset to this Tweed side the side over the last 18 months but Penna is confident the rest of the squad can make up for his unavailability. Jaron Purcell, in particular.
“One person leaves and it gives another opportunity for some other players.
“There are a few boys that have been sitting there waiting for an opportunity and now that opens the door for a few players to play well. That’s the best part.
“We’ve just got to keep that going and find someone that is going to do the hard work Sammy did. Jaron is certainly filling that space at the moment.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 9 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Souths Logan Magpies
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, travelled north to play the Souths Logan Magpies but fell just short in the 20-14 defeat.
The Seagulls, as they’ve had a habit of doing in recent weeks, registered their first points on the scoreboard early.
Getting to within attacking distance on the last, a Tom Weaver cross-field kick was allowed to bounce and ended up in the hands of Will Brimson. Shovelling it on to Ryland Jacobs out wide, Tweed scored inside the first ten minutes for the fourth consecutive match.
Tweed continued to build pressure after points with Brent Woolf’s kick pinning the Magpies deep in their own territory. However, a relieving penalty returned the game to an arm wrestle through the middle third of the field as both teams waited for the other to make a mistake.
Both teams earned visits inside the opposition’s 20-metre line but left empty-handed as a result of kicks dead, obstruction penalties and forward passes.
A Jacobs error in yardage provided Souths Logan with their chance to score in the 16th minute, though. Looking wide from the scrum, Tristan Sailor laid one on for Jack Smith to bring the scores level at 4-4.
Given a relieving penalty of their own, Tweed soon regained their lead.
Leave one marker with Woolf at dummy half and you’ll be made to pay more often than not. With the fullback filling the line on the openside, Woolf jumped down the blindside on the last to play Brimson onto a defence on their heels. Rolling one in behind, Lee Turner dotted down for an 8-4 Seagulls lead 20 minutes into the match.
As the Magpies threatened to spend an extended period attacking the Seagulls line after earning a forced dropout, Lindon McGrady calmly rolled one past the ten-metre line for Ioane Seiuli to collect.
The Magpies took their first lead of the match shortly before halftime when McGrady couldn’t collect a Sailor grubber in the in-goal area but it didn’t last through to the break. Jordan Pereira failed to defuse a McGrady bomb on the last, and similar to their first try of the night, Tweed was first to the loose ball with Turner carrying it over the line for his second.
The two sides traded errors and penalties early in the second half but managed to piece together an exciting period despite the indiscretions. Souths Logan’s strong one-out yardage game against Tweed’s wide-ranging shifts through the centre third translated into end-to-end footy even though the points didn’t come until the 63rd minute.
Tweed had their moments near the line just as Souths Logan had theirs. Kaleb Ngamanu and Jaron Purcell combined to pull off a stunning try-saver within the back-and-forth contest. However, it was the home side that managed to crack the line.
As the officials looked past a possible obstruction as two Tweed defenders needed to navigate their way around a Magpies player in front of the play, Ethan Quai-Ward put the home side back in front with 15 minutes left on the clock.
A 40/20 put the Magpies straight back on the attack but the Seagulls defence held up – just. Quai-Ward appeared to be on his way to scoring another before losing possession while reaching out for the line.
Tweed weren’t short of opportunities to find a winner. Treymain Spry found success down the right edge but was pulled up just short. A mid-field scrum looked like a prime opportunity to find him again. However, as they searched down the right edge, the set ended in an error and the Magpies managed the game through to the end from there. A late try added another four points but doesn’t do the Tweed defence justice.
The scoring wasn’t there a week after putting up 50. Still, the Seagulls kept themselves in the game through their defence in going down 20-14 at Logan Metro Football Fields, Logan.
Key Takeaways
Luke Burton started in the previous two matches but his physicality really showed to start this one. Whether it be through the middle in yardage or flying off the back fence from the kickoff, Burton’s brutal carries set the tone for Tweed on the night.
In contrast, Lamar Manuel-Liolevave’s constant appearance on and around the ball added a different element to the Seagulls middle. While a strong runner of the ball and more than capable passer when Tweed looks wider, he doesn’t always need to take possession to have an impact. Manuel-Liolevave has a keen eye for the numbers. He often flips late and sits inside the pocket of the halfback to hold up the inside defence and give his ball player the extra half-second to make a play. It’s a small play that can have a big impact and ensured the 27-year-old is involved in the play with or without the ball.
While they weren’t always able to get a roll on this week, the versatility of the Seagulls middle allows them to ask different questions all the way up the field.
Coach’s Comments
Given where the two teams sat on the table leading into this one it wasn’t a surprise to see a close contest play out despite Tweed ending up on the wrong side of the scoreboard.
“We always knew it was going to be a really good game of footy,” coach Dave Penna said.
“We put ourselves in front in the game on three or four occasions but kept handing them the football when they shouldn’t have had it.
“You can’t win those quality games of footy by giving the opposition as much football as you do. Especially a quality opposition like theirs so we’ll go back to the drawing board.”
Souths Logan are one of the better yardage teams in the competition and while Tweed held up for most of the match, small moments proved to be crucial.
“There was a period there before halftime and a period there at the end where we just let them play the ball far too quick and they kept making us come off our own end,” Penna said.
“We just weren’t effective enough while doing that but credit to them.”
One positive is the steady form of Aaron Schoupp in what is still a rather unfamiliar position.
“Aaron’s fantastic,” said Penna after Schoupp’s second game in the backrow for the club.
“He comes back and he works really hard for us every week. It’s a position the Titans would like to see him playing in so it’s good for us and good for the Titans.
“He had another strong performance tonight.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 9 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Souths Logan Magpies
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, travel to the Logan Metro Football Fields to take on the Souths Logan Magpies in Round 9.
Fresh off a 50-18 win over the Western Clydesdales last week, the Seagulls are brimming with confidence heading into this one.
“It was pleasing,” Dave Penna said of the performance.
“The boys went out there and stuck to what we know and it was a really good win.”
The outside backs made the most of a dominant yardage game for Lindon McGrady, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner and Ryland Jacobs to combine for six tries in Round 8. Brent Woolf played a blinder from dummy half to play the forwards onto the front foot and get the team downhill early.
Having allowed the Clydesdales to play themselves back into the match after building an early lead in their first meeting, the Seagulls left no room for a comeback as they kept their foot on the gas to score consistently through to the end. The 20th to 30th-minute block is the only ten-minute period Tweed failed to cross the line.
Jacob McCudden returns from his suspension to line up in the backrow alongside Daniel Ross and Sam McIntyre in a fairly unchanged squad this week. Ioane Seiuli and Aaron Schoupp – a standout for 122 running metres, two line breaks, a line break assist, a try assist and a whopping 12 tackle breaks – started on the edge last week but are the notable outs for this one.
Tweed will hold fond memories of the last time these two teams met. A Josh Patston hattrick ended with the Seagulls claiming a 42-24 win in their rescheduled Round 9 fixture. While they heaped 42 points on the Magpies last time out and scored 50 points last week, Tweed comes up against the second-best defensive team in the Hostplust Cup in Round 9. Souths Logan has conceded only 15.4 points per game this season. No team has scored more total points than the Wynumm Manly Seagulls but the Magpies kept them to just 12 last week while scoring 34 points themselves.
Tristan Sailor is one to watch in the opposition this week. While he’s only scored two tries in his seven games, he’s handed out seven try assists while averaging 193 running metres per game. Jake Campagnolo is another. The Italian international, in his first season with the Magpies, has scored 72 points through two tries and 32 goals to be second in the competition in points scored.
Thanks to two Magpies draws, only points differential separates the two teams on the ladder heading into this one. The winner can leap to 1st depending on other results. Both in fine form and with an opportunity to climb the ladder, this has Match of the Round potential.
Players To Watch
Highlighted in the post-game review last week, Brent Woolf is one to watch on Saturday. His injury last season is well-documented but you wouldn’t know it looking at his recent form. Looking more comfortable and improving every week, the 25-year-old looks set to play another significant role in the Tweed attack on Saturday afternoon.
As his game fitness improves Woolf is running the ball a little bit more each week which Penna puts down to both instruction and simply playing what is in front of him.
“It’s no secret Brent’s strongest point of his game is his running game,” said Penna.
“We’re really working together on ways for him to run the footy and for the rest of the team to know where to be when he does.”
His dart from dummy half translated into points more than once last week.
With Woolf stressing the defence around the ruck early in that match, Oskar Bryant’s impact off the bench either side of halftime is another aspect to follow. Like last season, the Seagulls’ rotation at hooker sees them as a constant threat from dummy half across the full 80 minutes. Woolf has the smarts and deception to beat fresh defenders while Bryant’s speed makes him a dangerous prospect against tired forwards through the middle.
Coach Penna mentioned Tweed’s game management as a positive last week and has highlighted that aspect of Bryant’s game as a key focus for his development. He’s learning from one of the best in the competition at the moment.
Coaches Comments
The Magpies have only lost once all season and pose as a tough test for a Seagulls side looking for four wins on the bounce.
“They’re a really good footy side,” Penna said of the Magpies in the build-up.
“They’ve got a lot of youth, speed and size and they’re playing a good brand of footy.
“For us as a club, we’re going to need to be at our best and play patient football and work hard in all of those simple areas.
“It will be a good challenge for us on Saturday afternoon.”
The Seagulls kicked on to score 50 points last week but can’t sit back and assume it will happen again against a strong Magpies defence on Saturday.
“Most pleasing for me was our game management,” said Penna.
“Staying in the grind, sticking to what our structures are and don’t turn the ball over where we don’t want to turn the ball over. We’re starting to get really good at that as a team.
“If we can stick to that and keep testing them, keep asking the questions that we know we can, it will be interesting to see how we go. If we don’t, we could be in for a long afternoon.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 8 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Western Clydesdales
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, flew out of the blocks and piled up the points on a visiting Western Clydesdales to win 50-12 at the Piggabeen Sports Complex.
The Seagulls didn’t waste any time in using the perfect conditions for running rugby league to their advantage. Sending the ball wide in the very first shift of the game, Brent Woolf, Tom Weaver and Kaleb Ngamanu backed up down the short side for Lindon McGrady to score not a minute into the match.
The following set tracked similarly with Woolf taking a short side and the Seagulls shifting the ball through the middle out of yardage. It ended similarly, too. As Lamar Manuel-Liolevave won the ruck and took the markers out of play, Woolf took the space, engaged the A defender and forced a legs tackle out of B. With his arms free, Sam McIntyre released an offload for McGrady to have his second four minutes into the match.
It wasn’t until the 8th minute that the Clydesdales saw the football for the first time but they’d only use it once before conceding again. A penalty out of yardage kicked Tweed back into good ball, and with it, McIntyre made the most of a scheming Aaron Schoupp run to catch the defence napping and make it 18-0 in the 11th minute.
It looked as though Tweed had gone over again before the referee blew it up for an obstruction. The Clydesdales used the opportunity to get up the field but Tweed came straight back. Again, Woolf’s deception and speed around the ruck caused havoc as the Seagulls pack rolled forward.
Back into good ball, Tweed added another six points to their lead through Treymain Spry.
Beating the clock 21 minutes into the match, Tweed started to chance their arm. However, an offload to ground turned over possession and translated into Clydesdales points. Melino Fineanganofo used his size to crash over from dummy half and put the visitors on the board.
The Clydesdales took confidence from the points. They found success through offloads and spent an encouraging period attacking the Seagulls line. Fineanganofo went close to scoring his second but a scrambling McGrady produced a try-saving effort and a 12-point swing. Minutes after saving a try at one end, Tweed scored at the other. This time Schoupp found space around the ruck following a Spry carry to crash through two defenders with relative ease.
Fineanganofo’s second made it 30-12 at halftime to provide the visitors with hope of a comeback but Ryland Jacobs put an end to that shortly after the break. It wasn’t the perfect play; Ioane Seiuli wrapped around Lee Turner looking to collect an offload that went to ground. Pushing up in support, Will Brimson cleaned up the scraps to put Jacobs over and extend Tweed’s lead.
Spry’s second shortly after put the result beyond doubt as the game slowed down. Errors and penalties for both sides took the sting out of the match before Turner crashed over to cap off a classic Tweed shift.
Woolf, Weaver, McGrady, Brimson – try time.
Hnaloan Budden managed a consolation try for the visitors but with 50 in sight, Tweed made one last push for points to score as time expired.
Brimson’s half-break scrambled the defence and with Schoupp filling up down the short side, Woolf found the centre-turned-backrower to put the icing on a dominant Tweed win.
Strong through the middle up the field and clinical in good ball, it all came together for the Seagulls to crack 50 points for the first time since Round 8 in 2021.
Key Takeaways
Aaron Schoupp is a new name plenty will recognise on the team sheet this week. The Gold Coast Titans centre lined up in the #12 jersey in his first game for the Seagulls.
Finishing up with a double to go with 122 running metres, two line breaks, a line break assist, a try assists and a whopping 12 tackle breaks, he certainly had a big impact on the side and will be one to watch in the coming weeks if he remains at Cup level.
Brent Woolf continues to improve in his comeback from an injury-disrupted 2022 season. He played arguably his best game of the year so far as he orchestrated a hot start for the hosts. Shaping one way before jumping out the other, skipping out to engage the markers, passing the forwards onto the ball, he toyed with the defence at times.
Woolf working on the back of a bouncing Jacobs carry is becoming a hallmark of Tweed’s yardage sequences and often puts the team on the front foot ahead of a wide-ranging shift over halfway.
His numbers don’t begin to sum up the impact he had on the attack this week.
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 8 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Western Clydesdales
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, hosts the Western Clydesdales at the Piggabeen Sports Complex in Round 8.
The Seagulls come into this one on the back of a thriller up in Townsville two weeks ago. Down by 10 with 13 minutes to play, Tweed scored back-to-back tries to level the scores at 26-26. Setting up for a shot to win it late, Tom Weaver was caught high earning his side a penalty and providing Lindon McGrady with a chance to win it. Having just knocked one over from the sideline to go level, McGrady split the posts for a 28-26 Tweed win.
“I was really proud of our defensive effort and the comeback,” coach Dave Penna said after the match.
It has been a little stop-start for the Seagulls in recent weeks as the Easter break and Round 7 bye added extra time between games. The added time to rest and recover has allowed Penna to name much of the same side from Round 6 this week.
Jacob McCudden is a notable absence due to suspension. In his place, Daniel Ross comes into the backrow after starting at prop and playing in the middle off the bench throughout the season so far. In strong form and capable of big minutes, Penna is confident Ross can do the job in McCudden’s place.
“Dan has been a versatile player for us that can play a number of positions,” Penna said.
“He’s a good player and can play big minutes. I didn’t hesitate to put Dan there.”
Earning a start and running for 96 metres in 35 minutes in Round 6, Luke Burton is back in the #8 jersey for this one alongside Brent Woolf and Lamar Manuel-Liolevave in the middle. Ioane Seiuli’s versatility continues to earn him a place in the starting side, too. Having featured in the centres, on the wing and off the bench so far this year, the 23-year-old will run out on the edge on Saturday afternoon.
The two teams have met once already this season with the Seagulls taking the two points away from Toowoomba with a 26-22 win. While the scoreline suggests a relatively close game, Tweed did appear to have the match won 26-12 in front with 20 minutes to play. However, the Clydesdales came home with a wet sail to add some respectability to the scoreboard and will take confidence in how they finished despite the result.
The Clydesdales will take further confidence from their recent run of form. Winners of two of their last three games, they thumped the Jets 46-10 in Toowoomba last week. Also of note: Of their four losses this season, three have come by a total of 18 points. They play the full 80 minutes and as Tweed knows already, are capable of mounting a late comeback.
Mitchell Watson is one to watch for the visitors. He leads the Hostplus Cup in tries scored with nine for the season. On the other wing, Esom Ioka is playing in this third game for the club. Training with the New Zealand Warriors NSW Cup side, he’s an exciting new addition to the Clydesdales in recent weeks.
Four points separate the two teams on the ladder with the Seagulls climbing to 5th over the weekend. However, as one of only two bottom eight teams with a positive points differential, the Clydesdales are performing better than their 12th spot on the ladder suggests. After playing out a thriller in Round 2, expect more of the same this Saturday afternoon.
Player to Watch
Treymain Spry returned to footy last season and displayed steady improvement throughout his six games for the club. With five so far this season, we’re starting to see the best of the 23-year-old.
He’s a key feature of the Seagulls attack all the way up the field. Spry is an option in yardage for a tough carry or, when the halves see the defence too tight, can be passed into space and allowed to roam.
A tackle breaker, Spry has broken 19 tackles in his five games while averaging 95 running metres per game. While he hasn’t scored since Round 3, the centre has handed out three try assists in that time and is a constant threat in good ball.
He’s somebody the defence will be talking about during the week. The gravity he holds on a defence creates opportunities for those around him with Tom Weaver, in particular, finding ways to use Spry either as a ball carrier or decoy.
Similarly, the ball playing of Sam McIntyre. He appeared to move the ball a little bit more in Round 6 than he had done in the game prior. Those early shifts are perfect for getting Spry isolated onto his opposite.
The Seagulls left edge has done a lot of the damage with Ryland Jacobs and Lee Turner in fine form, but Spry is looking better every week and is one to watch on the right side in Round 8.
Coach’s Comments
The Seagulls have had the extra week to recover following their trip to Townsville and coach Dave Penna has welcomed the two little breaks over the last month.
“The week off was good to freshen a few of the boys up,” said Penna.
“We had a good session last night, will have another one tomorrow and hopefully play well on Saturday.
“The breaks worked out well. We played four games and had a bit of a break which is always good, then we had another couple of weeks to focus on.
“It’s given us a good schedule to focus on leading into what’s now going to be ten weeks of footy. Now we’re just focusing on week in and week out, keeping an eye on what the boys are doing and making sure that everybody is keen and hungry.”
The Seagulls mounted a late comeback themselves to win in Round 6 and will be mindful of how the Clydesdales finished in Round 2. Penna expects another close game this week.
“It will be a tough game,” Penna said.
“It was a tough game when we played them earlier. They’ll keep playing for 80 minutes. They’re getting better every week and the combinations are good. They’re going to throw plenty at us.
“They’ve won two of their last three games so will be full of confidence. We’ve just got to make sure we do all of the simple things well.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 7 Match Review – QRL BMD Premiership vs Norths Devils
The Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls ended their 2023 BMD Premiership season in defeat by going down to the Norths Devils 30-10 at Bishop Park, Brisbane.
Ellie Williamson impressed off the bench enough to start at lock in this one and made her presence felt early. She sold a dummy and skipped through the line to put Tweed hot on the attack. However, it was Norths who opened the scoring following a right shift out of yardage on the return set. As Shenae Ciesolka got her arms free in the tackle, Hayley Maddick raced up in support and under the posts in the 3rd minute.
The Devils right edge again proved fruitful in the 10th minute. An earlier shift put them in a position to attack. A forced dropout applied more pressure and the Seagulls line eventually cracked for Caitlyn Costello to score and push the lead out to 10-0.
Both sides provided the other with chances to cash in on errors and penalties before Tweed turned a Norths dropped ball into points. With Jessika Elliston crashing the ball through the middle to scatter the defence and create a short-side opportunity, Paige Parker pounced. Taking the line on and engaging the A and B defenders, Parker tipped a short ball to Zara Canfield who found Chantelle Holloway-Samuels out wide.
Tweeds kicking game twice went close to adding to the scoreboard. Parker’s 5th tackle bomb into the in-goal ended with Williamson just losing control as she went to ground the ball. Out of yardage soon after, Jetaya Faifua put in a deft chip for Bridget Hoy to fly onto. Only a desperate Maddick tackle stopped Tweed from going level. Frustratingly for the visitors shortly after going close to levelling the scoreboard before halftime, they conceded twice before the siren. Ali Brigginshaw had her hands all over the first to put Ciesiolka for her second from a mid-field scrum ten metres from the line. In the kickoff set, another shift down the right edge ended with Norths surging up the field and Ciesiolka all of a sudden had three to her name.
A barnstorming Fiona Jahnke carry out of the sheds put Tweed under defensive pressure but the line withstood the early raid. A similar Belinda Gwasamun carry did the same as Tweed were once again forced to turn, chase and defend their line.
They’re without a win on the BMD Premiership ladder but like every week, there were little wins throughout the 70 minutes for the Seagulls. Their ability to hold out a third attacking set after halftime is one of those wins. They scrambled well to end a Gwasamun linebreak as a fourth set beckoned, too.
Having defended for the best part of 11 minutes after the break, the Seagulls couldn’t keep Jada Ferguson from scooting over from dummy half.
Tweed needed something to go their way down 26-4. As admirable as the defensive effort was, they needed points to entertain the idea of a comeback.
For a moment, it looked as though we could be in for a fast finish.
A strip penalty allowed Parker to kick the Seagulls up the field. A Faith Tutauha linebreak moved them up and into the opposition’s 20-metre line. From there, Faifua scored a beauty.
Bang, bang, bang off the right foot, the Seagulls halfback gave her side a sniff with 15 minutes to play.
The confidence and opportunity to spend some time with the ball did Tweed a world of good. They looked like a different team getting up the field in yardage. However, a seven-tackle set proved too much for the defence when Norths returned serve. Having hovered around the ball through the middle all afternoon, Maddick latched onto the end of a right shift, sold a dummy and regained Norths’ 20-point lead.
The final 30-10 scoreline doesn’t do Tweed justice in the end. When in possession, Parker, Faifua and the Seagulls attack threatened. The defence performed better than the 30 points conceded suggest, too. But a horror three minutes before halftime made things incredibly difficult in the second half and the Devils lead proved too big to reel in.
Key Takeaways
The results didn’t come for the Seagulls this season but they pieced together enough positive moments to build on moving forward. Jetaya Faifua and Paige Parker proved to be a dangerous combination in the halves. Faifua’s ballplaying is as dangerous as her feet while Parker possesses one of the best kicking games in the competition.
Ellie Williamson is another to get excited about. The lock position is becoming part of the spine more and more every year and Tweed look their best with Williamson ballplaying in the middle. She’s quick and digs into the line. Despite being smaller than most other middle forward out there, she stands well in contact and dominates tacklers above the ball.
With some consistency at hooker and Jamie Chapman providing what she does from fullback, the Seagulls are set up well for 2024 if they can keep the band together.
In the middle, Jessika Elliston is one of the strongest ball carriers in the competition. Zara Canfield can play in the middle and on the edge. Jemma Bemrose is a player with potential and one to watch in the future, too.
While the win/loss columns don’t paint a pretty picture of the season, there are plenty of positives to take away from the seven games.
From Building Materials to Building Teams: Greenmount Timbers Contribution to Rugby League
Greenmount Timber & Building Supplies is proud to announce the renewal of its sponsorship with Tweed Seagulls Rugby League Football Club for an extension of two years (2023-2024). The company’s renewed sponsorship includes the major naming rights of our U19s Women’s team.
Founded in 2003 by Dean Monley and his son Troy, Greenmount Timber provides high-quality building materials to builders and home renovators throughout Northern NSW and stretching into far North Queensland.
The Monley family know that when it comes to building a winning team or a quality home, using high-quality materials is key. That’s why Greenmount Timber is not only a trusted supplier of building materials but also a proud supporter of local sporting teams and community events in the Northern Rivers region.
Since the partnership’s inception just a year ago, the collaboration between Tweed Seagulls RLFC and Greenmount Timber has grown significantly. Dean’s decision to expand the company’s sponsorship to include the major naming rights of the U19s Women’s team is a testament to the partnership’s success. This renewed commitment to the club and its values is expected to bring significant benefits to both parties, including increased exposure to the game, the Greenmount Timber brand, and most importantly, getting local girls more involved in Rugby League.
Greenmount Timber is committed to providing sustainable building materials responsibly sourced from state-managed forests and plantations. They offer an extensive range, including timber and composite decking and flooring structural timber, Weathertex, and landscaping supplies such as fencing and logs.
For more information about the building materials and services offered by Greenmount Timber & Building Supplies, call them today on 07 5513 1555 or visit their website.
https://www.greenmounttimber.com.au/
Round 6 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Townsville Blackhawks
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, needed all 80 minutes to beat the Townsville Blackhawks but return home on the back of a comeback 28-26 win.
A strong yardage game and the defence it created allowed the Blackhawks to play with the territory advantage early on. They looked most likely to open the scoring when forcing a repeat set in the 5th minute. However, having defended back-to-back sets, Tweed earned a relieving penalty to move up the field and into a position for Lee Turner to open the scoring.
Receiving the ball isolated onto his opposite, Lee skipped to his outside, put on a fend and put the visitors in front 6-0 after eight minutes.
The six-point lead was short-lived, though.
A horror bounce from the kickoff forced Ryland Jacobs to work from out of his own goal line. With a full head of steam up, the defence forced an error out of the Tweed winger to make it 6-4 just a minute later.
The Blackhawks looked to make the most of their opportunistic try by searching down the edges for easy metres in yardage. With a forward pass turning over possession, Tweed had their own chance to strike.
Enter: Tom Weaver.
On fire in recent weeks, Weaver caught the Blackhawks defence creeping in before finding Kaleb Ngamanu on the wing with a marvellous harbour bridge pass over three defenders.
Townsville provided Tweed with more opportunities to extend their lead. A penalty out of yardage kicked the visitors back up the field. Working it out themselves, Townsville turned the ball over on the last just 40 metres from their own line.
Weaver and Lindon McGrady asked some questions down the left edge but the Blackhawks had the answers as both sides managed to maintain possession and get into an error and penalty-free rhythm.
The Blackhawks managed to turn their moment close to the line into points in the 29th minute. Just after McGrady held the ball up down their right edge, the home side looked left and found Zac Laybutt for a 12-10 lead.
Sam McIntyre appeared to have put Tweed back in front shortly after. He pushed through a tackle on his knees before reaching out for the line. The referee, however, saw an elbow touch the surface before the ball was promoted. Nonetheless, that lead soon returned for Tweed. As had been the case throughout the match for both sides, a relieving penalty turned into points.
McIntyre’s ball playing through the middle allowed the Seagulls to play with width all the way up the field throughout the match. His shift as the Seagulls crossed halfway saw McGrady step inside and put Jacob McCudden through a gap. Unable to ice the pass to Weaver pushing up in support, Oskar Bryant cleaned up the scraps for Jacobs to score shortly before halftime.
A Blackhawks penalty goal as the siren sounded ticked the scoreboard over once more, but the 16-14 Seagulls lead provided a fair reflection of a first half that saw Tweed create plenty of opportunities all the way up the field.
McCudden being sent to the sin bin in the 47th minute put some pressure on the Seagulls but the defence held firm throughout his ten-minute absence. The Blackhawks spent a lot of their time shifting the ball from side to side and the Seagulls defence slid across in cover to keep them out. It wasn’t until McCudden returned that the Blackhawks crossed the line.
Twice in quick succession.
First Patrick Kaufusi latched onto a Ben Hampton grubber. Robert Derby then returned the kickoff to the house for the Blackhawks to pull 26-16 in front with 15 minutes to play.
Tweed needed an answer and quickly looked to an approach that had proven successful already today and a number of times this season. A shift through McIntyre over halfway moved Tweed up the field and into a position to fire a shot.
Weaver, Woolf, McGrady and Brimson.
The spine linked up all the way across the field for Brimson to turn half a break into a try in the corner.
McGrady couldn’t split the post from the left sideline but it wasn’t long before he was lining another one up on the right.
Ioane Seiuli drew a penalty out of Kaufusi to kick Tweed into good ball. Seiuli went close to scoring himself. But following a long shift to the left, the visitors moved the ball back to the right edge. Luke Burton’s strong carry 60 seconds earlier remained in the memory of the Blackhawks defence as his decoy line dragged the four-in defender putting Weaver on the outside. Holding the ball up before passing with expert precision, McGrady passed out to a two-on-one situation for Ngamanu to score in the corner.
The Prince of Piggabeen didn’t need to see the ball sail through the posts the second time. He was already heading back to his side of halfway when the touch judges signalled a 26-all scoreline with four minutes left on the clock.
Tweed have been on the wrong side of this situation twice already this season but the third time proved to be the charm.
Weaver had already shaped to take one field goal, and with the defence quick to get out on him when taking the ball next time, Hampton caught him high. Cool as you like and in the final act of the match, McGrady kicked the goal to secure a comeback 26-24 win.
Playing the full 80 minutes, whether from in front or behind has been a constant theme this season and Tweed were rewarded for their resilience in this one. They now have some extra time to rest and recover with a Round 7 bye before hosting the Western Clydesdales in Round 8.
Key Takeaways
Oskar Bryant’s development continues to be a fascinating aspect of this Seagulls side. Coming off the bench this week, he was able to jump out from dummy half and engage tired markers before moving the ball on. His actions from dummy half paid dividends out wide where Tweed regularly found space.
It’s the finer details Dave Penna is working with him on as he gains experience in the grade, though.
“We’re just trying to help the young players work on game management. Oskar is getting better in that area every game.”
Coaches Comments
Having suffered two close defeats late in the contest this season, Coach Dave Penna was particularly happy with how the team rallied back from behind.
“I was really proud of our defensive effort and the comeback,” Penna said.
Among plenty of others, Sam McIntyre played a key role in the comeback both in yardage and good ball.
“Sam is a fantastic player,” Penna said.
“We are really lucky to have him in the side.”
Round 6 Match Review – QRL BMD Premiership vs Souths Logan Magpies
The Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls played host to the Souths Logan Magpies in Round 6. Despite a promising first half that saw the home side go into the sheds 8-6 behind, the visitors piled up the points after halftime to run out 36-6 victors at Piggabeen Sports Complex, Piggabeen.
Paige Parker demanded the ball early as Tweed looked to apply pressure on the Souths Logan line. She rolled one in behind to force the visitors to travel 99 metres in return. On the following set, she was some Daisy Gordon hands away from sending the winger down the sideline but the ball trickled into touch to put an end to the attacking raid. Defending their own line for a set, a relieving penalty again put the Seagulls into attacking position. Again Parker played her part to put up a towering bomb that ended with Evania Pelite dropping the ball over the line for a repeat set.
However, Tweed couldn’t make the most of the territory and possession – a theme that plagued them throughout the match. A penalty to get out of their own end sent Souths Logan on a path up the field that ended with the first points of the afternoon in the 13th minute. Finding space down the left edge through a second phase, Jodeci Nicholson went back to the same edge against a scrambled line a tackle later with Kalisi Longopoa going over in the corner.
Souths Logan returned to good ball six minutes later with a Tweed error presenting them with an attacking scrum. Shifting the ball back to the left edge again, Longopoa bagged a second to push the visitors’ lead out to 8-0 in the 21st minute.
The Magpies threatened again not long after but the Seagulls managed to turn them away and play themselves back into the game. Jamie Chapman, as she has done all season, put her hand up for a tough carry out of yardage to start the set well. Parker finished it with a handy kick into the corner.
Daisy Gordon broke into the backfield with a show-and-go on the following set but couldn’t find the support to ice the opportunity. She iced the next one, though.
Cleaning up a Parker grubber on the last, Gordon circled back to the middle of the field, chipped in behind the line and collected the ball to score under the posts.
Just like that, the Seagulls received reward from a strong first half to go into the sheds only 8-6 behind.
Tweed opened the second half by setting up deep for a wide-ranging right shift as they crossed halfway. A nice Jetaya Faifua short ball sent Zara Canfield through half a gap only for the officials to call it forward. In response, Souths Logan kept it tight and repeatedly hit Tweeds left edge defence. Following Kiia Parata and Tyesha Mikaio carries, Brittany Breayley-Nati spotted the home side short on the edge to get Baylee Davies over for a 14-6 lead shortly after the break.
Like the first half, the Magpies piled up points in quick succession. Jasmine Fogavini broke through the middle to force a late tackle out of Chapman out the back. With the defence unable to track back, Souths Logan went back to what worked down the right side for Mikaio to make it 18-6 in the 42nd minute.
Tweed defended well to stop the flow of points to hold the Magpies out across back-to-back-to-back sets on their line. Running and kicking into the wind made it difficult to play themselves into attacking position, though.
In the end, the Magpies played with superior possession and field position in the second half. Two of their stars, Steph Hancock and Evania Pelite, linked up for the left edge to score.
First, a Hancock offload created the second phase before Pelite made the most of a sliding defensive line to send Shellie Long over in the 47th minute. Ten minutes later, Hancock and Pelite combined again for Longopoa to score her third of the afternoon. Just the threat of a Hancock offload compressed the defence which opened the space for Pelite to fire the long pass wide for Longopoa to dot down.
What looked like a sure consolation try for the Seagulls ended with the Magpies scoring one more before full time for the visitors to make the most of a strong second half. While there were positive signs throughout the first half as the defence held firm, Tweed couldn’t hold the ball for long enough in the second half to threaten the line. Souths Logan takes the chocolates with the 36-6 win.
Key Takeaways
Paige Parker’s kicking game stood out as a massive advantage early on for the home side. Where the Magpies struggled to find touch on a kick for touch more than once, Parker kicked the Seagulls into attacking areas. Forcing repeat sets close to the line and kicking in behind the back three in yardage, she capped off attacking raids and kicked Tweed out of trouble with the breeze at her back in the first half. Earlier into sets her running game threatened and created half-opportunities out wide.
Ellie Williamson provided a promising spark off the bench again this week. Alternating between spells at dummy half, as a ball carrier through the middle and finishing in the halves, her quick feet moved Tweed up the field. No carry was easy for the home side against the breeze in the second half but her late footwork put them on the front fleetingly. Her carries and overall versatility are valuable assets off the bench as she continues to improve with every appearance.
The U21 Tweed Seagulls Colts Keeping It Cool For 2023
Round 6 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Townsville Blackhawks
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, are up to Townsville this week to take on the Blackhawks at Jack Manski Oval.
The Seagulls are coming into Round 6 on the back of a convincing 44-26 win over the Wynumm Manly Seagulls last week. The left-side attack produced the goods as Tom Weaver provided clean service to the edges. Lee Turner, in particular, had himself a day to finish up with four try assists for the afternoon. Ryland Jacobs was the beneficiary of Turner’s work for three tries. Not to be outdone on the right edge, Treymain Spry continued his impressive season in the centers to lay on two tries for Jojo Fifita outside him.
Tweed put their foot down through to the end after struggling to play out the full 80 minutes to start the season but Coach Dave Penna was still looking for more.
“We still had out lapses there for that middle period of the second half where we bombed a couple of tries,” Penna said.
“We let them score a couple of easy tries where we should have defended it but it was pleasing in the end.”
Nonetheless, a lot of the same team that managed the win in Round 5 returns for this one on Sunday.
Lee, Jacobs and Spry are all back for Round 6 but Kaleb Ngamanu is the new face on the wing, in for Fifita.
In other changes, Luke Burton will start his first game of the season in place of Ryan James. Burton has packed some real punch in limited minutes off the bench so far this season but has the opportunity to wind up from kickoff in this one. Daniel Ross missed last week and returns via the bench alongside Jaleel Seve-Derbas who hasn’t featured since Round 3.
Only four competition points separate 2nd from 12th on the Hostplus Cup ladder at the moment with Tweed and Townsville both in the middle of the log jam on six points.
It has been a long time between drinks for the Blackhawks who last played on April 1st. With the Easter break and Round 5 bye, they’re yet to take the field since falling to the Northern Pride 13-12 in Round 4. An Evan Child 79th-minute field goal – while Harry Freebairn sat in the bin – broke the hearts of the Blackhawks who will no doubt be eager to get back out onto the field in response.
Ben Hampton is a danger man in the halves. He has only featured for the Blackhawks once this season but the 116-game NRL veteran will be a constant running threat alongside Thomas Duffy in the halves. Robert Derby is one to watch out for, too. He’s scored four tries in as many appearances this season along with 150 running metres per game to be one of Townsville’s most consistent attacking players.
Tweed fans have fond memories of the last time these two teams met. A Lindon McGrady masterclass through five try assists translated into a monster 42-0 win in Round 19 last season. However, the Seagulls had the luxury of playing at home on that occasion. They face a long trip up north to Townsville where they’ve yet to win in two attempts.
Tweed will be playing on the back of arguably their best performance of the season so far this week, but Townsville has the pleasure of playing at home after a long rest period. As the ladder suggests with these two at 8th and 9th, this one is shaping up as a close one.
Players To Watch
We’ve already touched on Luke Burton but he’s one to watch early on. Where he’s been able to come on later in the game and use his fresh legs to wind up and push through contact in his five appearances so far this season, he will be on the back fence for kickoff this week. His work alongside Lamar Manuel-Liolevave and Sam McIntyre, who led all forwards with 152 running metres last week, will lay the platform for this high-powered Tweed attack to pile up points early.
Tom Weaver will play a significant role in making the most of that yardage. Fantastic with the ball again last week, it’s his defence that is worth keeping an eye on in Round 6. Coach Penna made sure to highlight the work he’s doing without the ball after making 14 tackles without a miss last week:
“Everybody wants to wrap him for the other things he’s doing, but he’s working really, really hard on his defence.”
Coaches Comments
Tweed’s trip to Rockhampton earlier in the season didn’t quite go to plan and eventually led to a delayed kickoff but Dave Penna and the boys will be up to Townsville a day early for this one.
“You don’t want to make travel a big deal,” Penna said.
“I think the last couple of times that we did do the trip we had to do up and back on the same day. Hopefully being up there and settled, able to wake up in the morning and do what we normally do on game day, will hopefully make a bit of a difference to us.”
Penna is particularly keen to see how Burton starts the match after playing a low-minute, high-impact role off the bench so far this season.
“Burto has been really good for us. He hasn’t had a lot of opportunity, he’s come off the bench a bit.”
“He brings a bit of energy and a bit of toughness to our middle. He’s quite big and mobile. He runs hard, and tackles hard and we’re looking forward to giving him a bit of a crack at it.”
Another young player improving every week, Ngamanu is back in the top side for this one.
“Young Kaleb Ngamanu made way for Jojo last week but he’s another exciting young fella that played really well for us in the first three or four rounds,” said Penna.
“He’s a good kid and has a big future and it’s good for him to play some more footy.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 5 Match Review – QRL Hostplus vs Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, didn’t let an early Wynnum Manly Seagulls try get to them as they responded with 44 points of their own to convincingly beat their namesake at BMD Kougari Oval, Brisbane.
It’s not how Dave Penna will have drawn it up, but the Tweed Seagulls grew in confidence after defending early penalties and errors on their line. Both left and right, the Tweed defence slid well to cover the Wynnum Manly shifts before looking to play themselves into the game. However, an error out of yardage again put the Tweed defence under pressure which Wynnum Manly this time turned into points after forcing a repeat set.
Looking short on the dropout, Tweed couldn’t reel it in which allowed Gideon Gela-Mosby to open the scoring.
Wynnum Manly dominated possession early, but when Tweed finally spent some time with the ball, they quickly levelled up the scoreboard. A long shift from the right post ended with Ryland Jacobs dotting down in the corner for their first.
A strong yardage set settled Tweed after a fairly frantic start as the game worked into a grind. Both teams managed to get themselves into positions to put up attacking bombs but a ruck infringement provided Tweed with the chance to attack inside the opposition’s 20 and put themselves in front on the scoreboard. Again, it won’t be how they drew it up. Lindon McGrady’s pass pinged off Jacob McCudden’s head before the big backrower fell on the ball for a 10-4 lead.
Wynnum Manly did themselves no favours as the possession numbers started to sway in favour of Tweed. A penalty for taking out Tom Weaver’s legs on the kick put the visitors hot on the attack once again. But as Josh Rodgers collected a loose ball against the run of play and ran Wynnum Manly deep into their own half, the Tweed defence couldn’t collect themselves and Bailey Hartwig soon found himself through a hole and over the line.
Tweed went back to what worked in response to conceding. They found regular success out wide in yardage. Weaver looked to get on the outside of the three-in defender on the left edge. On the right, Jojo Fifita let go of an incredible offload for Treymain Spry to get on the outside. Soon enough, and after forcing an error out of Wynnum Manly, Jacobs scored his second to put Tweed 16-8 in front.
The Tweed left edge continued to pile up points when given the chance. On the first shift, Lindon McGrady played short to McCudden who crashed the ball just short of the line. After settling back to the middle of the field, McGrady and the Seagulls returned to the left edge running the same shape. Lee Turner this time managed to release an offload to Will Brimson who followed him around the back as Tweed extended their lead to 22-8.
Wynnum Manly looked wide in a desperate search for points before halftime. However, an error gave Tweed one last chance to extend their lead further before oranges. Looking wide themselves, McGrady bounced out of a jamming tackle to send Fifita streaking down the sideline. With only the fullback to beat, Fifita stepped inside and under the posts for Tweed to enter the sheds 20 points in front.
Tweed, or Fifita, in particular, took off in the second half from where he left the first. Spry skipped to the outside of his man to put Fifita over in the corner in the first minute after halftime. However, the touch judge saw something to take it away from the Tweed winger.
A Kalolo Saitaua try brought the home crowd back into it and Wynnum Manly to within 14 points. Those in the home stand cheered on a strong yardage set after points looking to spark their side into a comeback. A Brendan Frei error soon sent a groan around the ground, though. Jacobs’ third try two minutes later turned into silence. Again it came through Tweeds’ left edge, and again it came through Turner. Weaver’s long pass put him into the space, but Brimson’s decoy inside and Turner’s footwork with the ball in the air put him through the line before finding Jacobs in the corner.
Wynnum Manly needed to score next and did so through Rodgers in the 56th minute. Coach Penna responded by reintroducing Brent Woolf and Ryan James back into the game. Right on cue, Woolf threw himself into a tackle from the kickoff to force an error and gift Tweed possession in attacking territory.
Gelea-Mosby’s nightmare on the Wynnum Manly right edge continued as he punched the ball out of play to close down one shift. Looking right shortly after, Spry’s pass couldn’t find Fifita on the full. Still, the winger cut back in and up the field to scramble the defensive line. Klese Haas took his opportunity close to the line to crash over for his first of the season and Tweed’s seventh of the afternoon
Desperation set in for Wynnum Manly who unsuccessfully looked short on the kickoff. Again in position to attack the line, a forward pass call stopped Jacobs from scoring his fourth.
A consolation try for Ollie Pascoe off the bench added some respectability to the scoreboard for Wynnum Manly. However, Tweed looked comfortable for most of the match after conceding early. Having played out strong periods in every game this season, Tweed kept their foot down in this one. They continued to play to areas they found success and piled up points across the 80 minutes. The last via some Spry magic shortly before full-time.
On a sunny Sunday afternoon at BMD Kougari Oval, the Tweed Seagulls made the most of the attacking conditions to run up a score on their rivals before heading back down the highway with a 44-26 win.
Key Takeaways
With no Toby Sexton there this week and a new-look spine around him, this match acted as a great opportunity for Tom Weaver to increase his influence on the side. He has thrown some lovely balls already this year and collected five try assists, but this week might be his best performance of the season so far. While he didn’t record a typical try assist in this one, Weaver played a key role in Tweed’s dismantling of the Wynnum Manly edge defence.
On the left side Weaver passed Lee Turner into space for the centre to record one of his four try assists for the afternoon. Not long after but on the right side this time, Weaver passed Treymain Spry to the outside of his man before Jojo Fifita crashed over in the corner.
While the attacking plays will end up in the highlights packages, Penna is quick to highlight the work he’s doing in defence.
“He’s getting better every week,” Penna said after the game.
“Defensively Tommy was great. Everybody wants to wrap him for the other things he’s doing, but he’s working really, really hard on his defence. I thought he did a really good job at that today.”
Coaches Comments
While the points look good on the scoreboard Coach Penna was most pleased with how the group played together across the full 80 minutes this week.
“The pleasing part was how the boys really rallied for one another,” Penna said.
“I thought we did that against Burleigh. It was a shame it finished the way it did, but I was really happy with the way they played and they continued to do that. We were a bit smarter with the footy and it was a good result.”
Some of those smarts were directed towards the left edge where Tweed caught their opposition with players defending in unfamiliar positions.
“We sent the message out but we’d trained all week just to play those shapes on either side of the ruck. The boys just played what they see in front of them, so it worked out well for us today.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 5 Match Review – QRL BMD Premiership vs Wynnum Manly Seagulls
The Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls travelled to BMD Kougari Oval to take on the Wynnum Manly Seagulls but couldn’t keep up with the hosts in the second half. Down only 10-6 at the break, Tweed gave up too many points shortly after halftime on their way to a 32-10 defeat.
Tweed found themselves on the backfoot following Wynnum Manly early points. Having defended the set well and applied enough kick pressure to force the ball out of the half’s hands, Rease Casey put up a prayer that landed short of Bridget Hoy on the right wing. The bouncing ball went in favour of the home side for Jayde Herdegen to open the scoring just one minute in.
It wasn’t long before Tweed answered back, though. Executing on a superb yardage set, Daisy Gordon got things started by skirting to the outside to get into the Wynnum Manly half. Jessika Elliston’s offload through the middle put Tweed hot on the attack and with the defensive line struggling to get back, the visitors sent the ball wide to find Hoy in the corner to level things up.
Wynnum Manly played with a plan to get Shaylee Bent involved on the right edge. Her footwork makes her a dangerous prospect running a short line, but the Tweed defence kept her covered and managed to force an error and spend some time with the ball themselves.
Three consecutive Wynnum Manly knock-ons presented Tweed with the lengthy period in attack. Gloria-Hannah Murray-Fiu went close to forcing her way over just as she did earlier in the season while Jetaya Faifua’s footwork caused trouble stepping back in against the grain. Kaitlyn Phillps found herself on the end of a Faifua short ball to go painfuly close to the line before Jamie Chapman had the ball stripped as she looked to burrow over. A barnstorming Elliston carry ended with the Tweed prop held up over the line. A similar carry from Zara Canfield ended with the defence kicking the ball from her hands and a Tweed penalty. Despite pushing and pushing for points, the visitors couldn’t cross the line as the period in attack ended with an error.
Wynnum Manly had no such troubles on their return visit to the Tweed 20-metre line. Following on from a Julia Robinson run off a scrum, Lilly Green made it 10-6 in favour of the home side.
The score stuck through to the break but the feeling was that Tweed left points out there and should have been eating their oranges level if not in front.
The second half started in the same was as the first with Wynnum Manly extending their lead early. Shaniah Power pushed her way towards the line before Patrice Chambers fell over it on the following tackle for a 16-6 Wynnum Manly lead.
Robinson found regular success charging down the left edge, putting Wynnum Manly in position to attack close to the line. Those carries soon turned into more points as Casey forced her way over from dummy half to score.
Down the left edge again, Power pushed Wynnum Manly’s lead out to 20 points as Tweed struggled to play themselves into the second half. On the back foot defensively and failing to hold the ball in attack, the visitors couldn’t get into the grind. Despite not scoring throughout their time inside the opposition’s 20-metre line, they’d shown enough to suggest points weren’t far off if they could get back into that area of the field. However, Wynnum Manly dominated possession and rarely gave Tweed a chance.
Ellie Williamson scored her first try of the season on Tweeds’ first visit to the Wynnum Manly line in the second half. Again confirming their threat with the ball provided they could maintain possession, they gave themselves ten minutes to claw back a 30-10 deficit.
A kickoff out on the full and busting Elliston carry added more life to the potential of a comeback, but another dropped ball soon ended it. Just as she had done all afternoon, Robinson put Wynnum Manly on the front foot off a scrum, and Destiny Mino-Sinapatai turned the field position into points to reclaim their unassailable lead.
The final 34-10 score doesn’t quite do Tweed justice. They played well for periods and looked dangerous with the ball in hand, but some poor hands let them down and the resulting pressure proved too much in the end.
Key Takeaways
Jessika Elliston recently re-signed with the Gold Coast Titans NRLW side and you can see why based on this performance alone. She’s a strong carrier of the ball but it’s her footwork that allows her to pick the space between two defenders and push through the tackle.
She split the defenders to get her arms free and send Zara Canfield into the backfield in the first half.
Canfield was another standout as the Tweed middle held up their end of the bargain when in possession. When able to maintain possession, Tweed didn’t have too many problems getting up the field through their two hard-working middles. However, errors and the extra defensive work they created proved too much as Wynnum Manly ran away with it in the second half.
Bridget Hoy hadn’t been seen since Round 2 but her work in yardage became noticeable as the Tweed forwards tired. Getting into dummy half and in behind the ruck she triggered one of their better periods in the second half. Through Hoy, Chapman and Gordon, the Seagulls aren’t short of attacking potential if they can get the ball to their back-three more often.
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 5 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, are back from the Easter break and preparing for the “Flockbuster” against the Wynnum Manly Seagulls at BMD Kougari Oval, Brisbane in Round 5 of the QRL Hostplus Cup. Kick-off is this Sunday, 16th April at 2:10pm.
The Seagulls will no doubt be desperate to get back out on the field following a heartbreaking defeat to the Burleigh Bears in Round 4. After levelling the scores in the 75th minute to bring at least a draw within touching distance, a 79th-minute penalty goal kicked the Bears to victory.
“The boys worked really hard on staying in the grind,” Penna said after the match.
“It was a tough way to lose. Hard to take.”
Ioane Seiuli continued his impressive start to the season with a team-high 190 running metres against the Bears in Round 4. He still leads the competition in post-contact yardage with 268 metres across his four games. Having shuffled around a few spots to start the year, he has been named to start on the edge this week. It’s arguably where Seiuli played his best football in 2022 and his addition to the pack rounds out a strong forward rotation for Tweed this weekend. Seiuli can hold up defenders with his line running and gravity as a ball carrier, and he’s skilful enough to move the ball to the edge when the occasion calls for it.
Similarly, Tom Weaver is going from strength to strength as he cements his place in the top side. With five try assists in his last two matches, he’s becoming a key feature of the Seagulls’ attack. Toby Sexton’s absence due to injury will keep him from the field for the next six weeks, but coach Penna is lucky enough to have an abundance of ball players to step in. Lindon McGrady’s return from injury, having played last week at fullback, comes at an opportune moment as he prepares to move back into the halves since starting in Round 1. While it may require some time for the duo to establish a solid partnership, the injury to Sexton offers the opportunity for the pair to become more acquainted with each other over the next few rounds.
Meanwhile, Wynnum-Manly are licking Round 4 wounds of their own. Largely cruising through the opening three rounds for three wins at 40 points per game, the Dolphins piled up 36 points to hand the Seagulls their first loss of the season two weeks ago.
Wynnum-Manly has a lot of attacking threats to keep an eye on. Josh Rogers leads the Hostplus Cup in scoring with 46 points while also handing out a competition-high seven try assists. Deine Mariner and his six line breaks this season will be another consideration for Coach Penna and the Tweed defence throughout the week.
We’re roughly one year removed from the last time these two met in a thrilling 72-point game. Again it was Tweed fighting back to draw level late in the piece before a Mathew Lyons try at the death broke the deadlock for Wynnum-Manly to take the chocolates.
Given the attacking output on display from both teams throughout the season so far, we can expect another back-and-forth tussle between the two on Sunday afternoon.
Player To Watch
After making his long-awaited return to the Tweed Seagulls in Round 4, veteran NRL forward Ryan James is named to start at prop this weekend. It was a full-circle moment for James and Tweed when he took the field against the Bears two weeks ago, with the Indigenous All-Star representative having started his QRL playing career with the Tweed Seagulls way back in 2014.
A proud family man off the field and a fierce competitor on it, James’ inclusion in 2023 is an exciting one for the Tweed faithful. With 168 NRL games under the belt, James knows what’s required in the big moments. A reliable yardage merchant and capable of tipping a pass along before the line, James provides Tweed with another big body alongside Lamar Manuel-Liolevave to lock down the pack.
How he combines with Brent Woolf around the ruck this week will go some ways to helping Tweed win the yardage battle through the middle.
Coaches Comments
Head Coach Dave Penna was full of praise for Ryan James this week and says the club is delighted to have him back in the fold.
“He’s so valuable to us,” Penna said.
“Ryan’s commitment and experience has been great to have around training. He talks well and helps out with our younger players.”
“He’s a hard worker, he’s got great principles and we’re blessed to have him back at Tweed this season. He’s been great for us.”
Penna also paid tribute to his players after an improved showing in Round 4 against a skillful Burleigh Bears outfit.
“We’ve been working hard on playing out the full 80 minutes and although we didn’t get the result against the Bears, I thought we made some good progress in that area,” said Penna.
“The boys really knuckled down in defence to limit the strike Burleigh have across the park. To lose it by a penalty in the last minute hurt, but that’s rugby league sometimes.”
“There were moments we can still improve, mainly around our errors and discipline. You can’t be tackling any more than you need to in this comp so that’s something we’re still working on.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Brick by Brick: Tweed Seagulls Secure Continued Support from ABC Building Products
The Tweed Seagulls Rugby League Football Club is thrilled to announce the continuation of its sponsorship with ABC Building Products for the 2023 season. This partnership, which began in 2007, has played a crucial role in the club’s growth and success.
ABC Building Products, a South East Queensland based business specialising in a range of building products, including bricks, blocks, paving, trade tools, equipment, lightweight cladding landscaping and steel reinforcement etc, has been a steadfast supporter of the Seagulls for over a decade.
Andrew Mills and the team at ABC dedication to providing great service, reliable on-time delivery, expert knowledge in building products have made them one of the most notable homegrown companies on the coast.
“We are absolutely thrilled to continue our unwavering support of the Seagulls this year. The club is an integral part of the community, and we are proud to be associated with them. The values of the Seagulls are closely aligned with our values at ABC Building Products, and we are honored to be a part of this partnership. We look forward to another incredible season and continuing our long-standing relationship,” said Andrew Mills.
The sponsorship from ABC Building Products has been invaluable to the club, especially during tough times such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating Northern New South Wales floods. The company’s commitment to the Tweed has not wavered as they continue to support the Seagulls in a partnership dedicated to paving the way for an even brighter future.
The Tweed Seagulls RLFC would like to express their deepest gratitude to ABC Building Products for their ongoing support. The company has left a lasting impact on the club, truly set in stone, having provided the structural material for the new dressing sheds at the Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Together, we believe we can achieve great things and make a positive impact on the community.
Follow ABC Building Products on social media.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abcbuildingproducts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abcbuildingproduct
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/abc-building-products/
Seagulls Club naming rights sponsorship of the Tweed Seagulls RLFC
A story that spans over 100 years: Seagulls Club claims naming rights sponsorship of the Tweed Seagulls RLFC once again.
The Tweed Seagulls RLFC announced its partnership with the Seagulls Club as the official naming rights sponsor from 2023 – 2025.
As an iconic part of the Tweed community, the Seagulls Club has been a cornerstone of the area for over 100 years. The Seagulls Club’s dedication to providing a welcoming and inclusive space for members and visitors alike is unparalleled. We share their commitment to giving back to the community and are delighted to be a part of their efforts to improve the wider community’s well-being.
The Seagulls Club is one of seven venues forming the Norths Collective, a progressive hospitality group passionate about their commitment to the communities they serve, bringing people together, and celebrating shared connections. Norths Collective CEO Luke Simmons attended the recent announcement of the State Government’s investment into the development of the Piggabeen facility, demonstrating the partnership’s strength and commitment to the Tweed Heads community.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Tweed Seagulls RLFC and support them as they continue to grow and develop as a team. This partnership aligns with Norths Collective’s mission to actively participate in the communities we serve and support initiatives that bring people together. We recognise the important role the club plays in the local community, and for us to help enable the rugby league club to be the best they can be and support those coming through the system is truly exciting.”
said Luke Simmons, CEO of the Seagulls Club governing body, the Norths Collective.
As a Rugby League club, we share a deep passion for the sport with the Seagulls Club, and we are excited to have their support as we continue to grow and develop as a team. With the Seagulls Club by our side, we are confident that we will continue to excel on the field and positively impact the community.
“We are honoured to be associated with a club that has been an integral part of the Tweed Coast community for over 100 years. By working together, we can positively impact the lives of those in the community. We see this partnership as an opportunity to support a great Rugby League team and give back to the community that has supported us for so long,”
said Stuart Burrows, Seagulls Club’s General Manager.
As a club, we are deeply grateful for the Seagulls Club’s support, and we look forward to working together to achieve our shared goals. With their assistance, we are confident that we will continue impacting the community and positively growing as a team.
Thank you, Seagulls Club, for your support and dedication to our team. We are thrilled to begin this partnership and look forward to achieving great things together. Up the Seagulls!
Round 4 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Burleigh Bears
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, played out an 80-minute thriller but fell to the Burleigh Bears 14-12 in the dying stages at the Piggabeen Sports Complex, Piggabeen.
A Lindon McGrady error provided the Bears with an early opportunity to get on the board but the Seagulls defence held firm – a theme that held true for much of the match.
Tweed couldn’t do the same defending back-to-back sets shortly after, though. After forcing a repeat set, Burleigh found success down their left edge through Ken Maumalo. The new Gold Coast Titans winger found himself on the end of some quick Keano Kini hands to open the scoring in the 7th minute.
A relieving penalty soon allowed the Seagulls to search for their own success down the edges. Left and right, Tweed threatened to no avail. Treymain Spry continued his impressive start to the season and caused havoc down the right edge, breaking tackles to stress the line before the Seagulls looked left. The Bears defence held up as the Seagulls again forced them to work out from deep in their own end. As the game worked into an arm wrestle, Tweed gained the ascendency and played with the more favourable field position.
Both sides opted for early kicks in an attempt to gain a minor advantage. Still, the game waited for an error or a game-breaking moment as both sides displayed patience and willingness to get into a grind.
As a Burleigh error eventually came, Tweed pounced. Tom Weaver took the line on down the left edge before the right produced points. A Toby Sexton floater hit Ioane Seiuli on the chest for the Seagulls to level the scores in the 22nd minute.
Tweed managed to extend their lead on their next visit to the Burleigh line through Kaleb Ngamanu. The young winger had just entered the field as Brent Woolf walked off and Ryland Jacobs moved into dummy half.
Similar to the first, Tweed shifted the ball one way before returning to the edge from which they came. Sexton laid Klese Haas to the right post, took the ball back through Daniel Ross’ middle service, and found Weaver out wide who sent Ngamanu over in the corner untouched.
Tweed’s dominance after conceding early translated into a 10-6 halftime lead; just reward for the work they did through the middle and questions asked in good ball.
The Seagulls spent a lengthy period defending their own line to start the second half. Two errors provided Burleigh with a chance to start the second half in the same way they did the first. However, Tweed’s edges looked comfortable in defence. Up fast and holding their line, the Bears couldn’t find a way around the home side.
It took a long-range try from Guy Hamilton who ended up with the ball following a Weaver grubber for the Bears to score.
The points gave the Bears a lift as the territory battle took a turn. Tweed worked up the field and kicked from a strong position for much of the first half but Burleigh played with the field position throughout the early stages of the second.
It wasn’t long before Tweed worked their way back into the grind, though. Sexton circled Burleigh’s left corner as the spot he wanted to end a set if it wasn’t in points. Forcing the visitors to work from deep out of their own end, the Seagulls started to regain control.
Tweed’s left edge looked the most likely on good ball visits throughout the second half. Lee Turner twice poked his head through on the end of a Weaver pass. But the right edge created the opportunity that could have handed Tweed the lead. Spry’s line break over halfway and flick out the back sent Seiuli down the edge, but with a Bears defender hanging off him, the Tweed winger lost possession as he reached out for the line in the corner.
A massive Luke Burton shot on Maumalo forced a knock-on that soon allowed Sexton to level the scores with a penalty goal late in the piece.
But with the Bears surging up the field as time expired, a high tackle presented Tom Steadman with a chance to win it on the siren. His kick split the posts with the clock reading 80:00 for the Bears to get home 14-12.
Key Takeaways
The Seagulls are an 80-minute threat out of dummy half. With Brent Woolf once again part of the 17 and following a big preseason for Ryland Jacobs, coach Dave Penna isn’t short of options. Woolf is a workhorse through the middle. His craft from behind the ruck and deception when providing service from first receiver is an important element to Tweed’s attack early. Jacobs’ speed and footwork has the potential to cause havoc around tiring middle forwards either side of halftime, too.
Penna has talked about getting his best players on the field as often as possible and finding the best ways to use them, and the approach of carrying a winger on the bench and moving another into dummy half is one to keep an eye on in the coming weeks.
Coach’s Comments
The Seagulls worked hard to grind the Bears down but conceded an unlucky try in the second half before Tom Steadman kicked the winner in the 80th minute.
“The boys worked really hard on staying in the grind,” Penna said after the match.
“It was a tough way to lose. Hard to take.”
One positive at the end of it is the season debut for Ryan James. The 168-game NRL veteran played in his first game and will be an important piece moving forward.
“Ryan brings a lot of experience to our side. It’s great to have him in the team,” said Penna.
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 4 Match Review – QRL BMD Premiership vs Burleigh Bears
The Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls played host to the Burleigh Bears at the Piggabeen Sports Complex, Piggabeen in Round 4. Despite an improved second half and fast finish, the Seagulls couldn’t pull the Bears in while going down 24-10.
The Bears made their intentions clear from kickoff by collecting a short one with the very first play of the game. Taking the field position and with the Seagulls caught off guard, the visitors opened the scoring inside 60 seconds through Felice Quinlan.
A ruck infringement on the kickoff set again saw Tweed defending their line. This time, however, they displayed impressive resolve to hold out a downhill-running Bears side before playing themselves into the game out of yardage.
A strong set out of their own end and a good Jetaya Faifua kicking game forced the Bears into some hard work themselves. Rona Peters organised things well to get the Seagulls up the field and into attacking areas.
However, some Zehara Temara magic in the 11th minute created space down the short side for the Bears to extend their lead to 8-0 through Taylor Fenton.
Tweed was presented with an opportunity to answer right back through a Chelase Lenarduzi error. As she has done a few times already this season, Jamie Chapman looked dangerous from a scrum set piece. But after turning the ball over deep in Burleigh territory, Tweed gave the visitors a leg up out of yardage before conceding a third try in the 18th minute. With Lenarduzi bringing four players into the tackle through the middle, Ash Quinlan threw a peach of a pass for Felice Quinlan to score her second.
Just as it looked like the score could blow out, Tweed produced a crucial defensive effort on their own line. A relieving penalty allowed them to travel up field while Faifua’s right-foot step continued to cause havoc on the Bears defence. More Bears ill-discipline allowed the home side to spend some much-needed time with the ball in hand before halftime.
However, Tweed couldn’t turn their period of possession into points. Burleigh, on the other hand, crossed shortly after entering the opposition 20-metre line. Again it was Temara getting deep into the line, straightening off her right foot, and playing short to Sophie Buller for a 16-0 halftime lead.
Tweed’s Jessika Elliston came out from the sheds fired up and desperate to lead her side from the front in the second half. Brutal in her carries, she took the Seagulls up the field and tried to provide the spark required to light up a comeback.
But the home side struggled for territory. Given the chance, Temara produced more points, this time off her boot. A deft chip to the right side found Taylor Fenton and the Burleigh lead jumped out to 20 with 20 minutes to play.
Tweed didn’t see the ball in an attacking position until the Bears had scored another to make it 24-0.
It didn’t last long, though. Chapman is always a threat off the back of a scrum, but rather than take the line on herself, she looked for Daisy Gordon on the edge. Tweed finally made headway towards good ball but a knock-on meant the visit was short-lived and the home side soon found themselves in defence.
A piece of Chapman magic gave the home fans something to cheer about. Taking the ball 15 metres from her own line, she split the kick chasers to break into the backfield before winding up and around the cover defence to score a superb solo try.
A Kolara Lomani try shortly before full-time only added to the idea of what could have been for the Seagulls. They didn’t look short of points when attacking the Bears line. However, they weren’t able to get up the field often enough and were forced to spend a lot of time defending their own. Despite the final 24-10 scoreline in favour of the visitors, the Seagulls can take plenty of positives out of the 70 minutes.
Key Takeaways
Give Jetaya Faifua enough chances close to the line and things will happen. Tweed wasn’t able to provide their half with enough chances to take the line on in good ball, but on the occasions they did, Faifua threatened. She possesses a lethal right foot step. With Chapman such a threat out the back of shape on the outside, there are opportunities there for Faifua to beat the defence back on the inside.
Peters is going to send Tamika Smith over the line at some stage this season. A strong runner herself, Peters can shrink the defence in the middle before sending the ball one pass wider to Smith isolated onto a smaller defender. Smith cast aside one Bears defender before going close to scoring in the first half.
It’s only a matter of time before the pair link up close to the line for points.
Tweed looked dangerous in good ball through Faifua and Peters. If the pack can get the spine into good attacking positions, like last week with Chapman crossing on the end of a planned move, the Seagulls have points in them.
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 4 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Burleigh Bears
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, kick off Round 4 of the Hostplus Cup season with a hotly anticipated rivalry clash against the Burleigh Bears on Saturday afternoon.
A superb first half allowed the Seagulls to build a significant lead on their way to a 32-26 win over the Norths Devils last week. Toby Sexton and Thomas Weaver played behind a forward-moving pack looking to compress the middle, pass deep into the line, and create try-scoring opportunities for those out wide early on.
“I thought Toby and Tom both had great games,” said coach, Dave Penna.
“Their kicking game was great, and they led the team around really well.”
The pair led the team towards the left edge where Tweed found plenty of success early on before finding points down the right side later in the half. Treymain Spry, in particular, continued in his hot start to the year.
Brent Woolf made his return from injury last week and will be better for the run. He kicked off his fifth season at Piggabeen Sports Complex with a 20-tackle stint off the bench and has been named in the same #14 jersey again for Saturday. This week, Klese Haas is back in the side while Sam McIntyre makes his first appearance of the season after featuring four times for Tweed in 2022.
The two Titans affiliates join a Seagulls side that is getting up the field well and firing in attack. Fourth in yardage averaging 1,503 metres per game, Tweed is doing a lot of the hard work post-contact. Their 549 post-contact metres per game lead the competition through four rounds. Ioane Seiuli leads the way for Tweed to rank 2nd in the Hostplus Cup while Lee Turner and Daniel Ross both also rank inside the Top 10.
Meanwhile, the Bears have started the season in fine form to beat the Devils 30-24 in Round 1 and Dolphins 36-10 in Round 3.
Sami Sauiluma scored a double last week while Tony Francis added a team-high 196 running metres off the wing. The Bears boast an exciting backline with 18-year-old Keano Kingi one to watch out for at fullback.
These two played out a 26-26 thriller in Round 17 last season. Tight throughout the 80 minutes, a late try to Guy Hamilton (named in the halves again for this one) levelled the scores in the 74th minute. With Tweed tacking the chocolates in the same round last season, it’s been a long time between celebratory rivalry drinks for Burleigh.
The Bears are averaging 33 points per game to the Seagulls’ 26.6 points to start the 2023 season. No lead, should Tweed be able to build one again this week, will be safe. Two sides capable of piling up points in a hurry, this one is shaping up as a high-scoring affair.
Players To Watch
Sam McIntyre played four times for Tweed last season and always had a positive impact on the attack.
He’s a big body at 190cm and 101kg. His willingness to get up the field translated into 134 running metres per game last year. However, it’s his ability to shift the ball that stood out most. Tweed often search down the edges in yardage, and when a strong ball carrier is compressing the defence in the middle with a good passing game, the space out wide for the speedsters grows.
The 25-year-old brings 37 games of NRL experience to a side that took their foot off the gas after building a big lead last week.
Daniel Ross comes into Round 4 following a stellar performance against the Devils. Leading the team in running metres (152m) and tackles (32), the 28-year-old led from the front and will be tasked with doing much of the same to start on Saturday against Bears props Pride Petterson-Robati and Emry Pere
Coaches Comments
Tweet dealt with a closed field last week but some more wet weather hasn’t put a dampener on the build-up to this one.
“We have had another wet week but the boys are good and preparation has been good as well,” said Penna.
While the Seagulls have built leads over the last two weeks, they’ve given the opposition a sniff at a comeback. It’s something Penna has a focus on ahead of Round 4.
“We are still trying to focus on not putting ourselves under pressure at times in the second half,” Penna said.
“It’s something we just have to keep working on.”
Dan Ross has put in the work himself since arriving at the club in 2021. It’s all starting to pay off after he was recognised as the ABC Building Products Hard as Bricks – Hardest Working Player in Round 3, playing the full 80 minutes.
“Dan is a player that has worked his butt off in the last two years. He now is proving to everyone that he can be a big part of our side in 2023. We will keep an eye on how much time he plays in the next few weeks.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 3 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Norths Devils
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, has held off a fast-finishing Norths Devils to win 32-26 in a heart-stopper at the Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Toby Sexton’s kicking game allowed the Seagulls to get off to a flier. His 5th-tackle bomb to end a strong yardage set landed just short of the line. As Jack Ahearn defused the bomb, Treymain Spry and Jaron Purcell cleaned him up and forced him back in goal. With the extra set of six, the Seagulls played to the right post and sent the ball left where Jaylan De Groot skipped through a huge hole to score. Sexton deserves another mention for his involvement in straightening the line through the middle.
Tweed continued to build pressure after the Devils kickoff sailed out on the full. While they couldn’t turn another attacking set into points, they again looked dangerous down the left edge with Sexton, in particular, organising the play and putting a dangerous Seagulls backline in positions to ask questions of the defence.
Ryland Jacobs started in the relatively unfamiliar position of dummy half but looked more than comfortable behind the ruck. Jumping out and getting up the field, his quick play-the-ball turned into more of the same from De Groot and the Seagulls used the momentum to score their second of the afternoon.
With the defensive line on the back foot, Sexton only ever looked like running it on the last. He moved the ball quickly to the left edge before taking it back from Tom Weaver and crashing over for a 12-0 lead in the 12th minute.
Sexton and the Tweed left edge continued to find success with a third try coming only minutes later. Some deception through the middle with Lamar Manuel-Liolevave hanging off his hip compressed the defence as Daniel Ross ran a hard decoy. With the defence disconnected, Weaver simply had to shovel a short ball onto Jacob McCudden to score Tweed’s third try inside 16 minutes.
Like the first, it came on the back of a Seagulls repeat set. And, again like the first, the Devils kickoff sailed out on the full to send the home side straight back into good ball.
Sexton worked the Seagulls middle to the same point and looked to run the same shape that translated into points two minutes earlier. He played short this time but his work with the ball constantly stressed the Devils defensive line.
Norths finally spent some time with the ball as the clock went ahead of Tweed’s point total in the 19th minute. However, their dangerous tackle to end a powerful yardage set released all pressure. A late shot on Purcell summed up their frustrations as Sexton knocked over a penalty goal to push the lead out to 20.
Close to perfect in the first quarter of the match, a forward pass and high tackle penalty forced the Seagulls to defend their own line. While the Devils threatened down the left edge with Ahearn heavily involved, the visitors couldn’t find a way through.
In response, Tweed marched up the field and added four more points to their lead. Looking right this time, Sexton again played a leading role. The tempo changes in his run caused havoc on the Devils defensive line as the sweeping Seagulls edge took the space he created to score.
Norths learnt the hard way that you can’t give Spry too much space near the line. Taking the ball one pass off a midfield scrum, he stepped off his left foot as Weaver made the pass, got to the outside of his man, and with the ball in two hands shaping to pass, barged his way over for the Seagulls to take a 30-0 lead five minutes before halftime. Another penalty goal as the siren sounded made it 32-0 by the time the siren sounded.
The Devils desperately needed a fast start to the second half if they wanted to threaten a comeback and Brendan Piakura produced the goods. A well-worked move isolated the big back rower onto the Seagulls halfback for Norths to register their first points of the afternoon.
Another only five minutes later gave life to the idea of the unthinkable. The Devils were throwing caution to the wind, pushing passes, and making the most of what stuck. Five minutes later again and the Devils crossed the line. The changes of angles and short passes proved tough to handle as Ahearn poked his nose through and reached out to pull the Devils to within 16 points.
Tweed simply needed time with the ball to start icing the game. Going back to what worked in the first half and crashing the middle before trusting in Sexton’s boot, the Seagulls started to put an end to the Devils’ push for a comeback.
However, the Devils kept coming. Viko Puliuvea scored under the posts in the 73rd minute. Needing to score again to give themselves one last set to pinch a winner, the Devils worked down the right edge in yardage and kicked in behind the line for Bernard Gregorius to score in the 77th minute. From 32-0 in front, the Seagulls found themselves needing to defend a 32-26 lead with a minute to play.
It ended up closer than they would have liked, but one last defensive effort was enough to secure the win and two competition points.
Key Takeaways
Brent Woolf made a successful return from injury. Playing in his first game since Tweed’s quarter final win over the Brisbane Tigers last year, Woolf came off the bench to spell Ryland Jacobs at dummy half.
It’s difficult to go past Toby Sexton as the Man of the Match. He made it look easy out there at times in the first half. His development in the subtleties of halfback play were clear to see as he used changes in the tempo of his runs to tie up the middle and put them on their heels before sending the ball wide for his backline to find points.
He won’t be credited with the try assist numbers, but he played a leading role in three tries in the first half while scoring another himself.
If not Sexton then Tom Weaver. He kicked well and provided the finishing touches on the edge in another impressive performance. The youngster is getting better every week and the Seagulls attack is getting better with him.
Coach’s Comments
It was all looking good at halftime but coach Dave Penna wasn’t sitting quite so comfortably towards the end.
“I was a little bit nervous towards the backend but the boys did enough,” said Penna.
“We’ve got a bit of work to do on our second half.”
Toby Sexton and Tom Weaver played a big part in that strong first half, and it all started with the kicking game.
“I thought Toby and Tom both had great games,” Penna said.
“Their kicking game was great and they led the team around really well.”
Brent Woolf made his return and will be another leading voice so long as he can stay on the field.
“Brent was great. We played him a bit longer than we needed to but it was great to have him back.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 3 Match Review – QRL BMD Premiership vs Brisbane Tigers
The Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls played host to the Brisbane Tigers at the Piggabeen Sports Complex, Piggabeen in Round 3. With both sides looking for their first win of the 2023 BMD Premiership season, the Brisbane Tigers claimed the competition points with a 24-12 comeback win.
The Seagulls withstood an early attacking raid from the Tigers before getting up the field and opening the scoring themselves. Shortly after Jamie Chapman held up Tigers centre Keisha-Leigh Coolwell up over the line, Tweed centre Kolora Lomani went over to open the scoring at the other end.
The Tigers failed to play to the whistle as the ball went to ground and Zara Canfield spied the opportunity out wide.
Having saved one early, Chapman put herself on the scoreboard seven minutes later. It started with Nikiah Campbell forcing a repeat set and ended with the Seagulls fullback under the posts. Setting up on the left post and fanned out to the right, it looked as though the home side wanted to string a shift together for Faith Tutauha in the corner. However, as the Tweed backline looked right, Chapman snuck in underneath, found the gap and pushed their lead out to 12-0.
The scoreboard didn’t paint an accurate picture of the first 20 minutes. Despite finding themselves 12-0 behind, the Tigers hadn’t played poorly. They worked up the field well and generated opportunities to attack in good ball. The Tweed defence finally cracked following Ellen Nussey’s forced dropout with Nikayla Sines crashing over in the left corner.
As the game worked into more of the grind, Tweed searched for easier metres down the edges. Jetaya Faifua’s long passing game proved difficult for the Tigers to handle as she floated one over to Daisy Gordon in yardage. With the defensive line scrambled and points on offer, Jessika Elliston couldn’t reel in a pass around her ankles as an 18-6 lead went begging shortly before halftime.
Some Tweed ill-discipline released pressure too often in the first half. Piggyback penalties, one as the Tigers worked out from their own corner, put a lid on Tweed’s scoring as they entered the sheds having left points out on the field. An error to open the second half provided the Tigers with an opportunity to close the gap. Similar to the first half, early ball to Sines on the left edge translated into points as she broke through the line and ducked a Chapman tackle to score.
Nikiah Campbell took it upon herself to drag the Seagulls up the field in response to Brisbane points but another Tweed error put the home side under more pressure. That pressure turned into Tigers points and a 14-12 lead in the 42nd minute.
Errors continued to dominate the game as both sides gave up possession. Tweed didn’t have any trouble getting up the field when they held onto the ball and a strong set threatened to turn the tide. Erana Reti passed her forwards onto the ball by jumping out and engaging the markers in yardage. Chapman inserted herself into the set with a classic crabbing run to pull the defensive line out of shape.
But the defensive workload proved too much for Tweed as the error count kept building. An attempted intercept to ground set a scrum for the Tigers. A sweeping Tayla Eldridge created the extra number and allowed Tegan Spicer to push Brisbane’s lead out to 20-12 with 15 minutes to play.
Just as Tweed looked to be building some momentum through their forward pack, they lost a key contributor in Canfield. The referee spotted a high shot – which he called Canfield’s fourth of the afternoon – and the Seagulls backrower was given her marching orders in the 61st minute.
Chapman did her best to inspire one last push from her side with a destructive carry but was forced to leave the field reducing Tweed to 11 for a moment. The Tigers used that moment to score their fifth unanswered try and secure the 24-12 away win.
It’s a result the Seagulls will feel as though they let slip following a fast start. They played well in patches but too many errors limited them to 12 points. They’ll now prepare for their Round 4 match against the Burleigh Bears who convincingly beat the Mackay Cutters 34-4 this week.
Key Takeaways
The Seagulls looked the better side when they were able to maintain possession. Even in moments both teams embraced the grind, they looked the more likely to score. However, regular errors and relieving penalties provided the visitors with too many opportunities to score. By turning over possession in their own half, Tweed spent too long defending and the extra tackles eventually caught up with them.
Georgia and Jessika Elliston both ran the ball well through the middle. Jamie Chapman looked impossible to stop at times as she brushed off Tigers defenders in yardage. Nikiah Campbell, the five-eighth, put her head down and ran the ball like a middle forward at times. But those strong carries and the fast play-the-ball they generated were followed by errors too often
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 3 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Norths Devils
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, will play as hosts for the first time this season as they welcome Norths Devils to the Piggabeen Sports Complex, Piggabeen.
The Seagulls come into Round 3 following an encouraging 26-22 win over the Western Clydesdales last week. A fast start and Treymain Spry double late in the first half set things up nicely before the Clydesdales scored two late tries to finish. Coach Dave Penna was happy with the result but recognised it shouldn’t have finished up so close.
“We probably should have made life easier for ourselves,” said Penna after the match.
“We made two or three breaks and should have put it to bed but took the wrong option. We made a couple of errors in yardage and gave away a few penalties but we’ll take the two points.”
Round 2 marked the return of Will Brimson to the side. Having played primarily as a five-eighth throughout his 18 games in 2022, the 26-year-old featured in a lock role to provide middle service to the edges. He has been named to start in the #13 jersey this week as Penna looks to nail down his first-choice 17.
Ryland Jacobs again impressed out of dummy half and will start in the #9 jersey on Saturday. Jacobs will be looking to pass his forwards onto the ball to provide an exciting backline with another chance to link up after going unchanged from Round 2. Youngsters Jaylan De Groot, Kaleb Ngamanu and Tom Weaver will all be better for the experience of the last two weeks while Lee Turner, Treymain Spry, Ioane Seiuli and Toby Sexton provide a range of experience and versatility across the outside backs.
Tweed’s 24 points per game ranks 6th in the competition right now, but as Penna mentioned, they left a few points out there in Round 2.
The Seagulls take on the defending premiers who are yet to pick up a win but played out a thrilling 30-30 draw against the Redcliffe Dolphins in Round 2. Like Tweed, Norths piled up points in the first half before conceding in the second. In front 20-0 shortly before the break, a 76th-minute Jeremiah Simbiken try levelled up the scores for the Devils to now sit 12th on the Hostplus Cup ladder with one loss and a draw.
Player To Watch
Ioane Seiuli came off the bench to start last season, finished in the second row, and played in the centres and on the wing in between. Starting this season in the centres, the 23-year-old will now start his second consecutive game on the wing.
Seiuli’s versatility has made him a mainstay in the Tweed side over the last 12 months and he comes into Round 3 on the back of a strong performance against the Clydesdales. Getting himself involved for 20 touches on the night, Seiuli finished up with 147 running metres, 74 post-contact, and five tackle breaks. He’s a key part of how the Seagulls get up the field and in good ball outside Treymain Spry, the Seaguls have a destructive right edge that will be tough to stop close to the line.
With Brimson in the middle zipping the ball wide, Spry and Seiuli should see plenty of opportunities near the line.
Coach’s Comments
The Seagulls dealt with a few travel issues on game day in Round 1 and have needed to jump a few hurdles in the build-up to Round 3, but coach Dave Penna is still happy with the preparations and excited for the contest.
“Unfortunately, we’ve been inundated with rain so the ground is closed,” Penna said.
“But the week has started well, we got a good session in last night and the boys are all healthy. We’re looking forward to the challenge.”
One of the challenges for Penna is getting his best players out on the field as often as possible. This week that takes the form of Will Brimson starting at lock.
“It’s great to have Brimo back,” said Penna.
“We need the best 17 playing to see how that looks. We will play around with that over the next few weeks and have our combinations for the back end of the season. “
Another area of change is in dummy half where Ryland Jacobs will make his second start of the season. Notably, there isn’t a recognised hooker on the bench this week.
“We’ve got a couple of boys there that can potentially play hooker. Ryland put in work in the preseason. He’s fit and has come a long way, but a few of the boys can do a job there for us.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
From Volunteer to NRL Photographer: The Rise of Bailey Sands and Tweed Seagulls RLFC’s Commitment to Creatives


Round 2 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Western Clydesdales
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, travelled to Toowoomba and returned home with the chocolates on the back of a 26-22 win over the Western Clydesdales. The high-powered Seagulls attack piled up enough points early into the second half to withstand a late Clydesdales flurry in the dying stages.
Both sides offered the other early penalties and ruck infringements but Tweed made the most of their opportunity to attack the line. Following a dangerous right shift around Klese Haas, the Seagulls returned to the left edge where Jaron Purcell took a short ball before hitting and spinning his way over the line for the opener.
However, Tweed soon found themselves under pressure on their own line. An error out of yardage and a Cory McGrady forced dropout saw the visitors spend a lengthy period on their own line. Looking left and right, the Clydesdales couldn’t find a way through as the Seagulls turned them away and found themselves back in charge of the territory battle.
Tweed continued to attack the Clydesdales line and stress the defence. Both Treymain Spry and Haas went close to crawling over, but the defensive line held up. An error put an end to the onslaught and a Jaylen De Groot error – while attempting to defuse a fifth-tackle bomb – translated into a Jayden Corrigan try. Just like that, the home side levelled things up despite having spent a lot more time defending their line than attacking Tweed’s.
Spry and the Seagulls right edge had no trouble on their next trip into good ball, though. Simple hands to the right edge provided Spry with enough time and space to apply some footwork and use his strength to push through the tackle and put his side back in front.
All of the defence through the middle third of the first half started to catch up with the Clydesdales as halftime approached. Providing Tweed with easy passage up the field on the following set through tired six again infringements, Haas engaged no less than four defenders before releasing an offload for Spry to score his second just four minutes after his first.
In need of a response after the break, the Clydesdales surged up the field and into attacking territory. Neihana Oldham forced a try-saver out of Jaleel Seve-Derbas over the line. However, there was no stopping Bessie Toomaga as he fell onto a McGrady grubber. Toomaga’s conversion made it 16-12 in the 46th minute.
As was the case in the first half, the Seagulls answered right back with a try of their own.
A scheming Sexton run and offload put the Clydesdales defence on the back foot. Some quick hands to Kaleb Ngamanu on the left edge put the Seagulls lead back up to double digits.
A strong defensive stand and Spry break ended up reducing the home side to 12 men in the 54th minute.
Mitchell Watson being given his marching orders for deliberately slowing the play made things more difficult for the Clydesdales who had already spent a lot of time in defence and were now chasing a lead a man down. With the advantage, the Seagulls made light work of Ngamanu scoring his second. Will Brimson’s deception across the field held up the middle defence before Tom Weaver and De Groot linked up on the edge to make use of the extra number out wide.
A handful of errors out of yardage put Tweed under pressure late in the piece. Again a McGrady grubber was the source of Clydesdales points; Riley Moore the beneficiary in the 73rd minute to bring his side to within eight points.
Another error in yardage ended with the same result: Clydesdales points.
The home side stormed home and gave themselves one set to steal it following Watson’s 78th-minute try but the Seagulls defence held firm. A Weaver forced dropout added the icing to the cake and a 26-22 win.
Key Takeaways
The Tweed right edge attack threatened throughout this one. Toby Sexton, Klese Haas and Treymain Spry prove tough to handle. Sexton’s kick and pass threat kept the defence guessing while Haas repeatedly asked difficult questions with his line running. When given the space, Spry’s strength and footwork tested the Clydesdales edge.
The left edge chimed in with points later in the match. Will Brimson’s introduction played a part. At one stage providing middle service with Sexton to his right and Weaver to his left, the 26-year-old straightened up the attack and compressed the defensive line for the likes of Spry and Kaleb Ngamanu to score out wide.
There is no shortage of points in this Tweed side. The cleaning up of errors out of yardage will only make things easier.
Coach’s Comments
Coach Dave Penna took plenty of positives out of the win but didn’t think it needed to be quite so difficult towards the end.
“We probably should have made life easier for ourselves,” Penna said.
“They kept coming and we took out foot off the pedal a bit.”
“We made two or three breaks and should have put it to bed but took the wrong option. We made a couple of errors in yardage and gave away a few penalties but we’ll take the two points.”
Will Brimson’s late inclusion into the side provided Penna with a welcomed headache as he looked to get him in the game alongside Tom Weaver and Toby Sexton.
“I’ve got to try and figure out the best way of getting those boys playing,” said Penna.
One of those ways was to have Brimson play through the middle.
“He did a good job out there tonight in his first game. He’s got a big body, he’s skilful.”
Brimson playing through the middle with Weaver and Sexton on either side of him might be something we see more of next week when the Seagulls return home to play their first game of the season at the Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Round 2 Match Review – BMD Premiership vs Mackay Cutters
The Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls responded well to conceding early points and managed to hold a lead in the second half, but a fast-finishing Mackay Cutters scored three tries in nine minutes on their way to a 26-16 BMD Premiership win at BB Print Stadium, Mackay.
A penalty in the kickoff set put the Seagulls on the backfoot early with the Cutters crossing in only the second minute of the game. Keegan Irelandes added the finishing touches to a wide-ranging right shift as Kolora Lomani desperately tracked across the field in cover defence.
The ensuing kick off flying out on the full made matters worse for the visitors. An error out of yardage again put pressure on the Tweed line. However, having arrived a split second too late five minutes earlier, Lomani bundled Irelandes into touch the second time around and provided her side with an opportunity to play themselves into the match.
With some possession and field position, the Seagulls took a 6-4 lead after ten minutes. From close to the same spot she had done a week earlier, Gloria-Hannah Murray-Fiu sold a dummy right and ducked left from behind the ruck to sneak over and score her second of the season.
An error out of yardage in the kickoff set made sure the lead was short-lived, though. The two Cutters props – Essay Banu and Laikha Clarke – linked up through the middle to generate a quick play-the-ball only five metres from the Tweed line. With it, Tahlulah Tillett threw a delicate short ball to Sareka Mooka who carried two Seagulls over the line to score.
Having sent the last one out on the full, Zara Canfield managed to bounce her next kickoff out beyond the Cutters dead ball line to provide Tweed with the chance to answer straight back. They searched left and right through both back rowers. Canfield’s carry proved especially threatening. But Tweed couldn’t find a way through, and when a Bridget Hoy error soon returned Mackay to good ball, the home side extended their lead through Katie Green.
The kickoff craziness continued for Canfield’s third of the afternoon. Again flirting with the sideline, she landed this one on the touchline to give the Cutters another penalty on halfway. Emma Manzelmann went close to crashing over near the posts but the Seagulls defence turned her away as the game entered a grind.
It took until the last play of the first half for the scoreboard to change again. Having hit both edge backrowers short a handful of times already in this one, Nikiah Campbell responded to the jamming defence by cutting back off her right foot to beat the sliding defence back on the inside to level things up at 12-all at halftime.
The kickoff chaos wasn’t reserved only for the Seagulls. Manzellmann sent her restart to the second half out on the full just as Canfield had done before her.
The two teams traded errors and penalties, but when they managed to enter good ball, Tweed actioned what seemed to be a clear plan to run their edges off a short ball. A strong Jemma Bemrose carry inside the ten-metre line set the Seagulls up to shift from the middle.
Despite the outside defence jamming in and onto Canfield, she brushed off the first would-be tackler and carried to more over the line to give Tweed a 16-12 lead in the 43rd minute.
The Cutters pressed the middle through Banu and Mooka in the search of points. They repeatedly wound up and flung themselves at a Seagulls line that continued to turn them away. Twice Tweed held Cutters ball carriers just short of the line. However, while strong in defence, that strength was only required because of the errors they made out of yardage. Failing to get to the kick too often, Tweed could no longer hold out the big Cutters forwards. Following the path Banu and Mooka had carved out earlier, Vanique Malayta barged her way under the sticks for an 18-16 Mackay lead.
One Cutters try turned into two. Two shortly turned into three as the home side ran in three tries in nine minutes to break the game open and fly out to a 26-16 lead with eight minutes to play. At the same time, the Seagulls lost Bemrose and Murray-Fiu to injury – two key players and major contributors to a lot of Tweed’s best actions throughout the match.
In a game of ebbs and flows, the Cutters managed to end up on top after 70 minutes. Tweed responded well to a slow start and looked comfortable for periods in the second half. However, a fast-finishing Cutters found enough points late to secure the 26-16 win.
The Seagulls will now prepare for their first home game of the 2023 season when they take on the Brisbane Tigers at the Piggabeen Sports Complex in Round 3.
Key Takeaways
The Seagulls ran a lot of their attack through Zara Canfield and Kaitlyn Phillips on the edges. Both run hard lines and push through the tackle when in possession. Marama Thomas and Nikiah Campbell both used them effectively while Gloria-Hannah Murray-Fiu made sure to use a Phillips carry to score Tweed’s first of the evening.
One area that is developing is the ball playing through the middle. She started at dummy half last week but Jemma Bemrose played strictly as a middle forward in this one and proved to be a handful for the Cutters defence. She is a strong carrier of the football. She stays tall and uses her leg drive to pick up extra metres after contact. Her experience and ability at dummy half add a dangerous ball-playing element to her game when the opportunity arises, too.
Her partnership with Rona Peters is one to keep an eye on. Running a genuine support line of Peters’ hip in the second half, Bemrose’s carry acted as the trigger to Canfield’s try one play later.
Tweed made things difficult for themselves with a few errors out of yardage in this one. When entering good ball, however, points never looked far away.
Round 2 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs Western Clydesdales
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, are headed to Clive Berghofer Stadium in Toowoomba for Round 2 of the 2023 Hostplus Cup season.
Dave Penna’s side are looking to build on a strong second half in Round 1. Going down early and trailing 22-4 shortly after the break, the Seagulls recovered to draw level at 22-22 before Anthony Milford knocked over a field goal to secure a Central Queensland Capras win.
The Seagulls also lost captain Lindon McGrady last week but youngsters, Jaylan De Groot and Oskar Bryant, will be better for the run and experience of a difficult day overall. Delays led to a lengthy trip to Rockhampton and the game being pushed out an hour before they could make their Seagulls first-grade debut.
De Groot looked comfortable at fullback in testing conditions to finish up with 105 running metres for the Seagulls. Bryant, who trained with the Gold Coast Titans over the summer and didn’t look out of place at dummy half, is set to come off the bench behind Ryland Jacobs on Saturday. Bryant took his opportunities to run the ball against the Capras and set up a Lloyd Perrett try.
Jacobs’ versatility is again a factor heading into Round 2. He started on the wing, featured in dummy half, and finished the game at five-eighth following McGrady’s injury in the second half.
“Ryland was great,” Penna said after the game.
“He is a great player that always gives 100% and we’re lucky to have him.”
Meanwhile, the Western Clydesdales playing in their inaugural Hostplus Cup season, kicked things off with a 20-10 defeat at the hands of the Papua New Guinea Hunters. Slow to start themselves, two tries on either side of halftime put them in a position to push the Hunters through to the 80th minute.
“They played for 80 minutes,” said Penna.
“They ran hard. Tackled hard. They’ll get better. For a new team, blokes that haven’t played together, they did a really good job.”
The Clydesdales recruited well for their first season in the competition. Jayden Corrigan is experienced at this level and comes into 2023 having scored eight tries in eight games for the Devils last year. Bessie Toomaga is another name Cup fans will recognise after he averaged 107 running metres per game while scoring 12 tries and kicking 45 goals across 18 games for the Brisbane Tigers. The Clydesdales are led by Darryn Schonig who, between appearances for the Melbourne Storm, spent the last three seasons with the Sunshine Coast Falcons.
Players To Watch
Luke Burton has again been named to come off the bench this week. You certainly took notice when he ran out onto the field in Round 1. Running for 67 metres on only five carries, Burton provided great physicality off the bench and played a key role in triggering Tweed’s comeback. With the experience of Lamar Manuel-Liolevave and Daniel Ross to start before Burton bursts into the game before the break, Tweed are a threat through the middle of the field across the full 80 minutes.
The likes of Manuel-Liolevave, Ross and Burton will lay the platform for Tom Weaver to make his third appearance for the Seagulls. Into five-eighth for the injured McGrady, Weaver has been named to link up with Toby Sexton in the halves. The 20-year-old wasn’t given too many opportunities with the ball in his two games last year but impressed in defence. If given room to move, it won’t be long before we see Weaver beat would-be tacklers with a dangerous right foot step.
Coach’s Comments
Those strapping into the game for kickoff last week will have been left confused by the hour delay. However, despite the disrupted game day preparation, Coach Penna wasn’t offering any excuses for a slow start and is confident in a correction this week
“We had a good chat around what we’re doing. We want to work hard early and front-load our energy.” Penna said.
“We did a 12-hour trip that should have only taken us two so it was a long day, but no excuses. We let ourselves down in a couple of departments.”
There were some positives to come out of it, though.
“We had a few young blokes (De Groot and Bryant) out there who learnt plenty from it,” Penna said.
Round 2 is an opportunity to build on what was still an encouraging opener despite the final result.
“Every week we’re trying to be consistent and get better at the things we need to get better at. We’re hoping to get that one step better all the time.”
“We played really well for 40 minutes last week but you need to be consistent for 80 minutes.”
- Jaylan De Groot
- Malachi Morgan
- Ioane Seiuli
- Lee Turner
- Kaleb Ngamanu
- Thomas Weaver
- Toby Sexton
- Lamar Liolevave
- Ryland Jacobs
- Daniel Ross
- Klese Haas
- Jacob McCudden
- Jaron Purcell
- Oskar Bryant
- Luke Burton
- Lloyd Perrett
- Jaleel Seve
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 1 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup vs CQ Capras
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, proudly backed by the Seagulls Club, kicked their 2023 Hostplus Cup season off with an away visit to the Central Queensland Capras in Rockhampton. While Tweed produced an impressive second half from 16-4 behind to bring the scores level with five minutes to play, an Anthony Milford field goal sealed a 23-22 win for the home side.
A Toby Sexton dropped ball on the very first set of the game put the Capras hot on the attack early. With the early opportunity for points, Kodi Nikorima slipped through a Lee Turner tackle to score in the right corner just two minutes in.
As the game entered an arm-wrestle, Sexton started to kick the Seagulls into the territory battle. His near 40/20 and towering kick landing on the line negated the Capras’ advantage in yardage on the ground.
A fortuitous bounce in one of those Capras yardage sets ended with a tapped offload and six more tackles. Nikorima only needed one to get the scoreboard ticking over again, though. Selling a dummy and skipping through the line, the former Kiwi international slowed up while waiting for support before finding a streaking Oliver Gildart on his outside.
With a chance to answer right back courtesy of the kickoff bouncing dead and forcing a dropout, Tweed crashed the ball around the ruck on the line. Joe Vuna went close to dragging three Capras defenders over the line. Ending the set by giving Central Queensland 99 metres to travel is the next-best result after points.
As the pressure built, Tweed earned a long-awaited spell inside the Capras 20-metre line. Looking left towards Lindon McGrady’s edge, the experienced five-eighth reacted quickly to the jamming defence. He flipped the play, darted to the right edge, and found Sexton who put De Groot into the gap to score.
Tweed looked to be finishing as the stronger of the two sides heading into the break. Another promising period led to a Sexton grubber around the post with De Groot appearing to apply downward pressure over the line. However, the officials saw it differently, and no more than a minute later, Milford was over at the other end. The 12-point turnaround saw the Capras enter the sheds with a 16-4 lead.
Neither side took control of the early exchanges after the break as errors plagued both the Seagulls and Capras. It took another piece of Nikorima magic to break the game back open. On the end of a long-side shift down the right edge, his double pump threw McGrady off his man and allowed Tom Farr to streak down the sideline and push Central Queensland’s lead out to 22-4.
Back-to-back Capras penalties is just what Tweed needed to bring themselves back into the game. Not long after returning to the field, Oskar Bryant jumped out from behind the ruck to hold up the B defender before playing short to a charging Lloyd Perrett. Bouncing out of the initial contact, Perrett spun free to trigger a comeback.
Earning another penalty and a piggyback out of yardage from the kickoff, the Seagulls pulled themselves to within a converted try with 20 minutes to play. Sexton had kicked well all night. This time, it translated into points as Ioane Seiuli leapt up and over the Capras defence to pluck the ball out of the air and send Kaleb Ngamanu over in the corner.
An error turned Tweed’s time in attack into defence on the kickoff set, but after a lengthy period defending their own line, they managed to turn the home side away. Ryland Jacobs, who seemed to pop up all over the field in this one, used his speed to shut down long-side shifts and turn the Capras ball players back into the middle.
The toughness in defence and willingness to get into the grind late eventually paid dividends. After searching down the right edge through Klese Haas, Sexton sent his 5th-tackle kick towards the right wing of Malachi Morgan. It wasn’t Sexton’s best kick of the night. Still, he put it in a spot for Morgan to create a contest and fall on the loose ball to level things up at 22-22 with five minutes on the clock.
Tweed fought hard to get themselves back into the contest after halftime. However, the penalties that plagued them in the first half returned to end the second, allowing Central Queensland to move up the field and into a spot for Anthony Milford to slot a field goal. The Capras were made to work hard for it but ultimately held on for a 23-22 victory.
Key Takeaways
Tweed played out some impressive periods in defence throughout this one. While they often put themselves under pressure, the line looked comfortable more often than not. Only the quality of Nikorima regularly threatened and broke through.
With the ball, their style of play remains similar to last season despite the change in coach. We caught regular glimpses of the shifts out of yardage and middle service through big forwards. Joseph Vuna looks as though he will be a key player throughout the 2023 season. He’s a brutal ball carrier but moved the ball nicely in good ball. His threat as a runner will only open things up for those on the edges when he sends the ball wide.
Another to keep an eye on in the coming weeks: Ryland Jacobs.
He started on the wing, spent time at hooker, and finished the game at five-eighth. His speed, skill and versatility proved invaluable in this one with the 26-year-old looking good to build on his promising 11-game 2022 season.
Coach’s Comments
Tweed captain Lindon McGrady couldn’t finish the game which saw Ryland Jacobs move into five-eighth. Having already spent time on the wing and at hooker, Jacobs’ versatility came in handy for coach Dave Penna.
“Ryland was great,” Penna said.
“He is a great player that always gives 100% and we’re lucky to have him.
A few great players ran out for the Capras and made things difficult in defence. Still, Penna saw the benefit in his side going up against NRL-quality spine players.
“Nikorima and Milford were very good, they’re both quality players. It was great for our young squad to experience playing those type of players,” said Penna.
Oskar Bryant and Jaylen De Groot were two of those youngsters to benefit. Penna was happy with how they made the jump in grade.
“Both of the young boys had good games. They will only get better for the experience.
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 1 Match Review – QRL BMD Premiership vs CQ Capras
The Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls bounced back from an error-ridden start to their match at Browne Park, Rockhampton. However, the Central Queensland Capras built enough of a lead to secure the 22-4 win in a scrappy Round 1 contest.
Tweed put themselves under pressure early by conceding penalties in yardage, but the Capras couldn’t turn their gifted opportunities into points to start. Instead, when Tweed kept hold of the ball and completed their defensive sets without issue, they looked the more likely of the two teams to score in the first ten minutes. Both Rona Peters and Jamie Chapman went close to scoring the opener.
Round 1 rust defined the exchanges throughout the opening period of the match. Too often one team backed an opposition error up with one of their own. Eventually, the Capras managed to get to the end of a set in good ball which saw Reeghyn Beardmore roll a perfect grubber in behind the line for Tarni Smith to claim the first four-pointer of the afternoon and a 6-0 lead after 15 minutes.
The penalties continued to pile up for the Seagulls. Offside out of yardage and a high tackle in good ball provided the Capras with an ideal opportunity to build on their lead. However, the Tweed line speed never slowed. They continued to get up in the face of the Capras as they looked to shift the ball through the left edge, forcing errors themselves and threatening to get into the grind.
Despite the dropped ball and lack of flow to the game, Jamie Chapman’s quality shone throughout. Eager to get her hands on the ball whenever possible, the Seagulls and Brisbane Broncos fullback’s running game looked the most likely avenue to ascendency.
As is often the case in early-season games, completing sets is pivotal. Riding out the rust and earning shots inside the opposition’s 20-metre line is the name of the game. Beardmore’s boot ended up being the major difference between the two teams across the first half. Getting to the last tackle shortly before the break, she rolled another one in behind the Tweed defensive line. Mariah Stoch fell on it the second time around before adding the extras to build a 12-0 lead at halftime.
Unfortunately for the Seagulls, the second half started in a similar fashion to the first: with errors.
Like the first half, the Carpras halfback made good use of their time attacking the Seagulls line. Having rolled two in behind the line already, she took it on herself to crash over for an 18-0 lead in the 47th minute.
We caught a glimpse of how things could look for the Seagulls if the passes started to stick. A short side raid into an offload back in field put the visitors in a position to attack in good ball. With it, Gloria-Hannah Murray-Fiu – who had produced a few promising moments from dummy half already – capitalised on some tired Capras defence to score her first of the 2023 BMD Premiership season.
A Jessika Elliston linebreak provided Tweed with a chance to earn a grandstand finish. The Tweed prop put on some footwork to beat the defence but Kolora Lomani was dragged down in the backfield in a tackle that went a long way to sealing the result for Central Queensland. A Krystal Sulter try in the dying stages made sure of it.
While the Seagulls looked a lot better the longer the game went on, the early errors and penalties made the job too difficult to finish inside 70 minutes as they went down 22-4 in Rockhampton.
Key Takeaways
Rona Peters was in everything for the Tweed Seagulls in this one. She ran the ball well to carry her side up the field. When she wasn’t carting it up herself, Rona’s middle service created favourable opportunities for the other forwards around her. On a dry day, she will be a good source of clean ball for the outside backs too.
A pass, run and kick threat in good ball, she will be crucial to the Seagulls attack when it all clicks in yardage. However, and a lot of it is down to how much time Tweed was forced to spend in defence, she made a significant impact without it. A big shot put an end to a good Capras set more than once.
Nikiah Campbell is another that will benefit from more opportunities to attack the opposition line. Light on her feet as she changes her tempo across the field, it won’t be long before she steps into a gap and opens her account for the year.
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
The Sisterhood of Seagulls: Jessika and Georgia Elliston Take the Field
You often hear people say your team is like a group of sisters, but many can’t relate to actually having theirs by their side on the pitch.
As the Seagulls gear up for their season opener against the CQ Capras, all eyes are on Elliston sisters Jessika and Georgia, who are set to make their mark in the 2023 BMD Premiership season on either side of the front row.
Jessika Elliston, a seasoned Queensland Origin player, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Seagulls squad. Her leadership and skill on the field are second to none, and having her as a teammate is undoubtedly a huge advantage for her little sister, Georgia.
The sisters are each other’s biggest fans but can also be each other’s biggest critics. For Jessika, being able to share her passion and knowledge of rugby league with her younger sister has been a thrill. “It’s been really cool, and to be able to talk footy with her has been great,” she said. “But I think it actually kills her to listen to me and take my advice… like I know what I’m doing, ok!” Jessika added jokingly.
As a Queensland Origin player, Jessika has faced some of the toughest competition in the game, and although she has had some setbacks through injury, Jess has emerged as a better player time and time again. Her experience and expertise are sure to rub off on her little sister, and it will be exciting to see how Georgia progresses through the season.
It all started with a bit of FOMO (fear of missing out) for Georgia, the younger sister, as she watched her friends thrive in rugby league while she clung to playing rugby union. But when coaches Lawrance and Lam approached her with a comment, the decision to switch codes was made.
Jess, Georgia’s sister, recalls the moment. “She was nervous about the switch from union to league, but the coaches showed genuine interest in her, watched her train, and saw how strong she is. But what tipped her was when they said they couldn’t guarantee her any playing time. That set her off, and she was instantly set on proving them wrong and making the squad.”
Georgia’s drive to succeed is undeniable, and her decision to join the Seagulls squad is a testament to that. However, Georgia is still very humble, and she didn’t expect to make the starting team so soon.
“I honestly had the plan to drive up myself just as a spectator – it’s on my bucket list to see the Turtles hatch, and I was going to do all that, but this is a better plan,” said Georgia, reflecting on when she found out she’d made the starting team.
Head coaches Lawrance and Lam knew what they were getting into when they welcomed both sisters into the squad. Growing up with siblings often means combining fun and adventure with the constant need to one-up each other, and in sports, these traits are only enhanced. But for the Seagulls, having both sisters on the field is a surefire way to trouble their opponents.
“Jess is super protective over me.” Said Georgia “I’m not worried about how we will play together; I’m more worried about what she will do to the opposition if anything happens to me.”
With their sibling connection and drive to succeed, there’s no doubt that they’ll be a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.
Jessika’s last remarks were, “If she’s not an egg, she’ll be fine.”
Round 1 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup vs CQ Capras
Finishing 2022 at 6th on the ladder and as one of the best defensive teams in the competition, the Seagulls’ season ended in Week 2 of the finals in a late 26-24 defeat at the hands of the Sunshine Coast Falcons. Meanwhile, the Capras will be looking to continue on their upward trajectory following a 5th placed finish last year. Left with two wooden spoons either side of the cancelled 2020 season and a combined two wins across 2019 and 2021, the Capras impressed in winning 11 games before also seeing their season end in Week 2.
The last time these two teams met came in Round 13 last season. The Seagulls managed to build an early 16-0 lead thanks to tries from Will Brimson, Sosefo Fifita and Scott Galaeano before holding on in the second half to secure the 18-12 away win.
Saturday’s match is a chance for both teams to build on 2022’s finals appearance and put all of the hard work over the offseason into practice.
For Tweed, Lindon McGrady – who notched up his 100th game for the club last year – returns to lead the club, this week from fullback. The Prince of Piggabeen has been a mainstay in the side in recent years. In a new-look Seagulls outfit playing in their first competitive game of the year, his familiarity and control will be a big factor this week.
The Seagulls set a high bar last year. Exciting and free-flowing in attack and conceding just over 20 points per game, there is plenty of confidence that this group can build on a promising 2022 and improve further in 2023.
Players To Watch
Named to make his Seagulls debut this week, Jaron Purcell arrives from Newcastle and will fill the #13 jersey for this one. Coach Dave Penna’s approach in attack is something that appealed to Purcell when weighing up the decision to move north. A good ball player and more than capable of providing the middle service Tweed often used to shift the ball last season, his involvement will be important to how the Seagulls get up and around the field on Saturday.
While there has been a turnover in faces through the middle of the field, a cohesive back-five should ensure the Seagulls ice plenty of opportunities out wide with the ball. McGrady, The Prince of Piggabeen, finds the ball regardless of which position he fills and will be a key link between Tom Weaver and Toby Sexton in the halves, and his outside backs. Ioane Seiuli, who jumped between the backrow and centre last season, is a big body out wide that will cause the defence all sorts of problems in yardage and close to the line. Ryland Jacobs is back for his sixth season at the club after scoring five tries in 11 games last year. Lee Turner, entering his fifth season with the Seagulls, is another dangerous prospect in the centres following his seven tries in 18 games throughout 2022.
Coach’s Comments
Dave Penna took over from Ben Woolf over the summer but isn’t starting 2023 off on the back foot like other new coaches. Acting as the Head of Football for the last three years, Penna is familiar with the club and playing group and not looking to change too much to start the year.
“We’ve been a strong club in recent years so we’re in a good position to keep that going. We don’t need to change much,” said Penna.
As far as Round 1 footy goes, nobody expects perfection. Instead, Penna wants to see everything they’ve worked on in recent weeks start to show on game day.
“We want to compete on every play,” Penna said.
“Employ what we’ve worked on over the offseason – keep it simple.”
- Lindon McGrady
- Ryland Jacobs
- Ioane Seiuli
- Lee Turner
- Kaleb Ngamanu
- Thomas Weaver
- Toby Sexton
- Joseph Vuna
- Daniel Ross
- Lamar Liolevave
- Klese Haas
- Jacob McCudden
- Jaron Purcell
- Jaylen DeGroot
- Lloyd Perrett
- Luke Burton
- Oskar Bryant
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
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Foundation Partner Gold Coast Airport Renew Seagulls Women’s Sponsorship
The partnership between the Tweed Seagulls Women’s team and the Gold Coast Airport has become a significant aspect of the team’s identity since the founding of the women’s team in 2019. Gold Coast Airport has been the major naming rights sponsor for the team since their induction into the QRL statewide competition, and the partnership has developed into a mutually beneficial collaboration.
Ahead of the 2023 BMD Premiership season, Gold Coast Airport and the Tweed Seagulls Women’s Team announced the next chapter signing on as the official sponsor for another two years.
Gold Coast Airport (GCA) was the founding sponsor that brought together the start of the Tweed Seagulls’ pursuit to grow the Women’s game within our region, and six years on, they remain steadfast to that goal.
The sponsorship is an association based on shared values and a vision to provide local female athletes a pathway to achieve their goals on and off the field.
Following the upheaval of 2020, which saw the relocation of the QRLW competition season and Gold Coast Airport ground to nearly a complete standstill, resilience and loyalty were shared values that saw the partnership front yet another theme the Seagulls and GCA have in common.
“There was a lot of uncertainty in the world, but one thing we could count on was the ongoing partnership with Gold Coast Airport,” Tweed Seagulls RLFC CEO Matt Francis said.
“As the Women’s sole major sponsor, we are thankful for Gold Coast Airport’s support over the past six years. The partnership is one of the most enduring in Women’s Rugby League, and we hope to see this grow into the future.
To put it simply, we would not have been able to establish our female programs without the Gold Coast Airport,” Francis concluded.
Queensland Airports Limited Chief Commercial Officer Adam Rowe said Gold Coast Airport was thrilled to be able to re-sign this important partnership with Tweed Seagulls.
“Gold Coast Airport is proud to support our local community – and helping to provide a pathway for women in sport is something we as an organisation have long been passionate about,” Mr Rowe said.
“It’s important to us that our local clubs provide opportunities for young women in sport both on and off the field. We’re delighted that we’ve been able to help the Tweed Seagulls establish and continue this important initiative through its women’s team and the Tom Searle Scholarship.”
The partnership between the Tweed Seagulls and GCA goes beyond just a simple business relationship. It extends into the community as both organisations share a common value in promoting diversity and inclusion. We both believe in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for people from all backgrounds and promoting equal opportunities for everyone.
Gold Coast Airport has attributed part of their sponsorship to one of the Tom Searle Scholarship recipients. This scholarship is named after a player, mentor, and coach who’s aimed at supporting young athletes in their academic or professional pursuits.
By sponsoring this scholarship, GCA is showing their commitment to supporting the local community and helping young individuals reach their full potential.
The Tweed Seagulls are delighted that GCA has chosen to support this initiative and we look forward to seeing the season’s outcomes.
Affiliate wrap: Seagulls go down to Bears in Final Trial
Burleigh have clinched pre-season bragging rights on the Gold Coast after downing Tweed in both Hostplus Cup trial matches at the weekend.
For the Seagulls, despite falling short in both contests with the final scores ending up 20-16 and 18-10, they had plenty of positives to come from the hit-out – including a chance for young gun Tom Weaver to get some more time in the halves after a stellar NRL trials with the Titans over the last fortnight.
Joe Vuna also got more minutes in the legs, as did Treymain Spry who are both coming off big summers after injury ruled them out for a majority of 2022.
The local Hostplus Cup rivals will square off again – this time for points – on Saturday, April 1 at Piggabeen Sports Complex, before another showdown in Round 15 at the end of June.
Both sides will enjoy this coming weekend off in readiness for their seasons to begin on March 11 with the duo on the road – with the Seagulls flying up to Rockhampton and face the Capras.
Titans finalise Hostplus Cup allocations for 2023
The Gold Coast Titans have confirmed their Hostplus Cup allocations for the upcoming season in readiness for Round 1.
Most players will remain with the Tweed Seagulls in 2023, with the exception of Tanah Boyd, Keano Kini and Paul Turner who have all made the move across the Coast to Burleigh.
The Tweed Seagulls played finals footy in the Hostplus Cup, Tweed will be hungry to avenge last year’s heartbreaking loss to Sunshine Coast in week two of the playoffs.
In the Seagulls’ season opener, they’ll hope to get off to a winning start up against the Capras up in Rockhampton; although, the clash will be no easy feat after Central Queensland were the surprise packet of 2022 with a heroic finals appearance.
2023 allocations
- AJ Brimson
- Moeaki Fotuaika
- Kieran Foran
- Jayden Campbell
- Brian Kelly
- Toby Sexton
- Chris Randall
- Aaron Schoupp
- Jojo Fifita
- Tom Weaver
- Joe Vuna
- Klese Haas
- Treymain Spry
- Sam McIntyre
- Joe Stimson
Written by titans.com.au
TWEED SEAGULLS RLFC GEARS UP FOR THE 2023 SEASON WITH A NEW APPROACH TO CONNECTION
Tweed Seagulls RLFC, an esteemed provincial club with a rich history, is delighted to herald the beginning of the 2023 season. As one of the oldest clubs in the game, the Gulls are eager to showcase our talent and compete at the highest level. The unwavering support of sponsors, fans, and stakeholders has been instrumental in helping the team maintain our resilience and determination through past seasons, enabling us to remain a formidable presence in the QRL state-wide competitions.
The Tweed Seagulls are thrilled to welcome our newly-appointed Head Coach, David Penna, for the upcoming 2023 season. Coach Penna has been instrumental in bringing the entire club together and fostering a collaborative environment by working alongside coaches from all six grades and upwards. As a testament to his impressive performance, the club has extended his coaching contract into 2024. This holistic approach to coaching is expected to support the development and growth of players at all levels of the club, while also enhancing the team’s overall performance.
In an interview with MC and exiting Tweed Seagulls RLFC CEO Matthew Francis, Brent Woolf discusses the men’s team progress from a player’s perspective under newly-appointed Head Coach David Penna.
“With a new coach, it’s always hard to change plays and change structure, but we’re coming pretty good at the moment. The last few weeks have been a lot better than the weeks previous.” Brent Woolf noted.
When asked about his legacy as a coach, Penna said, “I get great pleasure out of seeing the guys I have had involvement with over the years do well, you know, see them up there playing each week.” He values establishing enduring connections with his players and aspires to maintain their friendships beyond their tenure in the team.
Jessika Elliston, a player on the women’s team, praises the new facilities at Tweed and the support the club has provided for the Women’s team. She also notes that the offseason has been good under the guidance of joint head coaches Lawrence Faifua, Lambros To’omaga and Strength and Conditioning Coach Carly McGrath. When asked why she has stuck with Tweed, Elliston emphasizes the club’s unwavering support for its players, saying, “You guys have never given up on us, you’re always pushing to support us and giving us the things to play”.
As the Tweed Seagulls Rugby League Club, we wish to acknowledge and pay our respects to the generations of the local Aboriginal people of the Tweed Bundjalung Nation. They have lived in and derived their physical and spiritual needs from the forests, rivers, lakes, and streams of this beautiful valley over many thousands of years as the traditional custodians of these lands.
We took the moment and were thrilled to unveil the artwork for our new Indigenous Jersey ahead of the upcoming season. We recognize the significant cultural heritage, deep connection to the land, and ongoing contributions of the Indigenous community. Our new Indigenous Jersey is a tribute to this rich culture and history, and we hope it will be a source of pride and inspiration for all.
At the Tweed Seagulls, we are committed to promoting reconciliation and creating a more inclusive and respectful environment in sport. We believe that our new Indigenous Jersey is just one example of our ongoing efforts towards this goal. We aim to continue to educate ourselves and our community about the importance of respecting and celebrating the diverse cultures and histories of all people.
Once again, we acknowledge the traditional custodians of these lands, the Tweed Bundjalung Nation, and thank them for allowing us to live, work, and play on their beautiful country.
New Cup coaches of 2023: Penna at Tweed
Nine clubs will go into this season’s Hostplus Cup with a new coach at the helm, in one of the biggest turnovers in recent years.
With the addition of the Western Clydesdales – and kick-off to season 2023 right around the corner – the Queensland Rugby League is profiling our 10 new coaches, whether they’re coming from a different club or are completely new to the Cup arena.
Q&A with Dave Penna
What did it mean to you to be named coach of Tweed’s Hostplus Cup team?
I’m really looking forward to it. Everyone says, ‘why would you do that?’ and ‘you have enough work as it is’, but it’s my downtime. It keeps me sane. I love being around the players again and I’ve learnt a lot over my career. I’ve been able to study all the coaches at all the grades. It’s given me an understanding of things I could have been better at. I’m just looking forward to doing it again, but who knows, I might have to sack myself.
What is your coaching philosophy?
You’ve got to coach to what your team needs. It’s not my team, it’s their team. My big coaching philosophy is to just coach. Every individual needs help, no matter how experienced they are. That’s my job – to make sure any player is better than where they started.
Who would you say is your mentor or strongest influence in coaching?
It would be unfair of me to say just one. I’ve been really, really lucky to work under some great coaches in the NRL. I did 12 years with Des Hasler and four with Geoff Toovey and I was lucky to work for a year with Michael Maguire and also Brad Arthur for a number of years. Every one of them are great coaches and have their own different philosophies and mannerisms. As soon as you think you know everything, you should give it away. Every year you’re learning something different. All those coaches have great philosophies in their game. You have a bit of yourself and then take a little bit of what you can learn from them.
What are your first impressions of your squad for this season?
I have a lot of great leaders in the squad, players that are very experienced at this level. I’m looking forward to revitalising them and hopefully we don’t need to change a lot. (Former coach) Ben Woolf has done a fantastic job. I’ve been very lucky to step into programs and systems that these guys have put in place.
What are your goals for season 2023?
We’ve always put ourselves in the right positions at the business end of the year. But I’d like to see us improve, week-to-week, in those areas we need to improve on to take us a bit further.
Who within your squad will make their mark in 2023?
We’re very, very lucky to have players who are still relatively young in their careers. For me to single out anyone is hard. There’s Brent Woolf, Ryland Jacobs, Will Brimson, Lindon McGrady, Lee Turner… we’ve also been lucky enough to pick up Lloyd Perrett. I’m missing a lot of players. but these are players I believe could do a job in any NRL club. That’s been my opinion for the past three years. Unfortunately they haven’t got there yet but I’d love to see that happen for them.
NSW Government Funding to Expand the Piggabeen Sports Complex
The future of Tweed Seagulls RLFC as a pathway for regional male and female rugby league players received a massive boost today with the announcement of funding for much-needed improvements to the Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Member for Tweed Geoff Provest has proudly delivered over $2.4 million in NSW Government funding to expand the Piggabeen Sports Complex.
The funding will see the grounds expanded to three international-fields, upgrades to the lighting and provide a community playground that will assist with an increased broader community usage.
Mr Provest said $1.68 million dollars of the funding was committed under the Multi Sport Community Facility Fund and was one of 39 projects funded across the State as part of the NSW Government’s commitment to turbocharge the take-up of community sport.
In announcing the grant Mr Provest said that the improved facilities will service youth across the region and support the growth of female participation as well as providing increased opportunities for people with disability.
“Tweed Seagulls have a proud history in the sport but it is also their commitment to the broader community that will enable more local residents to enjoy the benefits of sport and active recreation,” Mr Provest said.
In welcoming the announcement and thanking Geoff Provest and the State Government for their much-needed support Tweed Seagulls CEO, Matt Francis, paid tribute to all stakeholders in reaching this important point in securing Seagulls future as a pathways club to the NRL.
“Geoff has always taken a personal interest in the opportunities that the Club provides local youth and has been one of the key drivers in us reaching this critical point in the Club’s future.
“Over the past three years we have worked closely with Tweed Shire Council on the development of a MasterPlan for Piggabeen that has been instrumental in us seeking funding with Geoff’s support.
“This process has involved community consultation as well as the support of our governing bodies and game partners including the NRL, QRL and our affiliate the Gold Coast Titans.
“Tweed Seagulls is also indebted to the unwavering support of the Norths Collective through Seagulls Club where the commitment to rugby league is underpinned by our shared values to make a difference in the communities we serve,” Francis concluded.
Manager Parks and Active Communities Murray Smith welcomed the funding for the project, which had been informed through consultation with the community in the development of a Master Plan for the complex upgrade.
“This venue is a vital piece of infrastructure for the sporting community in Tweed Heads West and is well-used and loved by the wider community,” Mr Smith said.
“Council is grateful for the funding to upgrade the facility so we can provide an improved and more functional space for local clubs and residents to use.”
QRL Director Darryl Van de Velde thanked Geoff Provest and Tweed Shire Council for their support not only of Tweed Seagulls but also community rugby league.
“The facilities are a just recognition of the work the Tweed Seagulls continually do in creating pathways for our local men and woman. The Tweed Seagulls have been a major part of the journey of many who have reached not only NRL but State of Origin level in recent years.
“Due to these facilities upgrades the QRL have extended to the Tweed Seagulls a new five-year participation licence agreement ensuring the facilities will be utilised to the benefit of community players pursuing an NRL or NRLW dream,” Van De Velde said.
Gold Coast Titans CEO Steve Mitchell joined other stakeholders in thanking the NSW Government and Geoff Provest as well as the Tweed Council for their support of the Piggabeen Master Plan.
“Seagulls RLFC Club has a proud history as the oldest provincial club in the game and providing opportunities for local players who aspire to play at the elite level.
“Along with community clubs they are the lifeblood of the game and the provision of quality facilities will help not only cater for the growth of female and male participation but also provide additional opportunities for people with disability,” Mitchell said.
Norths Collective CEO Luke Simmons summed up for all saying the synergy with Seagulls RLFC went beyond the group’s charter to promote and foster the development of rugby league.
“Our involvement with Seagulls is part of a common vision to make a positive difference to the lives of our local community.
“To further our partnership in programs that promote our values of inclusion and diversity, we are proud that the Seagulls Club logo will be proudly be worn on the Hostplus jersey for the next three years to support increased female participation, opportunities for people with disability and First Nations participation,” Simmons said.
‘Unifying voice’: Campbell honoured with OAM
Preston Campbell has been hailed as a unifying voice for Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, an inspiration for players to make a difference off the field and a trailblazer on it after being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia.
Campbell, who was the driving force behind the All Stars concept in 2010, was recognised in the 2023 Australia Day honours with an OAM for service to Indigenous youth and rugby league.
The 2001 Dally M Medallist and 2003 premiership winner overcame concerns about his size from some within the game, while working tirelessly in the community since his playing days with Cronulla, Penrith and Gold Coast.
“I don’t think people realise that his whole life – seven days a week – is dedicated to young people in communities, and how much he actually gives of himself to make even the littlest difference in someone’s day, so it is awesome to see that he has got this recognition,” Australian Rugby League Indigenous Council chair Katrina Fanning said.
Campbell, who was the first player signed by the Titans when they joined the NRL in 2007, convinced officials to back the introduction of an Indigenous All Stars team after witnessing first-hand the reaction to the Aboriginal Dreamtime team which played before the 2008 World Cup opener.
The annual fixture has been a vehicle to promote education and health to Indigenous youth while educating the broader community about issues confronting First Nations people.
Many of those issues are now at the centre of discussions about an Indigenous Voice to Parliament.
“Preston has always been a unifying voice,” said Dean Widders, the NRL Indigenous pathways manager, Eels NRLW coach and man responsible for the creation of the Unity Dance performed by the Indigenous All Stars.
“You have other people who will be more confrontational and combative about issues with strong opinions and fiery, aggressive tones but he has always been the voice that brings everyone together and that is how he has been able to do a lot of his work.
“That is what All Stars was about. He set it up to bring people together – not us against them. It was not about our culture to be showcased; it was about our culture to be shared. That is an important message as we keep progressing All Stars.”
The 45-year-old has also been a role model and mentor for other NRL stars, including Greg Inglis, Johnathan Thurston and his son Jayden Campbell, who has inherited the No.1 Titans jersey that Preston wore in most of his 103 matches for the club.
“The Indigenous All Stars is his baby and since that started there are a lot of boys that are finding out about their family history and their culture – myself included,” said Thurston, whose academy provides employment initiatives and community programs across Australia.
“I know there are other players who have been able to do that too so he has been a huge role model for not only our nation’s youth but also the players at the highest level now because of what he has been able to achieve and give back to the game.”
After retiring in 2011, Campbell founded the Preston Campbell Foundation, which operates Presto’s Training Café at Dreamworld to help school leavers gain experience and qualifications in hospitality.
“He has definitely influenced me to take on this road with what he does so I am glad he has received this recognition because it is thoroughly deserved,” said Inglis, who has established the Goanna Academy to help end the stigma about mental health.
“What he has taught me through footy and what I am doing now have been exactly the same.
“He has had his own issues [with mental health] and he wasn’t shy to speak about it. He said, ‘just be honest with yourself’ and that is what I have been doing.
“There are no secrets about me when I go out and talk about my struggles. It’s out there and he just really taught me, ‘don’t hide anything’ if you are going to do community work. If you stay true to yourself, the better it is going to be in the long run.”
Both Fanning and Widders used anecdotes to explain the impact Campbell has in the community and across the game.
“There’s not too many players who still pull a crowd like he does so many years after playing,” said Fanning, who was awarded an Officer in the General Division of the Order of Australia (AO) for distinguished service to the Indigenous community through education, health initiatives, and to sport.
“I remember Arthur Beetson was doing some work with Centrelink with us not long before he passed away and he had that impact. Preston is the same.
“With All Stars, his emphasis has been on making sure the week and other activities across the year are more meaningful than just the game, and those things started to teach people outside of Indigenous communities.
“Over time, they have learned more that have enabled other things [like the Voice to Parliament] to gain momentum.
“He is just able to bring people along and they feel comfortable, especially on issues that many people – because of their discomfort – usually shy away from.”
Widders said wherever he went with Campbell, people wanted to talk with him and he always made time for them.
‘When I played Country with him at Dubbo I got up in the morning and he was sitting outside the hotel on the street with a group of people around him talking. He was having a coffee and he spoke with them for about 45 minutes.
“After the people left I said, ‘who is that bra, your family?’. He said, ‘I don’t know, I’m not sure who they are. They were just driving past, and they pulled over and wanted to have a yarn’. Every day with him is the same.
“We would visit remote communities in Queensland when we were working together at the Gold Coast and when we got back Preston could remember the name of every kid that we visited.
“It just shows that he sees everyone as important. If you meet the boss of a big company, you remember his name, but Preston remembered all the kids and all the teachers that we came across. Everyone is important enough for him to treat them with respect.”
MEDAL (OAM) OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA IN THE GENERAL DIVISION: Mr Thomas Preston CAMPBELL, QLD
For service to Indigenous youth, and to rugby league.
Preston Campbell Foundation
- Founder and Director (since 2015)
- Board Member (since 2015)
- Founder, Presto’s Training Cafe Gold Coast (2016) and Brisbane (2017).
Indigenous Mental Health
- Volunteer, Indigenous Youth Mobility Pathway Project (current)
- Ambassador, Deadly Choices, Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (current)
- Indigenous Ambassador, various mental health programs (current)
Gold Coast Titans
- Player Mentor (current)
- Partner, Titans Community Team (current)
- Member, Advisory Group, Titans Reconciliation Action Plan (current)
- Life Member (inducted 2019)
- Ambassador, Titan’s Beyond Tomorrow Program (2019)
- Player (2007-2011)
National Rugby League
- Ambassador, All-Stars State of Mind Campaign (current)
- Presenter, National Rugby League Community Program (since 2018)
- Player: Penrith Panthers (2003-2006)
- Player: Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks (1999-2002)
- Player: Gold Coast Chargers (1998)
Business
- Director, Phyre Apparel (current)
Awards and Recognition include:
- Eastern Stand named in his honour, Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast (2018)
- Ken Stephen Medal, National Rugby League (2008)
- Player of the Year, Gold Coast Titans Football Club (2008)
- Centenary Medal (2003)
- Dally M Medal, National Rugby League (2001)
Meskell Appointed Tweed Seagulls Men U18s Head Coach

Alongside Head Coach Sam Meskell, will be Will Johnstone and Zeb Taia as Assistant Coaches. Stephen Gaggin will continue his role as Team Manager and Jason Burkhardt will be the Head Trainer.
‘Old Gulls Teaching New Tricks’
One of Tweed Seagulls’ greatest, Selasi Berdie, was a welcome sight at his old stomping ground.
Selasi stepped away from the game after an unfortunate injury that put his 141-capped and premiership-winning career to an abrupt end. However, the former Seagulls powerhouse was coaxed back on stage by former teammate and current U21s Coach Aaron Zimmerle to assist during the pre-season by educating the boys on a few interchangeable BJJ & Wrestling learnings.

Selasi Berdie & Luke Kelly 2006
“I have known Sel since he was 18 years old, and I saw first-hand the relentless work ethic he brought to his career, he worked his way through Tweed U18s into the QLD Cup and the NRL. It is these lessons of persistence and dedication as much as his expertise in the areas of contact and wrestle that I know he will impart on the next generation of Gullz.” Said Coach Zimmerle about his former teammate.
After stepping away from Rugby League, the then-known tough man at the Gullz was determined to bounce back but found himself in a different arena. Selasi took his power and strength across to combat sports due to its similarities with Rugby League. With a passion for health and fitness, Selasi eventually opened CMBT Training Centre, which has become home to high-calibre Combat Sports athletes and frequently visited by NRL teams looking for an edge in the grappling department of Rugby League.

Selasi passing on a few tips to current player Reece Summer
Selasi’s return to Tweed continues a trend of past Seagulls legends returning to their old club in a bid to impart some wisdom on to the current playing groups.
Selasi added, “I couldn’t be happier to be back at Seagulls helping to play a small part in the development of the new breed of Seagulls. The club has a real feel about it right now, which is very similar to the year we won the premiership and the athleticism and skill level is on another level. The culture of the Gullz and camaraderie that Tweed has is something that I’ve always cherished so it means a lot to be back with the boys ripping in during this pre-season. “
Dream debut season ‘just the start’ for Haas
It’s fair to say Klese Haas had a whirlwind 2022 season in his debut year, but the 20-year-old wants that to just be the start of a successful first grade career.
Starting the year playing Hastings Deering Colts with Tweed, before an accelerated elevation to Hostplus Cup and then NRL; the young forward’s next goal is to back-up the success he had in his maiden year, particularly with the opportunity to get in a full pre-season at Parkwood.
“That was just the start of my journey. I have bigger fish to fry I guess,” Haas revealed.
“I just want to become a more experienced NRL player and hopefully get some more games under my belt.
“Every time (at training), I want to try to just get better and learn. Also just get better as a person.”
On day one of the 2023 campaign, the younger brother of NRL enforcer Payne had a chance to sit down with Titans coach Justin Holbrook to discuss what his season would look like, which he hopes will see him add more NRL appearances to his currently fledgling tally of two.
“He just wants me to make sure I’m happy and just keep working,” Haas said.
“We’ve got Joe Stimson coming in, so there’s plenty of competition for the spot.
“It should be good, so I just need to get better.”
Along with working hard to get better, his overall aim is play for the people around him that inspired him to keep playing the game he fell out of love with.
“I just want to make my family proud. That’s my number one goal,” he said.
“I didn’t really want to play footy for a couple years, and then with the passing of my brother (Chace) and stuff, it made me want to push to try and get just more in life than just where I was at the time.
“I was less motivated. It was tough, but having my family around, it was a really big motivator for me, so it was really good to have all of them around.”
‘Best thing for me’: Tweed relegation freshens Sexton’s mindset to reclaim No. 7
A candid Toby Sexton has opened up about his recent Hostplus Cup stint, admitting it was the catalyst to finding his love for rugby league again.
Finishing the year with the Tweed Seagulls after a tough first full season as the club’s chief linchpin, the return to Cup for his final four games of the season proved to be a godsend for the 21-year-old, returning to pre-season training with a big smile on his face and notebook and pen at the ready to reclaim the Titans’ No. 7 jersey.
“Looking at it now, I think it was the best thing for me. It was obviously a massive year and I took a lot out of it but at the same time, it was pretty tough, ” the young half revealed.
“Being able to go back to Q Cup where there wasn’t that pressure to perform every week, you could just go back to playing footy and enjoying what you do, which was really nice.
“We got to win a few games there as well, which was good too. I didn’t experience too many wins last year (at NRL level), so it was nice to finish on that winning feeling.”
The biggest and most important element of Sexton’s relegation was finding the love for the game again, which he did when got to step foot back on to Piggabeen.
“I think the biggest thing for me was just trying to enjoy my footy again. I think I didn’t necessarily lose confidence last year, but I just lost that enjoyment of playing footy,” he said.
“I got to go back to Tweed and win a few games and just really enjoy my footy.
“That’s probably the biggest thing I took out of that.”
Also gratefully appreciating that being a full-time footy player is a pretty rewarding career after spending a few days helping his dad Tony with his lawn-mowing business, the youngster has returned from a seven week break, fresh after a fairly taxing year due to the continual pressure of his first full year in the most scrutinised position on the field.
Chantay Kiria-Ratu: The Cook Islands “superstar in the making”
If you haven’t heard of Chantay Kiria-Ratu, chances are you will by the end of the Women’s Rugby League World Cup with the teenage Cook Islands halfback ready to take the competition by storm.
Only turning 18 in October, Kiria-Ratu was too young to make her NRLW debut this year but, after being selected in coach Rusty Matua’s Cook Islands’ World Cup squad, the Tweed Seagulls star has been earmarked as a future ‘superstar’ of the game.
The Cook Islands Moana will kick off their World Cup campaign against the hily–fancied Jillaroos on Thursday and while the Pacific Island side enters the competition a somewhat unknown quantity — besides NRLW players Kimiora Breayley-Nati, April Ngatupuna and Kiana Takairangi — Matua has unveiled the Gold Coast development player as his side’s secret weapon.
“I think she’s just an absolute superstar in the making,” Matua told the media at the Women’s World Cup Launch.
“She was amazing yesterday when we played England [in a warmup game] and I just think she’s just a superstar in the making.
“I’m pretty sure the agents have been queuing up to get her signature for the NRLW.”
Cook Islands got their World Cup campaign off to a flying start with a 24-14 win in last week’s warm-up match and Matua said he took the opportunity give the under-19’s Queensland representative with some game experience on English soil.
“Obviously Kimiora (Breayley-Nati) is our senior half and she’ll take that role but when we played England, I actually rested Kimiora and Kiana Takairangi to give the other girls more minutes including Chantay because she didn’t get any experience in the NRLW,” he said.
“She was in the Titans squad but she didn’t get the exemption to play so I wanted to give her the minutes and she just got better and better as the game went on.
“We’d only had one training session, being a very small nation with no real financial backing. We didn’t have the opportunity to have a kick coming into the World Cup so we met the day before we flew out.
The Year 12 Keebra Park State High student, who is finishing her end-of-year exams while touring with the Cook Islands, was first introduced to rugby league at the powerhouse school that has produced a number of NRL players including Benji Marshall, Jai Arrow and Payne Haas.
“Her composure is amazing, she’s so mature for her age,” Matua said.
“She’s still in school, we’re actually doing her exams right now through the college.
“So she’s just finishing high school so she’s so young but she’s so promising and has so much potential.”
Vale Liam Hampson
Tweed Seagulls were shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of former player Liam Hampson following an accident while holidaying in Europe.
The Club’s immediate thoughts and prayers are with the Hampson family at this time as well as the players and staff who were involved with Liam during his time at Seagulls.
CEO Matt Francis said that the news was still too raw to immediately comprehend or fully register.
“Liam was far more than a talented athlete pursuing his dream to play in the NRL,” Francis said.
“He was a great clubman and team mate who brought a positive energy to all that he was involved in which is so critical to a team environment.
“Liam took the same approach when he was a teachers’ aide at his old school at Keebra Park where his footballing talents were first identified.
“Combined with his infectious sense of humour he was a young man with the world at his feet making his passing all the more tragic,” Francis concluded.
Seagulls have reached out to Liam’s family and will respect their need for time and privacy before consulting with them and others for an appropriate time and occasion to celebrate Liam’s life including his contribution to Seagulls.
Penna Announced as Head Coach for 2023
Tweed Seagulls have announced Dave Penna as Head Coach for 2023 as part of a review of Football Operations following Ben Woolf’s signing with the St George-Illawarra Dragons.
Having been Head of Football at Seagulls for the past three years, Penna was an obvious choice given his wealth of experience as an Assistant Coach for over 200 games at the NRL level working alongside Premiership winning coaches in Des Hasler and Michael Maguire.
In this period with Manly, South Sydney and the Bulldogs he coached in four NRL Grand Finals as well as being Assistant Coach for Toa Samoa as they emerged as a competitive force at the international level.
Tweed Seagulls Chair, Ian Paton, welcomed Penna’s acceptance of the role paying tribute to his contribution to the Club over the past three years
“Dave is a true club person who has supported the development of players in all grades as well as providing advice and practical support to our coaching and support staff as well.
“His vision and values align with the Seagulls’ charter to be a club of opportunity for local male and female players as a pathway to the NRL,” Paton said.
Penna said he was honoured to accept the challenge and to build on the foundations already established.
“The strength of Seagulls is the quality of the people we have at our club and, in particular, the quality of our coaching and support staff.
“Following a challenging period for all off the field, I look forward to the opportunity to bring all grades – male and female – back together to build a stronger club culture based on the great traditions of Seagulls,” Penna concluded.
CEO Matt Francis said Penna’s appointment was an exciting time for all involved.
“Dave has done an outstanding job as Head of Football collaborating with Woolfy and all our coaching staff in providing the best quality programs we can provide with our resources.
“He brings all these relationships to his new role as well as a knowledge of all our players from the Cyril Connell through to our BMD Women’s and Hostplus Men’s squads.
“Additionally, he has built a great rapport with our community clubs and schools in recognising their critical role in grassroots development,” Francis added.
“Dave is a player-centred coach and the best gauge of what he brings to the role is the number of elite NRL players who still seek and value his advice and opinion while playing at the highest level.
“Like all at Seagulls he celebrates the individual success of players in achieving at the highest level,” he concluded.
Weaver on the rise in ’23
Gold Coast Titans young gun Tom Weaver has had a big 12 months.
From graduating high school to making the Australian Schoolboys and onto the Tweed Seagulls, Titans and New South Wales Under 19 it has been a big year for the Tugun-born youngster.
And, it is about to go up another level as he graduates from the development list to join the Titans top 30 NRL squad in 2023.
Gold Coast Titans young gun Tom Weaver has had a big 12 months.
From graduating high school to making the Australian Schoolboys and onto the Tweed Seagulls, Titans and New South Wales Under 19 it has been a big year for the Tugun-born youngster.
And, it is about to go up another level as he graduates from the development list to join the Titans top 30 NRL squad in 2023.
Weaver will join a Titans top 30 roster featuring AJ Brimson, Kieran Foran, Toby Sexton and Paul Turner in the halves.
Like the other young playmakers, Weaver will no doubt be looking forward to the arrival of Foran as he continues his development.
As a graduate of the Future Titans program, Weaver has a bright future ahead as he continues his development home on the Gold Coast, and will be one to watch in 2023.
Written by Titans.com.au
Strong seasons for Titans and Tweed duo Weaver and Boyd
Their respective seasons may have drawn to a close in recent weeks, but Tweed Seagulls and Gold Coast Titans young guns Tanah Boyd and Tom Weaver can both look back on the year that was with satisfaction.
Boyd began the 2022 season playing with the Seagulls in the Hostplus Cup, and worked hard to push his way into the starting side for the Titans later in the season, closing out his year his by kicking the winning field goal in extra time in his side’s final round win against the Warriors.
Speaking earlier in the year about his football goals, the Runaway Bay junior more than delivered on what he set out to do.
“Definitely to keep playing first grade, building and learning the new position,” Boyd said of what he wanted to work on this year.
“(I want to) try and get better each week, that’s definitely my goal.
“Obviously now, I just want to focus on staying in first grade, cementing it and that’s my main focus.”
Boyd also had to overcome some frustrating injuries to get there, however, fracturing his cheekbone in that first match and being forced to sit on the sidelines for a number of weeks to recover.
“I had a little hiccup early in the year (but) I’m glad to be in the team now,” Boyd said when speaking at a Titans media day earlier this season.
“I’ve just got to build some consistency and keep playing well. I played one game, broke my cheek bone and came back and it’s good.
“I was at a new club at Tweed… They’re a great bunch of boys. Woolfy (coach Ben Woolf) is such a good coach. It’s always good to go back to a good group of boys and enjoy it.”
Boyd returned to the field with the Seagulls in Round 5, and then quickly earned his spot in the NRL line up where he was able to showcase his versatility through the season, playing hooker off the bench and also stepping in at five-eighth and halfback.
For Weaver, whose talents shone most recently in Week 1 of the Hastings Deering Colts finals series as the Seagulls upset Brisbane Tigers, it too was a season of achieving goals.
One of the high points was playing in the Under 21 representative match earlier this year for New South Wales.
Weaver, who “started playing at Cudgen Hornets in Kingscliff” went to school in New South Wales when he was younger, before being signed to Titans to join their junior system.
The halfback made the move to Palm Beach Currumbin in Year 11 and was captain of the team when they won the Phil Hall Cup, all while playing club football with Tweed, where he also captained his Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup side to a state title.
Speaking before making his Cup debut against Redcliffe Dolphins in Round 15, Weaver said he hoped to gain experience in the premier statewide competition this year.
“My aim… I definitely want to crack Cup. I want to do that and cement a spot towards the back end of the year in Cup and build into next year, play a full year of Cup next year,” Weaver said.
“I am just focusing on getting some games under my belt and getting some consistent footy going. Building towards the back end of the year.
“I obviously want to crack the top squad and play some NRL. That’s the long-term goal. But at the moment I’m just biding my time and learning as much as I can.
“It is my first year in the system and just loving it at the moment, relishing everything that comes my way.”
This past season, Weaver has also been able to ask advice from some more experienced players – who like him and Boyd – have honed their skills with the Seagulls.
“It’s good to learn off Toby (Sexton) and AJ (Brimson),” Weaver said.
“AJ has been playing a long time… he came into the system at a young age as well.
“Same as Toby. He was at PBC and came straight out of high school to top grade.
“(It is good) just watching and asking them for advice about where they went and how they got used to full-time environment.”
Both Boyd and Weaver will enjoy an off-season break before returning to the training field for preseason with the Titans in November this year.
Written by Colleen Edwards & Jorja Brinums from Queensland Rugby League.
Semi Final Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Sunshine Coast Falcons
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls traveled up the M1 and piled on the points early. However, in a classic game of two halves, the Sunshine Coast Falcons came back from 24-0 down to secure a 26-24 Golden Point win at Sunshine Coast Stadium.
The two sides showed their hands early on in this one. Where the Falcons kept it tight, charged the middle and looked to kick to the corners, the Seagulls looked to play a more expansive brand of footy. Jamayne Isaako’s wide-ranging pass to Treymain Spry while working out of yardage acted as a sign of things to come in the first half.
Closer to the line as the Seagulls searched left and right in attack, Toby Sexton and Will Brimson made sure to control the end of sets, both forcing dropouts in back-to-back sets. The pressure on the line eventually translated into points as a Seagulls right side shift ended with Lindon McGrady throwing a cutout ball to Isaako in the corner.
The Seagulls have been scoring points in bunches all season and kept the scoreboard ticking over on the following set. An outrageous solo effort from Sam Lisone pushed Tweed’s lead out to 12. The big prop forward put on a step to break through the line before beating the last line of defence to score under the posts.
A penalty soon after released pressure and provided the Falcons with an opportunity to attack the line themselves. However, upon forcing a dropout and looking to emulate what the Seagulls had just done to them, McGrady’s short dropout was collected by a teammate and Lisone again produced a moment of brilliance for the Seagulls to continue piling up the points.
Caught in possession on the last, Lisone shaped to kick, registered another line break, and drew the last line of defence before passing JJ Collins over the line.
Playing with confidence and searching down the edges in yardage, the Seagulls again found success out wide. A right shift on 4th tackle sent Spry down the sideline who brushed aside Grant Anderson. Sexton pushed up in support to score under the posts and make it 24-0 in the 25th minute.
Starved of possession, the Falcons found a second wind shortly before halftime. Able to finish their sets, force an error out of Spry and a Sexton kick out on the full, the Seagulls’ 65% possession at the time started to drop. A disjointed Falcons attack struggled to crack the Seagulls line, though. It wasn’t until four minutes before halftime that Tyson Smoothy sent Jack Gibbons at and over the top of Sexton on the line to cut Tweed’s lead to 18. It’s a try that proved crucial in the end.
The Falcons needed to start the second half strong if they were to mount a comeback. They managed to pin the Seagulls in their own end early, forcing them to travel 90+ metres at the end of multiple sets. While the attack looked sharper than it did in the first 40, the Sunshine Coast still couldn’t crack a Tweed line that scrambled on both sides of the field. Campbell Dufty went close, but the Seagulls defence held him up before pushing him back over the line to keep the prop forward from scoring.
With McGrady forced from the field with an injury, Daniel Ross found himself on the left wing with Paul Turner moving to fullback. The Falcons looked to target Ross. He had the answers in the air to defuse a Cooper Johns kick. However, the Falcons did find points down that side of the field through Will Warbrick in the 58th minute.
Warbrick’s try and the pressure built throughout the first 20 minutes in the second half took its toll on the Seagulls.
The Falcons played with more energy after points. They dominated the yardage game, applied pressure through maintaining possession, and forced the Seagulls to work hard out of their own end. Where the Falcons started their sets on the 30-metre line, it took three of four for the Seagulls to cross their own 30 in return.
Johns continued to pepper Ross on the last with Warbrick getting above the makeshift winger. Warbrick earned his side a golden opportunity to attack the line with 12 minutes to play but a Polselli error put an end to that visit into good ball. On the next, though, Johns sent Louis Geraghty over the line with a superb pass. Shaping inside to Polselli hanging off his hip, Johns drew the three-in defender for Geraghty to close the gap to six with six minutes remaining.
It only took three to level things up. An Anderson offload and Gibbons flick pass down the left edge as the Falcons crossed halfway sent Daniel Atkinson down the sideline. Polselli, having made a few errors in a performance defined by effort and perseverance, pushed up in support to score under the posts leaving just 90 seconds on the clock with the scoreboard locked at 24-24.
The Falcons didn’t need to touch the ball in Golden Point to secure the win. As the ball hung in the air from the kickoff, Isaako lost it in the sun resulting in a forced dropout. With it, Isaako failed to get it past the 10-metre line allowing Smoothy to slot the penalty and book the Sunshine Coast’s place in the Preliminary Final.
In a back-and-forth thriller that saw two 24-point runs inside the 80 minutes, the Falcons found the points when it mattered most to win 26-24.
Key Takeaways
He dominated the game with the ball in hand to play a leading role in building Tweed’s 24-0 lead. He skipped through the line using silky footwork to run 50 metres and score an impressive solo try. Shortly after on the last tackle, he bamboozled the defence by shaping to kick before breaking the line again, drawing the fullback and sending Collins over to score.
That “he” is 110kg prop forward, Sam Lisone. In a first-half performance they called “one of the greats” for the prop forward in commentary, Lisone showed his class. The game started to turn when he went to the bench for a breather. By the time he returned in the second half, the Falcons had worked their way into the game and Lisone didn’t have the same time and space to manufacture attacking actions in the second half.
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Semi Final Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Sunshine Coast Falcons
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will hit the M1 this weekend as they travel to Sunshine Coast Stadium to take on the Sunshine Coast Falcons in Week 2 of the 2022 QRL Hostplus Cup finals series. Sunday’s match is a chance for the Seagulls to replicate their efforts from last season with an appearance in next week’s preliminary final. While they will no doubt be looking to go one further this year, a must-win game against the Falcons is the focus this week as Tweed look to build on a brave win over the Brisbane Tigers last Saturday. The Seagulls fended off a second-half comeback from the Tigers in that game to post a resounding 24-18 win that will give them plenty of confidence coming into this weekend. Tweed overcame a strong head wind and a desperate Brisbane outfit to play to their strengths, posting four second-half tries and running away with the win after taking a narrow two-point lead into the break. The stats sheet and highlights reel paints a pretty picture for Seagulls five-eighth Will Brimson who was on fire in that game, running for 173 metres, busting nine tackles and slicing through Brisbane’s edge defence twice for two tries in the left hand corner. While Brimson deserves plenty of credit for his starring performance last week, the Seagulls inner sanctum will know Brimson was afforded the chance to shine thanks to the efforts of Tweed’s middle forwards. Sam Lisone, JJ Collins and Braden Robson were instrumental in the Seagulls win over the Tigers to constantly get Tweed over the ad line and at a retreating defensive line. Hooker Brent Woolf can be added to that list, overcoming a problematic shoulder injury to make an impact on both sides of the ball as Tweed powered through the middle of the field. The Seagulls out-ran Brisbane by more than 400 metres last week as their forwards compressed the ruck before shifting smartly to the edges. Lisone was a key contributor to this as both a yardage merchant and a link man in attack. Twice Lisone slotted in at first receiver to engage the defence before passing smartly to his halves out wide where the damage had already been done. It’s been the recipe for success all season for the Seagulls and they will take confidence from playing to their strengths and executing a winning gameplan against the Tigers last week. The Sunshine Coast Falcons bring a very different form line into Week 2 of the finals series having fallen short to the Redcliffe Dolphins 16-22 in a nail biter last Saturday. A late try to Young Tonumaipea to bring the Falcons within six points looked like it might have been the start of a miracle comeback but the Dolphins held firm to ensure they will go one better than their semi finals exit at the hands of Tweed last season. Last week’s loss was just the second time the Falcons have lost at Sunshine Coast Stadium in their last 13 games on home soil, and the hosts will be eager to bounce back and avenge their fans with a strong showing this weekend. The recent history between these two sides is split down the middle with the Falcons winning 26-18 in Round 15 this year and the Seagulls making light work of Sunshine Coast 28-6 in Round 2 earlier in the season. On both occasions it was the home side who came away with the chocolates, meaning Tweed will need to overcome the trend if they’re to beat the Falcons at home on Sunday and advance to the preliminary finals next week. Player to Watch The Seagulls have favoured their left edge for most of the 2022 season thanks largely to the work of Will Brimson at five-eighth and his combination with the players around him. Josh Patston and Ioane Seiuli have provided Tweed with skilful edge forward options outside Brimson throughout the year while Scott Galeano has shown his versatility to become an extremely reliable winger option on the paint out wide. Tweed’s left-edge is at full strength again this week with Lee Turner named at centre for the third consecutive game following an injury-enforced layoff in Rounds 17-19. Turner has been one of the Seagulls’ best this year with seven tries, seven assists, an average 112 running metres per game and – perhaps most importantly – an impressive 92% tackle efficiency from 17 appearances this season. It’s not often we see a strike attacking centre produce such positive numbers on the other side of the ball but Turner’s 13 tackles for zero misses last week is a fair measurement of his defensive prowess. He reads attacking shapes smartly and has good positioning in the line to either force the opposition into a mistake or shoot on his opposite man and shut the play down when required. Turner’s abilities without the ball will be even more important this week given the strike Sunshine Coast possess down their right edge. Backrower Jack Howarth is a powerful runner of the ball and has a handy offload in his bag of tricks while Young Tonumaipea and Will Warbrick round out an all-NRL contracted right edge for the Falcons. It’s in attack though that Turner can make his impact felt on Sunday in a must-win clash with the Sunshine Coast. We saw last week what Brimson can do with the ball in hand as a runner and part of his success against the Tigers can be put down to Turner’s presence outside him and the attention he demands from the defence. With Turner capable of beating his man one-on-one or getting an offload away to his wing partner, defending teams can’t afford to give Turner too much room on the outside else he’ll make them pay. The result of this last week was Brimson slicing through for two linebreaks and two tries himself, but if the Falcons jam in on Brimson then look for Turner to take possession on the overs line and challenge the defence himself. While Turner hasn’t scored since crossing for a double in Round 11 against the Ipswich Jets he’s been busy as a distributor in that time to post six assists with Galeano often the beneficiary. That left edge is clearly an area of strength for the Seagulls this finals series and it’s fair to expect one of Brimson, Turner or Galeano to appear on the scoresheet again on Sunday. Club’s Comments Tweed Seagulls Head of Football Dave Penna was full of praise for the playing squad after a brave team effort in Week 1 of the finals. “We have a team that has a lot of individual talent so it’s important that they stick to what the coach (Ben Woolf) has asked them to do, and then the natural talent takes over from there,” said Penna. “We still need to play as a team and the boys have improved every week with that which is pleasing to see.” Penna also paid tribute to hooker Brent Woolf who played through the pain last week and had a significant impact on both sides of the ball. “We are very lucky to have a player like Brent,” Penna said. “He makes a big difference to our team as he is always giving 110% for his teammates.” Team List
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media Our aim at Rugby League Writers: The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features. |
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Vale Barry Muir
The passing of Barry Muir is a loss to the game of rugby league given his long and colourful history in our great game and the Tweed Seagulls pass on our condolences to his family and the friends he made during a career that saw him named in the NRL Hall of Fame.
Born in Murwillumbah and growing up in Tweed Heads he made his senior debut at Seagulls before almost immediately progressing to higher honours playing 25 Tests for Australia – captaining twice – as well as representing Queensland 22 times before coaching the Maroons between 1974-78 where he added to the interstate rivalry by labelling the NSW team ‘cockroaches’.
Barry decided to end his illustrious career where it all began here at Seagulls where he was captain-coach in 1972 and he retired to Tweed Heads where he relived many of his memories.
Seagulls are proud to have been a small part of this great rugby league legend’s journey and salute his legacy that will live in the Maroon’s jersey for generations to come.
May he Rest in Peace.
Rugby League historian Steve Ricketts paid tribute to him in an eloquent post on the QRL website:
https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2022/09/02/vale-barry-muir/
Elimination Final Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Brisbane Tigers
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls played out a brave 24-18 win over the Brisbane Tigers at Piggabeen Sports Complex to open their account in the 2022 Hostplus Cup finals series with style.
Tweed looked comfortable with the ball in hand right from the get-go. A trademark shift out their own end brought Lee Turner into the game early, with 100 Cup game milestone man Lindon McGrady creating the extra numbers to send the ball wide in Tweed’s first possession.
It was a sign of things to come, with the Seagulls searching down that left edge twice in their next two sets. Will Brimson got involved early to again pitch Turner one-on-one with Solomona Faataape before sneaking down a very short short side on the following play and almost orchestrating first points when an offload to Scott Galeano found the winger unmarked but travelled forwards.
After looking left at every opportunity to begin the game, a rare right side movement triggered by Sam Lisone at first receiver proved a fruitful one when none other than the Prince of Piggabeen slid over in the 10th minute to open the scoring.
Taking the ball at speed and with JJ Collins in support off his hip, Lisone attracted three Tigers defenders towards the ball before rifling a pass out the back ****through Toby Sexton ****to link with his skipper. Still left with some work to do, McGrady used his footwork, speed and fend to slice through the line and score from there.
Ill-discipline on both sides of the ball continued to be Brisbane’s undoing as fatigue set in and the Seagulls built momentum. A knock-on from Tigers interchange forward Wesley Lolo just 10 metres out from his line gifted Tweed more attacking territory and when Brisbane doubled up their errors to send a goal-line dropout over the sideline, McGrady took the two points on offer to extend Tweed’s lead to eight.
With a comfortable buffer on the scoreboard the Seagulls seemed to grow another leg, but for all their territorial dominance they couldn’t land the killer blow. Brisbane scrambled well on both edges throughout this period to hold up Josh Patston over the line on the right edge and defend a late offload from Turner on the other side of the field.
After what felt like an age defending their own line, Brisbane would finally get a reward for effort in the 36th minute when they capitalised on a rare attacking set to score through winger Bessie Toomaga.
Departing halfback Darren Nicholls’ fingerprints were all over Brisbane’s opening try, testing the Seagulls once down the right edge early in the set before executing a slick short-side movement late in the count which ended up in the hands of Dan Russell at right centre. With Tweed winger Scott Galeano bearing down on him, Nicholls produced a marvellous back-handed flick pass for an unmarked Toomaga to score in the corner.
A superb sideline conversion from Jonah Pezet would round out a grinding first half of football, with Tweed holding onto a narrow two-point lead at the break.
The Tigers began the second stanza as they finished the first to work themselves into Tweed’s half and fire two shots at them in the opening set. Again it was Russell at right centre causing plenty of problems for the Seagulls defence as he made serious inroads down one side of the field to open things up for a Pezet cross-field kick on the following play. That kick found a flying Zak Taibi who did well to beat Jamayne Isaako in the air and offload on landing to gift Brendan Gregorious a clever four-pointer.
Brisbane looked to be in again shortly afterwards when a Jayden Nikorima grubber kick linked with Toomaga in the right-hand corner, only for the video referee to call things back for an obstruction.
That no-try appeared to kickstart Tweed back to life and they wasted no time in troubling the scoreboard themselves through Will Brimson in the 49th minute.
Brimson’s scoring play began one tackle earlier with McGrady taking possession down the right edge and playing over the ad-line to almost pitch Joshua Patston through a hole. With the momentum created, hooker Brent Woolf jinked across-field with a tempo-changing run to hold up the defence before passing through Sexton to Brimson on the far side of the field. From there, Brimson’s speed proved too much for the sliding defence as he squeezed through the line and dived over to level things up.
Tweed then went back-to-back just six minutes later when Jamayne Issako finished off a slick right-edge movement in the corner.
All of Tweed’s big names were involved in this shift as Woolf, Sexton and McGrady linked up to move the ball smoothly from edge to edge and get Isaako one-on-one with Taibi. Where we’re used to seeing Isaako’s fancy footwork in areas like this, instead the former Bronco and Titan relied on brute strength to brush aside the attempted tackle and plant the ball down just inside the corner post to give Tweed a four-point lead.
As was the case with Brisbane in the first half though, the Seagulls then came up with back-to-back errors to invite their opposition back into the game. An Isaako linebreak ended with a pushed offload that travelled forward and when Turner fumbled a play-the-ball in Tweed’s next possession, Brisbane made them pay. Again it was Pezet’s boot that proved the difference, sneaking out of dummy-half and dropping a neat grubber under the black dot for Nikorima to score in the 62nd minute.
A simple conversion from right in front gave Brisbane back the lead but it would last less than two minutes when the Seagulls forced an error in the kickoff set and then searched down their familiar left edge to score through winger Scott Galeano.
Again it was the work of Lisone through the middle that created the space out wide, with the big prop demanding attention from the defence before shifting smartly to his outside where Brimson, Turner and Galeano were waiting. A difficult conversion attempt followed with McGrady unable to overcome a strong breeze, leaving Tweed just two points ahead with 15 minutes remaining.
With the clock winding down, the Seagulls closed things out just as they started in this one.
Tweed powered through the middle on the back of strong carries from Lisone and Collins before shifting quickly to their left edge for Brimson to challenge the line. Again with too much speed for a sliding and retreating defensive line to handle, Brimson eventually cracked them in the 71st minute to burn his opposite man and make yet another linebreak to take Tweed’s lead out to six.
A desperate defensive set in the shadows of full-time was a compelling way for Tweed to round out a 24-18 win over the Brisbane Tigers at Piggabeen on Saturday afternoon, with winger Scott Galeano capping off a stellar game to force an error with a jamming effort that sealed the result for the Seagulls.
Key Takeaways
Tweed’s starting front row of JJ Collins and Sam Lisone won’t feature much on the highlights reel but both were integral in the Seagulls narrow win on Saturday. Collins was an absolute force on both sides of the ball to help negate a strong head wind in the first half and constantly get Tweed on the front foot in their yardage sets. At the other end of the field, Lisone’s involvement as a ballplayer from first receiver directly led to two tries a few passes later. His ability to engage the defence was the catalyst for Lindon McGrady’s opening try and he completed a similar action down a left-hand short side in the second half for Scott Galeano to score in the corner.
While his skipper celebrated a milestone 100 Cup games for the club and his halves partner brings 23 games of NRL experience to his name, it was Tweed five-eighth Will Brimson who starred with a two try performance against the Tigers. Brimson was a constant threat on the Seagulls’ left edge with his speed causing plenty of problems for Brisbane’s edge defence. Brimson’s combination with the players around him on that left edge has been a focus in the match reports all season and proved so again on Saturday.
Coaches Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf was pleased with his side’s ability to stay in the grind despite the testing, windy conditions.
“Our forwards carried the ball well and got us out of our own end which allowed us to build pressure with our kicking game effectively,” said Woolf.
With a host of field position in both halves, Woolf identified the work of both halves and milestone man Lindon McGrady as key to Tweed’s success.
“They (Brimson & Sexton) were both really good today as was Lindo,” said Woolf.
“Those three played together last year too and it’s good to see they are finding their groove out there again.”
While the Seagulls left edge was on fire with three tries scored down that channel, Woolf also paid tribute to the growing combination of Treymain Spry and Jamayne Isaako on the left-hand side of the field.
“Both edges have been attacking really well,” Woolf said.
“Treymain and Jamayne are class players and Lindo consistently gets them quality ball. They are getting better together every week.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Finals Week 1 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup – Vs Brisbane Tigers
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls are looking to exact quick revenge on the Brisbane Tigers when the two go head-to-head in Week 1 of the Hostplus Cup Finals.
Brisbane took the chocolates with a 38-30 win over Tweed in Round 20. A slow start to both halves saw the Seagulls fall behind on the scoreboard before coming back on both occasions. It wasn’t until the 77th minute of the match that the Tigers secured victory.
Haele Finau got the scoring underway for the Tigers in the 5th minute of the match, set up their second and scored the match-winner shortly before full-time.
While the Seagulls showed their reliance in clawing back two Tigers leads, conceding 38 points after keeping the Townsville Blackhawks scoreless only a week earlier disappointed head coach, Ben Woolf.
“Our effort needs to be a lot better, particularly in defence. We can’t afford to defend like that if we are gonna win games in the Finals.”
But that was at Totally Workwear Stadium. This week the Tigers are forced to travel to the hallowed turf of the Piggabeen Sports Complex where royalty will await them for kickoff.
Lindon McGrady – the Prince of Piggabeen – will play his 100th game for the club on Saturday afternoon. Making his debut back in 2017, McGrady has been a mainstay in the top side since then and has featured in all 19 games so far this season.
Regular changes to the spine have seen McGrady spend time in the halves and at fullback throughout the year. Still, the adjustments haven’t stopped him from consistently producing with the ball.
Whether he is initiating shifts from first receiver, popping up out the back of shape on the edges or ending a set with his boot, McGrady is the chassis to Tweed’s chaos engine.
His 17 try assists in 2022 mark a new career high while his organisation and control of the side has played a key role within Tweed’s high-powered attack which ranks 4th in the Hostplus Cup averaging 24.9 points per game. Despite moving to the back in Round 15, Woolf noted that regardless of the position, McGrady calls the shots.
“Lindon’s doing well [since moving to fullback]. He’s still controlling the game for us like he has all year.”
With Toby Sexton named in the halves beside Will Brimson this week, McGrady will again slot into the #1 jersey but we can expect to see the 29-year-old leave his fingerprints all over Tweed’s best actions with the ball.
Woolf has the somewhat rare luxury of being able to name the same 17 again this week. Lee Turner made a successful return to the side last in Round 20 and links in the centres with Treymain Spry who continues to improve every week following a lengthy spell out of the game. That allows Josh Patston to remain on the edge where he proved particularly dangerous throughout the first 16 rounds of the season before admirably slotting in the centres as cover for Lee in recent weeks. Braden Robson’s ability to play hooker or lock is a valuable option for Woolf. Robson will start his fifth consecutive game at dummy half with Craig Garvey again named to pack some punch off the bench as he has done all season.
Meanwhile, the Tigers have named 16 of the same players again for this one with the 17th still to be confirmed before the 3:10 pm kickoff on Saturday.
Players to Watch
JJ Collins has signed on with the Dolphins for 2023 so every game from here could be his last for the Seagulls. He caught the eye of the newest NRL club with his strong carries in the middle and tackle-breaking ability leading to quick play-the-balls. He has proven particularly dangerous as the Seagulls cross halfway and often look to the edges behind a destructive Collins carry. His partnership with Sam Lisone is developing nicely, too.
The pair linked up well through the middle last week. Lisone sent Collins over on the line to score Tweed’s first of the afternoon. With a step off his left foot while getting deep into the line to gain the attention of the four-in defender, Lisone tipped on to Collins who used some nice footwork of his own to skip through the would-be tacklers.
Lisone and Collins looked to link up in similar ways in yardage shortly after but produced an error. Still, it’s an area the Seagulls can dominate given the ball playing Lisone offers alongside Collins’ footwork at the line.
Both props cracked 100 running metres while Tweed out gained Brisbane by almost 100 metres in defeat. Collins, in particular, has been a big part of Tweed’s third-ranked 1,446 running metres per game this season.
If the pair can continue to lay the platform with their carries and short passing game this week, the Seagulls will be a good chance of advancing to Week 2 of the finals.
A double dose of finals football
Saturday marks a significant day for Tweed Seagulls as they play host to two elimination finals games, both against Brisbane Tigers.
“The significance of our two teams playing in the elimination finals at Piggabeen this Saturday should not be lost on our members, sponsors and supporters,” said Seagulls CEO Matt Francis.
“Our Campbell Construction Co Tweed Seagulls and Coolangatta Hotel U21s Colts team will make the finals for a third season in succession which would be a proud achievement at any time.
“The unique challenges that the Club has faced over the past two seasons with border closures and floods make the success of both squads something to truly celebrate.
“It is of continuing credit to our coaching and support staff led by Ben Woolf, Aaron Zimmerlee and Dave Penna that our teams have performed to such a high level under such challenging circumstances.
“It only seems appropriate that we are playing both elimination games at Piggabeen this week – the graveyard of so many visiting sides.
“Our players deserve all the support we can provide and I hope to see you all at Piggabeen.
“Go the Gulls!”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 20 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Brisbane Tigers
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls travelled to Totally Workwear Stadium to take on the Brisbane Tigers in their final match of the Hostplus Cup regular season. No lead was ever safe in this one but the Tigers managed to hold on to take the chocolates with a 32-30 win.
Tweed have made a habit out of conceding tries early in a match and Haele Finau took full advantage to score his first try in the sixth minute. The Tigers dummy half jumped out from behind the ruck and found space between the markers. With Darren Nicholls pushing up in support, he passed to his halfback before receiving a flick out the back to score under the posts.
Needing a response to conceding early, Tweed forced an error out of Wesley Molo and went to exactly what they know best. A long left shift put the Seagulls on the front foot before Charlie Murray settled the play in the middle of the field, producing a quick play-the-ball in the process. Sam Lisone barked orders to those around him, took the ball and first receiver, and hit JJ Collins on a simple overs line for the Tweed props to link up for points.
The two props looked to link up again shortly after only for this one to end in an error. In a position to move the ball and stretch the defensive line, Finau again found success jumping out of dummy half. Getting his arms through the line to release an offload to Bronson Garlick, Garlick found Tony Pellow pushing up on his hip to score Brisbane’s second under the sticks.
Nicholls pushed Brisbane’s lead out to 18-6 only five minutes later. A Jayden Nikorima grubber on the last sat up perfectly for the 33-year-old who provided Bessie Toomaga with another sitter in front of the posts.
A period of sustained pressure on the Tigers line eventually translated into points for the Seagulls. Will Brimson forced a dropout and threatened down the left edge on the ensuing set to force another error. Dangerous from scrums all season, Jamyane Isaako went over in the corner. Showing his class and composure taking possession with little room to move, a step off his right and another off his left put Zak Talbi on his heels leaving Isaako with just enough room to dive over in the corner.
Just as Brisbane did to them, Tweed followed one try up with another shortly after. A strong Lisone carry marched the Seagulls up the field before a left shift kept the defence tracking backwards. Spotting a tired William Samuel defending on the right edge, Brimson danced around the prop forward to break into the backfield and send Braden Robson over the line to level things up at 18-18 after 30 minutes.
Points promote line speed for the Seagulls. With their tails up after scoring back-to-back tries, the intensity in defence lifted for Tweed to shut down two Brisbane raids on their line before halftime.
The second half started much like the first, only Isaako was the Seagulls winger to knock the ball on. He couldn’t collect a Nikorima grubber with the ball popping up for Taibi to fall over the line and put Brisbane 22-18 in front. A Jo Vuna penalty soon allowed Jonah Pezet to knock over a goal to make it 24-18.
The referee called Lindon McGrady out for a meeting about Tweed’s general discipline after Brimson put a late shot on in defence. Pezet added another two points to his tally by kicking the penalty goal and a Brimson error leading to a second Garlick try added to Brisbane’s lead.
The rain contributed to Brimson’s error but didn’t stop the Seagulls from offloading the football in the search of points. They threatened the line and forced a handful of penalties out of the Tigers. Nicholls took a similar meeting to McGrady’s only five minutes earlier with both teams on notice for repeated penalties.
Forced to defend multiple sets on their line, the Tigers eventually cracked. Spry went close in back-to-back sets in the build-up before McGrady put him into a gap to score.
Ioane Seiuli’s line held up Nikorima just long enough for McGrady to get on the outside, draw in the centre and bring the Seagulls back into the game with 15 minutes to play.
Tweed returned to the same shift on the very next set, only this time, the pass found Seiuli who drew the fullback and sent Sam Lisone over to cut the deficit to two.
A Tigers error defusing Sexton’s bomb after points put the Seagulls hot on the attack but Scott Galeano couldn’t get the ball over in the corner. Rather fittingly, it was Finau that finished the job for Brisbane. Having been heavily involved to start the match, the hooker once again jumped out from behind the ruck and beat a McGrady tackle on the line to secure the 38-30 win.
The two teams will now prepare for a rematch in Week 1 of the finals after finishing 6th and 7th on the Hostplus Cup ladder after 20 rounds.
Key Takeaways
The points flowed in bunches both ways for the Seagulls again this week. They had conceded tries in the first ten minutes in each of their four games before the Round 19 shutout of the Blackhawks. However, despite the strong defence last week, they again found themselves behind on the scoreboard early. Still, they scored points just as quickly when given the chance. Four minutes split their second and third tries to level the scores at 18-18. Four minutes also separated their fourth and fifth try to cut the deficit to two points in the second half. Scott Galeano almost made it a hat trick but couldn’t quite get the ball down to give Tweed the lead.
Conceding points early has made games difficult to start but the attack has proven capable of piling up the points time and time again.
Coach’s Comments
Treymain Spry continues in his return to footy and is striking up a dangerous partnership with Jamayne Isaako on the right side. Tweed coach Ben Woolf was impressed with the pair in this one.
“Trey is looking better on that edge and I thought Jamayne was really good today,” said Woolf.
Round 20 will act as a preview to Week 1 of the finals with the Seagulls and Tigers set to go at it again. Woolf has circled his side’s effort in defence as the focus during the week.
“Our effort needs to be a lot better, particularly in defence,” Woolf said.
“We can’t afford to defend like that if we are gonna win games in the Finals.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 20 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup – Vs Brisbane Tigers
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will be chasing their third consecutive win this Sunday, 28th August when they travel to Totally Workwear Stadium, Brisbane to face the Brisbane Tigers in Round 20 of the QRL Hostplus Cup.
The Seagulls come into Sunday’s game following a dominant 42-0 shutout of the Townsville Blackhawks at Piggabeen last week. The locals were treated to a highlight reel of attacking skill from the home side in that game, with centres Joshua Patston and Treymain Spry crossing for doubles and captain Lindon McGrady posting a ridiculous five try assists from fullback.
Most notably for Head Coach Ben Woolf, though, was the zero on the scoreboard.
“Our defence was strong today. We still had a couple of soft errors but our line stayed connected throughout and it was pleasing to keep them to nil,” Woolf said.
Tweed had conceded a try in the first ten minutes in each of the four games prior to Round 19. However, they put themselves on the board early to score two of their own inside ten minutes and kept the line intact through to the final whistle against the Blackhawks.
The Seagulls will be looking to finish the 2022 regular season on a high and they profile well to do so on recent form.
With the squad getting close to full strength, Tweed’s attack has come to life at the right point in the season. Defence has been the focus for Woolf all year with the Seagulls boasting the fourth-best defensive record in the competition, but with finals just one week away Tweed’s attack has gone up a few gears at just the right time.
The Seagulls have scored an average 32.5 points in their last four regular season games. Some of this can be put down to Tweed welcoming back class players from injury or from NRL call-ups – Paul Turner, Toby Sexton, Braden Robson, Lamar Manuel-Liolevave, Treymain Spry and Jamayne Isaako, to name a few, have all returned for the Seagulls in the last few weeks as they prepare for the finals series.
More of Tweed’s recent form however can be put down to the play of five-eighth Will Brimson.
After spending two years away from rugby league before Woolf helped him rediscover his love for the game, Brimson is preparing to make his 50th Cup appearance this weekend and brings a run of stellar form into Tweed’s Round 20 clash with Easts.
The Seagulls will attack from anywhere on the park. With a license to offload and a focus on hitting the edges in yardage, they’re dangerous all the way up the field. Regardless of who fills the key playmaking positions and in which number, the Tweed attack has fallen into place. With Sexton again named in the halves alongside Brimson with McGrady at the back and Robson at hooker, the Seagulls will play with the same spine for a second-consecutive match – somewhat of a luxury this year. That can only help an attack that is already trending in the right direction.
The Brisbane Tigers secured an all-important 38-34 win over the Central Queensland Capras last week to take them to 21 competition points and seventh on the premiership ladder. That result should be enough to secure the Tigers a finals berth this season but a win against Tweed this week would provide Easts with a nice buffer as the Wynnum-Manly Seagulls and the Northern Pride scrap for a spot in the 2022 finals series with one regular season game remaining.
The last time these sides met was in the opening round of this season, with the Tigers coming out on top 20-16. Brisbane winger Bessie Toomaga was in red-hot form in that game, scoring a hat trick including the match winning try in the dying stages. The Seagulls get a chance to avenge that loss this weekend in their final game of the regular season.
Player to Watch
As the Seagulls are forced to shuffle players in and out of the spine almost every week, Will Brimson has been a mainstay. He has played 15 games throughout the year but his best have come in recent weeks.
The 26-year-old has has two tries and four assists in his last four games, as well as contributing three linebreaks, 11 tackle busts and an average 98.25 running metres per game. While only registering one official try assist in Round 19, Brimson featured throughout Tweed’s most dangerous attacking actions as they piled up 42 points on the Blackhawks. At one stage firing a pass out wide with a defender hanging off his jersey, Brimson often found himself throwing the pass before the try assist in Tweed’s attacking movements.
His combination with Joshua Patston and Lee Turner on Tweed’s left edge has been a strength all season. More recently however, he has linked up with Patston and Ioane Seiuli on the left edge. The trio link up in yardage to drag the Seagulls up the field. In good ball, both Seiuli and Patston run excellent lines to further provide Brimson with options. Finding Patston off the boot is becoming a regular avenue for points, too.
It’s unclear whether this has happened by coincidence or design, but with Toby Sexton slotting back into the halfback position and Lindon McGrady shifting to fullback, the familiarity of Brimson’s left edge has seen Tweed search plenty down that side of the field in yardage and good ball. Brimson’s positive involvement on the left side has been a hallmark of the attack this year and will be a key area as the Seagulls look to navigate the remainder of the Hostplus Cup season.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf says he is looking forward to one final hit-out before the finals series kicks off.
“We are looking to continue to build into the finals series,” said Woolf.
“The Tigers are a strong team so we will need to be solid in defence and improve our line speed. Our combinations came together nicely last week so we will be aiming to continue to improve there and sharpen our attack.
Team List
- Lindon McGrady
- Jamayne Isaako
- Treymaine Spry
- Josh Patston
- Scott Galeano
- Will Brimson
- Toby Sexton
- JJ Collins
- Braden Robson
- Reuben Porter
- Klese Haas
- Ioane Șeiuli
- Charlie Murray
- Craig Garvey
- Lamar Manuel-Liolevave
- Jo Vuna
- Reece Summer
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 19 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Townsville Blackhawks
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls piled up the points early on their way to a big 42-0 win over the Townsville Blackhawks at the Piggabeen Sports Complex, Tweed Heads.
The home side took control of this one early on as a strong yardage set and attacking kick on the last provided the Seagulls with a scrum in good ball following a Blackhawks error. Toby Sexton’s inclusion in the side pushed Lindon McGrady to fullback but the pair didn’t take long to link up for points. McGrady swept to the right side of the scrum, skipped to the outside of his man to engage the three-in defender, and put Sexton through a gaping hole to open the scoring just two minutes into the match.
As they have done in recent weeks, the Seagulls punched down the left edge in yardage through their combination of Ioane Seiuli and Joshua Patston. Both big bodies with dangerous footwork, the pair are proving difficult to handle with Will Brimson putting them in positions to dominate. This time, Brimson sent Patston through a hole on halfway before the centre was dragged down just short of the line. With the defence scrambled and struggling to get back to the line, Sexton and McGrady again combined for Treymain Spry to score in the 10th minute.
Playing on the front foot following points, the Seagulls cruised up the field. Another punch down the left edge before a long shift to the right took the home side over halfway and in position for McGrady to hang up an attacking kick. Surrounded by the Seagulls kick-chase, Luke Geary couldn’t collect the McGrady bomb with Scott Galeano on hand to collect the crumbs and score Tweed’s third try in the 15th minute for a 14-0 lead.
Tweed continued to find success down the left side in yardage. Sexton is a notable inclusion and displayed good signs on the right side, but Brimson commanded the left edge and the Blackhawks struggled to build pressure in defence.
A handful of Tweed penalties allowed Townsville to spend some time attacking the line before halftime. Patrick Kaufusi poked his head through the line but couldn’t keep hold of the ball. However, a misfired pass on a right-side sweep ended up in the hands of Seagulls lock Charlie Murray who scampered up the field. Going back to what had worked earlier in the match, Tweed looked left. Some deception from Brent Woolf at dummy half along with a typically engaging line by Seiuli occupied the A and B defenders to provide Brimson with a huge gap to push the lead out to 20-0.
Some frustration from Townsville and feeling from Tweed added a little bit of spice to the game just before the break. Both teams gave away penalties leading to a skirmish but neither took it far enough for the referee to reach into his pocket.
Fired up following the break, Townsville threatened early in the second half. A Tweed penalty translated into the first attacking set after halftime, but a show of ridiculous strength from Jo Vuna dragged Sam Murphy back in front of the goal line, forcing an error in the process.
The Seagulls, however, managed to cross the line when presented with an opportunity of their own in good ball. Brimson’s fingerprints had been all over most of Tweed’s best-attacking actions which led to a defender shooting out of the line and looking to close him down. Still, with an opposition player hanging off the back of his jersey, Brimson found Seiuli out wide who put Patston over in the corner.
It wasn’t long before Patston had his second, again on the back of some Brimson brilliance. He spotted Tom Chester slow to track across the field and put in a left-foot chip which sat up perfectly for Patston to push Tweed’s lead out to 30 points in the 60th minute.
Townsville showed their reliance late in the piece. Three Tweed forced dropouts applied pressure to the defence but the line held firm through to the 74th minute. Eventually, the number of tackles the Blackhawks were asked to make in quick succession caught up with them for Spry to score his second of the afternoon.
With one more shot to get themselves on the scoreboard, a left-side shift ended in an error for Townsville. It’s an action that sums up their afternoon, and one Jamayne Isaako returned to the house for a final 42-0 scoreline.
The big win in their last game at home firms Tweed’s spot in the Top 8 ahead of their Round 20 clash against the Brisbane Tigers.
Key Takeaways
Toby Sexton was a notable inclusion and popped up in dangerous positions throughout the match. However, Will Brimson stood out as the dominant attacking threat with the ball. He looked likely every time he touched the ball on the front foot down the left side. Whether it be in yardage or good ball, Brimson and the Tweed left edge asked plenty of questions of the Blackhawks defence.
Sexton’s inclusion also triggered yet another change to the Tweed spine. It has been a constant challenge throughout the season. Still, the attack seems to fire regardless of who fills the key playmaking positions. Sexton and Treymain Spry scored down the right side and Brimson on the left all inside 35 minutes to leave no question that this new-look spine had plenty of points in them despite their inexperience playing beside each other this season.
Jo Vuna is making his return from injury and looked better again this week. Brutal in defence and a strong carrier of the ball, Vuna will play a big part in how the Seagulls get up the field in the coming weeks. Packing punch off the bench, his rotation with JJ Collins ensures Tweed are dangerous in the middle across the full 80 minutes.
Coach’s Comments
Tweed coach Ben Woolf has been forced to rotate through different players in the spine for much of the season but Will Brimson, Toby Sexton and Lindon McGrady gelled together from kickoff.
“The three of them combined well and again showed their ability to adjust to different combinations and positions without issue today,” said Woolf.
“Will was strong again on the left side as was Lindon on the right.”
The 42 points are pleasing, but after mentioning a focus on playing the full 80 minutes last week, Woolf was particularly happy with the defence through to the end.
“Our defence was strong today. We still had a couple of soft errors but our line stayed connected throughout and it was pleasing to keep them to nil.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Tweed Congratulate Woolf on NRL Appointment
Tweed Seagulls wish to congratulate Head Coach Ben Woolf on his appointment to the St George Illawarra Dragons coaching staff for season 2023.
Club Chair Ian Paton thanked Woolf for his sterling service to the Club while wishing him the best in his new challenge.
“Woolfy has been the key driver of the team’s success in the Queensland Cup since his appointment in 2017.
“While the Club would have loved him to continue in the role we can see why a Coach of his talents would be attractive to any organisation and he leaves with our support and thanks for his enormous contribution to the Club.
Tweed CEO Matt Francis echoed Paton saying that Woolf had achieved exceptional results in the last two seasons in particular given the unique circumstances the Club had to confront.
“In addition to the broader impact of COVID, Seagulls were the only Club to be impacted by the hard border closures and, when life appeared to be returning to normal, had to adjust to the impact of two floods meaning that the team have been effective nomads for this period of time.
“It is a credit to Ben’s leadership and the positive culture of his staff and team, that the squad just got on with the job bowing out in the preliminary final last year and are hoping to challenge in the finals series in Woolfy’s last weeks with the Club.”
Francis added that he had had the privilege of working alongside Woolf when he was NYC Coach at the Titans.
“Woolfy has always had a great knowledge of the game but it is his ability to communicate and educate his players with an honest transparent approach that makes him attractive to Clubs seeking a development coach of the highest quality,” he concluded.
In return Woolf acknowledged the support of the Club with a clear focus on leaving Seagulls on a winning note.
“I would like to personally thank everyone involved at Tweed Seagulls for their support and the opportunity they have given me to coach at this level and develop as a coach and person,” Woolf said.
“We have always been supportive of developing players to move to the next level and the club has also been very supportive of making sure I had every opportunity to progress as a coach.
“My focus is the current team and progressing through to the finals and giving the competition a real shake in the back end of this year,” he concluded.
The Club has commenced the appointment process for a new Coach and will make an announcement in due course.
Round 19 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Townsville Blackhawks
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will be chasing back-to-back wins for the first time since Round 11 when they host the Townsville Blackhawks at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Saturday 20th August.
The hallowed turf of Piggabeen was treated to a cracker two weeks ago when Tweed and Burleigh settled for a 26-26 draw in Round 17, and the Seagulls will be looking to do one better this weekend when they take on the 10th placed Blackhawks.
Tweed secured an all-important two points last week over the Northern Pride to entrench themselves inside the top eight with two games remaining in the regular season. The Pride and Seagulls were tied on competition points coming into that game and Tweed showed great resilience to come out on top in that must-win contest.
The Blackhawks present another winnable and important matchup for the Seagulls this weekend, who can all but end Townsville’s finals hopes with a win on Saturday.
Tweed have begun welcoming back key players late in the season and as those old combinations slowly reconnect, the Seagulls are being afforded chances to play their best footy. Paul Turner is one of those players in sublime touch since returning for Tweed following a stint in the NRL with the Gold Coast Titans. His class has been apparent in two Cup games since, running for a total 375 metres, setting up two tries, forcing two line dropouts and busting 12 tackles.
Turner’s greatest strength has always been his running game but he has clearly taken some lessons from a month in the #6 jersey in first-grade.
His composure, decision making and passing game are all noticeably improved as Turner takes on a lead playmaking role alongside Lindon McGrady and Will Brimson in the spine. A pinpoint chip kick for Jamayne Isaako to score last week is evidence of this; the vision to identify space out wide and the skill to execute a play on the run are both traits of a class playmaker that make Turner key to Tweed’s premiership chances in 2022.
The undisputed star for Tweed in last week’s win over the Pride though was five-eighth Will Brimson.
Another primarily renowned for his running game, Brimson was at his ball-playing best in Round 18, helping Scott Galeano to a brace on the left wing and threatening down that side of the field for Tweed all game.
Brimson has not allowed ongoing personnel changes around him to effect his form in 2022, having posted five tries and eight assists from 14 appearances this season. Whether it’s been Lee Turner, Josh Patston or Ioane Seiuli in the centres outside him, Brimson’s left edge has been a reliable avenues for points all year and profiles well against a Townsville right edge that conceded three tries last weekend.
The Blackhawks themselves are coming off an agonising 23-23 result against the PNG Hunters last weekend which all but ruled them out of finals contention this season.
Townsville five-eighth Jake Bourke slotted a field-goal with just minutes remaining to give his side the lead in that game, only for the Hunters to reply with a one-pointer of their own as the siren sounded to call the game a draw.
Townsville now need to win their last two games convincingly and rely on other results to go their way if they are to play beyond Round 20 this year, and that all starts with Tweed on Saturday.
Fullback Tom Chester was in stellar form last week for the Blackhawks, scoring two tries thanks largely to the work of Robert Lui at halfback. Much of Townsville’s attack comes through these two players in good ball, meaning the Seagulls will need to be on high alert whenever Chester and Lui link up in attack.
Player to Watch
After a quiet return to Cup grade in Round 17, Treymain Spry put together a convincing 70-minutes against the Northern Pride last week that has him primed to make an impact in his third game back on Saturday.
Last listed on NRL.com at 187cm and 97kgs, Spry is a daunting prospect out in the centres with some room to move. As his body adjusts to the rigours of Cup football, Spry will offer genuine X-factor in a Seagulls’ backline already stacked with talent. He’s a tackle busting and offloading threat who demands attention from the defence when he carries the ball or acts as a decoy.
It’s been all about Tweed’s left edge in recent weeks but the Seagulls were on fire down the right-hand side of the field to begin the season with Paul Turner, Lindon McGrady and Scott Galeano linking up to great effect. As Spry develops combinations with McGrady and Turner around him, he could become a key player for the Seagulls in the finals series.
With an expert finisher in Jamayne Isaako positioned outside Spry, Tweed’s right edge is all of a sudden looking very dangerous. They’ve got two more regular season games to get the reps in and they get another chance to do so against the Blackhawks on Saturday.
Spry’s own personal journey back to Cup level is one to be celebrated.
It’s a credit to his own resilience, determination and bravery that Spry is back on the footy field just months after a horrific off-field incident earlier this year where he was the victim of assault and sustained life-threatening injuries. Along with a gruelling road to recovery, Spry has also been active in the Gold Coast community helping to delivery education and wellbeing programs.
It will be inspiring to see Spry pull on the famous black-and-white strip for Tweed again this weekend.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf says his squad is preparing for a desperate Townsville outfit on Saturday.
“The Blackhawks are always strong and have a good mixture of youth and experience this year,” said Woolf.
“They are also in a must win situation so we expect them to come out firing. Our focus will be on our contact and linseed to limit their opportunities.”
Woolf also paid tribute to five-eighth Will Brimson who had a starring role in last week’s win over the Northern Pride.
“Will is always consistent on our left edge,” Woolf said.
“He’s got a good running game and is very good at putting his centre away. He also has a good left foot kicking game.”
Team List
- Paul Turner
- Scott Galeano
- Treymaine Spry
- Josh Patston
- Jamayne Isaako
- Will Brimson
- Lindon McGrady
- JJ Collins
- Braden Robson
- Sam Lisone
- Klese Haas
- Ioane Șeiuli
- Charlie Murray
- Craig Garvey
- Jo Vuna
- Reuben Porter
- Reece Summer
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 18 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Northern Pride
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls made the trip to Cairns and left with the two competition points following their 24-18 win over the Northern Pride.
A Tweed forward pass on the first set of the game provided the Pride with the first opportunity to attack. Having solved an early shift on their right edge, the Seagulls left edge couldn’t keep Brendan Frei from crashing over. Some silky footwork from Julian Christian scrambled the line before Frei found just enough space to force the ball down.
Sam Lisone helped Tweed into the game with two efforts without the ball translating into points shortly after. His line speed in defence stopped the Pride’s path up the field out of yardage before his pressure on the kicker resulted in the kick going out on the full.
Having spent the majority of the opening exchanges inside their own half, Tweed could spend some time with the ball on attack.
Presented with a scrum 20 metres from their line and in the middle of the field, Tweed executed on a left shift for Scott Galeano to cross the line. Like last week, the Seagulls used Josh Patston’s backrow experience to create the space out wide. His line to Bernard Lewis’ inside shoulder dragged the Pride centre in as Will Brimson swept around the back to send Galeano over.
Tweed started to take control of the game. A 40/20 won field position and allowed the visitors to play on the front foot. However, Treymain Spry being sent to the naughty chair for dissent soon saw the Pride retake the lead. Going straight to the spot Spry would have been filling on the right edge, Will Partridge made it 12-6 in the 24th minute.
Galeano went close at answering right back but couldn’t keep hold of the ball as he leapt towards the corner post. That kept the score at 12-6 through to halftime where the Pride will perhaps have felt as though they left a try or two out there in the first 40 minutes.
Paul Turner and Jamayne Isaako linked up well throughout the first half. A sweeping Turner looked for Isaako out wide and found him effectively in yardage. That combination opened the scoring in the second half. However, this time, Turner found Isaako with his boot to level the scores at 12-12.
A moment of Brimson brilliance soon gave Tweed the lead. Looking to make up for his error in the previous set, Lewis jammed in as the Seagulls shifted the ball. However, he couldn’t stick to the tackle and Brimson spun out of the contact and down the sideline. His looping pass back in-field found Galeano for his second and the visitors put themselves in front for the first time in the 55th minute.
A Reece Summer offload to ground and into the hands of the opposition in the set after points put Tweed under pressure. So too did Collins’ second effort in the tackle resulting in a penalty and Craig Garvey’s forward pass. Still, the Seagulls defensive line propelled every attacking raid and frustrated the Pride into having another player sent to the bin for dissent in this one. Evan Child was marched this time, and from there, the Seagulls took control.
An early Turner kick in behind earned a forced dropout. Lindon McGrady and Brimson used the extra set on the line to put Tweed 12 points ahead. A long shift to the left edge through Collins in the middle compressed a 12-man defensive line leaving Galeano alone on the left wing. Similar to Turner’s kick through to Isaako earlier, Brimson dribbled one into the space down the left edge for Galeano to regather and claim his third of the night.
Not long after Child re-entered the field after his spell in the bin, Lisone replaced him after the officials ruled he threw a punch. The three minutes against 12 men wasn’t enough for the Pride, though. Partridge scored his second in the corner but the siren sounded as he kicked the conversion from the sideline for the Seagulls to claim an important 24-18 win.
Key Takeaways
Sam Lisone and JJ Collins linked up well early. Their work in yardage helped the Seagulls get into the game after conceding early points. Lisone’s ball-playing made things particularly difficult for the defensive line. He put Collins through a huge hole in the middle of the field at one stage, but the pass was called forward.
Lisone’s effort areas stood out, too. His line speed in defence backed up with pressure on the kicker turned a strong Pride yardage set into one ending with a kick out on the full. From there, the Seagulls used that field position to score their first try of the match.
Paul Turner stood out in a similar way. He had his moments in attack as he always does. The fullback made numerous half-breaks with his right foot step causing havoc when the Seagulls looked wide. However, he excelled in defence to clean up grubbers, save one try in cover, and organised the line as the Pride threatened in good ball.
Coach’s Comments
Defence has been a focus for Tweed all year and the line held up well despite conceding early.
“For the most part we defended well. Had a slip-up early but their other two tries were hard to defend, particularly a player down,” said Seagulls coach, Ben Woolf.
Having been forced into using six different fullbacks this season, Paul Turner’s availability in the #1 jersey helped this week.
“We’ve had a heap of different spine combinations and fullback, in particular, has been a spot we haven’t had consistency. Paul is our first choice fullback. He organised well and is a constant threat with the ball.”
Tweed have two games left to play in the regular season and are well-positioned to play finals footy. Still, the focus is on playing well over the next fortnight.
“We are building well and the focus over the next two weeks will be consistency over the 80 minutes,” Woolf said.
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 18 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Northern Pride
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will travel to Barlow Park, Cairns this Saturday, 13th August to face the Northern Pride in Round 18 of the QRL Hostplus Cup.
The Seagulls will be eager to bounce back after drawing 26-26 with bitter rivals Burleigh Bears last week and will be confident of collecting the two points on Saturday if they can back up their Round 17 performance.
Tweed looked ultra competitive against the competition leaders last week. Despite a host of key players currently unavailable for selection (Brent Woolf, Lee Turner, Sam McIntyre, JoJo Fifita, Ryland Jacobs to name a few), the Seagulls looked dangerous with the ball in hand to threaten both around the ruck and on the edges.
Charlie Murray is proving a revelation in the starting lock role, playing 51 minutes last week to run for 94 metres, make 24 tackles with no misses and set up a try with a clever late offload for Braden Robson to score under the posts. Murray is named to lock the scrum again this week and forms a powerful and skilful middle third alongside JJ Collins and Sam Lisone.
Out wider, Joshua Patston is another Seagull proving his utility value this season; cameoing at left centre last week and proving a key figure in that draw against the Bears. Patston’s existing combination with five-eighth Will Brimson was evident as the pair asked constant questions of Burleigh halfback Guy Hamilton in defence. Patston finished that game with 139 running metres, one linebreak and four tackle busts and will line up there again on Saturday with Ioane Seiuli retaining his spot in the backrow inside him.
Tweed’s left edge of Brimson, Patston and Seiuli was afforded opportunities to impact the game thanks in largely to the kicking game of halfback Lindon McGrady’s.
McGrady put boot to ball 12 times last week for a season-high 383 kicking metres and two forced drop-outs. He is providing the Seagulls with wonderful experience and leadership while the squad changes around him this season and was a key factor in Tweed’s performance against Burleigh in Round 17.
A rare near missed field goal attempt with the clock winding down in that game will have replayed in McGrady’s head all week and we can expect a player of his quality and maturity to respond in telling fashion this weekend.
The Northern Pride bring some form into this Round 18 clash having won three on the trot and five of their last six games.
Pride’s recent record is such that they now sit equal with Tweed on the ladder with 19 competition points, meaning a win this weekend is vital as both sides chase a spot in the top eight. Hooker and captain Chris Ostwald has been in inspired form over the last month, with four try assists in his last three games catapulting Pride into ninth position.
The last time these sides met was in Round 8 this season, with Tweed coming away convincing winners 28-0. The Seagulls’ left edge was on fire in that game with Will Brimson, Josh Patston and brothers Paul & Lee Turner all starring in the shout-out win. Brimson, Patston and Paul Turner are all named to back it up in the rematch and profile as key players for the Seagulls again in Round 18.
Player to Watch
Ioane Seiuli was in a destructive mood last weekend against the Bears. At 191cm and 114 kgs he is an imposing prospect when sizing up on opposing halves and even when he doesn’t get the ball Seuili can manipulate the defence and create space for teammates around him.
He runs a good line off his half and linked nicely with Brimson last week to hold up the defence and leave space for Patston out wider or Paul Turner sweeping out the back.
When he did get the ball, Seuili’s strength through contact and offloading ability causes problems for the defence, as evident with Kaleb Ngamanu’s try midway through the second half last week. Drawing in two Burleigh defenders to the tackle on the left edge, Seuili still managed to get his arm free and pop the pass away for Ngamanu to dive over untouched.
With one game under their belt to further develop their combinations in attack, Seuili, Brimson and Patston shape as a likely avenue for points for Tweed again in Round 18.
Coach’s Comments
Tweed Seagulls Football Manager Dave Penna says the playing squad took plenty out of last week’s draw against bitter rivals Burleigh.
“The players always lift when playing Burleigh,” said Penna.
“It was a game we let slip but we will take a lot from that game, moving forward.”
Penna paid tribute to club stalwart Lindon McGrady for his leadership both last week and throughout the 2022 season as a whole.
“Lindon brings a lot of experience and calm to the team,” Penna said.
“He loves playing for Tweed and loves helping young players in the team.”
On the versatility and team-first attitude shown by players like Joshua Patston, Ioane Seiuli and Charlie Murray in recent weeks, Penna was full of praise.
“Our whole squad has that mentality. Everyone wants to work for one another and that is all you can ask for. It’s pleasing to see those boys do well – they have worked really hard all season.”
Match Details
Round 18 v Northern Pride
Saturday 13th August @ Barlow Park, Cairns
Kick-off: 5:30pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Investing in Our Future
At the recent Lion’s Long Lunch the Club, in partnership with the founding members of the Lion’s Den including Preston Campbell and his Foundation was proud to present the most recent scholarships in honour of Tom Searle as well as the inaugural Andy Stubbs scholarships.
The lunch was used to promote the efforts of local community clubs and schools that feed into our ‘Seagulls to Heroes’ Pathways Program and recognise that without these relationships Tweed Seagulls RLFC doesn’t exist.
Tom Searle was renowned for spotting talented young players and helping them achieve the best they could be. When interviewed at the lunch Preston spoke of Tom’s genuine interest in his wellbeing and his life away from football and how that helped him.
It is this legacy that we aim to keep alive through the scholarship program while we encourage all our players to have two ‘Plan As’ in pursuing their ambitions on and off the field..
Our most recent recipients are Aaron Singh (Murwillumbah and Murwillumbah HS), Blake Murphy (Tweed Juniors and St Josephs Banora Point) and Creedence Donovan and Zane Harrison (Tweed Heads Juniors and Palm Beach Currumbin SHS – PBC) following the likes of Tom Weaver (Cudgen and PBC), Zara Canfield (Currumbin Eagles and PBC), Chantay Ratu (Keebra Park SHS) and Tarryn Aiken (Bilambil and Tweed River HS)
All players will receive financial support for their studies, a small gear allowance and a 12-month gym membership through the Seagulls Club at Revolution Health & Fitness.
We thank our special luncheon guests Joel Parkinson, Greg Inglis, Chris Close, Trevor Gillmeister, Billy Moore, Kevin Campion and Preston Campbell, who gave generously of their time and shared stories to raise funds for the program.
Also, a special mention to Tristan Merlehan and the team at TopSport for promoting the Charity Bet in support of the Tom Searle Scholarship Program.
Over the coming weeks, we’ll profile all our scholarship holders and provide an update on their progress – on and off the field!
Another milestone etched into the clubs history
It was fitting that Lamar Manuel-Liolevave celebrated his 100th game for the Tweed Seagulls on our Legends Day. Tweed Seagulls past players and associates flocked to the grounds under the new ‘Legends’ banner and watched on proud to see the club in good hands.
When people speak of tradition and culture, it is important to note that the players and staff are the custodians. So for Legends to come back and witness the same loyalty they showed the club being mirrored is a significant moment for Seagulls.
Lamar epitomises the culture of the current playing group and the attitude they maintained during hard times. Whether it was the impact of the border closures or the recent floods, Ben Woolf, his coaching staff, assistants, and the playing group never looked for excuses and continued to work towards their goals on the field.
Before the match Lamar spoke of his gratitude towards Seagulls for helping him rediscover his love for the game and what the jersey meant to him. It is often said that the greatest compliment that a player can receive is from being the player others want to take the field with.
Congratulations Lamar we hope you are ready for 100 more!!
NAME – QCUP GAMES PLAYED
WOOD, James – 242
KING, Matt – 191
DAVIS, Brad – 154
MACCAN, Tim – 152
BARNES, Nathanael – 142
BERDIE, Selasi – 141
LEARY, Jake – 104
MANUEL-LIOLEVAVE, Lamar – 100
KINGSTON, Tom – 99
Round 17 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Burleigh Bears
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls returned home to the Piggabeen Sports Complex to play out a 26-26 thriller against the Burleigh Bears in Round 17.
An early penalty for offside put the Seagulls on the backfoot early and the Bears turned the field position into points through Pat Politoni. Following a strong Esan Marsters carry off a Guy Hamilton short ball, Politoni burrowed over from dummy half to open the scoring inside two minutes.
Tweed responded and played themselves into the match on the back of Lindon McGrady’s kicking game. He first pinned the Bears in the far corner of the ground before forcing a dropout shortly after. However, the Seagulls attack – despite poking their head through the line once or twice – couldn’t get over the line. The Bears, on the other hand, only needed a scrum in good ball to add to their lead.
A Scott Galeano error provided the Bears with a mid-field scrum only ten metres from the Seagulls line. Kea Pere charged onto another Hamilton short ball and carried two defenders over to push the Burleigh lead out to 10-0 after 15 minutes.
Again McGrady’s kicking game played Tweed back into it. Needing to apply more pressure in an attempt to shut it down, Burleigh applied a little bit too much on McGrady as he put boot to ball, conceding a penalty and gifting the Seagulls another opportunity to attack in good ball. Braden Robson made it count this time as he collected a late Charlie Murray offload before forcing his way under the posts to make it 10-6 in the 20th minute.
Sam Lisone soon gave Tweed the lead with a ridiculous show of skill from the prop forward.
It looked as though Burleigh’s line would hold firm after solving a dangerous Tweed shift to the right edge. However, on the fifth tackle and on the second phase, Lisone put a grubber in behind the line and won the race to the ball to put the home side 12-10 in front.
The Bears weren’t without opportunities to retake the lead before halftime. Repeated Seagulls six again infringements and handling errors allowed them to apply pressure in good ball but poor offloads released it on two occasions and a grubber going dead in goal allowed the home side to get up the field and through to the break with the lead.
Tweed laid the platform for a strong start to the second half through McGrady’s kicking game and firm defence early. However, a strip penalty allowed the Bears to start the second half in the same way they did the first with Alofiana Khan-Pereira crossing early for the visitors to retake the lead.
Tweed made Hamilton a target in the defensive line throughout the early stages of the second half. McGrady and Craig Garvey both looked to isolate Ioane Seiuli onto the halfback. Having hit Seiuli in the previous sets, McGrady skipped him and played to Will Brimson out the back who put Josh Patston through a gaping hole in the 52nd minute.
A superb cover tackle saved the Bears on this occasion, but the Seagulls went straight back to that edge at the next opportunity. Patston ran the lead to occupy Hamilton this time while the ball made its way out the back to Seiuli. An outrageous Seiuli offload, similar to the one he threw in Round 4, ended with Kaleb Ngamanu over in the corner.
Six again infringements made things difficult for Tweed but their defence responded before they again worked through the left edge. However, the Burleigh right side became the target in yardage before a typical Tweed longside shift to the right. Lisone swung the ball through the middle as the Tweed right edge linked up to send Scott Galeano across the line in the 63rd minute.
A McGrady forced dropout to end the set after points translated into McGrady crossing the line himself moments later. Collecting the short dropout and skipping through the Burleigh defence, the skipper extended Tweed’s lead.
Not to be put off but short kicks, Burleigh looked short on the kickoff as they attempted to answer back. Regaining possession and charging up the field, Jacob Alick burrowed over to stop the rot and close the gap to six heading into the final eight minutes. The gap closed entirely only two minutes later. A rampaging Api Noema-Matenga broke through the line in the set after points to scramble the Tweed defensive line. Josh Rogers went close but as the defensive line tracked back and prepared for a shift on the last tackle, Hamilton cut back inside to beat the sliding defence and level the scores at 26-26 with five minutes to play.
As the clock wound down and a Jarrod Wallace error provided the Seagulls with the last good chance at snatching victory, a near-perfect field goal set ended with McGrady’s attempt hitting the post.
The final 26-26 score line captures the thrilling nature of this close contest which keeps the Seagulls at 7th on the ladder ahead of their huge Round 18 match against the 8th-placed Northern Pride.
Key Takeaways
Treymain Spry made his return after recovering from a sickening off-field incident that left him with life-threatening injuries before the season kicked off. Having made his return to footy with the Helensvale Hornets last week, Spry started in the centres for this one. He’s a big body and an effective ball carrier which suits Tweed’s long-side shifts in yardage. The 80 minutes this week will set him up for a good finish to the season.
“Trey was a bit quiet but that’s to be expected. He did a solid job and will be better for it next week.” said Ben Woolf.
Tweed has been forced to rotate through different combinations on the edge all season and this one saw Ioane Seiuli at left edge backrow with Josh Patston outside him in the centres. The pair proved difficult to handle in yardage given their size and strength in contact. When the Seagulls were able to play on the front foot and swing the ball wide, the pair varied their lines and caused havoc on the Burleigh right edge.
Coach’s Comments
Tweed coach Ben Woolf was pleased with the response after going down early but the two competition points slipped away in the end.
“It was disappointing to lose,” said Woolf.
“I thought we did enough and to lead by 12 with 10 to play. The win was in our grasp.”
He was impressed with Sam Lisone’s solo effort to score and the new-look left edge combination, though.
“Sam was stoked with that effort. It was good to see him get some rewards as he buys in to Tweed every week he’s back here,” Woolf said.
“I thought our left edge looked good all game. They put Burleigh under pressure every time we went there and did a good job in defence.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 17 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Burleigh Bears
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls have spent the last fortnight gearing up for a blockbuster with competition heavyweights and bitter rivals the Burleigh Bears this Sunday 7th of August in Round 17 of the QRL Hostplus Cup.
This weekend will mark a return for Tweed’s to Piggabeen Sports Complex for the first time since round 12, and the added element of a local derby is sure to add some emotion to the contest. The club is expecting a packed house at Piggabeen on Sunday as all of Tweed’s valued corporate partners, affiliates and fans gather to celebrate club stalwart Lamar Manuel-Liolevave who will play his 100th game for the Seagulls.
While all the focus is on the Round 17 clash this week, there will also be one eye on the future with the Bears and Seagulls likely to face each other again in the Hostplus Cup finals series later this year. With a packed house at Piggabeen on Sunday and everything to play for, this is profiling as the game of the round.
The Seagulls come into Sunday’s clash following a 38-26 win over the Ipswich Jets in the QRL’s Country Round last month. Tweed’s attack clicked into gear in a high scoring affair in that game, running in eight tries against the Jets to clinch their eighth win of the season.
The Seagulls have welcomed back a host of names with NRL experience over the last few weeks and in Round 16 it was Tweed fullback and Titan’s five-eighth Paul Turner who made a statement in his return to the Hostplus Cup.
Turner ran for an even 200 metres, made four linebreaks, busted five tackles and set up a try in Tweed’s rout of the Jets, and he is named in his familiar #1 jersey again this week. Turner’s return also allowed Lindon McGrady to slot back into the halves, where he looked ultra comfortable to post three linebreak assists and two try assists in Round 16.
Alongside Turner, NRL regulars Jamayne Isaako and Brian Kelly were also strong contributors for the Seagulls last week, as was Tweed’s own Scott Galeano who again showed his versatility to shift onto the wing and cross for a double. With Galeano shifting back into his preferred centre position this week and Turner, McGrady and Will Brimson rounding out a familiar and formidable playmaking trio, the Seagulls are well positioned to make a statement when they take on the competition leaders on Sunday.
The Burleigh Bears sit alone atop the QRL premiership ladder with just two losses this season and carry a three game winning streak in Round 17. Interestingly, it was Tweed who dealt Burleigh their first loss of the season back in Round 4 with a comprehensive 38-12 victory, adding yet another layer to what’s shaping as a fiery clash between the rival clubs on Sunday.
The Bears’ competition leading offence has averaged 39.2 points per game over their last five matches and they will be confident of troubling the scoreboard again on Sunday. Halves Josh Rodgers and Guy Hamilton have 12 tries and a whopping 42 try assists between them so far this season and will be a focus for the Seagulls’ defence as they look to best the Bears for the second time this year.
Player to Watch
One of the Seagulls’ most reliable performers not just this season but across his QRL career to date is Lamar Manuel-Liolevave, who will celebrate a milestone 100 Cup games for Tweed this weekend.
Manuel-Liolevave is a beloved clubman and highly respected leader in this Seagulls’ side, having made his debut back in 2017 and playing all 99 Cup games in the black-and-white since. He has played primarily through the middle this season but is named in his familiar #11 jersey this week in recognition of his services to the club as an edge forward in season’s past.
Manuel-Liolevave’s rugby league journey is testament to Tweed’s development pathways, having come through the Keebra Park system and into the Seagulls’ program from a young age. Six seasons later and Manuel-Liolevave has truly found a home at Tweed and it will be a proud moment for both himself and the club when he takes the field for the 100th time in Seagulls colours on Sunday.
Tweed Seagulls Football Manager Dave Penna could not speak highly enough of their milestone man this week.
“Lamar has been with us for a while now and is definitely one of the leaders in our club,” said Penna.
“He plays with his heart on his sleeve every week. He always turns up, never complains and always does his job. He loves the club and the club is looking forward to honouring and recognising him this weekend.”
“I think at any level – particularly at an elite level – to play 100 games for any club deserves recognition. It’s a great achievement for Lamar and another proud moment in our club’s great history.”
Another reliable performer for the Seagulls this season – albeit not one with Manuel-Liolevave’s experience – is 20-year old rookie forward Charlie Murray.
Murray had a breakout game starting at lock in Tweed’s last outing, playing 54 minutes and taking 10 hit-ups for 103 running metres (47 in post-contact), throwing two offloads and making 20 tackles for no misses.
In a pack boasting big names like Manuel-Liolevave, JJ Collins and Sam Lisone, the Seagulls are equally well stocked with role-players who can be relied on to do their jobs every week. Joshua Patston, Ioane Seiuli and Braden Robson are three good examples from this season so far, and we can add Murray to the list now too.
Moving one of your best players to cover another injured star can be risky business. With Murray stepping up in a big minute lock role however, Tweed can afford to use Robson at hooker while they navigate a dummy-half injury crisis late in the season. Both players will be key to Tweed’s chances again in Round 17.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf was pleased to see his side wrack up the points against Ipswich in their last outing but says his focus this week has been on defence.
“Defence has been a big focus this week, particularly coming up against Burleigh who have been attacking well and putting teams away,” said Woolf.
“With the quality they have it will be important to defend well.”
Along with Manuel-Liolevave, Woolf also paid tribute to young Charlie Murray after a breakout game against the Jets.
“Charlie has been playing well and always brings great energy to the group – his effort and energy is always high,” Woolf said.
Match Details
Round 17 v Burleigh Bears
Saturday 7th August @ Piggabeen Sports Complex, Tweed
Kick-off: 3:00pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
STARS LINE UP FOR LION’S LONG LUNCH
Chris ‘Choppy’ Close, Billy Moore, Greg Inglis, Trevor ‘The Axe’ Gillmeister, Kevin Campion and Preston Campbell will headline ‘The Lion’s Long Lunch’ will be held at Seagulls Club on August 5.
Our upcoming Lion’s Long Lunch will be held on August 5 at the Seagulls Club. Proceeds from the event will help us support our community links and the Tom Searle scholarship program.
It is a great line-up of guests and with a limit of 200 seats, this event will be in high demand.
The event will take place on the Friday to build hype for the rivalry round against Burleigh where we hope to fill the stands with a sea of black and white butcher stripes! The support from the fans will become critical in a must-win clash for our Hostplus Cup team.
We encourage everyone to circulate this link to those you think may be interested in the event.
Lunch will be a 2 course meal with a 3-hour drinks package included.
The Lunch named in memory of Seagulls legend Tom Searle with funds raised directed to the scholarship program in his name and the Seagulls to Heroes Pathways program. Several scholarship recipients will be named on the day, including the inaugural Andy Stubbs scholarship. Andy originally worked in the media, and his close association with Seagulls saw him become a key member of the consortium that brought the Titans to the Gold Coast.
Following the success of Queensland in the recent State of Origin decider, the special guests will almost be able to provide a living history of Origin with ‘Choppy’ winning the man-of-the-match in the inaugural game when the legendary Arthur Beetson captained the team.
‘Gilly’ famously led the team to one of its most famous victories in the 1995 series during the Super League war and was rushed back to the hospital after the final game at Melbourne.
This was the same series in which Billy Moore was captured in the tunnel at the Sydney game, yelling out the rallying cry of “Queenslander” that echoed around Suncorp Stadium as the Maroon ‘underdogs’ once again took the mantle of Origin holders.
This was the legacy that ‘Campo’ carried with him in his four Origin appearances, with teammate Gorden Tallis paying him the ultimate compliment of saying Campo was the player he wanted by his side in any game.
Greg Inglis, of course, was part of the Maroons dynasty playing alongside the likes of Cameron Smith and Johnathan Thurston, who Billy Slater reunited as part of his coaching team in his inaugural year as Coach.
GI will be joined on stage by his cousin Preston Campbell who brings us back to ‘The Lion’.
Preston got his original start in the top grade when Tommy recruited him in 1998 for the Gold Coast Chargers, where he shared a bedroom with Michael Searle, who brought him back to the Coast as the inaugural signing for the Titans.
Preston’s link with Seagulls involves the Preston Campbell Foundation trainees, with his son debuting for the Titans after a break-out year for Seagulls in the Queensland Cup last year.
Our guests will have plenty of stories to tell, and with a limit of 200 guests, tickets are selling fast.
Round 16 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Ipswich Jets
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls pile up the points early on their way to a 38-26 win over the Ipswich Jets at Bauhinia Park, Springsure.
It didn’t take long for the Seagulls to register on the scoreboard. Presented with an opportunity to attack in good ball after Ngangarra Barker failed to defuse a Lindon McGrady bomb, Brian Kelly plucked a McGrady cross-field kick out of their air to open the scoring in just the second minute.
As they so often do, the Seagulls looked straight to the edges in return. Left and right, they surged up the field and produced a strong set after points to control the early stages of the match. However, the Jets scored their first in a similar fashion to the Seagulls. This time it was Paul Turner who failed to defuse a bomb, and with five Ipswich players around to clean up the scraps, Blake Lenehan levelled the scores at 6-6.
Back-to-back penalties as the Seagulls worked out of yardage hurt the Jets. Tweed looked to the right side and found success through Turner as he skipped past his defender into the backfield. He couldn’t link up with Scott Galeano to finish the job this time. With another penalty and chance to move the ball though, the Seagulls again looked left. Sam Lisone acted as the trigger in the middle before McGrady provided Turner with early ball to skip to the outside of his man. Passing the ball this time, Turner found his brother Lee who shrugged off his man and sent Galeano down the sideline. Making no mistake, Galeano carried two into the corner and over the line for a 10-6 Tweed lead.
The Seagulls show no fear regardless of the game state. Where a lot of teams look to settle the game down and play with a lead, Ben Woolf’s side continues to explore the edges. If the offload is there, they will throw it and their set after points again ended with an Ipswich error deep in their own end after second-phase play dragged Tweed up the field.
McGrady and the Seagulls needed only one play off the scrum to keep the scoreboard ticking over. Feeding the ball before wrapping around to the left side, McGrady straightened the attack, created the numbers and left his backline with a three-on-two situation which Jamayne Isaako finished in the corner.
Rinse and repeat for the Seagulls in yardage. Another offload created the second phase and Paul Turner skipped through a disjointed defensive line and into the backfield. Again, the linebreak itself didn’t translate into points but the field position did. Another look to the right edge through the Turner brothers put Galeano over as the Seagulls built an 18-6 lead after only 26 minutes.
Tweed continued to build pressure through a forced dropout following Galeano’s second but Ipswich weathered the storm to finally spend some time with the ball before halftime.
Lachlan Cooper threatened close to the line as his big right foot step beat the first defender. However, his offload ended up in the hands of the Seagulls who soon added another four-pointer through Will Brimson. The Tweed five-eighth used a magnificent Josh Patston lead to break through the line for a 22-6 lead which stuck through to halftime.
Ipswich made their intentions clear after the break. Leaving the ground announcer speechless as the ball moved through, up and around numerous Jets players and hands, Ricco Falaniko strolled over to cut Tweed’s lead to 22-10.
Falaniko broke through the line shortly after, but the Seagulls responded with a strong set of their own. It appeared as though Ipswich had hung on after dragging Patston down just short of the line. However, as Craig Garvey stepped out from behind the ruck and shaped to pass right, he dropped Lamar Manuel-Liolevave back underneath to stroll over almost untouched.
A try to Kirisome Auva’a and sustained pressure on the Tweed line to follow threatened to put Ipswich back in the match. However, a strong defensive stint and relieving penalty put the Seagulls back into attacking field position, where they once again turned that field position into points. Going over from dummy half himself this time, Garvey pushed the score out to 32-16 with 20 minutes to play.
The result was put beyond doubt when Kelly strolled over for his second – again on the back of a scrum with Turner involved on the right side – to make it 38-12. Falaniko managed to score his second and Barker dotted down for the Jets as the siren sounded but the damage had been done. Tweed used lovely conditions for running rugby league to run up a 38-26 victory and play themselves into form ahead of a top-of-the-table clash against the Bears after the bye.
Key Takeaways
Coach Ben Woolf has talked about his willingness to see the Seagulls release an offload when the opportunity presents itself throughout the year. We’ve seen it all season regardless of the conditions and game state. With the go-forward through the middle established early into this one, the offloads helped to sustain it as the second phase generated yardage and disjointed the Jets’ defensive line. Paul Turner made particular use of the platform to regularly threaten and break through the line out wide.
Josh Patston continues to play well on the left edge. Whether it be a charging run with the ball in hand or a hard line for the ball to move wider, he is a crucial part of a left-edge attack that made in-roads all the way up the field in this one. His consistency is particularly valuable in a side that has been forced to rotate through players in recent weeks.
Coach’s Comments
With some big names returning to Ben Woolf’s side for this one, the Tweed attack sung from the start.
“It was good to see the team string the ball well on shifts, and the inclusion of Paul and Jamayne gave us some class to finish the sets off. We let ourselves down at the end of some backline movements but overall, the attack was good,” said Woolf.
Tweed’s attack has clicked at the perfect time ahead of a massive rivalry battle with the Burleigh Bears in Round 17. It doubles as the first Seagulls game at Piggabeen since the middle of June.
“The boys are always up for a big one against Burleigh and will be keen to get a home game after a long run away,” Woolf said.
“If we can keep the same line up, I’m really looking forward to challenging the benchmark team after the bye.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 16 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Ipswich Jets
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will take their Round 16 clash with the Ipswich Jets to Bauhinia Park in Springsure this Saturday, 23rd July at 3:30pm as part of the QRL Hostplus Cup’s Country Round initiative.
Saturday’s game is the fourth consecutive away game for the Seagulls who have travelled to Rockhampton, Redcliffe and the Sunshine Coast in what has been a challenging month of football for the Tweed based club. The Seagulls have been forced to navigate injuries and NRL call ups to key players throughout that time and have done well to keep in touch with the top eight with five games remaining. As Tweed get some troops back over the coming weeks they will be well positioned to make a deep run into this year’s finals series, but for now it’s all about a Round 16 matchup with the Ipswich Jets.
Saturday’s game profiles as an important one for the Seagulls who will be looking to avoid a logjam in the bottom half of the top eight with finals approaching. Just four competition points seperate the 5th placed Dolphins and the 11th placed Cutters, with Tweed sitting right in the middle of that bunch with seven wins and 16 competition points coming into Round 16.
With one win and two losses from their last three games, Saturday’s clash presents as a winnable game for the Seagulls before they meet with top eight sides Burleigh, Townsville and Brisbane to round out the ‘22 regular season.
The Ipswich Jets bring a very different form line into Round 16, having won three of their last four games and averaging a convincing 24 points per game throughout that period. It’s a far cry from the Jets’ start to the year, where they lost their first 10 games and scored more than 20 points on just two occasions.
It was a meeting with the Tweed Seagulls at North Ipswich Reserve in Round 11 that marked a turnaround in the Jets’ 2022 season and that is sure to add some feeling to this weekend’s contest.
The Jets came to life either side of the break in that game to score six tries and threaten a huge upset against the then-sixth placed Seagulls. Two late tries to Sosefo Fifita and Ioane Seiuli sealed the result for Tweed in that game, but with Fifita named to play for the Gold Coast Titans this week the Seagulls will need to look elsewhere for points on Saturday.
Players to Watch
With 121 NRL games worth of skill and experience named at left centre for the second week in a row, Brian Kelly is again a player to watch for the Seagulls in Round 16.
Playing in his first Hostplus Cup game of the season last week, Kelly took 21 carries for a game-high 223 metres (81m in post-contact) against the Falcons, busting eight tackles and throwing three offloads along the way. Kelly has always been a destructive runner of the ball and was a welcome addition to a Tweed backline last week that is still missing reliable yardage men in Ryland Jacobs (leg injury) and Paul Turner (Gold Coast Titans) when working out the back of the field.
Kelly’s appearance for the Seagulls in Round 15 pushed regular left-centre Lee Turner to the other side of the field while backrower-turned-centre Ioane Seiuli lined up on the wing. The Seagulls’ back five combined for 795 running metres last week to keep Tweed competitive in yardage and it’s a testament to the Falcons’ defensive resolve that they were able to win last week with just 44% of the ball. With the same backline named to take on the Jets this weekend, Tweed will be confident of working off their own line effectively and starting their sets on the front foot.
From there, it’s the Seagulls’ left edge that has looked most likely with the ball in recent weeks and we can expect Tweed to search for points down that channel on Saturday.
Backrower Joshua Patston was the beneficiary of a left-dominant offence last week, with the workman-like forward troubling the scoreboard twice against the Falcons thanks to Lindon McGrady’s short kicking game in good ball.
Once in the first half and then again in the second, McGrady took possession in a left-side shift and dropped the ball onto the boot and into space behind Sunshine Coast’s line. Patston showed great skill to scoop the first grubber off his laces and through traffic, and then was quick enough to beat Falcon’s fullback Luke Polselli to the ball for his second.
Aside from McGrady’s involvements from fullback, the combination of Patston and five-eighth Will Brimson is one the Seagulls can look to in good-ball on Saturday, particularly with the threat Brain Kelly poses to the defence outside them. The temptation might be to play wide to Kelly on the edges but if Brimson can straighten up the attack and have McGrady and Kelly threatening out wide, the space might open up for Patston off his hip.
Patston runs a great backrowers’ line and is skilful enough to get a pass away through or at the line to a teammate in support. Throw in the kicking threat of McGrady and Brimson’s own ability as a ball runner and the left edge is an area of strength for the Seagulls coming into Round 16.
Team List
- Lindon McGrady
- Ioane Șeiuli
- Lee Turner
- Brian Kelly
- Scott Galeano
- Will Brimson
- Thomas Weaver
- JJ Collins
- Blake Scott
- Sam Lisone
- Joshua Patson
- Charlie Murray
- Braden Robson
- Craig Garvey
- Reece Summer
- Lamar Manuel-Liolevave
- Reuben Porter
- Daniel Ross
Match Details
Round 16 v Ipswich Jets
Saturday 23rd July @ Bauhinia Park, Springsure
Kick-off: 3:30pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 15 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Sunshine Coast Falcons
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls fought back from a 16-point deficit early but a fast-finishing Sunshine Coast Falcons took the chocolates with a 26-18 win at Sunshine Coast Stadium, Sunshine Coast.
Presented with sunny skies perfect for throwing the footy around, Tweed got into their work early. They searched the edges in yardage and moved up the field to win the early field position battle. However, a Sam Lisone error gave the Falcons an opportunity in good ball which they turned into points. Cooper Johns crabbed across the field before Daniel Atkinson straightened the attack and sent the ball wide for Nat McGavin to score in the corner.
Tweed responded well with a tough Charlie Murray carry ending up in a penalty and kick up the field. Tom Weaver, Lee Turner and Scott Galeano found space down the right edge to put the Seagulls on the front foot. Lindon McGrady approached the line on the last tackle and looked to dribble one in behind the line for a repeat set, but Blake Wilson cleaned up the grubber and returned it to the house to put the Falcons up 10-0 after 12 minutes.
The home side made it 16-0 on the following set. Johns hung one up on the last tackle with Luke Polselli beating McGrady in the air before sending Kane Jackson over the line.
Despite the scoreline, the Seagulls didn’t go into their shell. Typical shifts wide posed danger down the edges on both sides. Ioane Seiuli went close in the left corner before being bundled into touch. Backrower Josh Patston found himself streaking down the left edge and into Falcons territory on the following set. Seiuli did the same shortly after. However, the home side solved Tweed’s shifts well enough in good ball to keep their line clean until the visitors finally broke through in the 30th minute. McGrady’s long kicking game improved Tweed’s field position and his grubber to Patston produced points and cut the Falcons’ lead to ten which lasted through to halftime.
Neither side managed to grasp control of the game throughout the early stages of the second half. Tweed again found success down the edges but the Sunshine Coast defence held firm. Meanwhile, a big Falcons middle charged up the field and forced the Seagulls to work out from deep in their own end.
A Sunshine Coast penalty for high contact and back-to-back six again infringements changed the game and put Tweed into attacking field position for an extended period. McGavin put a shot on out wide to close down a dangerous-looking right shift before Johns knocked the ball on while solving a Tweed shift to the left edge. An Atkinson shoulder charge extended Tweed’s time in good ball and having been held up over the line a minute earlier, Craig Garvey eventually cracked the Sunshine Coast defence to score.
The big middles moved the ball between themselves up the field while Brian Kelly also worked hard out of yardage, and Tweed returned straight back to the Sunshine Coast 20 to continue their onslaught with the ball. Lisone went close to crashing over the line but the home side managed to hold him up. However, the fatigue in the legs started to catch up with the Falcons middle as Patston won the race to a McGrady grubber with Tweed taking an 18-16 lead into the final 15 minutes.
The Falcons completed a strong defensive set but a late shot as Weaver kicked from deep in his own end released all pressure and sent the Seagulls 40 metres up the field. However, Polselli found a gaping hole in the defensive line in response before drawing the fullback and sending Johns under the post to put the home side back in front.
Just like that, the Falcons were rewarded for their work in defence with a 22-18 lead with Jack Gibbons adding to it in the final moments. While the Seagulls completed an impressive comeback throughout the middle of the match, the Falcons’ fast start and strong finish was enough to secure the 26-18 win.
Key Takeaways
Reece Summer again impressed in his stint off the bench. He entered the field with the Seagulls 16 points behind and provided a much-needed energy boost through the middle.
Lindon McGrady’s kicking game proved to be a turning point for the Seagulls in the first half, though. Down 16-0 and in need of a response, McGrady began to pin the Falcons in their own end as Tweed slowly worked themselves into the match. That allowed the ball-playing middles to trigger shifts in yardage. It wasn’t long before the pressure started to build and turn into points.
It comes up every week but Craig Garvey again proved instrumental in Tweeds best periods in attack. He put his forwards on the front foot and found metres himself when ducking out of dummy half. His deception in good ball forced the defence to crowd the ruck which opened up space wider. When the defence didn’t close the gap between A and B, Garvey twice put his head through the line with the second leading to points.
Coach’s Comments
Tweed fought back well but ultimately gave up too many points early on.
“We did well to come back into the game and lead after trailing early but can’t afford to give those sort of leads,” said Seagulls coach, Ben Woolf.
McGrady played a big part in Tweed working their way back into the game. Despite playing at fullback, he’s still slotting in as a halfback at times.
“Lindon’s doing well [since moving to fullback]. He’s still controlling the game for us like he has all year,” Woolf said.
Craig Garvey also made a positive impact on the comeback when coming off the bench.
“Craig gives us good intensity off the bench every week. His defensive effort and running game are handy attributes to have to come on during the game.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Welcome to the NRL, Jojo Fifita
With JoJo Fifita named to make his debut this week, rugbyleaguewriters.com have looked into his QCup form and how it might translate into the NRL.
Rugby League Writers has spent the year covering the Tweed Seagulls in the Hostplus Cup and have been able to see JoJo Fifita earn his NRL debut with the Gold Coast Titans this week.
The 19-year-old has featured eight times for the Seagulls in 2022 scoring seven tries, breaking the line seven times and handing out two try assists. He’s quick, can break tackles (17 this year) and has the patience and ability to sum up a situation with the ball before making the right pass or finding the corner himself.
Any highlight packages introducing Fifita to the NRL will feature streaking runs down the sideline and finishes in the corner. He has looked comfortable on the end of Tweed’s wide-ranging shifts all season.
However, it’s his willingness and ability in yardage that is perhaps most encouraging. It’s an area of the field a lot of younger players might shy away from. Listed at 91kg, he’s not the biggest winger going around at Hostplus Cup or NRL level. Still, he puts his hand up for the tough carries and his contact and leg drive have turned numerous Tweed yardage sets around with a strong carry.
You can see how he breaks the first tackle before pushing through the second to earn his team 15 valuable metres here.

When given a little bit more time and space to wind up, Fifita is dangerous on kick returns. Tweed played in poor conditions against the Capras three weeks ago. Still, Fifita was able to apply some footwork to beat the initial kick-chase and pick up extra metres against a disjointed defensive line.
Unfortunately, we don’t get a lot of helpful angles to assess wing defence in the Hostplus Cup but Fifita hasn’t stood out as a weakness. Tweed typically slides in defence and he made good enough contact to complete this try saver in his last match for the Seagulls.
What we do know is that Fifita is reliable in the air. Whether it be collecting a cross-field kick from Lindon McGrady or defusing an opposition bomb, Fifita is confident and comfortable in the air. Given how much the Titans are struggling for points, the youngster will surely be an option on the last tackle this week. Perhaps Tweed teammate Tanah Boyd can find him in the air?
Fifita is signed with the Titans and has been destined for a crack in the top grade at some point, but it’s a worthwhile reminder that the Hostplus Cup is stacked with talent. It’s a nursery for young players and despite so few clubs considering those over 23 or 24 years old for an NRL debut, plenty look capable of stepping up. Check-in on the action at QPlus.tv and keep up with our work for the Tweed Seagulls.
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 15 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Sunshine Coast Falcons
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will hit the road for consecutive weekends this Saturday, 16th July when they travel to Sunshine Coast Stadium to take on the Falcons in Round 15 of the QRL Hostplus Cup.
Tweed’s premiership credentials this season are built around defence. A slip up last week against the Redcliffe Dolphins – where the Seagulls conceded an uncharacteristic 30 points – still leaves Tweed with the fifth best defensive record coming into Round 15 and we can expect a response from their middles in particular this week.
The Seagulls were navigating the absence of key players across the park last weekend and Redcliffe made them pay. Around the ruck in particular, the Dolphins’ hooking rotation of Sheldon Pitama and Liam Hampson threatened and schemed from dummy-half which allowed Redcliffe to play over the advantage line in attack. It’s an area of the game we’re used to seeing Tweed dominate this season and they get a chance to answer back on Saturday against the Falcons.
The importance of combinations and team cohesion is being stressed right now with the Seagulls’ navigating a host of injuries and absences to key players in key positions.
Following in the footsteps of Sam McIntyre, both Paul Turner and Sosefo Fifita have earned NRL call-ups to the Gold Coast Titans in recent weeks on the back of compelling performances in the Hostplus Cup. Ryland Jacobs impressed when filling in for Turner at fullback but succumbed to a leg injury prior to Round 14 which rules him out again this week, while first-choice hooker Brent Woolf remains on the sidelines as he manages a shoulder concern. Big minute prop Lamar Manuel-Liolevave has been out of action since copping a nasty head knock while playing for Fiji in the Pacific Test and experienced QRL campaigner Harrison Muller has been out since Round 10.
It’s a testament to both Tweed’s depth of roster and also their ‘next man up’ mentality that the Seagulls remain inside the top eight coming into Round 15.
Tweed’s big men JJ Collins and Sam Lisone start in the front row again this week with Braden Robson at lock and Joshua Patston returning to the side in the backrow. With Blake Scott and Craig Garvey again sharing hooking duties, the Seagulls have the nucleus of a forward pack who can compete with Sunshine Coast in yardage and open things up for Will Brimson, Tom Weaver and Lindon McGrady in attack.
Patston’s return is a timely one for the Seagulls, who are searching for a reliable constant amidst a raft of team changes in recent weeks.
Patston’s inclusion rounds out a familiar left edge for the Seagulls with Brimson, Patston and Lee Turner playing plenty of footy together at five-eighth, backrow and centre respectively this season. Brent Barnes is the fresh face on the wing but the combination of Brimson, Patston and Turner is one the Seagulls can turn to in the pressure moments on Saturday. If Brimson and his left edge can take control in good ball it will alleviate the pressure on young Weaver at halfback, playing just his second Cup game on Saturday.
The Sunshine Coast Falcons come into Round 15 following a narrow loss to the Central Queensland Capras. Sunshine Coast scored the first and last tries in that game but couldn’t seal the result, with the Capras defending their line bravely as the Falcons chased a late comeback.
Currently sitting second on the QRL ladder, the Falcons are a side Tweed can expect to meet again in the finals series and pose a welcome challenge as the Seagulls this week as they prepare for the back end of the season.
The last time these sides met was in Round 2 earlier this year, with Tweed Seagulls coming away comprehensive winners 28-6. The Seagulls’ left edge was on fire in that game with Brimson, Patston and Lee Turner all crossing the chalk in Round 2 and that trio shape as key players for the Seagulls again on Saturday.
Player to Watch
Tweed have embraced the next man up mentality as well as anyone in 2022 as injuries and NRL opportunities continue to disrupt head coach Ben Woolf’s first-choice 17 from week-to-week.
Earlier in the season it was Blake Scott and Craig Garvey stepping up with Brent Woolf on the sidelines and more recently we’ve marvelled at the efforts of Ryland Jacobs at fullback with Paul Turner playing for the Gold Coast Titans. But with Jacobs going down with a leg injury last week, Seagulls’ winger Scott Galeano identified an opportunity – and a need – to step up and he took it with both hands.
Capable of playing centre or wing, Galeano has good ball skills but is at his best when running the ball. Strong through contact and with nice footwork, Galeano took 16 energetic carries in a losing side last week to clock up 160 running metres (the most of any Tweed player and Galeano’s second highest tally this season) against Redcliffe and make 10 tackles with no misses.
In Galeano and three-Cup-game rookie Brent Barnes, the Seagulls have two reliable ball carriers out of yardage who can start their sets well in Round 15. This is made even more important with Lindon McGrady – primarily a ballplayer – filling in at fullback at the moment. Backrower-turned-centre Ioane Seiuli is also a strong runner of the ball and Lee Turner is still Tweed’s strike weapon in the outside backs, but at 24 years old Galeano has quickly become the familiar face in the Seagulls’ backline this season and his ability to step up when needed is promising signs, moving forward.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf conceded his side were beaten through the middle last week and is looking for a response on Saturday.
“Redcliffe were better than us around the ruck last week,” said Woolf.
“They had better line speed and their effort in the ruck was better than ours on both sides of the ball. Our effort in those areas needs to improve to match the top teams.”
Woolf said the next man up mentality his squad has embraced this season is not something they have spoken about as a group.
“There’s no fuss made when we get injuries and the expectation is that all players in the squad are ready to go,” said Woolf.
Scott Galeano was a standout performer from the wing last week and Woolf paid special mention to his efforts on the ball.
“With Lindon being a ballplaying fullback Scotty had to carry more and he did a good job there last week.”
Team List
- Lindon McGrady
- Brent Barnes
- Lee Turner
- Ioane Șeiuli
- Scott Galeano
- Will Brimson
- Thomas Weaver
- JJ Collins
- Blake Scott
- Sam Lisone
- Joshua Patson
- Klese Haas
- Braden Robson
- Craig Garvey
- Reece Summer
- Charlie Murray
- Reuben Porter
- Daniel Ross
Match Details
Round 15 v Sunshine Coast Falcons
Saturday 16th July @ Sunshine Coast Stadium
Kick-off: 4pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 14 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Redcliffe Dolphins
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls couldn’t keep up with a charging Redcliffe Dolphins who ran away with a 30-4 Round 14 win at Moreton Daily Stadium, Redcliffe.
The Seagulls didn’t need long to open the scoring as Scott Galeano crossed in the just sixth minute of the match. In a replica of their first try last week, Tweed looked to the right edge with Sam Lisone throwing the first pass of the shift at first receiver. He dug into the line before sending the ball wide where Galeano found acres of space to race over the line for an early 4-0 lead.

While the Seagulls worked well through the middle to pin the Dolphins in their own end, the home side did their damage out wide. With the defensive line compressed early in the count, Daejarn Asi chipped one over and into the corner for Setu Tu to level the scores 15 minutes into this one.
The try provided the Dolphins with a boost as they took control of the middle of the field. Dunamis Lui stood out within a rampaging pack that provided the playmakers with regular opportunities to attack the Seagulls line. Still, the visitors held firm in defence.
Lindon McGrady moved to fullback for this one with young Tom Weaver spotting up at halfback. However, McGrady made sure to insert himself into the Tweed attack whenever he could, directing the side a lot more than you would typically see from a fullback. Thriving through the middle by getting deep into the line and straightening the attack, McGrady created space for Tweed to find regular success down the edges in yardage. Will Brimson broke through the line but couldn’t connect with a teammate to turn the break into points.
While the Dolphins were presented with a handful of opportunities to ask questions in attack, the Seagulls defence had the answers in the first half. Lee Turner and Brimson on the left edge, in particular, made things difficult with their jamming defence shutting down back-to-back Redcliffe shifts.
Defence defined the first half which ended 4-4. The Dolphins middle defence limited the number of opportunities the Seagulls had to attack the line, while the Seagulls’ line defence shut down those of the Dolphins.
That Seagulls defence didn’t stick through to start the second half. Asi’s run at the line ended with Eli Katoa through it with the big backrower holding McGrady off for long enough to release an offload to the trailing Trai Fuller. While the fullback scored close to the posts, Asi couldn’t convert as the Dolphins moved to 8-4 in front.
That soon became 14-4 following a Valynce Te Whare break from inside his own half. The big centre who is signed with the Dolphins NRL side for 2023 showed incredible speed for his size as he streaked down the sideline. With the Tweed defence on the back foot, Liam Hampson found space around the ruck to crash over the line in the 50th minute.
As has so often been the case this season, Craig Garvey provided a spark off the bench. His linebreak threatened to break the game wide open before Fuller collected Garvey’s grubber to shut the play down and put Redcliffe back on the front foot. With points at a premium at this point, Bryce Donovan pointed at the posts when given the opportunity to put the Dolphins up 16-4 with 20 minutes to play.
It was all one-way traffic from there, though.
Hampson again triggered the action for the Dolphins to score their fourth try of the night. Spotting a Tweed defender slow to reload at the play-the-ball, the hooker jumped out from behind the ruck, stepped past the first marker and brought the shortside A defender into the tackle before sending the ball wide where Edward Kosi finished the job with a barnstorming run down the right wing.
Hampson completed what was an impressive performance by sending Kosi over only minutes later but Valynce Te Whare added the icing to the cake on the stroke of full time. Another charging carry down the left side ended with the centre crashing over as the Dolphins finished up as convincing 30-4 victors at Moreton Daily Stadium.
Key Takeaways
Lindon McGrady replaced the injured Ryland Jacobs at fullback for this one which changed things up for the Seagulls in attack. Opportunities to attack in good ball were few and far between. However, where Jacobs had made his mark in yardage and out wide with his speed and footwork in previous weeks, McGrady acted more as a ball player in the middle of the field this week. It may not show on the scoreboard, but there is points in this spine when given the chance.
Tom Weaver made his debut for the Seagulls top side in this one. He wasn’t presented with many opportunities in attack but displayed a nice right-foot step late in the piece. Some quick hands played a key role in the right shift leading to Scott Galeano’s try, too. The 19-year-old impressed with his defence, though. The Dolphins used Eli Katoa to run at the young halfback but Weaver did well enough to contain the much bigger backrower.
Coach’s Comments
Tom Weaver impressed coach Ben Woolf in his debut despite the limited opportunities in attack.
“I thought he did well. They sent plenty of traffic at him but he stood up well,” said Woolf.
The absence of Ryland Jacobs at the back had an impact on the number of opportunities the Seagulls had to use the football.
“We missed Ryland’s carries in yardage tonight. Lindon still ran the show in attack, but Ryland was definitely a loss,” Woolf said.
Ultimately, though, it came down to the Tweed defence which didn’t perform at the level it has done in recent weeks.
“We gave some cheap possession which put us under pressure at key times. We struggled to control their ruck speed in both halves but the extra possession allowed them to take advantage of it better in the second half.”
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 14 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Redcliffe Dolphins
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will be looking to post back-to-back wins on Saturday 9th July at 6pm when they take on the Redcliffe Dolphins in Round 14 of the QRL Hostplus Cup.
The Seagulls will make the trip up the M1 to Moreton Daily Stadium, Redcliffe with plenty of confidence this weekend having bested the 4th placed North Queensland Capras in Round 13. That win boosted Tweed up to fifth place on the ladder and in perfect position to make a deep run in this year’s finals series. A win against the seventh-placed Dolphins on Saturday will entrench the Seagulls inside the top eight with seven games to go in the regular season.
Much of the analysis in 2022 has been focused on Tweed’s free-flowing attacking structures and the threats they possess from dummy-half. The hooking trio of Brent Woolf, Craig Garvey and Blake Scott is a combination most QRL clubs would die for and the Seagulls have used all three effectively throughout the ‘22 season. They all bring different strengths to the position but one constant is their ability to bring Tweed’s middle forwards onto the ball and generate ruck speed in attack.
Much of this can also be attributed to the Seagulls’ forward rotation. The likes of JJ Collins, Lamar Manuel-Liolevave and Braden Robson have been stalwarts for Tweed in 2022 and consistently bend the line in yardage sets which creates the spaces out wide. Two tries against the Capras last week came on the back of exactly that – compressing the middle before simple hands to both edges found space in the corner.
All Tweed’s points in Round 13 were fine examples of their confidence and willingness to promote the footy, from anywhere on the field and in any conditions. Seven pairs of hands were needed for Sosefo Fifita to score in the 15th minute and another six were involved to put Scott Galeano over despite the horrid conditions last weekend. Considering the Seagulls are currently navigating the absence of fullback Paul Turner and forward Sam McIntyre – both who were integral to Tweed’s attacking shapes to begin the season and both who have earned a Gold Coast Titans NRL gig as a result – is further credit to the depth of Tweed’s roster and the quality of their coaching.
The saying goes though that defence wins premierships, and in that department the Tweed Seagulls profile well with finals approaching.
As of Round 14, the Seagulls defence (224 points conceded) ranks as the fourth best in the competition, with just 18 points separating them and the first placed Burleigh Bears (206 points conceded). Defence is a week-to-week focus under Head Coach Ben Woolf and it’s seen the Seagulls scrap and fight their way to two-points on a number of occasions this year, regardless of their attacking form on the day. A narrow win over the Hunters in Round 10 and last week’s six point margin against the Capras are recent examples of Tweed’s ability to defend their way to victory when the points aren’t flowing – a trait that will hold them in good stead come finals time.
The confidence Tweed take from their defensive resilience also flows into their attack. The Seagulls afford themselves opportunities to promote the footy and use the ball in attack, knowing they can defend any errors along the way. Against a Dolphins outfit that averages 21.8 points per game this season, the Seagulls’ defensive resolve could be the difference on Saturday.
The Redcliffe Dolphins come into Round 14 on the back of a 26-20 win over the Brisbane Tigers, capping off a strong month that included a 50+ point win over Ipswich Jets, a narrow win against the Mackay Cutters and a tough 24-all draw with the NQ Capras.
While not as watertight as Tweed without the ball, Redcliffe have proven they have plenty of points in them in with the likes of Trai Fuller and Valynce Te Whare troubling the scoreboard consistently in recent weeks. The Dolphins are 2-and-2 at home this season and will be eager to make that record a positive one at BMD Kougari Oval on Saturday.
Tweed have the wood over Redcliffe with wins in their last two matches, including a comprehensive 41-22 win to the Seagulls in last year’s finals series.
Player to Watch
Sam Lisone returned for the Seagulls last week for immediate impact and shapes as a key player for Tweed again on Saturday. Playing 47 minutes against the Capras in Round 13, Lisone proved his quality to contribute 99 running metres and 27 tackles in just his second Hostplus Cup game for 2022.
What the numbers don’t show however, is Lisone’s effectiveness as a link man from the ruck to the edges in attack. When he wasn’t carting the ball up and bending the line, Lisone could be seen passing forward teammates into space or chiming in at pivot in Tweed’s backline shifts. It’s a role that Braden Robson and Manuel-Liolevave have filled almost exclusively this year since Sam McIntyre’s elevation into first-grade, but Lisone’s addition gives the Seagulls yet another skilful big body to employ through the middle of the field.
Against a powerful Redcliffe forward pack led by Dunamis Lui this weekend, the impact Lisone brings on both sides of the ball will be crucial to Tweed winning the ruck on Saturday.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf says his side are close to finding a nice balance in attack and defence.
“We do back ourselves with the ball but also try to take controlled risks in attack,” said Woolf.
“It is good to show that we have the ability to scramble and defend our line if we do make errors though.”
Woolf is wary of a Dolphins outfit this weekend that hasn’t lost a game since Round 6.
“The Dolphins are a dangerous side and we follow them in the draw so have seen plenty of their games,” said Woolf.
“They are a strong team across the board with plenty of strike. They’ve got a strong forward pack so we will expect them to come through the middle then challenge our edges once they get some momentum.”
Team List
- Sosefo Fifita
- Lee Turner
- Ioane Șeiuli
- Scott Galeano
- Will Brimson
- Lindon McGrady
- JJ Collins
- Blake Scott
- Sam Lisone
- Joshua Patson
- Charlie Murray
- Braden Robson
- Craig Garvey
- Reece Summer
- Daniel Ross
- Reuben Porter
Match Details
Round 14 v Redcliffe Dolphins
Saturday 9th July @
Moreton Daily Stadium, Redcliffe
Kick-off: 6pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 13 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs CQ Capras
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls weathered wet and soggy conditions to outlast the Central Queensland Capras 18-12 at Browne Park, Rockhampton.
Tweed found themselves under early pressure when a Lee Turner penalty forced them into defending a full set on their line. However, the defence held firm in what would become a telling trend throughout the 80 minutes.
The wet conditions made it difficult for both teams to get up the field and Tweed appeared to play a territory game early. Lindon McGrady put in a pin-point grubber to force Central Queensland to travel 99 metres if they wanted to score before running it on the last and into the corner on the following set. However, penalties allowed the Capras easy passage up the field on both occasions to release the pressure.
The Seagulls have proven already this year that they’re willing to shift the football no matter the conditions. Sam Lisone made sure to insert himself into the attack as a ball-player through the middle and sent Braden Robson through half a gap. Shortly after, he linked up with McGrady one-off the ruck before McGrady threw a harbour bridge pass out to Will Brimson. Streaking down the right side from halfway, Brimson’s one-two with Jojo Fifita ended with the Seagulls centre opening the scoring in the 12th minute.
It wasn’t long before the Seagulls were presented with an opportunity to attack in good ball and made the most of it with a wide-ranging shift from the left corner to the right. JJ Collins took a long pass from dummy half and found McGrady wider, though the hands while drawing jamming defenders, the Seagulls right edge put Fifita over in the corner to push their lead out to 12-0.
The Capras weren’t short of opportunities with the ball, earning a repeat set in the 30th minute and spending back-to-back sets inside the Seagulls 20-metre line. However, they came up empty-handed while the visitors surged up the field in response. A destructive Collins carry into an offload to Craig Garvey soon translated into a Brimson kick into the far corner to pin the Capras deep in their own end of the field.
Tweed managed to add another try before halftime with close to a mirror image shift of their second try. This time starting on the right and looking left, Collins and McGrady again linked up before Brimson skipped to the outside of his man to engage the right centre. Turner straightened the attack to bring the winger infield and found Scott Galeno in the corner for a 16-0 lead.
Looking to answer back in the second half, the Capras scored the first points through a deflected grubber which found its way into the hands of Jesse Jennings in the 49th minute. A McGrady penalty goal four minutes later made it 18-6 as this game once again turned into a back and forth grind. Both sides worked towards forcing a mistake out of the opposition.
The errors came. Nixon Putt gave away a penalty which put the Seagulls into attacking territory but they couldn’t turn the field position into points. At the other end, errors working out of their own 20-metre zone in three consecutive sets put the Seagulls line under pressure. It took two more repeat sets for the Capras to cross the line. Jack Madden hung one up for Jonus Pearson who leapt above a crowd of Seagulls defenders to pluck the ball out of the air to make it 18-12 with seven minutes to play.
Game on.
Central Queensland threw everything at Tweed in the final moments; they weren’t going home wondering. A grubber from inside their own half early in the count put the Capras hot on the attack but Tweed kept them out. While trying to wind down the clock and close the game out, Bailey Butler put a shot on Collins to force an error and give them one more chance at levelling the scores.
However, as had been the case so often in this one, the Seagulls defence held up and held on to secure an impressive 18-12 win.
Key Takeaways
Tweed didn’t seem to care about the wet and soggy conditions in this one. As they’ve done all year, Ben Woolf’s side explored the edges in yardage and shifted the ball through multiple sets of hands in good ball to score. The weather did have an impact at times as the ball-players needed a little bit more time with the ball which threw out some of the timing. Still, it all came off often enough for the Seagulls to stretch the defence and find points in the first half.
Sam Lisone’s involvement was a big part of Tweed’s early success with the ball. He carried the ball well but it was his ball-playing that caused havoc. He played short to Braden Robson and put the lock forward through half a gap at one stage. Shortly after, he sent the ball wider and played at pivot for the first try of the afternoon. With Lamar Manuel-Liolevave not available for this one, Lisone filled the role to ensure the Seagulls attack didn’t miss a beat all the way up the field.
Coach’s Comments
In a match that forced a reshuffle, the Seagulls didn’t miss a beat. Tweed coach Ben Woolf was especially happy with how the team responded defensively.
“We are lucky enough to have several players that can play multiple positions which definitely helped today,” said Woolf.
“We defended our line really well. Both of their tries came from kicks so it was a credit to our defence in the second half.”
He also made mentioned of Lisone’s involvement in tough conditions.
“Sam was a good inclusion and his carries helped today, although the conditions didn’t really suit him,” Woolf said.
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 13 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs NQ Capras
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will hit the road this weekend as they travel to face the Central Queensland Capras at Browne Park, Rockhampton in Round 13 of the QRL Hostplus Cup.
The Tweed Seagulls are building nicely towards the back end of the season despite a slip-up in Round 12 against the Mackay Cutters, going down 22-24 in a tight contest. The positive for the Seagulls is that they only beat themselves with a 66% completion rate and just 40% of the ball in that game.
Tweed are at their best when rolling through the middle thanks to their creativity around the ruck before shifting smoothly to the edges in good ball. They afford themselves a chance to do so thanks to their discipline and attention to detail on both sides of the ball. Tweed’s 17.1 missed tackles per game is the lowest across the competition this season, and with the ball their 8.4 handling errors is the fourth least per game in 2022. The time in possession and field position Tweed earn for themselves on the back of this eventually turns into points, particularly with the attacking skill across the Seagulls’ lineup.
In Round 12 however, Tweed simply made it too hard for themselves.
With 13 errors, nine infringements and a whopping 37 missed tackles, the Seagulls were off their game and we can expect a much improved performance against the Capras on Saturday. Some minor adjustments and a keener focus on the basics should bring out the best of Tweed and if it does, the Seagulls profile well to grind Central Queensland out of the game in Round 13.
The Capras bring similar form into Saturday’s matchup with a draw and shaky wins over Townsville and Wynnum-Manly in their last three games. The Capras started the year red-hot but have slowed slightly as the season progresses, settling to third on the QRL ladder coming into Round 13.
Despite the Capras sitting a few rungs above Tweed on the ladder, this match will pit the league’s third and fourth best defences against each other. Both the Seagulls and Capras have been dominant without the ball in 2022 but it’s Tweed who hold a slight advantage in attack, having scored 14 more points across 11 games so far this season. While there is plenty of strike in both backlines, whoever can win the yardage battle and dominate the ruck on Saturday will likely come away with the result.
These sides last met in the 2021 season opener, with Tweed Seagulls taking care of the Capras 28-18 at Tugun RLFC. Current fullback Ryland Jacobs ran for a team-high 178 metres in that game from the wing, perhaps in a sign of things to come given his recent form out the back for Tweed this season.
Player to Watch
First choice hooker Brent Woolf is named to start in his favoured hooker position this week, marking a successful return to the side in what has been an injury disrupted season.
Woolf was one of Tweed’s best to begin the year, taking a leading role in steering his side around the park in attack and providing plenty of starch through the middle off the ball, too. Woolf played a starring role in the Seagulls’ first three games but hasn’t played consecutive games since, with a shift at five-eighth in Round 9 and a cameo from the bench in Round 11 his only appearances since.
The silver lining of Woolf’s absence has been the fast-tracked development of young dummy-half Blake Scott, but the Seagulls are without a doubt a stronger side with Woolf in the mix. His combination with Tweed’s middle forwards around the ruck – particularly JJ Collins this week with Lamar Manuel-Liolevave ruled out by concussion protocols – will be crucial to winning the yardage battle. As they’ve shown consistently this season, one strong carry and quick play-the-ball from Collins is all the Seagulls need to trigger a smooth backline shift, and Woolf is a guy who can help bring Collins onto the ball.
Another Seagull who deserves a mention this week is young Klese Haas who gets another start in the backrow after punching out 80-minutes there against Souths Logan in Round 9. His big brother has set the bar pretty high in the Haas household, but at 19 years old Klese is a powerful, mobile prospect who runs a good line on the edge. If Tweed can get themselves into attacking field position, a crash ball for Haas onto the opposing half seems a likely and promising action to look out for.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf will wait until game day to decide on the final line up, but confirms having Brent Woolf back is a big boost.
“Craig Garvey and Blake Scott have done an excellent job so far this season but it’s always good to get a player like Brent back in the squad,” said Woolf.
“He’s our strongest defensive hooker so he’ll help tighten us up through the middle.”
Woolf conceded the Capras present a real challenge on Saturday.
“The Capras have been travelling well and they’ll be tough up there. Our focus has been around our effort areas in defence this week as that lacked at times against Souths.”
Team List
- Ryland Jacobs
- Sosefo Fifita
- Lee Turner
- Ioane Șeiuli
- Scott Galeano
- Will Brimson
- Lindon McGrady
- JJ Collins
- Brent Woolf
- Daniel Ross
- Joshua Patson
- Klese Haas
- Braden Robson
- Craig Garvey
- Reuben Porter
- Charlie Murray
- Reece Summer
- Blake Scott
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 9 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Souths Logan Magpies
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls used a flurry of points in the second half to beat Souths Logan Magpies 42-24 at Marsden State High School, Brisbane.
Both sides produced early errors as the opening ten minutes proved to be a stop-start affair but from there, the points started to flow.
Having defended repeat sets on their own line the Magpies worked their way up the field one-off the ruck before a Tristan Sailor kick turned into points. Some indecision at the back between Ryland Jacobs and Scott Galeano ended up with a bouncing ball for Ethan Quai-Ward to collect and open the scoring.
It didn’t take long for the Seagulls to respond, though. Jacobs had found success down the right side once already in the match before stepping through the line and past the fullback to score in the 15th minute. This his fourth consecutive game at fullback, the 26-year-old is looking comfortable with the ball and proving to be a consistent threat in attack. Down the right edge, in particular.
As the game worked into a grind the Tweed middle defence made things difficult for Souths Logan to get up the field. Regularly forcing a kick from the 40-metre line, the Seagulls won the field position battle throughout the middle stages of the first half and eventually pulled out in front.
An escort penalty provided Tweed with an opportunity to attack the Souths Logan line. Charlie Murray went close as he was held up over the line but Joshua Patston dotted down on the very next tackle. A pin-point Lindon McGrady grubber sat up perfectly for Patston to to give the Seagulls a 12-6 lead after 30 minutes.
It looked as though Tweed would extend their lead as Craig Garvey made half a break before being dragged down just short of the line. However, it was Souths Logan who added to the scoreboard just before oranges as Justin Fai followed up a Benaiah Bowie linebreak to level things up at 12-12.
A Sailor penalty goal put Souths Logan in front shortly after halftime but the lead didn’t last long. Three Tweed tries in eight minutes blew the game open as the dominance in the middle and field position advantage translated into points.
Scott Galeano scored his sixth try of the Hostplus Cup season as reward for pushing up in support with Garvey through the middle. The Seagulls hooker caught one marker on the ground and the other offside to get up the field and into the backfield. Drawing the fullback, he sent Galeano over for a 18-14 lead.
Patston scored his second to finish the following set. McGrady’s boot again acted as the catalyst but Patston didn’t need a perfect bounce this time. Instead, he rose above the Souths Logan winger to defuse the bomb and crash over the line.
The home side added insult to injury when putting the kickoff out on the full to give Tweed a third consecutive set attacking the line. A Charlie Murray error released pressure but only for a moment. Tweed soon found themselves back on the front foot and as he had done twice already in this one, Patston crossed the line for his third of the afternoon and a 30-14 lead.
Brent Woolf threatened on the end of a long-side shift to the left edge which scattered the Magpies defensive line. Spotting the retreating defender at marker, Patston stepped through an arms tackle with relative ease before casting aside three defenders on his way to the line.
Souths Logan threatened a comeback when Bowie crossed the line in the 63rd minute. A superb double-pump from Bradley Firth as Kelly Tate dragged the defence across opened up a gap for Bowie to skip through to score and cut the deficit to 30-20. However, Tweed made sure of the result five minutes later.
In the minds of the opposition right edge with three tries already, Patston’s decoy off McGrady’s hip dragged the defence in to create space out wide. It took some silky hands from Brent Woolf to beat the jamming defence but the ball ended up with Lee Turner who put the game beyond doubt at 36-20 with 11 minutes to play.
A Souths Logan consolation try late in the piece closed the gap to 36-24 but Galeno added another for Tweed as the siren sounded for full time. A month after it was due to be played, the Seagulls took the chocolates in this Round 9 fixture with a big 42-24 win.
Key Takeaways
The Tweed middle did the hard work early and it paid off in the second half. Even without Lamar Manuel-Liolevave who is away with Fiji Bati, the Tweed pack still dominated their opposition. Strong with the ball in hand, it was the middle defence that won the match. Souths Logan were often forced to kick from inside their own half which allowed Ryland Jacobs and the Tweed back-three to return the ball at pace to start the return set.
Charlie Murray is proving to be a valuable contributor off the bench for coach Ben Woolf. He’s a high-energy middle and did an excellent job of covering the minutes JJ Collins spent on the bench in this one. A strong carrier of the ball, Murray torpedoes himself at the defensive line. His quick play-the-balls provide Craig Garvey with the platform he needs to dominate from dummy half.
Brent Barnes again impressed in his second game for the top side. The youngster is a big unit and breaks tackles when returning the football. He’s not had too many opportunities close to the line but will be tough to stop when charging towards the corner.
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Tweed to Play Postponed Round 9 Hostplus Cup – Vs Souths Logan Magpies
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls and Souths-Logan Magpies will meet at Marsden State High School this Saturday, 25th June at 3pm for their rescheduled Round 9 meeting.
The Seagulls are coming off a disappointing 24-22 point loss to the Mackay Cutters in Round 12 but will welcome the chance to quickly bounce back this weekend.
Tweed’s attention to detail on both sides of the ball was tested by the Cutters last week, making 13 errors to complete at just 66% – a far cry from their 72% season average – and missing 37 tackles, up significantly from their 17.7 per game so far in 2022.
With ill discipline gifting the Cutters free field position right from the kick off, the Seagulls simply made it too hard for themselves against Mackay last week. In most key stat areas in Round 12 Tweed performed considerably worse than their season average, but on a more positive note most of those issues are easily addressed. With some minor adjustments and a little more concentration this week, Tweed can get back to what has worked for them so far in 2022 – running hard to collapse the middle before shifting smoothly to the edges.
The Seagulls will need to navigate the absence of JoJo Fifita & Kaleb Ngamanu (QLD U19’s), Lamar Manuel-Liolevave (Fiji Bati) and Rueben Porter (Cook Islands) this week, who are all on representative duties. All four have been key contributors for Tweed this year and are difficult players to replace, but the Seagulls’ depth has been tested and proven capable already this season and they are well positioned to take on the Magpies on Saturday.
For Souths-Logan, this rescheduled match is a chance to post their second win of the season.
The Magpies haven’t come away with the result in the last month but there has been signs of improvement, with narrow losses to the Northern Pride, PNG Hunters and most recently the Ipswich Jets in Round 12.
The 18-26 loss to the Jets will have hurt Souths-Logan the most, given just one competition point now seperates both sides on the premiership ladder. The Magpies will be desperate to respond after that loss and get a chance to do so this Saturday.
The last time these sides met was in Round 12 last year, with the Magpies coming away 38-28 winners in a high scoring affair.
Broncos’ half Ezra Mam was in rare touch for the Magpies in that game, scoring a hattrick and kicking six from six off the tee. For Tweed, prop-forward JJ Collins stood tallest with a team-high 186 running metres in that game and will need to do so again on Saturday with his prop partner Manuel-Liolevave on rep duty.
Player to Watch
As mentioned above, the Seagulls will lean heavily on JJ Collins through the middle this week with a number of key yardage men missing from the squad.
Collins had an off game by his standards last week against Mackay but profiles well to respond with a standout performance on Saturday. He rarely has back-to-back quiet games and can put this Tweed side on his back against the Magpies this weekend.
If Collins can bend the line and generate some ruck speed it will allow Braden Robson to come into the game.
Robson’s combination of footwork and short passing one-off the ruck will cause some problems for Souths-Logan if Collins can get them retreating. The Magpies conceded three of their four tries last week through the middle third of the field – an area of strength for the Seagulls in 2022 with the one-two punch of Scott and Craig Garvey at hooker and the creative threat of Robson at first receiver.
If Souths-Logan tighten up through the middle in response, look for Robson to link with his halves on the edges in good ball.
Big Ioane Seiuli gets another start in the centres this week with JoJo Fifita and Kaleb Ngamanu in the U19’s Maroons squad, and will surely be a target for McGrady close to the line on Tweed’s right edge. Scott Galeano has been doing a fine job there so far this season but finds himself on the wing this week outside the 191cm, 95kg Seiuli, who will like his chances of either running straight through the Magpies’ goal-line defence or compressing it with a decoy to create space for Galeano or fullback Ryland Jacobs.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf says Tweed’s discipline must improve as they look to bounce back after last week.
“It will be good to respond quickly after last week,” said Woolf.
“We just need to be more disciplined. Our attack and defence were both OK, just a lack of possession due to poor discipline let us down. So we will be looking to improve there this week.”
Woolf also paid tribute to his representative stars who are unavailable for the Seagulls this week.
“It’s great for Lamar, JoJo, Reuben and Kaleb to get their opportunities in the rep games,” said Woolf.
“We will prep as normal and it will just be the next player up in those positions. JoJo and Kaleb were both out last week so Barnsey will get another go which is great for him personally.”
Ben Liyou was first introduced into the Future Titans system at 13, he’s currently playing in the Hastings Deering Colts U21’s and has played through our U18s Mal Meninga cup and will make his debut up against men today.
We will also see Reece Summer make his debut for the butcher stripes after coming over from cross-town rivals Burleigh Bears to join his little brother Tom Summer who plays in our U16’s Cyril Connell.
Team List
- Ryland Jacobs
- Brent Barnes
- Lee Turner
- Ioane Seiuli
- Scott Galeano
- Brent Woolf
- Lindon McGrady
- JJ Collins
- Blake Scott
- Daniel Ross
- Joshua Patson
- Klese Haas
- Braden Robson
- Craig Garvey
- Reece Summer
- Ben Liyou
- Charlie Murray
Coach: Ben Woolf
Match Details
Round 9 (rescheduled) v Souths-Logan Magpies
Saturday 25th June @ Marsden State High School, Brisbane
Kick-off: 3pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Jason Oliver, Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Young playmaker ready to weave his magic in blue
It might be a step below the real thing, but that fact is irrelevant for Tom Weaver as he prepares to pull on a Blues jersey and face the Maroons in tonight’s Under 19 State of Origin clash.
Circling the fixture at the start of the season as one he wanted to play a part in, the Cudgen Hornets junior will achieve a childhood dream when he runs out with the No. 6 on his back in Sydney, representing his state for the first time since playing for New South Wales in the Under 16 fixture in 2019.
“I set [the Under 19 game] as a goal for myself for the start of the year that it was something that I wanted to achieve and I was stoked to get the call and be told that I was in the squad to take on the Maroons in the Under 19 Origin,” Weaver said.
“As a young kid, I’d always watch that game and want to play in it myself, and now I get the opportunity to be able to do that so, I’m pretty stoked.”
The goal for the young playmaker this week has been to learn as much as he can, being the first time he’s entered such a high-level camp such as this one.
“I just want to go in there with an open mind. I’ve been in a camp before, but not in a camp such as the New South Wales Origin Under 19s,” Weaver said.
“To be in there with greats that played Origin (such as coach Andrew Ryan) and learning off them to soak up as much as I can.
“That’s what I’m looking forward to the most and getting in with the boys and becoming good mates with them as well.”
One of six Titans named for their respective state in the junior fixture, the 19-year-old is looking forward to playing alongside his teammates and other friends on both sides of the field – including Jojo Fifita, who jokingly suggested earlier this week he’d smash him in the contest.
“He’s such a talent [Jojo]. I also have a few mates in the Queensland side as well, which is pretty cool to be able to have some of your mates in an Origin game… you don’t really get to do that very often,” Weaver said.
“To be able to play with them and especially Jojo being here with him at the Titans, it’ll be pretty cool opportunity to be able to verse him on the field.”
Away from the representative scene, the former Palm Beach Currumbin playmaker’s next goal is to debut in the Hostplus Cup, after a strong start to the year in the Hastings Deering Colts competition for.
“One of my other goals is to play Cup this year. That’s been one of my main focuses to take that next step and play for Tweed in Q Cup,” Weaver said.
“I played a few trials at the start of the year and I really enjoyed my time there, challenging myself a little bit more against men… older men and stuff like that.
“That’s probably my next step to try and push for a Cup spot. If it’s at the back end of this year or if it’s next year, I’m happy to bide my time and keep learning.”
He is also happy to keep spending each day at Titans HQ as a sponge, learning and growing without needing to fast-track a call-up to NRL anytime soon.
“I’m not in any rush as such to play in the NRL or anything like that.,” Weaver said.
“I’m just happy to keep learning and I think I’ll look at it now… if I was to go out and play in NRL, I think I’d get bashed up a bit being such a smaller bloke.
“I’m a bit realistic in what my timeline is looking like. I know I’m not going to play this year and probably next year – I might get a crack here and there, but I’m just happy to bide my time and keep learning.
“Especially with trying to build myself up and get confident in my own body being able to match it with NRL players week in week out so, I’m just sort of looking to bide my time.”
Richards on Fifita: ‘Jojo is a big, strong carrier of the ball’
Joel Gould – qrl.com.au
Jojo Fifita has followed his father’s professional footy career all around the world. Now it’s his turn to shine.
The 19-year-old will play for Queensland Under 19 side on Thursday night in Sydney after a journey in more ways than one. His father, Pila Fifita, enjoyed a stellar career in rugby union which culminated in a World Cup appearance.
“Dad played mostly rugby union, but also rugby league when he was younger and he loved it,” Fifita said.
“Dad played professionally. He played in the Rugby World Cup in 2003 for Tonga. He played in New Zealand, Europe [for Saracens] and in Japan for Sanix Blues. We did a lot of travelling when I was younger.
“I lived in Japan for four or five years and used to speak Japanese when I was younger, although I’ve lost it now.
“All the boys in the family were born in a different place. Dad was born in Tonga, my younger brother in Japan, the youngest one in Australia and I was born in New Zealand.
“Dad has been a huge inspiration. His best advice has been to keep doing all the little one-percenters that other people don’t know about. Even when they don’t know you are doing it, the key is to keep doing it yourself.”
An outside back who can play wing or centre, Fifita is as close as it gets to making his NRL debut after being 18th man for the Gold Coast Titans against the Cronulla Sharks on Saturday.
“I am getting pretty close. I’ve just got to keep pushing and hopefully I get a chance this year, or at least next year,” Fifita said.
“I’m enjoying it at the Titans. We all push each other.
“I’ve got a lot out of Brian Kelly and Pat Herbert. They both play centre, the position I am going for, and they give me tips at training.”
Fifita attended rugby union powerhouse The Southport School (TSS), also the former school of Queensland Maroons flyer Mat Rogers, who carved out a career as a dual-international.
He had interest from rugby union franchises but chose to join the Titans and have a crack at league.
“I wanted to challenge myself, try something new and see which pathway I enjoy more,” Fifita said.
“From my year at TSS there was Zane Nonggorr and George Blake who went to the Reds. They all stuck with union. I don’t think anyone went back to league.
“I learned a lot at TSS from our coach Mike Wallace. He was hard on us and pushed us. I reckon he did a really good job with us.”
In rugby union, Fifita was an outside centre and he would often clash at schoolboy level with now Under 19s teammate Jack Howarth, who played rugby for Brisbane Boys College.
“It was me and him going against each other. That was scary… for both of us,” Fifita grinned.
“I also played with Jack for Queensland under 16s rugby union when he was outside centre and I was on the wing playing outside him. They were good times.”
Queensland Under 19 coach Kurt Richards said Fifita had progressed nicely in his rugby league journey and would offer plenty in both attack and defence.
“Jojo has had a real accelerated learning period in rugby league,” Richards said.
“It hasn’t come naturally for him from the word go, but over the last 12 to 18 months, the Titans have done a really good of progressing him, as has Ben Woolf at the Tweed Seagulls.
“Jojo is a big, strong carrier of the ball and I like the way in defence that he doesn’t give his man time or space. That’s what we are going to need from him.”
Fifita said the showdown against New South Wales was “definitely a big one” for him.
“A lot of people are going to be watching this and it will be all about which players can show their skill and shine the most,” Fifita said.
“If the team comes together, I know we will play well.”
Chantay Kiria-Ratu: ‘It is a huge privilege to play for Queensland’
Joel Gould – QRL Reporter
Chantay Kiria-Ratu has only been playing rugby league for two years and credits older brother Jayrome for her stellar rise through the ranks.
The Queensland Under 19 playmaker has also been nurtured by the outstanding sporting program at rugby league powerhouse Keebra Park State High.
Chantay, just 17, is playing in the BMD Premiership with Tweed Seagulls.
As she prepared to take on New South Wales in Sydney on Thursday night she gave a shout-out to one of her biggest supporters.
“My older brother Jayrome loves the game and he has been supporting my league all the way through,” Chantay said.
“He will watch all the footage of me playing, and send me other footage from the NRL that he thinks has good plays worth looking at.
“He is always pushing me to be the best that I can. He is probably my biggest supporter, along with my mum. He sends me all my highlights and how I can look back and improve my game.
“His best advice is ‘go out and give it your all’. I am still young and my opportunities will come.”
Mum Maryanne and dad Andrew have been huge supports to Chantay.
“My inspiration is my family. They have always been committed and supportive since I started playing sport,” she said.
“Family means a lot to me. My mum and dad always find a way to get to my games and I am pretty lucky because they are flying down from the Goldie to watch me play Origin.
“This is the top team I have ever made for league. It is a huge privilege to play for Queensland. It is something to be proud of.”
Chantay, who moved to Australia from New Zealand in 2011, began playing rugby league when she attended Keebra Park High School two years ago.
“From the moment I played at Keebra I just loved it. Then I played club for the Parkwood Sharks in the under 16s,” the Year 12 student said.
“There have been some big names come out of Keebra Park and our school has a great pathway, with a girls sport academy which is what I am in at the moment.
“That has been a good prep’ for me because that is where it all started for me with league.”
Chantay has played a couple of games at centre for the Tweed Seagulls but halfback is her favourite position and where she is making a name for herself.
Queensland Under 19 coach Ben Jeffries, a huge fan, agrees.
“Chantay has got vision. She has got speed, all the credentials to be a good footballer,” Jeffries said.
“She is relaxed, which is something as coaches we look at. She doesn’t get flustered and that is crucial in a pivotal position like halfback. Hopefully we can help her play well.”
The expansion of the NRLW competition to 10 teams next year, and the addition of the Titans this season, has been welcomed by Chantay.
“I was with the Titans last season in development…vand that does give me inspiration to follow my dreams,” she said.
“The game is becoming so much bigger for younger girls. We are seeing more and more come through the system and more being able to play NRLW.”
Round 12 Match Review – QRL Hostplus Cup Vs Mackay Cutters
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls fell to a persistent Mackay Cutters side 24-22 at Piggabeen Sports Complex, Tweed Heads.
The Seagulls put themselves under early pressure in this one as a penalty in the first set of the game provided the Cutters with free passage up the field. Holding firm defensively, the Seagulls kicked the ball out of the full to end their return set before an error ended their next on the second tackle. The Cutters continued to pile on the pressure through a forced dropout before Laitia Moceidreke finally scored in the corner to turn close to ten minutes of pressure into points for the visitors.
Tweed earned a much-needed relieving penalty in the 13th minute which qualified as their first completed set of the match. Their second ended in points with the 19-year-old debutant, Brent Barnes, finishing off a typical Tweed long-side shift to the left edge.
Barnes soon became a distributor with his offload translating into a Blake Scott linebreak and 60-metre run. With the defensive line disjointed and Tweed flying up the field, Ryland Jacobs went over down the right side. Despite handing over possession and providing the Cutters numerous opportunities to attack the line, the Seagulls managed to build a 10-4 lead after 23 minutes.
Both sides started to work themselves into the game and managed to end consecutive sets with kicks for the first time in the match after 30 minutes. The longer the game worked towards a grind, the better the Seagulls started to look. They won the middle to get up the field on the occasions they maintained possession and those sets eventually turned into points. A Lindon McGrady kick ended up in the corner before a strong defensive effort forced the Cutters back over their line for a repeat set. With it, Charlie Murray barged his way over the line to push the Seagulls’ lead out to 16-4.
Mackay managed to knock over a penalty goal before halftime but the first 40 minutes belonged to Tweed after they made the most of limited opportunities to hold a double-digit lead at the break.
It was a different story in the second half, though.
The errors continued for the Seagulls and it didn’t take the Cutters long to capitalise. While it required a friendly bounce away from a scrambling Jacobs at the back, Ewan Coutts won the race to the ball to close the gap to 16-12.
Another penalty after points once again sent the Cutters up the field and into attacking territory. Keeping it relatively tight throughout the set as they looked for a way through the Seagulls line, Kyle Schneider crashed his way over for the Cutters to retake the lead with 30 minutes to play.
Tweed looked likely every time they managed to hold onto the ball for extended periods. Searching down the edges in yardage, a long-side shift to the left side sent them up the field and into attacking field position. A Josh Patston carry set up the short side raid before a deflected Will Brimson grubber ended up back in the hands of the Tweed five-eighth and the stroke of luck put the home side back in front.
With the lead and the clock winding down, Tweed took better care of the football and started to spend time attacking in good ball. JJ Collins completed a typically strong shift in the middle while Klese Haas also provided quality in his debut off the bench. Reuben Porter went close to extending the lead but the Cutters scrambled well to keep him out. Having absorbed the pressure and forced another penalty up the field themselves, the Cutters turned the screws and leveled the scores with six minutes to play. Moceidreke collected a cross-field kick for his second of the afternoon before Brandon Finnegan knocked over the conversion to put them 24-22 in front.
As the home side looked for the big shot in defence or the one-on-one strip in the search of one last attacking opportunity, Mackay executed well to finish. An early kick from dummy half put the Seagulls deep in their own end and a repeat set kept them there until the final whistle blew on a 24-22 Cutters win.
Key Takeaways
Brent Barnes made his debut after being elevated from the Hastings Deering Colts for this one. He did exceptionally well to bounce back from an early error to carry the ball well out of yardage. Strong in contact, he didn’t look out of place in the top side. His offload following a tackle-breaking carry set up Tweed’s second try of the afternoon.
Klese Haas, brother of Broncos prop Payne, also made his first appearance this week. He put his hand up for the hard work through the middle and worked well alongside Collins towards the end of the match. Another 19-year-old making the step up from the Colts side and performing well, there is plenty of talent coming through the grades with Kaleb Ngamanu another who has deputised for the club this season.
Coach’s Comments
It was a tough introduction to first grade for the two youngsters but Brent Barnes and Klese Haas both impressed Seagulls coach Ben Woolf on debut.
“I thought they [Barnes and Haas] both did well in a tough game. They didn’t have a lot of possession so didn’t get to show a lot in attack,” Woolf said.
The game was made tougher for Tweed through regular errors and penalties while working out of their own end.
“Our discipline definitely let us down. Penalties and errors at key times gave them opportunities to score points,” said Woolf.
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 12 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will play host to the Mackay Cutters at Piggabeen Sports Complex this Saturday, 18th June at 3pm in Round 12 of the QRL Hostplus Cup.
Tweed come into Saturday’s match following a high-scoring affair against a lively Ipswich Jets side last weekend. The Jets threatened to cause a huge upset when they took the lead with 20 minutes to go, but Tweed would finish strong with tries to Sosefo Fifita and Ioane Seiuli in the dying stages to seal the 40-30 point win.
Despite both Braden Robson and Paul Turner missing last week, the Seagulls’ expansive brand of footy was still on show. Tweed worked smartly out of their own end in yardage, using their middles effectively as pivots to shift the ball and find easy metres on both edges. The stats back this up – all of the Seagulls’ outside backs clocked over 100 running metres in Round 11, bar Lee Turner who managed 95 metres, two tries and an assist.
With Braden Robson returning at lock this week the Seagulls are again well equipped to move the ball in yardage and bring their strike outside backs into the game.
The selection of Blake Scott at #9 this week is noteworthy too, with the young hooker earning his second starting jumper for Tweed on the back of four compelling performances in the black-and-white.
Scott’s ability to step up in the absence of Brent Woolf this season has been a real boost for the Seagulls, who make effective use of their attacking threats from dummy-half. Woolf, Scott and Craig Garvey are all genuine dummy-halves who can bring Tweed’s big bodies onto the ball and create scoring opportunities around the ruck, and Scott gets a well deserved chance to lead that from the kick-off in Round 12.
The Mackay Cutters will be eager to bounce back after falling painfully short to Redcliffe last weekend, 32-34. Three tries in the final ten minutes to Mackay saw the Dolphins sweating to hold their lead, and it was only the final siren that would prevent the Cutters from a miracle comeback in that game. Mackay’s edge defence struggled against the Dolphins last week and will surely be a target for the likes of Lee Turner, Scott Galeano and Ryland Jacobs on Saturday.
The last time these sides met was in Round 10, 2021 with Tweed Seagulls coming out on top, 24-16. Five-eighth Will Brimson had a day out in that game, scoring two tries and getting busy in defence with 20 tackles in an inspired performance.
Players to Watch
Much of the focus for Tweed this year has been around their middle forwards and the impact they have with either a strong carry, quick play-the-ball or a smart pass to shift to the edges.
In the last two games however, it has been fill-in fullback Ryland Jacobs who has arguably had the greatest influence on the game. Jacobs has run for a combined 446 metres in his past two games at fullback, along with two try assists, a linebreak assist and eight tackle busts.
Fit, fast and powerful, Jacobs has taken swimmingly to the fullback role in Paul Turner’s absence and while he mightn’t have the ballplaying skills of his predecessor, Jacobs is doing a fair job as a winger-turned-fullback in this regard.
From 66 receipts in two games out the back, Jacobs has thrown 31 passes and run the ball 39 times. He seems to be getting the mix right between tipping it on or challenging the line himself and with 126 post-contact metres in his two games at the back, Jacobs is proving a highly effective yardage man when he does run the footy.Against a Mackay edge defence that struggled at times last week against the Dolphins, Jacobs will like his chances of straightening things up and taking on the line himself.
Another player who profiles well to take advantage of the Cutters’ defensive worries out wide is Seagulls’ right centre Scott Galeano.
Tweed have gone back to the well in recent weeks with their right edge featuring heavily in attack against the Jets in Round 11. To start the year it was Sam McIntyre, Lindon McGrady and Paul Turner linking up down that right edge, with Galeano or Sosefo Fifita usually the beneficiary out wide. It’s a credit to the club’s depth that Tweed still look just as likely down that channel with Ioane Seiuli and Jacobs slotting in seamlessly for McIntyre and Turner in recent weeks. Seiuli runs a great line off McGrady on that right edge and the aforementioned Jacobs is proving a reliable link man in Tweed’s backline shifts.
Galeano had 16 possessions last week against Ipswich and made them count with 130 running metres, a try, a try assist and three tackle busts. If McGrady and Jacobs can continue feeding Galeano good ball in attack, the Seagulls’ centre will be every chance of taking his try scoring tally to six (or more) for the season on Sunday.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf says he was pleased with how his side is adjusting with key players missing through injury or NRL call-ups.
“It was good to score some points and we needed it late in the game (against Ipswich) to get home,” said Woolf.
“I think the combinations are getting better each week. It can be difficult changing key positions but the team is adapting well.
Woolf says he is looking out for attention to detail this weekend.
“We have worked on refining our combinations and our attention to detail – particularly with our defence,” said Woolf.
“At times last week we were scrappy, so we’ll be looking to improve in those areas against the Cutters.”
Team List
- Ryland Jacobs
- Brent Barnes
- Lee Turner
- Ioane Seiuli
- Scott Galeano
- Will Brimson
- Lindon McGrady
- Lamar Manuel-Liolevave
- Blake Scott
- JJ Collins
- Joshua Patson
- Ioane Seiuli
- Reuben Porter
- Craig Garvey
- Charlie Murray
- Klese Haas
- Dan Ross
- Brent Woolf
Match Details
Round 12 v Mackay Cutters
Saturday 18th June @ Piggabeen Sports Complex
Kick-off: 3pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 11 Hostplus Cup Match Review – Vs Ipswich Jets
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls waited until the very end to seal the 40-30 win over the Ipswich Jets at North Ipswich Reserve, Ipswich.
The Seagulls wasted no time in getting their name on the scoreboard to start this one, though. Making the most of an early penalty which Lindon McGrady kicked into good ball territory, a long side shift to the right stretched the defence before Tweed sent the ball back to the left for Lee Turner to score just 90 seconds into the contest.
While the Jets managed to recover and start to work themselves into the game, discipline continued to provide the Seagulls with extra ball. By the 10th minute, Tweed had extended their lead to 10-0.
Lamar Manuel-Liolevave positioned himself on the left side of the ruck before sweeping into first receiver on the right. Getting deep into the line with Collins hanging off his hip, Manuel-Liolevave compresses the defence and creates the space out wide for Scott Galeano and Jo Jo Fifita to link up for points.
However, Manuel-Liolevave’s ball-playing ended up as the catalyst for Ipswich’s first points of the afternoon when Ngangarra Barker returned an intercept to the house. Just like that, despite dominating for the first 15 minutes of the match, the Seagulls led the Jets by only four points.
Both sides provided the other with opportunities to attack through errors and penalties in a trend that would last the full 80 minutes. But it wasn’t until the 25th minute when the Seagulls were presented with six more tackles that they added to the scoreboard.
In a carbon copy of the first try but with an extra pass out wide, the Seagulls moved the ball from right to left with JJ Collins again chiming in with a pass through the middle. With the defence sliding and on their heels, Lee Turner got to the outside of his man before feeding 19-year-old Kaleb Ngamanu the first try of his Hostplus Cup career.
But as was the case earlier, the Jets answered straight back through Todd White. Again, a Tweed error prior to the try provided Ipswich with the opportunity to attack in good ball. Two Seagulls penalties in the kickoff set after points put the Jets back hot on the attack before an outrageous Denzel Burns offload landed in the hands of Ricco Falaniko to level the scores at 16-16.
The theme of the first half translated into the second as a Tweed penalty soon turned into Ipswich points. This time, Lachlan Cooper rolled one into the in-goal which Barker was able to dive on to score his second try of the afternoon.
As was the case for most of the game, the Seagulls found success by shifting the ball in yardage sets. They consistently found metres down the edges and eventually provided Craig Garvey with the opportunity to burrow over from dummy half. Pulled up short only one tackle earlier, Garvey forced his way over the line on the second attempt to pull Tweed back to 22-all.
Swap Brent Woolf in for Collins in Tweed’s first and third tries and you’ve got a perfect picture of their fifth. Another shift starting from the right tram line ended up with Turner scoring his second. However, that was cancelled out by Barker’s third. He picked out another intercept and raced 80 metres to score. Shortly after, and following another Tweed penalty, Ono So’oialo put the home side 30-28 in front after he collected a Lachlan Cooper chip that landed just short of the try line.
It felt for most of the match that the last error or penalty would decide the result. For 80 minutes, the two sides traded opportunities with neither taking full control. In the end, a late Ipswich error while attempting to defuse a McGrady bomb led to Fifita going over in the corner to give Tweed the lead. Shortly after, another Jets penalty led to a Ioane Seiuli match-sealing try.
Again exploring down the right side, Jacobs cut back in against the grain to break the line. Holding up on his run while drawing the fullback, he handed Seiuli a freebie and secured the 40-30 win.
Key Takeaways
Braden Robson wasn’t available for this one but Daniel Ross stepped into the #13 jersey and the Seagulls still moved the ball wide from the middle. Robson is a key part of how Tweed moves the ball but JJ Collins, Lamar Manuel-Liolevave and Brent Woolf (making his return from a Round 4 injury) also picked up some of the slack in that department.
While the ball-playing middle featured in plenty of point-scoring actions this week, it was particularly effective in yardage. Plugging the middle for two or three tackles before exploring wider, the Seagulls worked their way up the field well throughout the match. Scott Galeano and Lee Turner, in particular, found plenty of metres down the edge to get Tweed up the field. However, that dominance in yardage was often undone with an error or penalty to release pressure.
Coach’s comments
While the 30 points conceded will be of some concern, Tweed coach Ben Woolf was happy with how his side performed with the football.
“Our attack was good at times, particularly when we were genuine on our lines,” said Woolf.
Despite being without Braden Robson, JJ Collins and the rest of the forward pack kept the Tweed attack humming.
“There wasn’t a particular focus on JJ passing but we stuck to our process regardless of who is in the middle,” Woolf said.
Ryland Jacobs is still new to the fullback role and also impressed again this week.
“Ryland is transitioning well. He still has some technical things to learn but his effort there is great and he is improving each week.”
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 11 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls travel to North Ipswich Reserve this Saturday 11th June, 3pm to take on the Ipswich Jets in Round 11 of the QRL Hostplus Cup.
The Seagulls will be riding the highs of a last minute win over the PNG Hunters last weekend, with halfback Lindon McGrady proving the hero with a 77th minute field goal to give Tweed the lead.
Tweed will take plenty of confidence out of that win, having been forced to fight back from 12-0 down after just ten minutes as the Hunters came charging out of the sheds. The resilience shown by Tweed – particularly without star fullback Paul Turner who is named to make his NRL club debut for the Gold Coast Titans this week – is promising signs for the Seagulls in 2022.
Clearly at their best when moving the ball and threatening on the edges, the Seagulls were dragged into a grind against the Hunters in Round 10 but proved they can handle the pressure. Across the park Tweed competed well enough to keep themselves in the contest before a few classy touches from the likes of McGrady, Blake Scott and Craig Garvey did enough to seal the result.
With first-choice hooker Brent Woolf getting ever closer to making his return from injury, the Seagulls remain well equipped to compress the defence before shifting smartly to the spaces out wide.
For the Ipswich Jets, a difficult 2022 season continued last weekend with a 56-0 loss to Redcliffe on Saturday. Playing at home this weekend is an added boost for the Jets as they chase their first win of the season.
The last time these two sides met was in Round 6 last year, with Tweed sneaking away a 32-26 victors. Playing fullback in that game, Lindon McGrady was in fine touch for the Seagulls with two try assists and four conversations from the tee. Lining up at halfback this weekend, McGrady profiles as a key player for the Seagulls again in Round 11.
Player to Watch
In a contest that was fought and won in the middle, lock-forward Braden Robson was immense for the Seagulls last week. Just two of Tweed’s forwards (JJ Collins; 120m, Craig Garvey; 125m) clocked over 100 running metres in Round 10 – testament to the PNG Hunters’ strength in contact – but it proved the perfect environment for Robson to go to work.
Robson’s footwork and passing game terrorised the Hunters’ around the ruck. Posting 95 running metres from 11 carries, Robson played to his strengths as a ballplaying lock to bust five tackles, throw two offloads and record two linebreak assists including a clever final-pass for JJ Collins to score beneath the posts.
With an incredible work-rate on both sides of the ball (69 minutes, 28 tackles, one miss) Robson provides Tweed with a nice point-of-difference in how they work through the middle of the field. The big bodies of Collins and Lamar Manuel-Liolevave are extra effective thanks to Robson’s ability to move the ball into space or create some ruck speed for his dummy-half.
The combination between Robson and returning hooker Brent Woolf was one of Tweed’s strengths to begin the season and they shape as a key duo for the Seagulls in the coming games.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf said the squad will take plenty of confidence from last week’s game.
“We did a good job coming back from behind on the weekend and can take some confidence from the close win,” said Woolf.
“Our defence at times was strong again, particularly when down to 12 men.”
Woolf also said there was no room for complacency against the Ipswich Jets this weekend as his side works on some new combinations.
“We are expecting Ipswich to come out strong at home,” said Woolf.
“We have been focussing on our processes – particularly in attack with some new combinations in the backs with Paul Turner earning his Titans debut.”
Team List
- Ryland Jacobs
- Kaleb Ngamanu
- Lee Turner
- Scott Galeano
- Sosefo Fifita
- Will Brimson
- Lindon McGrady
- JJ Collins
- Craig Garvey
- Lamar Manuel-Liolevave
- Joshua Patson
- Ioane Seiuli
- Braden Robson
- Blake Scott
- Reuben Porter
- Daniel Ross
- Brent Woolf
Coach: Ben Woolf
Match Details
Round 11 v Ipswich Jets
Saturday 11th June @ North Ipswich Reserve
Kick-off: 3pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 10 Hostplus Cup Match Review – Vs PNG Hunters
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls recovered from a slow start to beat the Papua New Guinea Hunters 24-22 at Tugun RLFC, Tugun.
An early Seagulls penalty provided the Hunters with the first opportunity to attack in good ball and the visitors made it count. Having looked relatively comfortable defending the line and shutting down a long-side right shift, Hunters five-eighth Mark Tony put in a grubber which ended up in the arms of Kevin Appo. An unlucky deflection off the Seagulls defender allowed the Hunters to open the scoring.
Rinsing and repeating, another Seagulls penalty gifted the Hunters field position and they came up with the same result. This time, Tony used a pass to put a teammate through the line and Brandon Nima ended up under the posts.
Down 12-0 inside ten minutes, the Seagulls needed to respond
They have thrived behind a strong defence all year and it finally started to show in this one.
A crunching tackle as Terry Wapi was taken back over ten metres when returning a 20-metre restart acted as a turning point for the Seagulls as they used their defence to promote improvements to their attack.
Making it difficult for the Hunters to work out of their own end and with the Seagulls on the front foot, Craig Garvey started to enjoy himself when getting out of dummy half. His tempo and deception caused havoc for the Hunters around the ruck as the 29-year-old darted and passed his side up the field and into attacking position.
The sustained pressure eventually translated into points after both Ioane Seiuli and Garvey were held up over the line in quick succession. A repeat set added some fatigue to the Hunters defensive line and Braden Robson made them pay with a short pass to JJ Collins on the line. The big prop strolled over for his first try of the season.
A Hunters high tackle straight off the kickoff sent the Seagulls flying back up field. While the home side couldn’t keep the scoreboard ticking over, they extended their period of dominance as the Hunters struggled to work their way up the field.
Garvey set the standard with his dummy half play and Blake Scott followed suit shortly after his introduction to the game. Using a hard-running Josh Patston as a decoy for the B defender, Scott hit the A defender on the line and spun his way over to level up the scoreboard at 12-12.
It wasn’t until four minutes before halftime that the Hunters ended up back inside the Seagulls 20-metre line. Over 20 minutes since their last visit, the Hunters couldn’t find any points but did see a Seagulls player sent to the bin after Lee Turner was given his marching orders for taking out kick-chaser.
The 12-all halftime score accurately reflected a first 40 minutes in which the Hunters started exceptionally well before the Seagulls asserted their dominance for the remainder of the half.
Like the first half, the second started with a Seagulls penalty and error to provide the Hunters with the first attacking period after the break. However, unlike the first half, the Seagulls defence held firm and they soon worked their way into the grind and, soon enough, into the lead.
Looking dangerous when sending it wide through Will Brimson, Lee Turner and Kaleb Ngamanu earlier in the match, Brimson this time dropped Patston back underneath. Showing great strength as he bumped off the first contact before driving two defenders over the line, Patston slammed the ball down through three defenders to push the Seagulls out to an 18-12 lead.
That 18-12 lead became 22-12 on the following set. A linebreak down the left edge sent the Hunters defence scrambling. Cool, calm and collected, Lindon McGrady chipped one over into the corner of JoJo Fifita who rose up and came down with the football to score Tweed’s fourth unanswered try.
Kitron Laka answered back for the Hunters with a super solo effort ten minutes later. Leaving defenders on the ground in chalk, he broke five tackles on his way to the line to pull his side to within four points of the hosts.
The Hunters are a confidence side. They play games in waves and started to roll themselves back into this one which must have worried blanketed Seagulls faithful on the Tugun RLFC hill. Just as it looked as though the Seagulls had weathered the storm and would hold out the visitors through to fulltime, Terry Wapi pulled off a brutal and athletic finish in the corner to level the scores at 22-22 all with five minutes to play.
Enter the Prince of Piggabeen, Lindon McGrady.
He bounced the kickoff into touch to give his side a scrum in the middle of the field ten metres from the line. A relatively ugly field goal set later, he chipped one through the posts to put the Seagulls 23-22 in front before Scott made sure of things with another field goal as time expired.
In a back and forth encounter between two sides trying to drag themselves up the Hostplus Cup ladder, the Seagulls came out on top 24-22 and will now prepare to face the 14th-placed Ipswich Jets in Round 11.
Key Takeaways
Paul Turner has filled the fullback spot for much of the season but wasn’t available for this one. Instead, Ryland Jacobs took over the #1 jersey and he didn’t disappoint. Slotting into similar positions Turner has filled throughout the season, Jacobs took possession both at first-receiver and out the back of shape when Tweed went searching through the right edge. Kaleb Ngamanu made the second appearance of his Hostplus Cup career on the wing for Jacobs. The 19-year-old provided the strong carries Tweed needed out of yardage and managed to find a quick play-the-ball behind them more often than not.
It comes up every week, but with Brent Woolf named at 18th man for this one, the Seagulls have an embarrassment of riches at hooker. Craig Garvey used all of his guile and experience to bring Tweed back into the game following a slow start before Blake Scott used his speed around the ruck to continue their dominance at the position. It’s a position the Seagulls can rely on every week regardless of who is out there.
Coach’s Comments
The Seagulls have dealt with a postponed game, venue changes and lost Paul Turner during the week which disrupted the build-up for this one.
“Preparation has been very difficult and that showed today, particularly in our attack,” Woolf said.
“We were a little clunky at times, particularly in good ball.”
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 10 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will play host to the SP PNG Hunters this Sunday, 3pm at Tugan RLFC in Round 10 of the QRL Hostplus Cup.
Sunday’s match marks the first time in over two weeks since Tweed’s last game, with a Round 9 fixture against Souths-Logan postponed last weekend due to wet weather. Despite this, the Seagull’s recent form at Tugun is good following a comprehensive 28-0 shutout of the Northern Pride in Round 8. Tweed were not phased by the wet and windy conditions in that game, moving the ball confidently and threatening from all areas on the park.
The Seagulls’ ability to promote the football and shift smoothly on both edges shapes as an area of strength this weekend against a Hunters side that is powerful through the middle.
The Hunters’ middle forwards have been a shining light for the club in a challenging 2022 season. In a losing side against Redcliffe last weekend, Hunters’ starting props Dilbert Issac and Sylvester Namo ran for a combined 238 metres, broke 11 tackles, made three linebreaks and scored two tries between them. How effectively Tweed contain the Hunters’ go-forward will be a telling factor in Round 10.
The last time these sides met was in Round 17 last year with the PNG Hunters coming away with a 30-18 victory, although both teams will roll out very different lineups on Sunday.
With Tweed sitting in 9th position (8 points) and the Hunters just behind them in 12th (6 points), the two points on offer this weekend are invaluable as both sides look to build towards the back end of the season.
Player to Watch
After a breakout performance against the Pride in Round 8, backrower Joshua Patston is again the player to watch this week.
With an average 101 running metres per game and a tackle efficiency of 95%, Patston is providing coach Ben Woolf with a reliable and effective ball carrier and edge defender this season. He’s also offering some nice attacking skill alongside Will Brimson and Lee Turner on the left edge, with his hole running and support play netting two linebreaks and a try assist in Round 8.
For Tweed to bring Patston and that left edge into the game this weekend however, their middles will need to step up against a damaging PNG Hunters’ forward rotation.
Starting forwards JJ Collins, Lamar Manuel-Liolevave and Braden Robson have been standouts for the Seagulls all season, with all three players often the trigger for an attacking shift with either a quick play-the-ball or a smooth pass from pivot.
Against the Hunters this weekend though, it’s all about their defence. If Tweed can keep competitive in the yardage battle and limit PNG’s go-forward through the middle, they will earn themselves enough scoring opportunities later in the match.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf conceded the wet weather has impacted preparations but is not making any excuses.
“The lack of games has been frustrating as has lack of available fields for training,” said Woolf.
“Last week we were forced to do a few alternative sessions but it will be good to get a full week of training in this week in preparation for the Hunters.”
Following a 28-0 shutout of the Northern Pride in Round 8, Woolf said defence continues to be a focus for his side.
“We are always working on defence so it will definitely be a focus again this week. The Hunters are a physical side who like to offload so we need to focus on shutting down their momentum.”
Team List
- TBA
- Sosefo Fifita
- Lee Turner
- Scott Galeano
- Ryland Jacobs
- Will Brimson
- Lindon McGrady
- JJ Collins
- Craig Garvey
- Lamar Manuel-Liolevave
- Joshua Patson
- Ioane Seiuli
- Braden Robson
- Blake Scott
- Harrison Muller
- Reuben Porter
- Daniel Ross
Coach: Ben Woolf
Match Details
Round 10 v PNG Hunters
Sunday 5th June @ Tugun RLFC, Gold Coast
Kick-off: 3pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Try Scoring Frenzy Ends In Heartbreak For Seagulls
Saavanah Bourke For Tweed Seagulls Media
The Gold Coast Airport women’s Tweed Seagulls have fallen two points shy of ending their BMD Premiership campaign with a victory.
It was a tight tussle at Cbus Super Stadium on Sunday afternoon, with Souths Logan running in six tries to four.
But Seagulls head coach Spencer Taplin said the win was well within Tweed’s reach.
“We beat ourselves in the game with individual errors and penalties which gave them the field position to capitalise on that and put points on the board,” Taplin said.
That’s how the scoring was opened, but it wasn’t until more than halfway through the first half the frenzy of tries would start when Souths lock Sera Koroi broke through the Seagulls defence line.
The Magpies forward pack hit Tweed again with Jasmine Fogavini making her way over the line less than five minutes later.
But the Seagulls responded, Chantay Kiria-Ratu showing her class on the edge and adding the first four points to the board for Tweed.
After a successful conversion from Karli Hansen right on the stroke of halftime, the Seagulls trailed by just 2 points.
But Souths wasted no time to extend their lead even further, forward Tyesha Mikaio crossing just 5 minutes into the second half.
The run of tries continued, a four-pointer from Tweed playmaker Jada Ferguson kept the Gulls in the contest, and another conversion made by Karli Hansen levelled the score at 12 all.
But it didn’t stay that way for long, Souths skipper Frieda Seu would put her side back in front by four just two minutes later.
Shannon Mato made an impact off the bench in the front row for Tweed, making her way over the line 3 minutes later.
Karli Hansen was on fire with the boot and slotted another successful conversion putting the Seagulls ahead by two.
Souths Logan responded in fine fashion, with Mackenzie Baty-Karauria putting the Magpies back in front by two.
But Tweed got the ball out wide to Alani Sullivan on the wing who crossed with just 8 minutes of play remaining.
Tweed were in front by two and looked to have the victory sealed, but Souths weren’t finished yet, forward Jasmine Fogavini would cross for the match-winner with just three minutes remaining, putting the Magpies back in front by 2 at full time.
Taplin said while the result didn’t always swing the Seagulls way, Tweed has won plenty of battles off the field this season.
“The girls know we are building something great and it’s obviously going to take some time to get that foundation right.
“We spoke about the culture together after the game and the connection and growth we have built in our women’s program this year,” Taplin said.
Round 9 Match Preview – QRL Hostplus Cup
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will travel to Marsden State High School in Brisbane this Saturday to take on the Souths-Logan Magpies at 3pm in Round 9 of the QRL Hostplus Cup.
The Seagulls are coming off a 28-0 shutout over Northern Pride in horrible conditions last weekend and will be looking to post back-to-back wins for the first time this season. Fullback Paul Turner was outstanding in that game, running for 196 metres to score a try, bust nine tackles, make one linebreak and set up another two in a dominant performance.
Paul’s combination with brother Lee Turner at left centre is fast becoming a focal point of Tweed’s attack, with the pair combining on a few occasions in last week’s big win. Whether in exit sets or on the end of a backline shift in good ball, Paul and Lee are terrorising defenders with their footwork, speed and ballplaying skills. With JJ Collins and Lamar Manuel-Liolevave providing Tweed with plenty of go-forward through the middle and subsequently plenty of space out wide, the Turner brothers are getting more opportunities than ever to use their skills and they will like their chances against a leaky Souths-Logan defence on Saturday.
The Magpies come into Round 9 following a tough 32-0 loss to the Redcliffe Dolphins last Saturday. Dolphins halfback Cody Hunter was on fire in that game and the Magpies had no answer despite several players with NRL experience bolstering the Souths-Logan lineup. The Magpies are chasing just their second win of the season and are not to be underestimated on Saturday.
Player to Watch
While Paul and Lee Turner dominated the highlights reel last week, it was the work of edge forward Joshua Patston that dominated my notepad. The promising backrower has played out six games on the left edge for Tweed so far this year for an average 101 running metres and a tackle efficiency of 95%. He was profiling as a safe-as-houses, no-frills edge forward but Patston showcased some nice skill of his own against Pride in Round 8.
This was one of two linebreaks Patston was involved in last weekend. He shows great energy and intent to push up in support in both instances, and in this case he finds himself at left wing to receive a lovely offload from Lee Turner and streak into the backfield. Patston then puts on some footwork teammate Paul Turner would’ve been happy with to beat the fullback, and we’ll blame the slippery conditions for a little stumble at the end that cruels Patston’s scoring chances.
Named in the backrow on a strong left edge for Tweed again in Round 9, Patston is a fair crack at scoring his second try of the season on last week’s form.
Team List
- Paul Turner
- Sosefo Fifita
- Lee Turner
- Scott Galeano
- Ryland Jacobs
- Will Brimson
- Lindon McGrady
- JJ Collins
- Craig Garvey
- Lamar Manuel-Liolevave
- Joshua Patson
- Reuben Porter
- Braden Robson
- Blake Scott
- Harrison Muller
- Daniel Ross
- Ioane Seiuli
Coach: Ben Woolf
Coach’s Comments
Defence continues to be a major focus for Head Coach Ben Woolf this season, and he was particularly pleased with his side’s efforts last week.
“The defensive effort was great last weekend. To only miss five tackles all game was a huge improvement on the Wynnum game,” Woolf said.
“Souths-Logan have a lot of strike across the park so we are going to have to defend well again. That has been our main focus this week.”
Match Details
Round 9 v Souths-Logan Magpies
Saturday 21st May @ Marsden State High School, Brisbane
Kick-off: 6pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Jason Oliver, Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Gulls Aim To Soar Against Souths
Saavanah Bourke for Tweed Seagulls Media
It’s fair to say this season in the BMD Premiership hasn’t quite reached the Tweed Seagulls expectations.
Recording just one win from six games, head coach Spencer Taplin said the desire to finish the season on a high has never been greater.
“I just want to end it how I know we can end it,” Taplin said.
“I want us to be able to show the brand of footy that we haven’t been able to put together yet.”
Tweed has one last chance to do that when they meet Souths Logan Magpies on Sunday afternoon.
The game will be played at Cbus Super Stadium and act as a curtain-raiser for the NRL clash between the Titans and Sharks.
“It’s a great opportunity for our girls to play on the big stage and I just want them to grab it with both hands.”
Tweed has shown promise in patches this season but are yet to put together 70 minutes of footy.
“We just have to start well. If we can do that and continue that energy throughout the entire game, then we will get the win.”
While the results haven’t always come through for the girls, Taplin said the Gulls will be better because of it.
“I know there’s been some big learnings and development of us not achieving everything we would have liked this season.”
However, one thing the club has achieved is a great culture and promising program.
“I know what we have created here this season is just the beginning for the club, and we will continue to grow on that in the coming years.”
Taplin has made some key changes to his side, bringing in some youth to pair with experience.
“A lot of our younger girls have been working really hard and I thought they deserved an opportunity to show what they can do.
“I know that experience will get us over the line.”
Kick off from Cbus Super Stadium is at 1.45pm on Sunday.
Round 8 Hostplus Cup Match Review – Vs Pride
Written by Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will celebrate a comprehensive victory over the Northern Pride in Round 8 of the QRL Hostplus Cup, having beaten the visitors 28-0 in wet and windy conditions on Saturday afternoon.
It was Tweed who would start fast from the kick-off, ignoring the slippery surface to throw some nice shape at Pride in their opening set. A left side shift through Will Brimson got Pride moving sideways and opened up the right hand side of the field for a simple but slick block-to-block shape movement. Tweed winger Jaline Graham looked destined to finish it off only for some desperate cover defence from Pride to deny him in the corner.
Far from going into their shell Tweed would look to use the ball in their very next set, working out their own end thanks to Paul Turner’s efforts at fullback before shifting to the right edge to Scott Galeano in space. **As was the case just minutes earlier however, Pride would scramble effectively to shut down Brimson on the following tackle and force the turnover.
For all their efforts defending their own try line, Pride couldn’t seem to trap Tweed down on their own. Some lovely deception from Craig Garvey at dummy-half found Brimson down a short side in Tweed’s next exit set which saw Lee Turner offload for Josh Patston into space on the left edge this time.
Lee’s offload is only bested by the support play of Patston and Tweed should have scored on the following play but were again denied when Lee coughed up the ball trying to catch them down the short side for a third time that set.
Four times in the opening ten minutes Tweed created scoring opportunities but couldn’t convert due in some parts to a desperate Pride defensive unit and in others just poor execution. Eventually however, Tweed’s dominance would translate onto the scoreboard thanks to some individual brilliance from Paul Turner.
From an attacking scrum the Seagulls took a settler to the left before finding Paul Turner on the right edge with a three pass shift. Lamar Manuel-Liolevave made a compelling case as a forward distributor as the prop belied his size to shift the ball smoothly from the ruck to the edges a few times on Saturday. In this instance, his involvement got Lindon McGrady and Paul Turner running at a retreating defence and Paul’s electric feet did the rest. Try time.
Paul Turner was the catalyst for Tweed’s next try too. The Seagulls’ back three were reliable yardage men working off their own line all game and Lee Turner’s try in the 29th minute was a product of just that.
Presented with a poor kick chase, Paul Turner’s footwork was too difficult to handle in the wet and he skipped 25 metres upfield before linking with Patston on his outside. A lovely offload from the big backrower was enough to put Lee Turner in space and the centre raced away to score under the posts.
Despite facing a 12 point deficit as they returned from the break, the Northern Pride did anything but drop their heads and were arguably the better team to begin the second half. They defended three consecutive sets on their own line to deny an eager Tweed offence but poor handling and ill discipline in defence continued to turn over the ball and the Seagulls would eventually make them pay.
Galeano scored in the 63rd minute, finishing off a clever backline movement that featured Tweed winger Jaline Graham slotting into a fullback role on the right edge. Graham’s speed and footwork was enough to create the overlap and Ione Seiuli would provide the soft hands to find Galeano on the flank. Seiuli then got a well deserving try of his own just minutes later when Craig Garvey sold a few dummies to poke his nose through the line and link with Seiuli in support.
Tweed might have saved the best for last, however, with Ryland Jacob’s try in the 74th minute featuring everything the Seagulls got right in Round 8.
Garvey’s service from dummy-half, Manuel-Liolevave straightening the attack and the skill of McGrady and Paul Turner out wide all proved too much for the Northern Pride to handle on Saturday as the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls notched their fourth win of the season.
Key Takeaways
With Sam McIntyre missing this week the Seagulls were looking for someone to pick up his ballplaying duties through the middle and Lamar Manuel-Liolevave filled the role admirably. The big front rower was typically effective in yardage but chimed in on a few occasions as a link man between the ruck and the edges. Manuel-Liolevave slotted in at pivot for good effect in the lead up to Paul Turner’s opening try and again for Ryland Jacob’s try in the 74th minute.
Despite the wet weather, Tweed played an expansive brand of footy particularly coming out of their own end on Saturday. Using the speed and ballplaying of Paul Turner and Lindon McGrady, the Seagulls frequently shifted to their edges in exit sets and found easy metres through centres Scott Galeano and Lee Turner. The work of Tweed’s outside backs was crucial to this – Paul Turner, Ryland Jacobs and Jaline Graham consistently got the Seagulls’ sets off to a positive start and were the beneficiaries down the other end of the field with tries to four of Tweed’s back five in Round 8.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf was pleased with his team’s patience in the testing conditions.
“I thought we broke them down well today in attack,” Woolf said.
“We took some poor options but stuck to our style of play regardless of the weather which was good to see.”
On Tweed’s propensity to use the ball from anywhere on the field, Woolf said he was happy for his players to play what they see in the wet.
“We move the ball in yardage if the defence is tight. The message was play how we play regardless of the weather.”
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 8 of the QRL Hostplus Cup
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will face the Northern Pride at Tugun RLFC this Saturday, 14th of May in Round 8 of the QRL Hostplus Cup.
Tweed are coming into this one off a 38-34 loss to the Wynnum Manly Seagulls but did have the bye in Round 7 to review their performance. Strong in defence all season, the 38 points conceded will have been a talking point at training throughout the week. The attack, on the other hand, found success on both sides of the field. Scott Galeano scored a double down the right side while Ryland Jacobs scored one himself and set up another on the left. Getting up the field and into try-scoring positions wasn’t an issue for the Seagulls who were again led by JJ Collins and Sam McIntyre through the middle of the field.
It’s an area the Seagulls will look to dominate again this week against a Pride side ranking 12th in running metres per game this season. Falling almost 600 running metres behind the Central Queensland Capras across their 34-10 defeat last week, the Pride struggled to make their way up the field to threaten the opposition line. Their job was made difficult from the start with the Capras crossing the line four times throughout the opening 20 minutes.
Player to Watch
Blake Scott impressed in his first game for the club in Round 6. Hooker is a strong position for the Seagulls and with Craig Garvey elevated to the starting side while Brent Woolf nurses an injury, Scott made an instant impact in his first game off the bench. Like Garvey and Woolf, Scott likes to get out from the ruck and look to create things himself. He ran the ball six times in only 37 minutes in Round 6 with one leading to a repeat set with points soon to follow.
It’s not only from behind the ruck that he can be effective. He took the ball at first receiver, changed the tempo of his run across the field and played a significant role in Galeano’s second try.
With a game under his belt, playing behind what should be a strong pack and running against a tired defence, look for Scott to pack some much off the bench on Saturday afternoon.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf talked about the need for an improved defensive performance after conceding a season-high 38 points in Round 6.
“We had a few tries scored against the run of play but also got caught out in our line defence at times,” Woolf said.
“We have done some work in that area and spoken about the importance of not leaking soft points.”
The Dolphins landing the signature of JJ Collins for the 2023 NRL season has also been a talking point around the playing group.
“Great news regarding JJ and well deserved,” Woolf said.
“He is a quality player and has been a top performer in this competition. Everyone is excited for him and it’s motivating for the other players to know that the next level is still a reality for them.”
- Jaline Graham
- Sosefo Fifita
- Lee Turner
- Scott Galeano
- Ryland Jacobs
- Will Brimson
- Lindon McGrady
- JJ Collins
- Craig Garvey
- Lama Manuel-Liolevave
- Joshua Patson
- Reuben Porter
- Braden Robson
- Blake Scott
- Harrison Muller
- Ioane Seiuli
- Daniel Ross
Coach: Ben Woolf
Match Details
Round 8 v Northern Pride
Saturday 14th May @ Tugan RLFC, Tugan
Kick-off: 3pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Jason Oliver, Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Brave Gulls Go Down To Classy Capras
Saavanah Bourke
The Gold Coast Airport women’s Tweed Heads Seagulls refuse to drop their heads after another tough loss in the BMD Premiership.
The Seagulls showed plenty of promise in the first half, but a classy Central Queensland Capras outfit hit back in the second 35 to claim a 22-10 victory in Rockhampton on Saturday.
It was Seagulls winger Brooke Saddler who opened the scoring early for Tweed, crossing for the first try of the game five minutes into the contest.
But the ladder leaders wasted no time to get on the board, with forward Kailah Rogers making her way over the line a little over 10 minutes later.
A cut out ball from half Jada Ferguson gave young Seagulls star Chantay Kiria-Ratu a prime opportunity for Tweed to get back in front, gifting the Seagulls a 6 point lead heading into the sheds at half time.
But the points for the Seagulls would unfortunately stop there, and just five minutes into the second half the Seagulls couldn’t stop Capras fullback Tamika Upton from breaking through the defense line and helping Central Queensland level the score.
It was a tight contest after that and wasn’t until 23 minutes later another try came from the Capras, this time through winger Bree Spreadborough.
Central Queensland would seal the match just 5 minutes later, when forward Kristine Vaalepu found another 4 pointer for the Capras.
Seagulls head coach Spencer Taplin said he refuses to give up on his side, and knows they are capable of producing a 70 minute performance.
“We are doing all the right things and I have faith in our program, but at the end of the day you’ve got to be at your best for the entire game to get the win,” Taplin said.
“We were right in the game until those two quick tries near the end blew out the score.”
The Seagulls have a bye this weekend and won’t play finals, but will have a prime opportunity to finish the season on a high when they face Souths Logan Magpies in an NRL curtain raiser at Cbus Super Stadium on May 22.
“We need to finish it how we want to finish it.
“I said to the girls wouldn’t it be cool if we finish the season playing to the potential, I know they can on the big stage.”
Gulls In ‘Good Spirits’ Ahead Of Capras Clash
Saavanah Bourke
The Gold Coast Airport women’s Tweed Heads Seagulls are refusing to be intimidated by the undefeated Central Queensland Capras.
The Seagulls will travel to Rockhampton tomorrow and face the BMD Premiership leaders, but head coach Spencer Taplin sees the contest as a great challenge for his side.
“Our objectives haven’t changed just because we are playing an unbeaten team.
“We are still going out there to win, but how cool would it be if we could knock off the competition’s unbeaten team,” he said.
Taplin has made a few key changes to his team to make that possible, with NRLW star Tarryn Aiken unavailable, Jada Ferguson will pair Karli Hansen in the halves.
Brooke Saddler returns from illness and lines up on the wing and young star Chantay Ratu has been named to start in the centres.
“I know what Brooke is capable of and Chantay is just a talent.”
While it hasn’t been the season the Seagulls have hoped for, the head coach says their ambitions remain the same.
“We know we are a good team, but we just haven’t shown that yet.
“We aren’t winning but our energy, culture and attitude is great.
“Hopefully we can transfer that energy into our performance tomorrow.”
The Seagulls currently have a 4 and 1 win-loss record, and to be eligible for finals they must win their last two games.
“I don’t like to look too far ahead, I only really talk to the girls about what is in front of us and that is tomorrow’s game.
“At the end of the day you focus on what you can control and that is training and our performance on game day.”
Kick off from Browne Park in Rockhampton is at 4.10pm tomorrow.
Team List
- Jataya Faifau
- Chelsea Apps
- Jaime Chapman
- Chantay Ratu
- Brooke Saddler
- Jada Ferguson
- Cobie-Jane Morgan
- Jessika Elliston
- Lailee Phillips
- Brianna Clark
- Kaitlyn Phillips
- Zara Canfield
- Georgia Hale (Captain)
- Matekino Gray
- Karli Hansen
- Carly McGrath
- Atlanta Peters
- Alani Sullivan
Coach: Spencer Taplin
Match Details
Round 6 vs Central Queensland Capras
Sunday 7th May @ Browns Park, Rockhampton
Kick-off: 4:10pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Battle Of The Birds Ends In Heartbreak For Tweed
Saavanah Bourke
Fans were treated to a BMD Premiership blockbuster at Tugun RLFC on Saturday, with the Wynnum Manly Seagulls piping Tweed 20-16 in a hard-fought contest.
The battle of the birds ended in heartbreak for Tweed, with Wynnum Manly upsetting the home side in the final 30 seconds of the game.
It was the visitors who crossed first, with forward Shaylee Bent breaking through the Seagulls defence line in the 16th minute.
But the Seagulls wasted no time to hit back, halfback Tarryn Aiken crossed for her first 4 pointer just two minutes later.
The half showed her class again not long after, picking up a double and helping the Seagulls with another 4 points.
A successful conversion from Zara Canfield gave the Seagulls plenty of confidence heading into the sheds with a 6 point lead at half time.
But Wynnum Manly came out firing in the second half, with centre Felila Kia making her way over the line and keeping her team in the contest.
The Seagulls weren’t going down without a fight, centre Jamie Chapman hit back keeping Tweed in front.
A penalty goal kicked by Zara Canfield put the Seagulls further ahead with 20 minutes remaining.
But the game was far from over, forward Essay Banu kept Wynnum Manly in the hunt when she crossed in the final 10 minutes of play.
With a successful conversion Tweed were still in front by 2, but the Wynnum Manly forward crossed again for her second try of the game, upsetting Tweed in the final 30 seconds of play and securing the hard-fought victory for Wynnum Manly.
It’s back to the drawing board for Tweed, Saturday’s result marks their fourth consecutive loss.
Tweed coach Spencer Taplin said he was disappointed by the result, but was more upset for his side.
“We were 30 seconds away from ending our run with losses and I said to the girls all that could have been was two tackles,” Taplin said.
“I felt for them, some of them are working really hard, but some of them need to be a little more honest in their efforts.
“We were the better side on the day but we just didn’t ice our opportunities.”
Despite being on the bottom of the ladder, finals football isn’t completely out of the question.
“Mathematically we still have a chance if we can win our last two games, but I’m more focused on performance more than anything.”
The Seagulls face the unbeaten and top of the table CQ Capras next weekend in Rockhampton, before meeting Souths Logan in Brisbane for the final round of the regular season.
Round 6 Hostplus Cup Match Review – Vs Wynnum
Written by Jason Oliver, Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls and Wynnum Manly Seagulls played out a 38-34 flockbuster at Tugun RLFC.
Wynnum Manly wasted no time in getting themselves on the board as Tweed carried them up the field through back-to-back penalties. With the defence on the backfoot, Sam Scarlett threw a dummy while stepping off his right foot to crash over the line and open the scoring only three minutes in.
A third Tweed penalty on the last tackle in the set after points gave Wynnum Manly another chance to attack in good ball. As Scarlett did only four minutes earlier, five-eighth Max Plath sent the defence wide with a dummy before stepping through half a gap to score.
Finally spending some time with the ball after defending for the best part of ten minutes, Tweed threatened down the right edge as Jayden Campbell popped up out the back of shape with his first major involvement of the match. Shortly after, and in the same shape that proved threatening only 30 seconds earlier, Campbell’s presence pulled the defence out which allowed Reuben Porter to hit the outside shoulder of his defender one-on-one and crash over to score.
An open game led to regular line breaks with both sides going the full field in back-to-back sets. First, it was Garvey being dragged down just short of the line before Wynnum Manly dropped the ball at the same spot down the other end. The 30 seconds to set the scrum will have felt like 10 for the players who had just run from one end of the field and back in consecutive sets.
A break wouldn’t be far away, though. Unfortunately for Tweed, it was spent under the posts as Mathew Lyons plucked a Lindon McGrady pass out of the air to score under the posts and push the score out to 18-6 after 22 minutes.
As he’s made a habit of doing when his side is under the pump, JJ Collins came up with the play to bring Tweed back into the game. A strong carry brought three defenders into the tackle before Collins flicked out an offload which Tweed sent straight to the left edge. Another offload in traffic, a basketball pass over the top at speed ended with Campbell dotting down to keep the points flowing.
Having just found success down the left edge, Tweed went back to the well for Will Brimson to score from dummy half and bring the scores level at 18-all. However, another Wynnum Manly intercept soon translated into points for the visitors to carry a 24-18 lead into the break.
The you score, we score nature of the game flowed into the second half as Tweed quickly crossed the line. Going back to a similar shift that had already seen Turner put into space once and another intercepted, McGrady this time skipped Campbell and put a perfect ball onto the chest of Turner who sent Scott Galeano over for his first.
Again, Wynnum Manly answered right back through Kalolo Saitaua to extend their lead to 28-22 only for Tweed to do the same and level the scores once more at 28-all heading into the final 20 minutes. The game entered the final ten minutes as expected with the two teams trading tries in back-to-back sets, although McGrady’s kick was waved away which provided the visitors with a two-point buffer.
Tweed again attacked the edges on the kickoff in the search of points. The home side worked their way up the field before a brutal defensive set forced an error. That error and the pressure it caused soon became a penalty which Tweed used to lock the game up at 34-all.
However, the game could only end in one way: A Wynnum Manly intercept.
Tweed looked likely as they travelled up the field in search of a winner but dropped ball on the right edge ended up in the hands of Lyons. With two interceptions leading to points already, Lyons collected Wynnum Manly’s third of the afternoon and took it to the house to secure the 38-34 win.
Key Takeaways
When the going gets tough, JJ Collins and Sam McIntyre get going. With their side on the wrong end of the scoreboard and with Wynnum Manly applying plenty of pressure throughout the opening stages, Collins and McIntyre got to work. Collins is one of the toughest players in the competition to drag down while McIntyre’s ball-playing caused havoc through the middle and on the edges. McIntyre didn’t leave the field in the first half but still found the energy to run 60 metres and shut down a Wynnum Manly line break one minute before halftime.
Hooker continues to be a position of dominance for Tweed. Brent Woolf remains sidelined with an injury but Blake Scott played a nice role behind Craig Garvey off the bench. Scott found some space around marker and forced a six again which soon led to points in the second half. Later, his run across the field helped set up Scott Galeano to score his second.
Jayden Campbell is still nursing his rib injury but looked great with the ball in space. He linked up well with Lindon McGrady in this one but it’s his moments returning kicks that stood out. While not the biggest player on the field, Campbell’s footwork started Tweed’s sets well, at one stage jumping over a would-be defender while returning the ball up the field.
Coach’s Comments
While Tweed conceded a handful of tries against the run of play, coach Ben Woolf wasn’t making any excuses.
“Our defence wasn’t good enough today, particularly on the line. We did have a couple of tries against the run of play but they broke us down through the middle as well which isn’t good enough,” Woolf said.
Woolf was able to find some positives in the performance with Blake Scott impressing in his first game for the club.
“Blake did a good job. His service was good which allowed us to break them down on the edges. He defended well as well.”
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Consistent Spine Gives Gulls Great Chance
Saavanah Bourke
The Gold Coast Airport women’s Tweed Heads Seagulls have “no excuses” not to win in their next BMD Premiership clash with the Wynnum Manly Seagulls.
Tomorrow’s game with the competition’s newcomers is the first time the Seagulls will field the same side in back to back games, and head coach Spencer Taplin says a victory is long overdue.
“It was a disruptive start to the season with players coming in and out from NRLW commitments.
“Now everyone is back on board and we are putting the same team on the paddock for the second week in a row there is definitely no excuses.
“If we perform to our potential, we should get the result.”
The Seagulls have won just one from their last four games and currently sit 7th on the ladder, but to be considered for finals they must win at least two of their next three games.
“There’s three teams on the same points as us and then two teams above us on four points.
“That’s why we have to win, it will put us in the mix for finals.”
The Wynnum Manly Seagulls present a big and aggressive pack, but Taplin is confident the Gulls can use that to their advantage.
“They are a strong pack, and play an aggressive style of footy through the middle.
“If we move the ball around and make their girls work, we should outrun them.”
It’s looking promising for the girls, off the back of one of their best training sessions on Wednesday night.
“The girls are doing really well because they can see where they are going wrong.
“We are learning and developing and making improvements in training, now that just has to transfer over onto the field when we play.”
The clash kicks off from Tugun RLFC at 11.30am tomorrow.
Round 6 Hostplus Cup Match Preview
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will face the Wynnum-Manly Seagulls at Tugun RLFC this Saturday, 30th of April in Round 6 of the QRL Hostplus Cup.
Tweed are looking to bounce back after falling short 17-4 against the Blackhawks last weekend. The trip to Townsville appeared to take its toll, with Tweed completing at just 48% to give themselves little chance of winning the game. In contrast, the Blackhawks got through their sets and controlled the game effectively thanks to Robert Lui’s influence at halfback. The positive from that loss is that Tweed were able to create multiple scoring opportunities for themselves and should only need to execute those moments better this week to secure the result.
The Wynnum-Manly Seagulls are also coming off a disappointing result, having lost 24-18 to Souths Logan last Sunday. The WM Seagulls threatened a late comeback in that game but couldn’t close the gap despite crossing the stripe on a number of occasions. Just as with the Tweed Seagulls, Wynnum-Manly will be hoping to capitalise on their chances with the ball a little better in Round 6.
Players to Watch
The Tweed Seagulls will welcome back JJ Collins this week and the big prop couldn’t return at a better time. Wynnum-Manly were beaten through the middle last week by the Magpies and with Collins back on deck, Tweed will fancy themselves to do the same around the ruck on Saturday. His ability to generate ruck speed by bending the line and getting a quick play-the-ball is crucial to unlocking hookers Craig Garvey and Blake Scott, the latter who is named to make his club debut from the bench this week.
Garvey didn’t get many chances to show what he can do from dummy-half in the loss to Townsville but if Tweed’s forwards can get over the ad line against Wynnum-Manly then look for Garvey to scoot on the back of it. Scott is also a running threat out of dummy half and is expected to fit nicely in with Tweed’s attacking structures around the ruck. Braden Robson, Lindon McGrady and Will Brimson are all reliable support players if Garvey or Scott find some space through the middle and it’s likely to be a feature of their attack if Tweed score a few points on Saturday.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf was disappointed but not overly concerned with last week’s result.
“The trip and preparation seemed to take its toll last week,” said Woolf.
“We made 23 errors and unfortunately when that happens it’s hard to build your attack. The fact that we were still able to create scoring opportunities shows that the points will come.”
Woolf is looking forward to seeing Blake Scott make his club debut this week and is confident the young hooker will fit smoothly into the squad.
“Blake has been a strong performer in A-grade and has played cup previously with Souths Logan,” Woolf said.
“He’s a tough defender and has a solid running game so he should compliment the side well.”
Team List
- Jayden Calmpbell
- Ryland Jacobs
- Lee Turner
- Paul Turner
- Scott Galeano
- Will Brimson
- Lindon Mcgrady
- Jj Collins
- Craig Garvey
- Sam Mcintyre
- Josh Patston
- Reuban Porter
- Braden Robson
- Blake Scott
- Lamar Liolevave
- Harrison Muller
- Ioane Seiuli
- Jack Glossop
Coach: Ben Woolf
Match Details
Round 6 v Wynnum-Manly Seagulls
Sunday 30th April @ Tugun RLFC, Tugun
Kick-off: 3pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Jason Oliver, Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Second Half Surge Secures Panthers A Hard Fought Victory
Saavanah Bourke
The Gold Coast Airport women’s Tweed Heads Seagulls have fallen to their third consecutive loss, after the Brisbane Panthers ran in two unanswered tries in the second half to secure a 20 to 8 victory at Frank Lind Oval on Saturday.
A double from Panthers winger Luisa Sekona opened the scoring for Brisbane early in the match, but the Seagulls hit back through winger Bridget Hoy and forward Zara Canfield to level the score at 8 all heading into the sheds at half time.
But the Seagulls points would dry up there, and Tweed’s poor competition rate and high error count opened the door for Brisbane to cross twice more, this time through centre Clare Akauma and forward Caitlyn Taleni.
Seagulls Heads coach Spencer Taplin said his side did themselves no favours.
“We wasted our opportunities,” he said.
“We had three tries held up and one just short of the line.
“They (Brisbane Panthers) capitalised on our errors.”
The Seagulls ‘silly individual mistakes’ were the ultimate undoing and Taplin says they must be ‘more clinical’ in their finishes if they want to take home two points against the competitions newcomers, the Wynnum Manly Seagulls this weekend.
“We should be able to keep our spine the same for the first time.
“We have had a lot of disruptions to start our season with players in and out.
“This weekend we will see how the girls can respond to that loss and work together on our combinations to get the right result,” Taplin said.
Tweed host Wynnum at home on Saturday, while the Panthers meet Souths Logan Magpies.
Hostplus Cup Round 5 Match Report
Written by Jason Oliver, Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
The Townsville Blackhawks pulled out to a first-half lead before defending their way to a 17-4 win over an error-riddled Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls on Sunday afternoon.
Wet conditions and a swirling breeze didn’t stop the two sides from playing with a positive mindset early in this one. Tweed found space down both edges only for the final pass to find the ground as they looked for ways around the defence. Townsville, on the other hand, created their opportunities through the middle as Josh Chudleigh broke into the backfield after darting out from dummy half. He couldn’t find a teammate in support and yet another opportunity went begging, but it wasn’t long before one of those early opportunities translated into the first points of the match.
Missing on two passes down the edge already, it was third time lucky for the Seagulls. Following a long shift to the left which ended with Ryland Jacobs being dragged down just short of the line, Will Brimson stepped into dummy half and fired the ball across the face of the defence for Lee Turner to open the scoring.
It became clear early on that Taniela Sadrugu would be a regular target in the air for Robert Lui and the Blackhawks but Turner and Jacobs repeatedly handled him on the last. It was a Sadrugu carry that became the catalyst to Townsville’s first try of the afternoon, though. The big right centre charged up the field leaving defenders in his wake. His powerful run and quick play-the-ball was a cue for Chudleigh to look to go himself out of dummy half with the Blackhawks hooker driving through Jayden Campbell’s attempted tackle at A defender on the line.
A Campbell error soon led to more points for the home team. Taking the ball out the back of shape on the left side, Lui shaped to pass, sent the defence wide, and used his bigger body to push through Lindon McGrady’s tackle to extend the Blackhawks’ lead out to 12-4.
In his first appearance of the season, Lui worked his way into the game and set up Kalifa FaiFai-Loa to score in the corner 35 minutes in. With Campbell defending in the line on the Tweed left edge and the right edge up and in, Lui rolled one into the in-goal for Faifai-loa to score and for the home side to take a 16-4 lead into the sheds.
The Seagulls looked a lot more controlled and composed as they won the early stages of the second half. Getting up the field with the ball and kicking well to finish the set, Tweed started to show signs of life in attack. The right side had threatened all day as Jayden Campbell linked up with McGrady. However, their dangerous shift in the 51st minute went a long way to summing up their day.
McGrady does an excellent job to get the ball away while wearing a big shot. He had found Campbell in this spot a couple of times already and the Seagulls fullback was able to feed Paul Turner with clean ball. Coach Ben Woolf mentioned after Round 4 they had worked towards getting Paul Turner early ball recently, and despite the change in position this week, the approach looked the same. However, like many other promising moments during the match, this one ended with a Tweed error.
The feeling was that one try could become two or three for the Seagulls. However, the Blackhawks continued to scramble well in defence while Lui’s experience showed time and time again as he kicked the home side around the field on the 5th tackle.
Three consecutive sets ended in errors for the Seagulls as they fumbled their way up the field late in the match. Again, looking dangerous at times, too many dropped balls cost the visitors time attacking inside the opposition’s 20-metre line. It was a Brimson dropped ball while attempting to offload with the line in sight five minutes short of full time that ended any hopes of a grandstand finish.
Still, Michael Bell made sure of it for the Blackhawks with two minutes to play by slotting a field goal to secure the 17-4 win.
Key Takeaways
Errors cost the Seagulls dearly in this one. There are plenty of points in this side and despite only crossing the line once, the attack isn’t a major concern. McGrady created chances and the ball moved well through the middle when the Seagulls could hold onto it. In the centres this week, Paul Turner was able to apply some footwork but ultimately lacked the opportunities near the line to really make a mark on this game with the ball. Jayden Campbell stepped in with some classy touches throughout the match, too. However, playing on the road and in tough conditions, the Seagulls gave the ball up too often to build pressure and didn’t trouble the Blackhawks defence often enough.
Brent Woolf was a big out alongside JJ Collins, although, Craig Garvey continued his good form to start the season at hooker while Tanah Boyd featured at dummy half off the bench. The hooker rotation is one of Tweed’s greatest strengths and remains as such even without Woolf. Boyd doesn’t have quite the same running game as the regular pair but he stepped out from behind the ruck and engaged the markers well. Getting out further and looking to create in attack against a retreating defensive line, Boyd didn’t look out of place in what is still a relatively unfamiliar position for the 21-year-old.
Coach’s Comments
Seagulls coach Ben Woolf welcomed Jayden Campbell into the side late this week which threw up a couple of challenges. Although, they’re the sort you make for a player of his class.
“Jayden’s a dangerous player,” Woolf said.
“It was difficult bringing him in late but he is always classy at times in the game.”
But regular errors and a lack of opportunity limited the impact Campbell could have on the Tweed attack this week.
“We didn’t control the ball well enough to really build pressure with our attack. We showed glimpses, but didn’t have enough ball to really trouble them,” said Woolf.
The Seagulls are back at home next week to host the Wynnum Manly Seagulls on Saturday afternoon.
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Round 5 Preview
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls travel to Jack Manski Oval, Townsville this weekend to face the Blackhawks on Sunday, 24th April in Round 5 of the QRL Hostplus Cup.
Both sides are coming off the Easter weekend break and will be looking to return to their winning ways following strong performances to close out the opening month of the season.
The Townsville Blackhawks took care of the Northern Pride 22-12 in Round 4 with Kalifa Faifai-Loa bagging a double and running for 157 metres in that game. The veteran winger has now scored in every match this year and profiles as a key strike weapon for the Blackhawks again in Round 5.
Tweed also come into this game on the back of a win, having put 32 points on the Burleigh Bears at Pizzey Park in Round 4. The Seagulls were excellent from the kick-off in that game, holding Burleigh to nil and piling on four tries in the first 40 minutes. The only negative to come from that game was a shoulder injury to hooker Brent Woolf, who has been in fine form to begin the year. Tweed have a challenge on their hands to overcome Woolf’s absence this week.
Player to Watch
With the Gold Coast Titans leaving some big names off their team-list this week there’s every chance Tweed pick up a few NRL-quality players come game day. That being said, all eyes are on Craig Garvey on Sunday as he steps into Brent Woolf’s vacated hooker role.
Garvey brings with him a wealth of experience at NRL and QRL level and if his efforts in Round 4 are anything to go by, Tweed are well positioned to handle Woolf’s injury. In 55 minutes last week Garvey ran for 142 metres, made one linebreak, set up a try and made 18 tackles for two misses.
How he links with big JJ Collins and Braden Robson around the ruck this week is something to watch out for.
Coach’s Comments
Tweed are the second best defensive team in the competition four rounds in. They’re consistently keeping the game in reach and earning themselves opportunities to rack up a few points on the back of their defensive pressure.
Seagulls Head Coach Ben Woolf has been pleased with their efforts off the ball to begin the year.
“I’ve been really happy with our defence to start the season,” Woolf said.
“We aren’t leaking many points in games and our missed tackles are low.”
Woolf is also looking forward to seeing Craig Garvey get his chance at dummy-half and is confident he can do a job with first-choice hooker Brent Woolf on the sidelines.
“Brent and Craig are similar players,” said Woolf.
“Both are strong runners of the ball and physical defenders. Craig uses a little more deception around the play-the-ball but I don’t think we need to change things too much this week with ‘Garvs’ in.”
Team List
- Paul Turner
- Sosefo Fifita
- Lee Turner
- Scott Galeano
- Ryland Jacobs
- Will Brimson
- Lindon McGrady
- JJ Collins
- Craig Garvey
- Lamar Manuel-Liolevave
- Joshua Patston
- Rueben Porter
- Braden Robson
- Jaline Graham
- Harrison Muller
- Ioane Seiuli
- Daniel Ross
- Blake Scott
Coach: Ben Woolf
Game Info
Round 5 v Townsville Blackhawks
Sunday 24th April @ Jack Manski Oval, Townsville
Kick-off: 2:10pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Jason Oliver, Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Seagulls Bounce Back And Build For Panthers Test
Saavanah Bourke
It’s easy to see something special is brewing for the women at Tweed Seagulls.
The club has worked towards introducing a new pathway for female players this year to progress from the Under 19s system into the BMD premiership and hopefully onto the NRLW.
It’s given the Tweed girls a good mix of experience and youth for this year’s campaign in the BMD Premiership, but Skipper Georgia Hale said the Seagulls are yet to hit their straps.
“The work we’ve done with our playing group has been phenomenal, now it’s just all about transferring that to the field and playing the brand of footy that we know we can.”
The girls are eager bounce back from two losses on the trot against the Panthers in Brisbane on Saturday.
“Yes, it’s two losses, but it’s at the side of the season where we want them and where we can make those mistakes and learn from them.
“Looking back, we understand where we went wrong and it’s made us come to training with purpose.
“Having that weekend off over Easter has fuelled the fire for the girls, and we’re hungry to be back playing footy again,” Hale said.
With the first season of the NRLW done and dusted, the likes of Jess Elliston, Zara Canfield, Kaitlyn Phillips, Jetaya Faifua and Tarryn Aiken are all set to return to Tweed for the clash with Hale back as Captain to steer the ship.
“I do like that key element of the game,” Hale said.
“I look back when I was at that age and it was the senior girls that made me feel welcomed and apart of the group.
“It’s been nice to buddy up and really connect and engage.”
Kick off from Frank Lind Oval in Brisbane is at 3pm on Saturday.
Team List
1 Jetaya Faifua
2 Bridget Hoy
3 Paremo Gallagher
4 Atlanta Peters
5 Alani Sullivan
6 Jada Ferguson
19 Rona Peters (Captain)
8 Jessika Elliston
9 Lailee Phillips
10 Brianna Clark
11 Kaitlyn Phillips
12 Zara Canfield
13 Georgia Hale (Co-Captain)
14 Matekino Gray
15 Carly Mcgrath
16 Cobie-Jane Morgan
21 Serena Martin
Hostplus Cup Round 4 Match Report
Written by Jason Oliver, Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls pulled out to a 24-0 lead while beating the Burleigh Bears 32-18 at Pizzey Park, Gold Coast.
Some ill-discipline from the home side put them on the back foot early. Consecutive Burleigh penalties gave Tweed field position and the work sharpening the attack that Ben Woolf talked about during the week paid dividends.
Sam Lisone made an impact on this game early with his ball-playing leading to Sosefo Fifita going over in the corner. Lisone charged the middle before getting the ball to Lindon McGrady who threw a fabulous tunnel ball to the edge.
A handful of penalties hurt both sides and the Bears ended up a forward pass short of leveling the scores in the 14th minute. A brief period of dominance followed the near-try. Herman Ese’ese played a dangerous short ball to Jacob Alick but the Seagulls right edge defence held firm. Similarly, the left edge slid with relative ease to shut down shifts on that side of the field. With the defensive work done, the Seagulls attack clicked into gear.
Tweed continued to be the dominant team in yardage as Braden Robson, JJ Collins and Lisone charged through the middle. Lisone’s ball-playing, in particular, became a key feature as the Seagulls explored the edges through Paul Turner down the right side. His half-break led to a quick play-the-ball which Brent Woolf used to crash over the line. Held up on this occasion, he wouldn’t be denied two minutes later.
A Bears error gave the Seagulls another crack at the line and Woolf took a similar approach to before – darting behind a Will Brimson quick play-the-ball – to dot down in the 21st minute.
Seagulls coach Ben Woolf has the luxury of swapping Brent Woolf with Craig Garvey at hooker which, as has been the case a few times already this season, translated into points.
Braden Robson ran a nice diamond shape one off the ruck to play Collins onto Ese’ese and Alick in the middle. Catching the slightest sign of laziness at marker, Garvey’s dummy sent Api Noema-Matenga wide before his left foot step split the markers and took him into the backfield. With the fullback drawn, Garvey sent McGrady over the line for the Seagulls to go 16-0 in front.
Desperation set in for the Bears who looked to end the attacking onslaught by creeping inside the 10 metres. The onslaught continued, though. Lamar Manuel-Liolevave has been making an impact off the bench as a strong ball carrier so far this season and used that to compress the defence ahead of Tweed’s fourth try. Manuel-Liolevave got deep into the line before releasing the ball wide where McGrady and Turner again linked up. Running at a retreating defensive line, Turner drew the defence before providing Fifita with his second of the afternoon.
There is the impact of the ball-playing middle again bringing three middle defenders into the action before the shift wide.
Halftime couldn’t come soon enough for the Bears who ended the first 40 standing behind the posts for a fifth time. A messy ending to a McGrady grubber gave the Seagulls one more crack at the line. Will Brimson put in an inch-perfect grubber with the friendly bounce up to Ryland Jacobs who crashed through two scrambling defenders to score in the corner. That allowed the Seagulls to enter the sheds with a healthy 24-0 lead. While the Bears had their moments, the scoreboard reflected a dominant first half from the visitors.
A Brimson penalty for high contact provided the Bears with the field position to begin mounting their comeback early in the second half. Despite the Seagulls defence looking comfortable as Guy Hamilton tried to float one over the top and into the corner, they couldn’t clean up Hamilton’s attacking kick on the last tackle. Alick used his full 192cm frame to pluck the ball out of the air and crash over.
As Burleigh’s Sami Sauiluma threw himself through two defenders to score in the corner, Tweed responded with a Try of the Season contender.
Ioane Seiuli made a half-break through the line as he skipped through some tired defence. Not content with his outrageous offload out the back to Turner, Seiuli dragged himself up off the ground and kept up with the play, rewarded by taking back possession before carrying four Bears defenders over the line.
A short kickoff gave the Bears possession with another penalty for high contact extending their period with the ball as Lee Turner was called out in front of his peers and placed on report. Again, Burleigh looked left where they had just found success through Sauiluma who produced a carbon copy of his earlier try to crash over and cut Tweeds lead to 12 with 15 minutes to play.
Burleigh weren’t without chances late but the Tweed pack regained control of the game to wrap up the two points. Lisone picked out a tired defender and skipped straight through the line. The scrambled defence conceded a penalty in response which allowed McGrady to kick the penalty goal which sealed the 32-18 win and two competition points for the visitors.
Takeaways from Round 4
Sam Lisone made his presence felt early and throughout this one. A massive body that put the Seagulls on the front foot, his ball-playing added plenty to the Seagulls attack. Tweed have looked their best this year when the likes of Braden Robson, Sam McIntyre and this week, Lisone, are moving the ball through the middle to give a dangerous back line room to move with only two minutes passing before Lisone’s value became evident.
With the dominance in yardage came the scheming from behind the ruck. Being able to swap Brent Woolf with Craig Garvey as fatigue starts setting into the defence is a blessing most teams can only dream of but one the Seagulls play with every week. Again, the pair produced points with Woolf getting over himself before Garvey provided McGrady with a meat pie shortly after.
With Tweeds ability to both dominate through their hookers in the middle and ball-playing through their big men, space is opening up on the edges. Paul Turner is growing into his role at fullback and looked his most dangerous this week, often on the back of a long-side shift with a middle forward linking up with McGrady along the way.
Coach’s Comments
Excellent in defence all season, Seagulls coach Ben Woolf was left happy with his side on both sides of the ball despite conceding 18 points in the second half.
“I’m happy with how the attack improved today. Our defence was good for the most part as well, just a run of possession let us down in the second half,” Woolf said.
Providing Paul Turner with some early ball was part of that improved attack as he looked sharp down the edges.
“We did ID that there was some opportunity in attack if we got Paul some early ball and he did a great job,” said Woolf.
So too was Sam Lisone who impressed in his first game for the club in 2022.
“Sam always brings good energy and enthusiasm. He played well today.”
Result
Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls 32 def. Burleigh Bears 18
Tweed Tries: Sosefo Fifita 2′, Brent Woolf 22′, Lindon McGrady 29′, Sosefo Fifita 33′, Ryland Jacobs 37′, Ioane Seiuli 56′
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
‘Inconsistent’ Seagulls Go Down To Dominant Bears
Saavanah Bourke for Tweed Seagulls Media
The Gold Coast Airport women’s Tweed Seagulls have been sent back to the drawing board, after a tough 26-8 defeat against the Burleigh Bears at Pizzey Park on Saturday.
The Bears have set the benchmark high for the season ahead, running in five tries to two.
Seagulls head coach Spencer Taplin described his sides performance as ‘inconsistent’, with the loss marking two on the trot for Tweed.
“I take my hat off to the bears, they were very good today,” Taplin said.
The reigning premiers showed their class from the get go, with Bears halfback Ashlee Quinlan breaking through the visitors defensive line in just the 3rd minute.
It only took 3 more minutes for the Bears to do the same thing again, this time through forward Laikha Clarke.
Two more tries would come for Burleigh in the first half, thanks to winger Te Ata Moana and forward Sophie Buller.
It wasn’t until the second half where the Seagulls would finally put points on the board.
“Once I was able to talk to them at half time, they got back on track after that,” Taplin said.
Ten minutes into the second half, on debut Seagulls winger Chelsea Apps picked up the first 4 pointer for Tweed.
But it was a bittersweet outing for the debutant, coming off the field not long after with what could be a season ending injury.
“We think she might of cracked a rib. It will be a shame because she was great for us today.”
The Bears capitalised on this and found another try through centre Felice Quinlan.
But the Seagulls weren’t going down without a fight, fullback Jetaya Faifua added another 4 points for Tweed just before full time.
Despite more than half a dozen NRLW players returning to the side, Taplin said two training sessions together during the week wasn’t enough for the girls to re-spark relationships.

“Today was a real indication at where we are at.
“We have some great players who have returned in our spine and I know how well they can play but those combinations still need a bit more time.”
With Burleigh’s head coach out with Covid, Hostplus Cup head coach Rick Stone stepped in for the Bears, proving another element of difficulty for the Seagulls.
“He definitely made a difference in terms of how they played.
“It was a simple style of footy but very effective.”
Titan Zara Canfield could be in doubt for Tweed’s next clash with the Brisbane Panthers in a fortnight, after being put on report twice for two careless tackles.
“I spoke to her about it after the game, it definitely wasn’t intentional so I hope she’ll be available for our next game.”
Both teams have a week off over Easter before the Seagulls face the Brisbane Panthers in Round 4 and the Bears meet the North Queensland Gold Stars in Townsville.
“If we can implement our structures and game plan the rest will take care of itself,” Taplin said.
Tweeds Stars Return To Bolster Young Seagulls Pack
Written by Saavanah Bourke for Tweed Seagulls Media
The Gold Coast Airport women’s Tweed Seagulls will have a big boost for Round 3 of the BMD Premiership, with more than half a dozen NRLW players set to return for Saturday’s clash with the Burleigh Bears.
Titans Georgia Hale, Karli Hansen, Zara Canfield and Bronco Kaitlyn Phillips are just a handful of stars bolstering the pack.
Head coach Spencer Taplin says the timing couldn’t have been better.
“Last weekend’s loss to the Tigers was a good lesson for the girls,” he said.
“If we can ignite our combinations with youth and experience then it’s going to put us in a really good position to win the game.”
The only downfall, the Seagulls will be without skipper Rona Peters and try scoring sensation Brooke Saddler.
“Brooke is unwell at the moment and Rona received a one match ban from the judiciary after last round.”
The reigning premiers are the competition’s benchmark and will have their own NRLW strike weapons back on the paddock too.
“They (Bears) are the team to beat.
“There is no expectation on us, the pressure is on them, we just have to go out there and do our job.”
But that’s easier said than done, the Seagulls have spent more than 10 weeks without the NRLW girls, and Tweed will have just two training sessions before the game to pull it together.
“I shouldn’t need to spend too much time on the footy.
“It’s going to be all about them understanding our culture and the standards we have here at Tweed.
“I expect them to add to that and buy into it.”
He’ll be relying on his spine, in particular hooker Lailee Phillips, to stand up and lead the Seagulls to their second victory.
“She’s a very quiet girl but has really stood up while our other key players have been away.
“If our spine can get their combinations right, I think we will do really well.”
Kick off from Pizzey Park is at 12.45pm on Saturday.
The game can be streamed live through QPlus TV.
Team List
-
Bridget Hoy
-
Faith Tutauha
-
Paremo Gallagher
-
Atlanta Peters
-
Isabella Lee
-
Alani Sullivan
-
Jada Ferguson
-
Carly McGrath
-
Lailee Phillips
- Rona Peters
- Zara Canfield
-
Kaitlyn Phillips
- Georgia Hale
- Jelena Betham
- Karli Hansen
- Serena Martin
- Matekino Kahukoti-Gray
- Chelsea Apps
Coach: Spencer Taplin
Game Info
Round 3 v Burleigh Bears
Saturday 9th April @ Pizzey Park, Gold Coast
Kick-off: 12:45pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Round 4 Preview: Tweed Seagulls v Burleigh Bears
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will face the Burleigh Bears this Sunday at 2pm in Round 4 of the QRL Hostplus Cup. Burleigh will host the local derby at Pizzey Park on the Gold Coast.
The Seagulls are coming off a grinding 13-6 loss to the Devils last week but will have taken plenty of confidence from that performance. Tweed showed signs of a defensive resolve in that game that will hold them in good stead as the season continues. Restricting a Devils’ halves pairing with more than 150 games of NRL experience to just 13 points is a fair effort and if the Seagulls can continue to keep themselves in contests with their defence, there is more than enough strike in this backline to put points on the scoreboard.
The Burleigh Bears are 3-and-0 to begin the 2022 season and come into this match following an 18-6 win over the Redcliffe Dolphins. Bears’ left winger Tony Francis has been on fire to start the year, scoring four tries and making five linebreaks in his three games so far. How well Tweed contain Francis and the Bears’ left edge should have a telling influence on the result this weekend.
The last time these sides met was in Round 13 last year, with Burleigh coming out on top 28-22. Brayden McGrady scored a second-half double in that match to tie things up late in the game only for Bears’ winger Andre Niko to cross with five minutes remaining.
Player to Watch
Burleigh may have an in-form winger lining up this weekend but so do the Seagulls. Sosefo Fifita has been in fine touch to begin the 2022 season and is shaping as a key player in Tweed’s backline this weekend.
The 19 year old Titans’ contracted winger has been busy in attack, notching 15+ receipts in all three games so far this year. From those receipts, Fifita is managing an average 121 running metres per game and has contributed three linebreaks, six tackle busts and two tries in three appearances for the club. He’s proving a reliable finisher on the end of a promising Tweed right edge this year and is a threat in the air too, as evident by his leaping effort against Norths in Round 4. Fifita’s battle with Bear’s left winger Tony Francis is a cracking head-to-head match up and one worth looking out for this weekend.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf said he was proud of Tweed’s defensive resolve last week but is eager to trouble the scoreboard a little more on Sunday.
“Our defence last week does give us some belief going into this weekend’s game,” Woolf said.
“It’s a week to week focus for us but in saying that, we need to score a few more points so we’ve spent some time sharpening our attack this week too.”
Team List
- Paul Turner
- Sosefo Fifita
- Lee Turner
- Scott Galeano
- Ryland Jacobs
- Will Brimson
- Lindon McGrady
- JJ Collins
- Brent Woolf
- Sam McIntyre
- Joshua Patston
- Rueben Porter
- Braden Robson
- Craig Garvey
- Lamar Manuel-Liolevave
- Harrison Muller
- Ioane Seiuli
- Daniel Ross
- Charlie Murray
Coach: Ben Woolf
Game Info
Round 4 v Burleigh Bears
Sunday 10th April @ Pizzey Park, Gold Coast
Kick-off: 2pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Jason Oliver, Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Hostplus Cup Round 3 Match Report
Written by Jason Oliver, Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls put in another impressive defensive performance in Round 3 but fell just short of the Norths Devils 13-4 at Bycroft Oval, Gold Coast.
A turnover of players in the spine and in the backline didn’t help the Seagulls attack as they were kept to just a single 10th-minute try. However, they will take plenty out of their efforts on the defensive side of the ball to keep a dangerous Devils attack to just 13 points.
The Devils spine boasts stacks of experience and they combined to pick out debutant Kaleb Ngamanu early. But the 18-year-old responded well to an early error by forcing his opposite into touch on the following set and looking comfortable throughout the rest of the match.
That ability to bounce back from an error and the defensive resolve became a theme of the match after the two teams traded early tries.
Tyson Gamble cleaned up a Lindon McGrady grubber before racing 70 metres up the field, giving the Devils a full set to attack the Seagulls line. Tyrone Roberts settled things down before Jack Ahearn and Gamble put a shift together which ended with Brendan Frei crashing over the line to open the scoring.
The Seagulls answered right back, though.
As has been the case so often already this season, Brent Woolf provided the key play when his one-on-one strip in the defensive set after points put Tweed hot on the attack. Paul Turner looked to break through with his footwork down the left edge but it was a McGrady cross-field kick back the other way that produced points.
Sosefo Fifita leapt above two Devils defenders to pluck the ball out of the air and fall over the line to score his second try of the 2022 season.
The game entered a grind following the quick exchange of points. Both sides worked through the middle and kicked well, forcing the other to work 80+ metres up the field to score. It wasn’t until a Tweed error that the game opened up and Norths took their chance.
Roberts again mounted pressure by forcing a repeat set before turning the extra possession into points. The tried and tested approach of looking left through Roberts and Ahearn paid dividends as Rashaun Denny fell over the line in the corner giving the Devils a 10-4 lead. Roberts added one more to it with a field goal as the siren sounded for halftime.
The second half moved much the same as the first as the two teams were forced to spend a lot of time defending their own line.
Ahearn spent a lot of time ball-playing through the middle of the field for the Devils, changing the tempo of his runs across the field in search of a break. For the Seagulls, Woolf looked for opportunities closer to the ruck and went close to sending Joshua Patston over with a crash ball.
What was an 80-minute battle between Turner and Gamble continued to develop as the match progressed. Gamble pulled up Turner just short of the line before Turner held Gamble up at the other end shortly after. With Gamble being cleaned up in the blood bin, Turner again targeted that side of the field this time being held up himself.
Neither side took their chances in good ball throughout the second half and it wasn’t until Tweed’s Daniel Ross was given his marching orders for deliberately slowing down the ruck that the scoreboard ticked over. Tweed continued to repel attacking raids on their line with the Devils eventually settling for a kick at goal to push their lead out to 13-4 which stuck through to the final whistle.
Key Takeaways from Round 3
Braden Robson and JJ Collins again dominated through the middle of the field this week. Robson, in particular, ran the ball especially strong before searching for a late offload throughout the first half. With only two offloads in the previous two games this season, Robson threw three in the first half alone as the Seagulls generated a second phase to get up the field. It didn’t come off, but Robson’s tip onto a flying Collins close to the line is an action that will translate into points sooner rather than later.
Ending up at dummy half for periods after halftime, Robson displayed his versatility and importance to this Tweed side in another superb performance.
Similarly, Reuben Porter excelled on both sides of the ball. He made sure to get involved as Tweed worked out of their own end and made it painfully difficult for Norths to do the same with some powerful shots in defence. With a mountain of a man in Viko Puliuvea standing opposite him at 197 cm and 105kg, Porter repeatedly stopped the Devils backrower in his tracks.
The key takeaway for the Seagulls again is their defence after coach Ben Woolf highlighted it as an area of particular importance during the week.
“They are a good attacking team so our focus has been around controlling possession and keeping our line connected in defence,” Woolf said.
New players in new combinations on the edges comfortably handled a Devils attack laden with experienced ball-players that were forced to reach into their bag of tricks, shifting wide and switching the play, in an effort to break down a Seagulls defensive line that rarely budged.
Coach’s Comments
The Seagulls have been strong in defence all season and coach Ben Woolf was again impressed with the performance on that side of the ball overall.
“I was pretty happy with our effort in defence, particularly in the second half. The tries we leaked were a bit disappointing but overall effort was good,” Woolf said.
Braden Robson’s offload was noticeable throughout the first half as he let go of three before halftime. The second phase played a huge part in how the Seagulls worked their way up the field and it’s something we can expect to see most weeks.
“Robbo has a great ability to offload. There wasn’t any direction to offload more but the message to him is always if it’s on to throw,” said Woolf.
Ngamanu impressed in his debut alongside fullback Jaline Graham.
“I thought they both did well in a tough game. Both had some good touches and competed well through the game.”
Result
Norths Devils 13 def. Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls 4
Tweed tries: Sosefo Fifita ‘12
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Seagulls To Learn From Tough Tigers Defeat
Saavanah Bourke – Tweed Seagulls Media Reporter
The Gold Coast Airport women’s Tweed Seagulls 32 nil loss to the Brisbane Tigers in Round 2 of the BMD Premiership was a case of experience versus inexperience.
The Tigers were unstoppable, stamping their authority in the competition and holding the Seagulls scoreless, running in 5 tries.
Still missing a handful of their key players to the NRLW, the young Seagulls depth was tested yet again, with head coach Spencer Taplin calling upon another two rookies from the Under 19s to fill the gaps prior to kickoff.
“Not saying that they were better, they (Tigers) just knew how to handle those high pressure moments of the game better than we did,” the head coach said.
The Seagulls defensive line took its first hit early when Tigers centre Tanika Marshall found an opening in Tweed’s defensive line, crossing in just the 2nd minute of play.
But it didn’t stop there, Brisbane were back over again twice more in the first half through Jamie-Lee Lewis and Cassie Ormsby, giving the Tigers a clear 14 point lead heading into the sheds at half time.
Their run of form didn’t stop in the second half, wasting no time to get back on the board, Jessica Carey crossed in the 38th minute, and centre Tanika Marshall grabbing her second not long after.
The Tigers would seal the deal well and truly with two more tries after that, another double to their star half Cassie Ormsbry and Nicole Gusman grabbing her first four pointer for the season.
Despite the disappointing defeat, Taplin said his team can hold their heads high, and will only bounce back a better side.
“We’ve got some good lessons to take from this to reach our full potential.
“It’s hard to see now but it’s only Round 2, the girls have gotten a good taste of the level of footy that is required to be successful in this competition.
“They have more of an understanding at how important each and every players role is now.”
The Seagulls defence will be the target area at training this week, before another big test again the Burleigh Bears on Saturday.
“We will have to step up another gear against the reigning premiers.
“It will be a really good test for the girls and a good chance to bounce back and put into practise what we’ve learnt against the Tigers.”
NEXT ROUND
ROUND 4 – SUNDAY 10TH APRIL
Burleigh Bears Vs Tweed Seagulls – @Pizzey Park, Gold Coast
Round 3 Preview: Tweed Seagulls v Norths Devils
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will face Norths Devils this Sunday in Round 3 of the QRL Hostplus Cup. Severe weather in the South-East Queensland region has seen this game relocated to Bycroft Oval, Runaway Bay and rescheduled for a 12:10pm kickoff.
The Seagulls recorded a comprehensive win over the Sunshine Coast Falcons last weekend and will be looking to make it two in a row in Round 3. Tweed were particularly strong through the middle-third against the Falcons, comfortably winning the yardage battle and finding some points around the ruck in good ball. Most of Tweed’s starting forwards clocked over 100m in that game and will need to repeat those efforts on Sunday to best the defending premiers.
They will have to do this without the help of Sam McIntyre in Round 3, who was called up to the Gold Coast Titans NRL squad for Thursday night’s gutsy win over the Wests Tigers. McIntyre contributed 79 metres and 10 tackles in a busy 29 minute stint in that game, and will be replaced by Josh Patston in Tweed’s lineup this week.
Norths have been a mixed bag to begin the 2022 following the highs of a premiership last year. They made light work of the Blackhawks in Round 1 (38-14) before getting beat by a 79th minute field-goal against Redcliffe last week (12-13). The Dolphins game was an absolute grind and it will be interesting to see how the Devils back it up after that narrow loss.
The last time these sides met was in Week 1 of the finals last year, with eventual premiers Norths getting up 22-16 over the Seagulls. Tweed will fancy themselves a good chance of evening the scores this Sunday.
Player to Watch
Lindon McGrady has been in stellar form to begin the 2022 season.
He’s had a try assist in both games, is kicking well and most notably is doing a job in defence. The Falcons sent plenty of traffic McGrady’s way last week but he consistently shut them down with some good reads and strong contact (22 tackles, no misses). Lindon will have every reason to put on a show again in Round 3 given he lines up against cousin and former-Seagull Brayden McGrady, named on the wing for Norths this weekend. It’s unlikely the pair go directly head-to-head in this one but there’s sure to be some family bragging rights on the line.
18-year old Kaleb Ngumanu is another one to watch this week, named to make his QRL debut on the wing in place of Ryland Jacobs (COVID). He is a Gold Coast based youngster originally from Western Australia – who’s made every post a winner since his time in junior rugby league career and for that matter in schoolboy rugby for the Southport School (TSS). He showed promise in Tim Maccan’s Mal Meninga Cup U18s 2021 premiership-winning side but today will be his first true test coming up against men in what’s set to be a very physical game.
Coaches Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf says the squad is strictly focused on this week and isn’t concerned with what happened in the 2021 finals series.
“We haven’t spoken about last year,” said Woolf.
“Both teams are quite different on paper so we are more focussed on what we have seen in Norths’ two games this year. They are a good attacking team so our focus has been around controlling possession and keeping our line connected in defence.”
Woolf is also excited to see 18-year old winger Kaleb Ngamanu make his debut.
“Kaleb is a high energy player who plays with plenty of effort,” said Woolf.
“He has good footwork and carries the ball well out of our own end. It’s a great moment for him this week.”
Team List
- Paul Turner
- Sosefo Fifita
- Lee Turner
- Scott Galeano
- Kaleb Ngamanu
- Will Brimson
- Lindon McGrady
- JJ Collins
- Brent Woolf
- Harrison Muller
- Joshua Patston
- Rueben Porter
- Braden Robson
- Craig Garvey
- Lamar Manuel-Liolevave
- Daniel Ross
- Ioane Seiuli
- Jaline Graham
Coach: Ben Woolf
Game Info
Round 3 v Norths Devils
Sunday 3rd April, Bycroft Oval, Runaway Bay
Kick-off: 12:10pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Jason Oliver, Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
Saddler Takes The Reins For A Big Season With The Seagulls
Saavanah Bourke Reports
The Gold Coast Airport. Tweed Seagulls have been forced to travel from the comfort of the coast to BMD Kougari Oval, Brisbane Saturday for Round 2 of the BMD Premiership. The call to move the game was made by the club due to severe weather in the South-East Queensland.
Our girls didn’t take long to put the food down recording an impressive win over the North Queensland Gold Stars to kick start the season.
With star performer on the day Brooke Saddler who has flown onto the Rugby League scene in fine form, it’s hard to believe she’s only been playing the game for just over a year.
“I always played some type of ball game, so I always had the skill, now it’s just about learning the ins and outs of Rugby League.”
The Seagulls winger started her second season with Tweed Heads banking three tries in their victory, saying she’s hungry to repeat that against the Brisbane Tigers on Saturday, in Round 2 of the BMD Premiership.
“I was really excited to get out onto the field with the girls.
“The three tries I scored definitely topped it off,” she laughed.
The Seagulls will again field a younger than usual side for the tussle with the Tigers, with a number of their key players lining up for the Titans, Dragons and Broncos in the weekend’s NRLW finals.
“We still have quite a young team this weekend but if we can gell well enough, I think we can pull it off.
“The message is play as hard as we can and complete those little one percenters, and we will be able to get the win.”
Saddler has already scored more tries in one game than she did the entire season last year, pinning her growth down to a development contract with the Titans NRLW system.
“I got a call at the end of the BHP season last year and got offered a development contract with the Titans and started training with them since September.”
What came with that was an extremely long pre-season, but now the BMD Premiership is up and running, the 21-year old is eager to play consistent footy every week.
“This season I want to play hard and focus on my own game.
“Hopefully if all of that works I get offered a contract for the 2022 NRLW season.”
Team List
1 Bridget Hoy
2 Brooke Saddler
3 Chantelle Holloway-Samuels
4 Paremo Gallagher
5 Isabella Lee
6 Alani Sullivan
7 Chantay Ratu
8 Carly McGrath
9 Lailee Phillips
10 Jelena Betham
11 Jadene Kini
12 Serena Martin
13 Rona Peters C
RESERVES
14 Atlanta Peters
15 Faith Tutauha
16 Matekino Gray
19 Elissabeth Ross
Coach: Spencer Taplin
Game Info
BMD Premiership Round 2 Vs Brisbane Tigers
Saturday 2rd April, BMD Kougari Oval, Brisbane
Kick-off: 12:10pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Saavanah Bourke for Tweed Seagulls Media
Hostplus Cup Round 2 Match Report
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls registered their first win of the season in beating the Sunshine Coast Falcons 28-6 at the Piggabeen Sports Complex, Tweed Heads.
A firm defence and dominant middle allowed Brent Woolf, Craig Garvey and Will Brimson to run riot as the Seagulls ran in five tries to one.
The home side wasted no time getting into their work with the ball as the spine linked up twice in the build-up to their opening try of the match in the 4th minute.
Paul Turner popped up on the right side to get Tweed up the field before Woolf, Lindon McGrady and Brimson followed up a quick play-the-ball with a long-side shift to the left. Brimson took the line on himself and forced a good tackle out of Daniel Atkinson. Atkinson couldn’t replicate the effort two tackles later, though. Brimson’s quick sweep to the short side and some smooth hands to shovel the ball onto Lee Turner who opened the scoring in the 4th minute.
Penalties dominated the game for both sides early. The difference came in how they were defended. Where the Seagulls were able to keep their line intact after being pinged for repeated infringements and a dropout that failed to carry the required ten metres, the Falcons couldn’t do the same at the other end.
Like last week, JJ Collins featured heavily throughout the early stages. Another strong carry from the 26-year-old promoted a quick play-the-ball and Woolf took the cue to run the ball, beating the markers and a wide A defender to score under the posts untouched in the 10th minute.
Despite putting themselves under pressure through a handful of relieving penalties, the Seagulls extended their lead through Craig Garvey. The Seagulls are blessed with two hookers that aren’t afraid to get out of dummy half when the opportunities arise. In this instance, Garvey used big Reuben Porter on his outside to drag the defence away before ducking in behind the ruck to score.
The Seagulls didn’t quite get through the first half unscathed. Penalties on their own line caught up with them leading to Lee Turner being marched to the sin-bin in the 37th minute. However, once again, the defence held firm through to a 16-0 halftime lead.
The Falcons started the second half intent on making their remaining time against 12 men count, running to kick the ball into touch following a penalty and desperately searching for points down the edges.
As in the first half, the Seagulls defence wouldn’t budge. Regular questions were asked of the right edge. Lindon McGrady appeared to be a target as the Falcons sent traffic his way but the Seagulls captain handled everything thrown at him.
The Seagulls grew legs once they were back to 13 men. Offload’s hadn’t been a large part of the attack before the 50th minute but a more expansive style of play – with Woolf often the spark following an offload – soon translated into points as Brimson followed up on his own kick to push the lead out to 22-0.
Frustrations boiled over for the Falcons as a spray directed towards the referee resulted in a penalty for dissent. The Seagulls took the field position on offer and extended their lead to 28-0 through Joshua Patson. Held up over the line over a minute earlier, the Seagulls ran a similar play to isolate Patson onto the opposition halfback for the backrower to crash through and put the result beyond doubt.
A Falcons consolation try did little to dampen the feelings around a superb Seagulls defensive performance. The right edge forcing an error on the very last play of the game summed up their efforts in producing the 28-6 victory.
Key Takeaways from Round 2
The Seagulls lost some of their advantage in the middle throughout the minutes JJ Collins sat on the bench last week but that wasn’t the case in this one. Lamar Manuel-Liolevave, in particular, provided real starch to the Seagulls middle on either side of halftime with his carries late in the count providing Lindon McGrady with the platform to kick from on the last.
Brent Woolf also benefited from Tweed’s dominance through the centre-third. He made the most of a Collins carry to score his 16th-minute try and looked likely throughout the game. Popping up at first-receiver and using tempoed runs across the field provided Will Brimson with room to move on the edges.
Brimson repeatedly bounced to the outside of his opposite and threw a peach to Lee Turner to score the opener. With Brimson down the left edge and Paul Turner inserting himself into the right edge more often this week, the Seagulls have two ball-players that can threaten the line on both sides of the field.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf mentioned a focus on ruck defence and controlling the speed of the ruck throughout the week and was pleased with how it played out on the day.
“Very happy with our defensive effort today. It was something we focused on in training,” said Woolf.
“Last week we were giving them too much time around the ruck and we needed to tighten that up which I think we did.”
In contrast, the Seagulls charged the middle and controlled the ruck with the ball which allowed them to make the most of their speed out of dummy half.
“We wanted to control the ball and give our hookers Garvey and Brent (Woolf) the opportunity to attack off the back of the ruck.”
The pair combined for two tries, a try assist and played a leading role in Tweed’s attack inside the opposition 20-metre line.
Result
Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls 28 def. Sunshine Coast Falcons 6
Tweed tries: Lee Turner 4’, Brent Woolf 15’, Craig Garvey 30’, Will Brimson 52’, Joshua Patson 63’
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
Young Seagulls Stand Up In Season Opening Thriller
Saavanah Bourke Reports –
The Gold Coast Airport Open Women’s Tweed Seagulls have started their 2022 campaign on the right foot, defeating the North Queensland Gold Stars 24-16 in Round 1 of the BMD Premiership.
A side combined with inexperience and youth proved no disadvantage for Tweed, running in five tries to North Queensland’s three.
The Seagulls wasted no time to get on the board, capitalising on early back to back errors made by the Stars, opening the door for Gulls winger Brooke Saddler to cross in just the 7th minute.
“They (Gold Stars) made a couple of errors at the start of the game and it really allowed us to get on the front foot and into a bit of a grind,” head coach Spencer Taplin said.
Enough so for the home side to bank three more tries, sending the Seagulls into the sheds with a 14-point lead at half time.
“We went into the second half in a good space around completion and getting through our sets,” Taplin said.
But the second half is when things started to heat up, the Stars returning to the field full of fire.
“We made a few errors early in the second half and they started doing to us what we had done to them in the first.”
It wasn’t long after when the Seagulls defence line took a hit, Gold Star Mateeka Nielson breaking through in the 55th minute.
“I don’t know what their coach had said to them during halftime, but they almost looked like a different team.”
The Gulls put the work in to hold the lead, Brooke Saddler crossing for her second not long after.
The Stars struck back yet again, but it was too little too late, Tweed closing the match with an 8-point victory.
“They stood up, you would never have thought that we had a team full of young girls and some who had never played the game before.
“It makes you proud as a coach and highlights how important it is for clubs to have those pathways from Under 19s to Opens.”
But the hard work has only just begun, Tweed face the Brisbane Tigers in Round 2.
“The Tigers are quite mature and experienced.
“They haven’t had many changes to their side from last season, they only lost one girl to the NRLW.
“They held Souths scoreless in Round 1 which is quite a statement, so this will be a big test for us,” Taplin said.
Young Gulls Take Reins for BMD Season Opener
Saavanah Bourke Reports
An exciting crop of up and coming Tweed Seagulls will be on show for the Gold Coast Airport Open Women’s team in Round 1 of the BMD Premiership.
The Seagulls kick off their season at home against the North Queensland Gold Stars on Sunday.
Despite missing more than a dozen key players to the NRLW, head coach Spencer Taplin says it’s an opportunity for players in the Under 19s squad to step up.
“I’m excited. Having those girls away this weekend has really opened the door for a few of our Under 19s to experience and be exposed to the game at a higher level,” Taplin said.
Both the Open Women’s and Under 19s have been working closely together during pre-season, and Under 19s coach Lambros To’Omaga who will be assisting Taplin moving into the BMD Premiership season.
But Taplin says they won’t be completely lacking experience, veteran and captain Rona Peters will be steering the ship out on the field.
“She’s been around the track long enough to know what she’s doing out there.
“I have the utmost confidence in her. She’s been doing a great job mentoring the younger girls.”
North Queensland will also be missing a handful of key players, but Taplin says that’s the least of his worries.
“I haven’t really spent any time indulging on the Gold Stars to be honest.
“This weekend will be a benchmark for us to see where we are at and get a gauge on how the other teams go as well,” he said.
Seagulls CEO Matt Francis praised the culture of the squad, saying it was an exciting time for the club with the growth of the NRLW competition providing clear pathways for players.
“The strength of our club is its people. The amazing group of coaching and support staff have created a positive and welcoming culture that augers well for the future.
“I also thank the support of our sponsors, including Gold Coast Airport and AirPhysio who have been instrumental in ensuring our women’s teams are ready for the coming challenges.”
Team List
- Bridget Hoy
- Brooke Saddler
- Chantelle Holloway-Samuels
- Paremo Gallagher
- Isabella Lee
- Alani Sullivan
- Chantay Ratu
- Carly McGrath
- Lailee Phillips
- Jelena Betham
- Jadene Kini
- Serena Martin
- Rona Peters
- Matekino Kahukoti-Gray
- Faith Tutauha
- Elissabeth Ross
- Josina Parekura
Match Info
Sunday 27th March, Piggabeen Sports Complex, Tweed Heads
Kick-off: 1:00pm [QLD]
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Round 2 Preview: Tweed Seagulls v Sunshine Coast Falcons
Written by Jason Oliver, Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will continue their 2022 campaign this Sunday at 3pm when they take on the Sunshine Coast Falcons at Piggabeen Sports Complex, Tweed Heads.
The Seagulls will be looking to bounce back after a narrow loss to the Brisbane Tigers last weekend. Tweed conceded early in that game before showing some genuine resolve to fight back and take the lead with 15 minutes to go, before eventually going down 16-20. Lindon McGrady and the Seagulls’ right edge looked likely with the ball in Round 1 and should be a feature again this week.
The Falcons opened their season with a resounding 24-4 victory over the Redcliffe Dolphins last weekend. They were matched by the Dolphins in most key stat areas but were far more effective in good-ball to best Redcliffe four tries to one. Tyson Smoothy and Luke Polselli were standouts for the Sunshine Coast in attack, however, Smoothy has been called down to Melbourne so may not feature in this one.
The last time these two sides met was in Round 14, 2021 with the Seagulls running riot against the Falcons 40-18. Five-eighth Will Brimson, who is named to play this week, had a night out in that game, setting up two tries and running for 146 metres in the halves.
Tweed’s Round 1 result was disappointing, however, there were plenty of positives to take from the form of JJ Collins, Braden Robson and Lindon McGrady in particular, and the Seagulls will be looking to bounce back on Sunday afternoon.
Player(s) to Watch
JJ Collins’ influence was tangible in Tweed’s yardage game last week.
The big prop ran for 145 metres (45 post-contact) in his 54 minute stint, busting the line once and breaking three tackles in that time. He also had the second fastest play-the-ball speed of any player from that game, which explains why Tweed had such effective go-forward when Collins was on the field. From 16 receipts Collins managed 11 line-bending hitups as well as a few short passes before the line. Both actions helped the Seagulls generate some ruck-speed through the middle and created space on the edges.
The Seagulls looked best with Collins winning the ruck, Robson playing over the ad line and McGrady playing in space down the right edge, and Collins is shaping as the catalyst for points again this week.
How he frees up that right edge in particular will be worth watching, with McGrady and Scott Galeano (17 receipts, 156 run metres, 1 line break, 2 linebreak assists, 6 tackle breaks, 1 try) running riot on the back of Collins’ work through the middle last week. McGrady was bought plenty of time to ball-play out the back of shape in Round 1 and if he gets it again this week, expect Galeano and Sosefo Fifita to be the beneficiaries
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf is remaining positive after the narrow loss last week and says the boys have been working hard to improve in certain areas for Round 2.
“The boys responded really well this week,” Woolf said.
“Our focus has been around our ruck defence and controlling the speed of the ruck.”
Woolf also confirmed that five-eighth Will Brimson will return to the halves this week.
“We will be looking for Will to bring some direction and leadership in the halves,” said Woolf.
“He is a strong runner of the ball so we will benefit from having his running game to threaten on the edges too.”
Team List
1 Paul Turner
2 Ryland Jacobs
3 Lee Turner
4 Scott Galeano
5 Jo Jo Fifita
6 Will Brimson
7 Lindon Mcgrady C
8 JJ Collins
9 Brent Woolf
10 Harrison Muller
11 Sam Mcintyre
12 Reuben Porter
13 Braden Robson
—
14 Craig Garvey
15 Lamar Liolevave C
16 Daniel Ross
17 Ioane Seiuli
18 Jaline Graham
—
Coach: Ben Woolf
Match Info
Round 2 v Sunshine Coast Falcons
Sunday 27th March, Piggabeen Sports Complex, Tweed Heads
Kick-off: 3:00pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
ROUND 1 MATCH REPORT
Written by, Rugby League Writers Staff for Tweed Seagulls Media
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls bounced back from a slow start to take a second-half lead in Round 1 before falling late to the Brisbane Tigers 20-16 at the Piggabeen Sports Complex, Tweed Heads.
Sam McIntyre, JJ Collins and Lindon McGrady played leading roles in an encouraging performance that will lead the side well into their Round 2 match against the Sunshine Coast Falcons next Sunday.
The Tigers were into their work early in this one through veteran half Darren Nichols. The 32-year-old showed all of his NRL and reserve grade experience as he passed the Tigers through their opening sets, ending with a pin-point grubber to BJ Aufaga-Toomaga in the right corner in just the 2nd minute.
But Tweed didn’t take long to respond. Conceding the early try provided a shot in the arm as JJ Collins dominated the centre third alongside Braden Robson who was held up over the line ten minutes in. Unfortunately for the Seagulls, it was Nichols and all of his experience shortly after providing a touch of class at the other end as he spotted the numbers advantage on the short side before Nick Meaney completed the pass for Aufaga-Toomaga to score an 11-minute double.
The Seagulls weren’t without promising moments in the first half, though. Tanah Boyd’s combination with Paul Turner on the left side developed as the half progressed with a forward pass cancelling out the Seagulls’ first try of the season. The right side, however, soon chimed in with some nice shape of their own.
In Robson and McIntyre, the Seagulls are flushed with ball playing options through the middle. It’s McIntyre in this instance who gets the interest of three Tigers defenders as he digs into the line, creating the space out wide for Tweed to find Ryland Jacobs in the corner. McGrady does a nice job to skip around his man and straighten things up and Scott Galeano produces a lovely catch-and-pass for Jacobs on the paint.
Provided with an opportunity to level the scores or steal a halftime lead following Nick Meaney’s sin-bin for dissent, Brisbane five-eighth Jayden Nikorima instead plucked a long ball out of the air and raced 90 metres to give the Tigers a 14-4 lead at the break.
Having identified an opportunity down the right edge, the Seagulls wasted no time going back there in the second half.
It’s Robson this time straightening up the attack from first-receiver and allowing Tannah Boyd and McGrady to go to work out wide. McGrady puts Galeano down the touchline and with multiple Seagulls in support, Galeano stands up the Tigers’ fullback and gets Tweed to within four points. It’s very similar to Jacobs’ earlier try and this repeat action – featuring different players and from different areas on the field – is a promising sign for Tweed as their attack develops into the season.
As the game entered into an arm-wrestle, both sides were guilty of errors you’d expect in the first game of the year. Still, the Seagulls’ ruck speed went to a different level when Collins was reintroduced in the second half. The referee was forced to demand the Tigers markers stay up at the ruck as they looked for shortcuts back into the line. Tweeds’ dominance through the middle swung momentum in their favour heading into the last quarter.
However, despite the go-forward through the middle and period with the ball inside the 20-metre line, it was the Tigers who crossed next. Making the most of his touches with the line in sight, Aufaga-Toomaga’s third gave the Tigers a 20-16 lead in the 72nd minute – one they wouldn’t relinquish.
Key Takeaways from Round 1

Braden Robson making good meters. Credit: Dylan Parker Photography
Sam McIntyre showed his class throughout. Ben Woolf talked about his importance during the week as the only Titans contracted player to have featured for the club and the 23-year-old stood out with his ball-playing from first receiver particularly effective when Tweed looked to play wide.
Braden Robson was also instrumental in how the Seagulls moved the ball in attack. He was an effective yardage man through the middle but looked at his best when digging into the line and playing out the back. With the ball out in front, Robson constantly forced the defence to compress before playing out the back to Lindon McGrady down the right edge. Between he and Sam McIntyre, Tweed have two guys who can create opportunities on the edges and free up the halves in attack.
Paul Turner didn’t see the ball in attacking areas quite as much as he would have liked but showed a few glimpses of what he’s capable of with the ball. He looked comfortable when linking up with Tanah Boyd on the left edge and his ability to break the line was evident against a tired Tigers defence just before halftime.
There was an uptick through the middle any time JJ Collins took a carry. He set a standard with his ball-carrying early before showing what he can do with his passing game later in the match. However, it was his footwork in his second stint that created a line break that put the Seagulls into attacking territory. Unable to make the most of his break on this occasion, the signs are encouraging for another strong season from the 26-year-old.
Coach’s Comments
Head Coach Ben Woolf spoke about the effort areas earlier in the week but feels his team can still improve in that regard.
“I’m a little disappointed in our effort areas,” said Woolf.
“I think we can be better in defence – getting onside more quickly, not giving away penalties at key moments. And in attack I thought we needed a little more energy. There was a chance just before halftime to break them down but we couldn’t get into position fast enough.”
The influence of Braden Robson and Sam McIntyre was telling through the middle of the field and Woolf said he is looking forward to seeing those combinations develop.
“We like to use the ball, so having guys like Braden and Macca in there suits our style of play,” Woolf said.
“They get our ball carriers on the front foot and give us a few more options in attack. That’ll all get smoother as the season goes on and once we’ve had those guys at training a bit more. We hung in there.”
Result
Brisbane Tigers 20 def. Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls 16
Tweed tries: Ryland Jacobs 25’, Scott Galeano 43′, Lee Turner 62′
Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
CEO ANNOUNCEMENT
ROUND 1 PREVIEW: TWEED SEAGULLS V BRISBANE TIGERS
Written by Jason Oliver, Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will kickstart their 2022 season at 3:30pm this Saturday afternoon when they take on the Brisbane Tigers at Piggabeen Sports Complex, Tweed Heads.
The Seagulls come into Round 1 on the back of a promising 10-4 trial win over fellow 2021 finalists Souths Logan Magpies in February. Tweed also sent two teams up to face the Burleigh Bears earlier this month and although both Burleigh sides were better on the day, it’s a bonus that so many in the Seagulls squad got some minutes under their belt before the season starts.
The Brisbane Tigers also bring two trial games of experience into this matchup having secured narrow, high scoring wins over Norths Devils (30-28) and Wynnum-Manly Seagulls (34-28) during the preseason trials.
The last time these sides met was in Round 8 of last year, when Tweed dominated Brisbane 54-12. Five-eighth Lindon McGrady scored a try and kicked nine conversations to finish that game with 22 points to his name.
Saturday will be the first time Tweed has taken the field for a competitive game since their tough preliminary final loss to Wynnum-Manly last year and although the bar was set high in 2021, there is plenty of confidence about this group to go one better in 2022.
Player(s) to Watch
With Gold Coast Titans regular Tannah Boyd named in the halves for Tweed this weekend he is the obvious candidate for player to watch, but there are a few other Seagulls worth keeping an eye on as well.
Kiwi import Paul Turner has joined the Titans from the Warriors in 2022 but will line up at fullback for his first game in Tweed colours in Round 1. The zippy playmaker has electric footwork, a soft pair of hands and is highly versatile too, capable of playing at fullback, centre, halves or hooker at a pinch. He profiles as a guy who could slot into a #14 role for the Titans at some point this year but for now he gets to show what he can do for Tweed at the back. Expect him to do some damage if the Seagulls can generate some ruck speed through the middle and shift quickly to Turner on an edge.
Another player of NRL calibre suiting up for Tweed this weekend is backrower Sam McIntyre. The 23-year-old is tough as nails and loves the dirty work but is also a capable ballplayer in yardage. He’s been effective in the NRL at lock-forward but gets his chance on an edge this weekend against the Tigers and can bring some variety to how Tweed work the ball upfield in Round 1.
Coach’s Comments
It’s all about the little things this early in the year and head coach Ben Woolf is approaching the season opener with a focus on the effort areas.
“I would like to see us get our effort areas right and be patient,” Woolf said.
”In early games, things won’t always work out as planned but if the effort is high you are more likely to get the result.”
With a few new faces in the Seagulls squad this year including a number of Titans contracted players, Woolf is pleased with the competition for spots.
“It will be good to see how the Titans players go as only Sam McIntyre has played for us previously,” said Woolf.
“It was difficult to pick our 17 this week. It’s good to have competition for spots but we need all the players who miss out to be supportive of the team picked. The players who haven’t made the side this week will hopefully play Colts or A-grade and play well there to continue pushing for a spot.”
Team List
1 Paul Turner
2 Ryland Jacobs
3 Lee Turner
4 Will Brimson
5 Jo Jo Fifita
6 Lindon McGrady ©
7 Tanah Boyd
8 JJ Collins
9 Brent Woolf
10 Harrison Muller
11 Sam McIntyre
12 Reuban Porter
13 Braden Robson
14 Craig Garvey
15 Lamar Liolevave ©
16 Daniel Ross
17 Ioane Seiuli
18 Jaline Graham
Coach: Ben Woolf
Match Info
Round 1 vs Brisbane Tigers
Saturday 19th March, Piggabeen Sports Complex, Tweed Heads
Kick-off: 3:30pm
Streaming via QPlus.tv (subscription required)
Written by Jason Oliver, Rugby League Writers for Tweed Seagulls Media
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Our aim at Rugby League Writers:
The Pub Test is a classic rugby league reference. Heck, the NRL have changed rules based on what they think does and doesn’t pass The Pub Test. We want YOU to be the most informed person at that pub. By digging into the best players, teams, shapes and schemes, we observe the game through an analytical lense and piece it all together through weekly previews, reviews, newsletters and features.
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THE WEEKEND WRAP – SATURDAY 26 FEBRUARY
It was a wild and wet weekend on the Gold Coast for Saturday’s fixtures that were relocated to Tugun Seahawks, with three of the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls teams in action.
With many other venues under water and games being postponed across all grades of the Queensland Rugby League competitions, the field at Tugun was holding the water well and it was decided to continue with the games as scheduled.
IDENTIFIED SERVICES TWEED SEAGULLS U16s
In the opening round of the Cyril Connell Challenge our U16’s boys had a point to prove to local rivals Burleigh Bears. Playing with plenty of heart, the young Seagulls were unable to contain a talented Bears side.
The Seagulls were able to get themselves into good field on a number of occasions but simply couldn’t convert it into points.
BEARS 28 (S Kama, B Wellard, M Eteru, S Stephenson, J Siulepa Tries; B Wong 4 Goals) def. SEAGULLS 0
RJ BEAUFILS & SON TWEED SEAGULLS U18s
It was a match that went tit-for-tat for 60 minutes in the Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup, but it was three late tries to the Souths Logan Magpies that ultimately earned them the victory over a gallant Tweed outfit.
After trailing 12-4 at the half-time break, the Seagulls fought back and claimed the lead with 10 minutes remaining but the visitors took control of possession and couldn’t be stopped, scoring three tries, on their way to a 30-18 win.
MAGPIES 30 (J Gray 2, C Faagutu 2, D Vaivela, B Mozer Tries; T Sielaff-Burns 3 Goals) def. SEAGULLS 18 (M Barrow, K Murphy, N Hilton, T Te Whiu-Hopa Tries; M Robert 1 Goal)
CAMPBELL CONSTRUCTION CO. HOSTPLUS CUP
The heavy rain continued to fall in the Hostplus Cup trial against Souths Logan with Tweed controlling the game to finish the game 10-4 victors.
In what was the first hit-out for both teams ahead of their 2022 campaigns, Head Coach Ben Woolf ran with a large squad ensuring he got to have a good look at each of his men who had trained throughout the pre-season.
Back rower Ioane Seiuli has returned to the black and white after a year away and believe the side achieved everything they could in the conditions on Saturday.
“It was could to get the cobwebs off and it’s also great to be back in the Tweed colours,” he said.
“As a team we stuck to the plan and I think we achieved everything we wanted to. We did well in the first half (the half Seiuli played) and we were pretty happy with it.
“Everybody is buying in and whilst the weather wasn’t great we know we’re on the right track.”
Although low scoring, Woolf will have a few sleepless nights between now and Round 1 with all players putting their best foot forward in the hope of securing a spot in the top 17.
SEAGULLS 10 (I Seiuli, H Muller TRIES) def. MAGPIES 4
GOLD COAST AIRPORT U19s
Unfortunately due to the wet weather, the inaugural game for the Harvey Norman Women’s U19s side was postponed. Due to play Norths Devils at Bishop Park, the game was called off late on Friday afternoon.
MITCHELL KEEN TO GET SEASON STARTED WITH YOUNG SEAGULLS
With the Cyril Connell Challenge to kick-off tomorrow, Identified Services Tweed Seagulls Head Coach Neil Mitchell is looking forward to the season getting started.
Entering his third year at the helm, Mitchell takes great pride in the position he holds, knowing full well that for a lot of his squad members, it is their first start in the representative arena.
“For any 16-year-old it is a big opportunity,” Mitchell said. “It’s not the be all and end all when it comes to being selected in this squad but it’s certainly a good introduction into how things are done at this level.
“I put a lot of time into the behaviours and culture when the guys start training. First and foremost it’s about being a good human, being polite, playing the game the right way and then the footy is secondary.”
Like the Mal Meninga Cup, the season only runs for a short period so the priority for Mitchell is to keep it simple and focus on certain elements of the game.
“We’re really about looking for improvement. We definitely give them an intro into what we’re about here at Tweed but ultimately it’s about building a respect for the game and they can then take that back to their club side.
“We’ve just set down some ground rules and tried not to overcomplicate it too much. We teach them ‘why’ and then get them to ask a lot of questions. It’s just as much about education.”
Whilst a season opener is enough to get any player or coach excited, tomorrow’s game will have a little bit more fire to it with it being a local derby against the Burleigh Bears.
“A rivalry is always good. No one wants to lose.
“It’ll be about controlled aggression for the guys. Yes, a lot of the guys know each other from either school or club footy so it’ll be fun.
“There’s even a bit of a rivalry between the coaches.”
The Cyril Connell Challenge side tackle the Burleigh Bears tomorrow at Tugun RLFC, with kick-off at 9:30am.
The squad selected:
- Jake Mendham
- Disharne Tohini
- Xavier Tauaifaiga
- Thor Barnes
- Hunter Smith
- Mokena Marsh
- Baylen White
- Tom Summer
- Marley Skeen
- Isopo Taunuu
- Jesse Sheriff
- Jacob Morton
- Robert Lee
- Titus Marsden
- Taneii Heijames
- Elijah Hano
- Cooper Lewis
- Tyahn Tamati – Reserve
- Tom Watson – Reserve
WOOLF LOOKING FOR EFFORT AND EXECUTION IN OPENING TRIAL
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will take to the field in their opening trial this Saturday, with Head Coach Ben Woolf looking for effort and execution to be the priority.
Due to the wet weather on the Gold Coast, the match will now be played at Tugun RLFC (Boyd St) against the Souths Logan Magpies with kick-off at 1:00 pm.
With several new players coming into the squad and a large number of players having a run, Woolf is keen to have his team out on the field against a Hostplus Cup opposition.
“I’m certainly not putting an emphasis on the result this weekend but what I am looking for is a high level of effort,” he said.
“I’m keen for us all to shake the cobwebs off and really want us to execute on a number of things we’ve been working on throughout the pre-season.
“Trials are about learning and working towards what we want to deliver in round one and throughout the season.”
Two key signings that will be significant contributors as part of the ‘spine’ in 2022 are Jaline Graham and Craig Garvey. Graham comes to Tweed after playing rugby union but has previously played with the Canterbury Bulldogs in the NSW Cup competition.
“They’ve both had good pre-season blocks with us and have been training well.
“It’ll be good to see them in action, and whilst they are playing in important positions, they also need the guys around them to assist so they can use their skills to the best of their ability.
“We’ve got Brent (Woolf) playing in the halves this week just to have a bit of experience there, but he will probably spend a lot of time in that hooking role with Craig this year.
Another two off-season recruits in Reuben Porter and Ioane Seiuli will have their first official run with the side, with Seiuli returning to the Seagulls after a year away.
“They are both good players and add to the depth we have in the back row there.
“There are a number of guys who will be looking for those starting spots come the season proper, but these two guys have come in and have both had a great attitude and provided plenty of talk around the group at training.”
With many players to be rotated throughout the 80 minutes, Woolf has named a side for each half of the game with all players to be given an opportunity to put their training into match play.
“This game certainly isn’t about the result, and we are really just focusing on the things we’ve worked on. It’ll give us an opportunity to learn a bit more about the players, but we’re also not placing too much pressure on them this week. We know they need time to get back into it, and that’s what trials are for.”
MATCH DETAILS:
Tweed Seagulls v Souths Logan Magpies
Venue: Tugun RLFC (Boyd St, Tugun)
Date: Saturday 26 February
Kick-Off: 1:00 pm
Entry: $5 on admission at the gate.
SQUAD LIST:
FIRST HALF
- Jaline Graham
- Ryland Jacobs
- Lee Turner
- Scott Galeano
- JoJo Fifita
- Brent Woolf
- Lindon McGrady
- JJ Collins
- Craig Garvey
- Harrison Muller
- Ioane Seiuli
- Josh Patston
- Braden Robson
14. Reuben Porter
SECOND HALF
– Craig McKenzie
– Abele Atunasia
– Kody Parsons
– Caleb Hodges
– Quielle Murray
– Tom Weaver
– Dallas Wells
– Jack Glossop
– Blake Scott
– Daniel Ross
– Matt Koelner
– Juwan Compain
– Brandon Russell
– Reihana Marsh
– Jaylan To’o
SEAGULLS TO PLAY AT TUGUN RLFC THIS WEEKEND
Due to the inclement weather that has hit the Gold Coast this week, the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will now play Saturday’s scheduled games at Tugun RLFC (Boyd St, Tugun).
As part of the change, the Coolangatta Hotel Tweed Seagulls Hastings Deering Colts match has unfortunately had to be cancelled to restrict the amount of ‘traffic’ that is placed on the field at Tugun.
The Identified Services Tweed Seagulls Cyril Connell side will kick-off proceedings on Saturday with their match to start at 9:30am* in a local derby against the Burleigh Bears. In what is their official start to the 2022 campaign, Head Coach Neil Richards will be keen to have his troops firing on all cylinders for the match.
Following the Cyril Connell Challenge fixture, Tim Maccan’s RJ Beaufils & Son Mal Meninga Cup squad will start their title defence with a Round 1 clash against the Souths Logan Magpies, with kick-off at 11:00am.
The third and final match of the day will see the Campbell Construction Co. Hostplus Cup side play their first trial match of 2022 where they will take on the Souths Logan Magpies from 1:00pm.
Tweed Seagulls acknowledge the continued support of Tugun RLFC in making their facilities available at such short notice.
Entry to Tugun RLFC will be $5 per person with it to be paid at the gate on arrival.
The game day schedule is as follows:
9:30am – Cyril Connell Challenge – Round 1 – Seagulls v Bears
11:00am – Mal Meninga Cup – Round 1 – Seagulls v Magpies
1:00pm – Hostplus Cup – Trial – Seagulls v Magpies
*All game times listed are QLD local time
SEXTON BETTER FOR THE RUN AFTER OPENING TITANS TRIAL
Gold Coast halfback Toby Sexton was happy with the Titans’ performance after playing a role in the 26-all draw in Saturday night’s pre-season trial at Cbus Super Stadium.
The 20-year-old started the game in the halfback role and made a strong contribution scoring one try and kicking two goals.
After the game, the former Seagull told titans.com.au that the entire squad will be better for the run.
“It was good to get out there and get the cobwebs off,” he said.
“Our scramble D (defence) was good and we came up with some good plays for a couple of our tries.
“I thought the young guys were outstanding at the back end of the game and we’ll take plenty of positives out of it.”
Sexton skippered the side in the opening trial of the year and was a little critical of his own game.
“I just needed to try and stay patient (out there). I maybe overplayed my hand at times but there is plenty to take out of it and we’re looking forward to next week.
“I think we’ll have a near full strength side out there.”
WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH SEXTON
Tweed’s own Treymain Spry (two tries) and Jayden de Groot (one try) made solid contributions, whilst Jayden Campbell combined well with Sexton in what will be one of the most exciting partnerships to watch throughout 2022.
The Titans will travel north next Saturday to take on the New Zealand Warriors at Moreton Daily Stadium in Redcliffe, where the Warriors will call home until travel restrictions are lifted.
MACCAN LOOKING TO BUILD BETTER YOUNG MEN, NOT JUST BETTER PLAYERS
With such a strong emphasis on being a development club, RJ Beaufils & Son Tweed Seagulls U18s Head Coach Tim Maccan and all Tweed Seagulls staff know it’s about much more than just what happens on the football field for these young men.
With his side vying for four consecutive titles, Maccan knows that outsiders will again expect the Under-18s to push for the Cup, but for the Palm Beach Currumbin High teacher, the whole program is about much more than that.
“For the club, and for me, it’s all about player development,” Maccan said. “It’s what we always come back to, it’s about the development of each individual and how what we do will help that.
Having seen a number of players progress through the grades in years gone by, Maccan gets a real thrill out of seeing each player come into his squad as a young man and leave as an adult.
“I don’t ask for too much from the players that I coach but I do really get a kick out of seeing players progress. Whether it’s all the way through the NRL or continuing their development through the 21s and Cup, I always like to keep an eye on everyone.
“We talk about guys leaving us as better players but we do want them to leave as better men.
“I still get a lot of guys come up to me at games to say hello and tell me how much fun they had playing at Tweed. For me that is what it’s all about.
“I always tell them that I’m available to chat and if I’ve left my mark on them and they want to have a chat, then that’s all I can hope for.”
“The guys aren’t with us for too long but we just look to get the structures right, train to be better and then look to win some footy games along the way.”
The Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup kicks off this weekend with Tweed hosting Souths Logan Magpies at Piggabeen Sports Complex. The full schedule for Saturday’s games is:
9:30am – Round 1 – Cyril Connell Cup v Bears
11:00am – Round 1 – Mal Meninga Cup v Magpies
12:30pm – Trial – Hastings Deering Colts v Magpies
2:00pm – Trial – Hostplus Cup v Magpies
Entry to Piggabeen Sports Complex will be $5 with a collection also taking place around the ground for donations to go towards the Tongan Earthquake Appeal.
AUSWIDE BANK MAL MENINGA CUP + CYRIL CONNELL CHALLENGE – TWEED PLAYERS TO WATCH 2022
AUSWIDE BANK MAL MENINGA CUP – TWEED PLAYERS TO WATCH 2022
Andrew Dawson – Quest Newspapers
Subscribe to the CourierMail to get the full competition rundown!! Source Link Below:
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Keano Kini: A ball playing fullback, he only played three games for Tweed last year before an injury ended his season. He is dangerous with the ball in his hands and has the speed to burn. He was the joint Justin Hodges Medal winner last year for best Langer Trophy player.
Nick Hilton: The front-rower is a tough middle forward with an all or nothing approach. He is looking to improve even more after a great 2021 season.
Tanu Nona: Nona is a PBC SHS product who is a hooker with the skills of a half. He has a great running game and loves the tough stuff. He will be looking to be a leader this year and guide the team around.
Palm Beach Currumbin’s Tanu Nona on the move. (Image/Josh Woning)
CYRIL CONNELL CHALLENGE – TWEED PLAYERS TO WATCH 2022
Xavier Tauaifaiga: He is a hardworking, tough utility back row, hooker or centre who will most likely feature in the centres for Tweed
Tom Summer: Summer is a skilful and competitive middle forward with the ability to play big minutes. He is showing real leadership potential.
Seagulls new prop Felix Faatili of Wavell SHS. (News Corp/Attila Csaszar)
Isopo Taunuu: Taunuu is a fleet-footed, 120kg front-rower with a high work rate who, along with Summer, Jesse Sheriff and co, will provide the pack with plenty of go forward
Marley Skeen: The fittest player in the squad, this Mudgeeraba No.9 from Keebra Park SHS has the potential to cause plenty of havoc around the ruck.
Subscribe to the CourierMail to get the full competition rundown!! Source Link Below:
QRL ANNOUNCE NEW HOME FOR LIVESTREAMING
Queensland Rugby League and Cluch have joined forces to offer an exclusive streaming platform to the rugby league community and fans of the game.
The QPlus.tv platform will feature all QRL statewide competitions as well as regional and representative fixtures that have previously been livestreamed.
More than 400 games will be streamed to QPlus.tv across 2022, including all Hostplus Cup, QRLW Premiership, Hastings Deering Colts, Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup, Harvey Norman Under 19 Girls and Cyril Connell Challenge games.
The dedicated QPlus.tv platform will help leagues across Queensland customise their user experience and offer economic returns and support for the clubs, sponsors and communities.
QRL is excited to partner with Cluch and launch a branded platform to help grow the sport amongst the entire rugby league network; the deal includes access to live vision, replays and round highlights.
QRL senior digital manager Mitch Wilson said QRL was delighted with what the partnership meant for the game.
“The QRL’s livestreaming activity has grown significantly in the last few years and the launch of QPlus.tv is the next step in that journey,” Wilson said.
“When we surveyed fans in 2021, 78 per cent of fans called out that our top priority should be increasing the number of games available live and on replay. We are responding directly to that strong demand from fans.”
Cluch managing director Gus Seebeck said Cluch was thrilled to partner with QRL for season 2022 and offer “an abundance of exclusive rugby league content made available to fans on the dedicated QPlus.tv platform”.
“This is a fantastic result for not only the clubs, players, friends and families of players, but also all rugby league and sport enthusiasts around the world,” Seebeck said.
“We couldn’t be happier to bring this content to thousands of rugby league fans.”
The QRL platform will be available to watch live and on-demand on the dedicated QPlus.tv platform and will also be accessible via Cluch TV platforms.
Fans will have the option to subscribe to QPlus.TV with three available offerings – annual, monthly or a weekend ‘round’ pass.
A share of revenue raised from subscription revenue, and vital advertising opportunities, will be distributed to clubs and leagues who feature on Qplus.tv.
Visit QPlus.tv now for more information and to register interest.
TWEED SEAGULLS LAUNCH INTO 2022
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls have launched into 2022 with close to 150 guests in attendance at this morning’s event held at the Seagulls Club.
Off the back of a top-four finish in the top grade last season, confidence is high amongst the men’s side with Head Coach Ben Woolf looking forward to the year ahead.
“We’re looking forward to it and we’re ready to go,” Woolf said. “We’ve managed to maintain a lot of our roster (from last season) so we’re getting to know how they play and they’re settling into the way that we coach as well.
“We’ve made some good additions to our squad as well so we’re looking to improve on what we did last year.
“It’s a tough competition. It’s unpredictable because you don’t really know what’s going to come back from the NRL each week as well but we adapt and it’s about developing the players.”
CEO Matt Francis is excited about the year ahead and is keen for the club to continue its rise.
“It was great to have all of our valued partners in the room after what has been such a difficult period for so many,” Francis said.
“The club worked extremely hard throughout 2021 to keep everyone on the field around restrictions and so on but it’ll be great to get back to Piggabeen, which has recently been redeveloped, to play in front of our local community.
“We have such great support here at Tweed and we’re really excited about 2022, not just for the Hostplus Cup side but all our men’s, women’s and junior teams.”
Gold Coast Titans Head Coach Justin Holbrook who attended the launch was extremely complimentary of the affiliate program and the relationship they have with the Seagulls.
“It’s a crucial part of any club set-up (the pathways program),” Holbrook said. “We’re really lucky that Woolfy and the club are so supportive in what we need to achieve.
“When the guys come back to Tweed they obviously want to play well. The staff ensure that they get the opportunity they need whether they are young developing players or experienced players who are looking to get back into our top 17.”
SEXTON A STARTER AT TWEED SEASON LAUNCH AND IN TITANS TRIAL
Gold Coast young gun Toby Sexton has a big week ahead with the half back a confirmed starter at Tweed’s Season Launch on Wednesday morning, before wearing the number seven Titans jersey in Saturday’s trial match against the Broncos.
Sexton will be part of a star-studded line-up at Wednesday’s Season Launch and will be joined at the function by his Coach, Justin Holbrook, likely halves partner for the year, AJ Brimson, Seagulls Head Coach Ben Woolf, Seagulls players Lindon McGrady and Braden Robson, plus WRLW Head Coach Spencer Taplin and players Georgia Hales, Rona Peters and Brooke Saddler.
TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE FOR THE SEASON LAUNCH. CLICK HERE TO BUY NOW
Sexton has endured a long, tough pre-season but this year has been entrusted with leading the side around the park, week in, week out.
“I’m really excited to be honest. It’s been a long pre-season and I’ve put in a lot of work and feel I’ve made some good headways in my game,” Sexton told media last week.
“I think individually and as a team, we’re a lot further ahead than what we were last year and I think it’s all about playing footy now.
“It’s a good opportunity to test ourselves against what will be a pretty good Brisbane side I think.
“We’ve got a lot of our boys playing… a lot of our middles are playing, so it’ll be a good opportunity to see where we’re at.”
Another Tweed alumni Jayden Campbell will also have a chance to put his pre-season preparation to the test with the fullback set to wear the number one jersey.
“I think JC and I will only play around 30-40 minutes,” Sexton confirmed.
“It’ll be a good opportunity to get a few cobwebs out and I think we’ll be playing nearly the full 80 in the Warriors trial the week after, so it’ll be a good opportunity to stretch the legs and get back into footy.”
After Jamal Fogarty’s departure in the off-season, the Currumbin Eagles junior will start the season as the first-choice playmaker but the 20-year-old believes he will be able to handle the pressure.
“I’m not too worried about [the pressure]. We all left on good terms and I wish [Jamal] the best of luck in his future at the Raiders,” Sexton said.
“I’m here at the moment and I’ve just got to focus on that.
“The coaching staff have put a lot of confidence in me and I use that as a strength, not necessarily as a thing where if I don’t perform, I won’t be playing.
“It’s only a good thing and all I have to do now is my job for the team and hopefully that goes a long way to the results we want.”
Jaime Chapman’s Trish Hina Medal Performance
Jaime Chapman claimed the 2022 Trish Hina Medal for the best play on the field during the Harvey Norman All Stars match.
Chris Kennedy – NRL Reporter
Chapman’s starring All Stars effort almost didn’t happen
Indigenous All Stars winger and player of the match Jaime Chapman was in doubt right up until captain’s run but brushed off fitness concerns to leave a huge mark on her side’s 18-8 win.
The Dragons flanker bagged two tries – one of them a length-of-the-field effort that truly tested her troublesome calf – and almost had a third in a Trish Hina Medal-winning performance.
“I had to do a fitness test on Friday morning to see if I was allowed to play,” Chapman told NRL.com.
“I’ve had a niggling calf injury, recurring for quite a while but with the physio and all the coaching support they helped me recover and my physio for the Dragons, I’ve had a lot of support around me which is what made this game happen.”
Her efforts drew heavy praise from her coach Ben Jeffries.
https://www.nrl.com/news/2022/02/13/jaime-chapmans-trish-hina-medal-performance/
“Jamie has had some adversity thrown at her all week,” Jeffries said.
“For a young girl to come in, she was pretty much wrapped up in cotton wool, she didn’t know if she was playing, she had a fitness test Friday morning and then obviously played.
“How she played and for a young girl not knowing if she was going to play or not to prepare herself mentally and then go out and produce that, it’s a really special moment for her and that could be the turning point of her career even though she’s only 20 this year.
“She’s had a tight calf all week. She didn’t look crash hot Tuesday but she’s done all the work along with Mel our physio who’s done an awesome job with the girls all week.”
Chapman said she didn’t let the uncertainty affect her mental approach to the game.
“I always stay positive like I’m going to play, always ready to play and if the outcome was bad I would deal with that but always positive and in the mindset to play and I was ready,” she added.
Scooping up a loose ball with 80 metres of open pastures in front of her, there was not even a thought of preserving her calf.
“No way, all for the team!” she laughed.
“I saw that space ahead of me and took the opportunity while I had it so I was really excited as you could tell from the grin on my face, I was over the moon.”
A proud Kamilaroi woman, Chapman appreciated spending plenty of time in All Stars camp on the players’ cultural history.
“This year we spent a little bit more time focusing on our culture so we got to immerse ourselves in our culture, spend time with some ancestors, dance practice and putting our totems into the dance,” she said.
“To do that performance in front of our mob and our families was an honour.
“I’ve known about (my background) for quite a long time … with the All Stars chance I definitely get to learn more, I immerse myself in my culture and I get to be passionate about my Kamilaroi tribe and let everyone know where I’m from rather than being so quiet and low key.”
https://www.nrl.com/news/2022/02/13/chapmans-starring-all-stars-effort-almost-didnt-happen/
TITANS ALLOCATE PLAYERS TO SEAGULLS
The Gold Coast Titans have announced the players that will return to the Tweed Seagulls to play Hostplus Cup if they aren’t selected in the NRL squad throughout season 2022.
As part of the club’s affiliation with the Titans and in line with the development pathways system in place, all Titans players are aligned with either the Seagulls, or the other Gold Coast based QRL outfit, Burleigh Bears.
In recent years players such as AJ Brimson, Jayden Campbell and Toby Sexton have all spent time playing in the black and white with those three again aligned with Tweed this year.
Other players that we could see run out at Piggabeen this season include the likes of Patrick Herbert, Sam Lisone, Sam McIntyre, Joe Vuna, JoJo Fifita and someone else we’re all familiar with, Thomas Weaver.
The Titans allocated to Tweed are:
- Tanah Boyd
- Moeaki Fotuaikia
- Tino Fa’asuamaleaui
- Sam McIntyre
- Kevin Proctor
- Sam Lisone
- AJ Brimson
- Toby Sexton
- Patrick Herbert
- Treymain Spry
- Brian Kelly
- Jayden Campbell
- Paul Turner
- JoJo Fifita
- Joe Vuna
- Thomas Weaver
MACCAN LOOKING TO SETTLE SQUAD IN BURLEIGH TRIAL
Mal Meninga Cup Head Coach Tim Maccan will be looking to finalise his preparations for the season ahead and also his playing squad during this weekend’s trial against the Burleigh Bears at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
With this being the third and final trial ahead of the season proper, Maccan is keen to see his troops run out and perform as close as they can to what will be the potential Round 1 side.
After a long pre-season that has seen approximately 28 players slog it out through the summer heat, it all comes to a head at this week’s trial and as every team pushes towards the competition kick-off on February 26.
“I’m hopeful of having close to our starting side out there this weekend,” Maccan said.
“We’ve had two other trials but we’re wanting to get those combinations right and it’ll be a good test against a Burleigh side who are doing some good things.
“Through my work I know a lot of the kids there and Michael Witt (Burleigh Coach) is running a good program there so we know we’ll have a good hit-out, which is what we want.”
Off the back of three Mal Meninga Cup competition victories in a row, you’d expect that Maccan would be feeling an element of pressure to keep the run going but if anything it’s the total opposite.
“I don’t really feel the pressure to get the results,” Maccan added.
“It’s not what it’s about for me. For me it’s about the development of the players. We only get them for a short period and a lot of them are a part of a number of teams as well.
“It’s about having the systems in place, concentrating on player development and making sure that every training session has a focus on becoming better.
“We run a 24 week program but ultimately have an 8-week season so we have to make sure our preparation is on-point and we are running at a 100% for the season.
“It’s also about controlling the message with the players as well. They are obviously skilled so we just want to provide them with the basic information and then allow them to play the way they know how.”
Maccan’s Mal Meninga Cup side will play the third and final game of this Saturday’s scheduled trials at Piggabeen Sports Complex. Entry will be via a gold coin donation, with all proceeds going towards the Tongan Volcano Emergency Appeal.
Saturday’s trial game information:
9:00am – Harvey Norman Women’s U19 v Burleigh Bears
10:15am – Cyril Connell Cup U16s v Burleigh Bears
11:30am – Mal Meninga Cup U18s v Burleigh Bears
HALE A TITANS LEADER
Gold Coast Titans NRLW Coach Jamie Feeney has this week named his leadership group ahead of their inaugural campaign with Seagulls squad member, Georgia Hale, named in the group of six.
Feeney will confirm a captain closer to the season with the selection expected to come from the six players named.
Hale, 26, is a former Warriors captain who has the ability to play in numerous positions on the field.
The former Veronica White medallist will return to the Seagulls after the NRLW campaign and will look to replicate her 2021 season that saw her average 120m and 40 tackles a game.
Other players selected by Feeney in the leadership group are: Brittany Breayley-Nati, Karina Brown, Tazmin Gray, Grace Griffin and Steph Hancock.
The Titans NRLW season kicks-off on February 27, with the QRLW season to commence on March 27.
TITANS TO HELP LAUNCH TWEED SEASON
The Campbell Constructions Co. Tweed Seagulls are set to launch their season next Wednesday 16 February at the Seagulls Club with a number of high profile Titans to attend as special guests.
Head Coach Justin Holbrook and the likely starting halves partnership of AJ Brimson and Toby Sexton have been locked in to attend the event and will share their insights on not only the season ahead at NRL level, but also discuss the pathway that Tweed provide in their progression to the top grade.
Both Brimson and Sexton spent time playing in the Hostplus Cup and now as NRL players, it shows the genuine opportunity, career development and pathway the Seagulls provide.
CEO Matt Francis is pleased that a number of local Titans players and Head Coach Holbrook will be in attendance.
“The Season Launch is the official start to the season and we’re pleased to have a number of high-profile locals from the Titans join the guest list,” he said.
“To be able to be given an insight as to how they (Titans) have approached their pre-season, what they’ve achieved and how they’ll head into their season will be great.
“It’ll also be great to hear how important Tweed is to their football program. The relationship is strong and both clubs know and understand the importance of developing from within.
“Roll that into hearing from Hostplus Head Coach Ben Woolf, Captain Lamar Liolevave, QRLW Heach Coach Spencer Taplin and also star player Georgia Hale, the insight guests will get ahead of the season, at all levels, will be worth the ticket price in itself.”
The Seagulls are inviting supporters, former players, friends and family to help launch the season, with $35 getting you breakfast, juice and coffee.
Details for the Season Launch:
Date: Wednesday 16 February
Venue: Seagulls Club
Event Guide: CLICK HERE
Time: 6:30am – 8:30am (QLD time)
Cost $35
Tickets: CLICK HERE
Photo: www.titans.com.au
NRLW Rookie Watch: Canfield ready for next step after Broncos stint
Ahead of the rescheduled NRL Telstra Women’s Premiership, NRL.com profiles the next crop of talent ready to make their mark in 2022.
Rookie snapshot
- Name: Zara Canfield
- Age: 21
- Club: Titans
- Position: Second row
Titans rookie Zara Canfield may not have played a game for the Broncos during her time at the premiership-winning club but doesn’t hesitate when asked what she took away from her experience.
“How hard you’ve got to work for it,” she quipped.
“You can’t go in half-hearted at training.”
Canfield’s shift to the Titans was more tactical than purely for change.
The 21-year-old insists she was given a chance to return to Red Hill but after being stuck behind the Broncos’ forward pack, she saw more opportunity at the Titans.
The Titans hit the track for NRLW 2021
“It was tough to leave because I learned so much from the Broncos but it also became hard to watch and celebrate with the team and not take that next step,” Canfield said.
“They’ve changed how I play and approach my game after being in that NRLW environment so I just want that chance.
“Feens (Titans coach Jamie Feeney) was pretty good in trying to get me across.
“He thinks I will get an opportunity to play in the 17 and that’s what I want to strive for, to get more game time.”
The Tweed Heads product began her rugby league journey aged six alongside the boys but like many female athletes, stopped playing once she hit 12.
She returned from a rugby union stint in 2018 and has been on the cusp of NRLW and representative since.
Power and the passion: Shaniah ready for long journey to end with NRLW kick off
“I find it’s the fitness that is the biggest challenge and then it goes from there, it’s all a mindset,” Canfield said.
“We’d been training with [Titans teammate] Georgia Hale in the off-season and she’s been intense, definitely someone to look up and aspire to.
“It’s been good because we’ve got a good group of girls we train with.”
The Titans have plenty of depth in the back row with Tiana Raftstrand-Smith, Jess Elliston, Brianna Clark and Shaniah Power all vying for edge spots.
Among Canfield’s biggest strengths is the ability to run a strong line on the edge.
“I’ve got the ball skills as well but on my edge at Tweed I was more of the hole-runner and I’m trying to get all of that part right,” she said.
SEAGULLS LAUNCH THE REAL START TO THE SEASON
The Tweed Seagulls will launch their season on Wednesday 16 February at the Seagulls Club and are looking for the local community to get behind the team.
After a strong finish to the 2021 season that saw the Hostplus Cup side finish one game short of the Grand Final, confidence is high amongst everyone at the club and there is no better time than now to show your support.
The Seagulls are inviting supporters, former players, friends and family to help launch the season, with $35 getting you breakfast, juice and coffee.
As part of the launch, you’ll get to hear from Head Coach Ben Woolf, as well as special guests, including Titans Head Coach Justin Holbrook and his likely starting halves pairing for season 2022 in AJ Brimson and Toby Sexton.
Woolf can’t wait for 2022 to get underway with the Season Launch a real sign that rugby league is just around the corner.
“The Season Launch gives everyone a feeling that the season is about to start and I know internally it’s when we really start to get excited,” Woolf said.
“2021 had its challenges but we’re really looking forward to this year and it’d be great to see as many supporters as possible at our Season Launch.
“It’s a great opportunity for everyone associated with the club to come together and get to know each other ahead of the season proper.
“We are a great development pathway club and it’d be great to see as many members of the local community there to help launch our season. We have teams starting from Under-16s up to the Hostplus Cup side and we’re keen to ensure everyone at the club is given the opportunity to succeed in the sport.”
“It’d be great to see you there.”
Details for the Season Launch:
Date: Wednesday 16 February
Venue: Seagulls Club
Event Guide: CLICK HERE
Time: 6:30am – 8:30am (QLD time)
Cost: $35
Tickets: CLICK HERE
SEAGULLS TO LAUNCH SEASON WITH THE STARS
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will kickstart their 2022 campaign with the club’s Season Launch to be held on Wednesday 16 February at the Seagulls Club.
The event will also allow the club and its sponsors to publicly celebrate the successes of 2021 for the first time with Head Coach Ben Woolf, alongside last year’s ‘Best & Fairest’ winner Bradon Robson and fan favourite Lindon McGrady.
Titans Head Coach Justin Holbrook will also be in attendance with what many think will be his starting halves pairing of Toby Sexton and AJ Brimson.
Sexton is a player who has come through the Seagulls representative ranks and after starting last season in the ISC, he will this year start the year as the Titans’ first-choice halfback. Brimson has also spent time in the black and white, and with Jayden Campbell set to start at fullback in the NRL, it shows the success of the affiliation agreement between the two clubs.
Supporters, former players, family and friends are invited to be part of the launch, with $35 getting you breakfast, juice and coffee, plus the opportunity to hear from a number of special guests ahead of a season that will see the club play back in front of the faithful at a newly refurbished Piggabeen Sports Complex.
After a successful 2021 season, Head Coach Ben Woolf and his troops have been working hard throughout the pre-season with a commitment to continue on an upward drive in 2022. With a number of new players and plenty of confidence heading into the new year, now is the time to ensure you’re part of the Tweed Seagulls.
“It will be great to have everyone together ahead of what will be a great season of rugby league,” Woolf said.
“We have such a great group of partners and they really deserve the opportunity to connect with everyone at the club.
“Whether it be through family, friends or business, we want to see the Tweed community come together and get behind the Seagulls this season.”
Details for the Season Launch:
Date: Wednesday 16 February
Venue: Seagulls Club
Event Guide: CLICK HERE
Time: 6:30am – 8:30am (QLD time)
Cost: $35
Tickets: CLICK HERE
Tweed Seagulls would like to thank Campbell Construction Co. and the entire partner family for their support in 2022.
QRL RELEASES 2022 HOSTPLUS CUP DRAW
The 2021 Intrust Super Cup grand final was an epic one that left fans wanting more – and now supporters of both Norths Devils and the Wynnum Manly Seagulls can lock in their next battle following the release of the 2022 Hostplus Cup draw.
After falling agonisingly short in October’s premiership decider, Wynnum Manly can begin planning for another shot at a Norths team which lifted the statewide men’s premiership trophy for the first time since 1998.
Norths will welcome Wynnum Manly to Bishop Park in Round 13, and while both line-ups are a long way off being finalised, there will be enormous interest in the grand final re-match.
Norths have already re-signed three grand final stars in captain Jack Ahearn, speedster Jonathon Reuben and forward Michael Sio.
Wynnum Manly are poised to call on an array of young talent from their premiership-winning Hastings Deering Colts team, as they look to rebuild after several front-line players secured National Rugby League contracts during the off-season.
The competition kicks off on the weekend of March 19-20, with Norths drawn to play Townsville Blackhawks in Round 1 and Wynnum Manly will be up against Burleigh Bears.
In the other opening round matches, Ipswich Jets host Northern Pride, Mackay Cutters welcome PNG Hunters, Tweed Seagulls clash with Brisbane Tigers, Redcliffe Dolphins play Sunshine Coast Falcons and Souths Logan Magpies tackle Central Queensland Capras.
QRL competitions manager Dave Maiden is expecting another fiercely-fought competition in 2022.
“Keeping the season going in 2021 was a terrific team effort that gives us great momentum heading into the new year,” Maiden said.
“It’s exciting to see all clubs back in training and preparing for the upcoming season, which will be played over 20 rounds with rounds six and seven to be split over two weekends.”
Maiden said the semi-finals would commence on the weekend of September 3-4 with the grand final to be played at Moreton Daily Stadium on September 25.
One of the highlights of the early rounds will be the Easter Monday clash between Burleigh and PNG, with the two teams vying to lift the sought after Kokoda Cup.
There will be a number of feature rounds throughout the season, including Activate! Queensland Country Week, the Multicultural Round (celebrating Harmony Week), XXXX Rivalry Round, Harvey Norman Women in League Round, Respectful Behaviours Round and Turn to Me Round.
QRL general manager of community rugby league and competitions Glenn Ottaway said these rounds and initiatives would once again deliver positive outcomes across the state.
“Our premier men’s competition has always had a strong connection to communities, particularly our regional people given the statewide footprint of the competition,” Ottaway said.
“With the support of all clubs, we’re really excited about strengthening these community ties next year and we will actively encourage local leagues across Queensland to involve themselves in the many and varied community activities in line with the Hostplus Cup feature rounds.
“Along with the strong community focus, our clubs and supporters should also be immensely proud of the fact that 24 Cup players were able to move up and make their NRL debuts this year.
“This is a positive reflection of the pathways and programs we have in place and the collaboration between the QRL and statewide competition clubs.”
SEAGULLS’ SEASON ENDS IN PRELIMINARY FINAL DEFEAT
The season of the brave Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls has come to an end with a 40-18 loss to Wynnum Manly in the Intrust Super Cup preliminary final at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday.
Tweed led 6-0 and were the better team for the first 25 minutes but a crucial call by match officials and two costly errors either side of halftime saw the classy Wynnum gain momentum that the border outfit, with just 10 NRL games of experience compared to Wynnum’s 300-plus, could not arrest.
In the end it was the class, attacking strike-power and experience of Wynnum, with fullback Selwyn Cobbo and centre Delouise Hoeter outstanding, that was too much for Tweed to overcome.
Yet Tweed, who had more setbacks than any of the finalists and only one current NRL squad member in halfback Toby Sexton, should be proud of a season in which they showed character and resilience in spades under coach Ben Woolf who deservedly finished second to minor premiers Norths Devils mentor Rohan Smith as coach of the year.
“After a really solid start we just made a few errors at crucial times and you can’t give a side as good as Wynnum that much possession and not pay,” Woolf said.
“We ran out of troops to a degree too because of injuries and had a prop in Daniel Ross playing on the far right in the end (the eighth interchange in the 68th minute after winger Jack Macklin, five-eighth Will Brimson, lock Braden Robson and second-rower Juwan Compain left the field).
“I still think we might have been in the game a lot longer after we scored straight after halftime but an error off the kick-off didn’t help. But our blokes competed right to the end and that’s how their attitude has been all year.
“With the loss of players we had in the second half of the season, the core players who were there stuck together and did so well to take us so far.
“We’ve got plenty to be proud of from the season and I couldn’t have asked for more effort.”
The game began in 30-degree heat, so good ball retention and smart ends to sets became more important. And Tweed were impressive in effectively completing their first six possessions and working well into the game.
Continued pressure from Tweed saw them post first points in the 17th minute after three successive sets of possession when second-rower Juwan Compain squeezed through three defenders off a good Brent Woolf pass at the line. Sexton converted for a 6-0 lead.
A tough call in the 26th minute proved crucial. Winger John Macklin lost the ball in an attempted strip by Wynnum which should have been a Wynnum knock on yet play was allowed to continue. After a repeat set and penalty, Wynnum took advantage when hooker Jayden Berrell fought his way over after taking a good offload from lock Luke Bateman. Jack Campagnolo’s goal levelled the scored after 28 minutes.
Tweed were made to pay again straight afterwards. Lindon McGrady booted the ball dead from the kick-off and, from the resulting Wynnum penalty, they scored a brilliant try on the right touchline after a good offload by Francis Kalisolaite-Tualau and a one-handed pass from Selwyn Cobbo to Delouise Hoeter. Campagnolo’s conversion gave Wynnum a 12-6 lead in the 31st minute.
They went further ahead three minutes later when five-eighth Campagnolo dummied outside, propped inside and put Kalisolaite-Tualau away for the line from 30 metres. The conversion saw Wynnum post 18 points in eight minutes after Tweed clearly has the upper hand for the first 25 minutes.
Hoeter crossed two minutes before the break after Wynnum again chanced their arm to the right and he beat McGrady with a big left-foot step after Richard Kennar had flopped a ball inside just before he was bundled into touch. In an apparent flash, Tweed had gone from 6-0 ahead to 24-6 behind with the call on the strip of Macklin and McGrady’s over-cooked kick-off crucial to the big momentum shift.
An error at the play the ball just two tackles into the second half gave Tweed a golden chance to get back into the game and they took advantage of it when dummy half Liam Hampton took the gamble to take a dart close to the line on the last tackle and was able to twist his body free of defenders and cross.
Sexton’s goal made it 22-12 but, again, an error at the kick-off sunk Tweed when they least needed it. Jack Glossop lost the ball returning the kick-off and Wynnum second-rower Kalolo Saitaua spun out of a tackle on the second and crossed, to quickly restore Wynnum’s 16-point lead at 28-12.
Tweed had two chances in the next 15 minutes to draw closer without success. The first was when Lee Turner’s foot went touch in goal after he followed through a Will Brimson grubber on the left and the other was when a pass from Treymain Spry to the unmarked Mackin was forward.
Wynnum iced victory when Hoeter crossed for his third try when he snatched a short line-drop out from Hampson, twisted and turned and ran 10 metres to the in-goal.
Tweed, typically, refused to buckle despite knowing their season was about to end and they were rewarded with a try to Daniel Robson from a McGrady grubber before Berrell picked up his second try four minutes from the end after another long-range effort by Wynnum.
WYNNUM MANLY SEAGULLS 40 (D Hoeter 3, J Berrell 2, F Kalisolaite-Tualau, K Saitaua tries; Campagnolo 6 goals) def. TWEED SEAGULLS 18 (J Compain, L Hampson, D Ross tries; Sexton 3 goals) at Suncorp Stadium.
SEAGULLS HAPPY TO TAKE UNDERDOG TAG INTO HISTORIC DAY
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls certainly know what an occasion it is to be part of the historic first NRL grand final day at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on Sunday but the focus of their preparations for the clash with Wynnum Manly has been to prepare and play like they have in any other match this season.
The Gulls are without doubt the underdogs of Sunday’s Intrust Super Cup preliminary finals which will be played as curtain-raisers to the Telstra Premiership showdown between Penrith and South Sydney.
They take on the other Seagulls that will field five current Brisbane Broncos players and Kiwi internationals Zeb Taia and Isaac Luke (named on an extended bench). In the other match, Wynnum’s fellow big-budget sides Norths Devils and Burleigh Bears do battle at 2.45pm.
Yet Tweed, the team with the least current NRL players, and the youngest and least experienced of the remaining four, will field close to an unchanged side for a third successive week and have great belief in their ability after almost beating runaway minor premiers Norths Devils in the first week of the finals (beaten 22-16) and recording a convincing win against fifth-placed Redcliffe Dolphins (41-22) last Saturday.
Several of their players have run onto Suncorp Stadium before in either under-20s competition or at NRL level and look forward to playing at Queensland’s premier venue but the attitude all week has been to think, prepare and perform like every prior game this season.
“We all know what an occasion it is but the focus all week has been really good and there’s been nothing different in our preparation,” said coach Ben Woolf, who finished second to Devils mentor Rohan Smith as the Intrust Super Cup coach of the year for 2021.
“We’ve had to make very few team changes and the benefit of having our two main playmakers Toby Sexton and Lindon McGrady together for the last two games together after a few weeks without even playing.
“We have to be better than last week at building pressure by completing our sets well against a team as good and experienced as Wynnum but we’re going to shift the ball like we have all season and play pretty much the same. That’s our strength.
“Wynnum have four Broncos players in their backline, strike on each edge through Zeb Taia and TC Robati and three players just chosen in the QRL team of the year (five-eighth Jack Campagnolo, hooker Jayden Berrell and lock Jake Bateman). So we know what we’re up against and we have to restrict their opportunities.
“But playing finals the past two weeks has been a good learning experience and it’s up to us to keep getting better each week. We haven’t even spoken about a possible grand final appearance; we don’t need to think more than the one step ahead of us.”
Wynnum Manly will field five current Brisbane Broncos Selwyn Cobbo, David Mead, Jesse Arthars, Robati and Richie Kennar with halfback Sexton the only Seagull who has played NRL in 2021 (four games). The 20-year-old was outstanding against the Dolphins and will again take on the main field kicking duties and goalkicking.
However, it has been the consistency and toughness across the park that has largely progressed Tweed to the preliminary final, led by prop JJ Collins who has been an inspirational leader in his first season with the club, skipper Lamar Liolevave, prop Harrison Mueller who played for Sunshine Coast in the 2019 grand final, hookers Brent Woolf and Liam Hampson and tireless lock Braden Robson.
Treymain Spry, who had five NRL appearance for the Titans in 2020, is a key strike weapon on the right side but former Warriors under-20s player Lee Turner has been an unsung hero on the left all season. The depth of Woolf’s squad, which was down to a bare 17 fit players less than a month ago, is seen in the performances of John Macklin and the experienced Ryland Jacobs on the wings while Talor Walters and Brayden McGrady have been injured.
No team in the finals has had their backs to the wall as much as Tweed who have been unable to play or train on their home ground Piggabeen for over three months and had none or few Titans players available since round 11. Yet they have embraced the challenges put before them.
They know they will need all that character on Sunday.
The teams have met once previously this season – a 36-22 Wynnum victory at Ioana College in round two.
The teams for Sunday’s clash at Suncorp Stadium (12.15pm):
TWEED SEAGULLS: Lindon McGrady, John Macklin, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Ryland Jacobs, Will Brimson, Toby Sexton, JJ Collins, Brent Woolf, Harrison Muller, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Juwan Compain, Braden Robson. Interchange (from): Liam Hampson, Daniel Ross, Jack Glossop, Tevin Arona.
WYNNUM MANLY SEAGULLS: Selwyn Cobbo, David Mead, Deloise Hoeter, Jesse Arthurs, Richard Kennar, Jack Campagnolo, Sam Scarlett (capt), Aaron Rockley, Jayden Berrell, Max Elliott, Zeb Taia, TC Robati, Luke Bateman. Interchange (from): Kalolo Saitaua, Matiu Love-Henry, Tristan Hope, Francis Kalisolaite-Tualau, Edward Burns, Isaac Luke.
SEAGULLS OUT TO BE GIANT-KILLERS OF NRL GRAND FINAL DAY
The tight-knit and motivated Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will take last weekend’s victorious side into another giant-killing challenge in Sunday’s preliminary final against Wynnum Manly at Suncorp Stadium.
After a 41-22 win against Redcliffe Dolphins, the wealthy leagues club backed entity that is chasing an NRL license and fielded five NZ Warriors squad members, the Seagulls take on another of the richest Intrust Super Cup opponents in the ‘other Seagulls’ as part of the NRL grand final day at Suncorp.
Tweed will do battle in the ‘Flockbuster’ at 12.15 pm while Norths Devils will take on Burleigh Bears at 2.45pm, with the Panthers-Rabbitohs grand final at 6.30pm. All games will be telecast by the Nine Network.
Wynnum Manly have one of the largest ISC football budgets with the support of a large leagues club that recently underwent big extensions and will field five current Brisbane Broncos in Selwyn Cobbo, David Mead, Jesse Arthars, TC Robati and Richie Kennar plus 315 NRL and Super League game veteran Zeb Taia and Kiwi international Isaac Luke.
The remaining four teams cover two Broncos-associated clubs (Wynnum Manly and Norths Devils) and two Titans feeder teams (Seagulls and Burleigh Bears) yet while Tweed will take the least experienced side on the smallest budget into the preliminary finals, they are far from intimidated.
The Seagulls Club (part of the Norths Group) supported Tweed will field one Titans squad member in halfback Toby Sexton (four NRL games in 2021), Wynnum five current NRL squad members, Norths will field Broncos Danny Levi, Brendan Piakura and possibly Xavier Willison plus experienced former NRL men Tyrone Roberts, Nene Macdonald and Leivaha Pulu.
Burleigh Bears have only one current NRL player in Titans utility Tanah Boyd at halfback (and Titans squad member Jonus Pearson) but have a wealth of NRL experience in centre Sami Sauiluma, hooker Pat Politoni, props Jack Stockwell and Luke Page under former NRL and Super League coach Rick Stone.
The cornerstone of the Seagulls’ spirited performances this season has been a “dig in for each other” defensive attitude and a willingness to use the ball in all parts of the field and the fact that the bulk of the squad has been available for all training sessions (NRL players traditionally return just for the final session of a week).
That’s not to downplay the experience and talent of Ben Woolf’s side that includes older brothers of prominent NRL players AJ Brimson and Reece Robson. Five-eighth Will Brimson and lock Braden Robson will again be key players against Wynnum.
Prop JJ Collins, skipper and Fijian international Lamar Liolevave and centre Treymain Spry have also played NRL while Robson, Lindon McGrady, Harrison Mueller, Lee Turner, Ryland Jacobs and Brent Woolf have a wealth of state cup experience.
The Tweed Seagulls team for the clash with Wynnum Manly Seagulls at Suncorp Stadium (12.15pm) on Sunday, October 3:
1 Lindon McGrady
2 John Mackin
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Ryland Jacobs
6 Will Brimson
7 Toby Sexton
8 JJ Collins
9 Brent Woolf
10 Harrison Muller
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Juwan Compain
13 Braden Robson
14 Liam Hampson
15 Daniel Ross
16 Jack Glossop
16 Tevin Arona
18 Matthew Koellner
19 Stuart Mason
Seagulls Into Preliminary Final At Suncorp Stadium
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls are one victory away from their first grand final in a decade after a 41-22 victory in the elimination semi-final over Redcliffe Dolphins at Tugun on Saturday.
Tweed will play Wynnum Manly in a ‘Flockbuster’ preliminary final next Sunday at Suncorp Stadium in the first curtain-raiser to the NRL grand final.
The victory, which avenged a 25-24 loss the last time the two teams met in the finals (in 2019), came on the back of a hot start by the Seagulls that saw them 18-0 after 14 minutes and a decisive performance by halfback Toby Sexton who scored 17 points from a try, six goals and a field goal.
Sexton controlled played well but the performance of hooker Brent Woolf was again an eye-catcher. He scored a try, played a major hand in two others and pulled off some big hits on much bigger men to lift his side in a tireless performance.
Tweed’s spine took a step forward from its effort in last week’s narrow loss to minor premiers Norths with fullback Lindon McGrady involved in some smart attacking moves and Liam Hampson proving the perfect dummy half tandem with Woolf who spent part of the game at lock. Winger Ryland Jacobs also made some telling runs through the middle while the Tweed pack worked hard.
“It was another performance that showed a lot of character,” said Tweed coach Ben Woolf. “We showed a lot more patience at key times, kicked better than we had been and, even though we let them back into the game in the back end of the first half when we went away from what we intended to do, it was a great effort to work back into the game at the start of the second half then put on a couple of tries that gave us a handy buffer.
“It was the same with our defence; we could have been better when we let them back from 18-0 to 18-12 but when we had to play tough, we did. That reflects the character the team has shown most of this year.”
It took less than four minutes for the Seagulls to post first points in the first half during which they had a strong wind at their backs. Skipper Lamar Liolevave squeezed through the defence to get to a neat short grubber kick to the in-goal by halfback Sexton after a repeat set of six. Sexton landed the conversion for an early 6-0 lead.
Soon after Tweed were over again from another repeat set, this time from a penalty awarded for a high tackle by Redcliffe skipper Cameron Cullen on John Macklin. Braden Robson stood in a tackle close to the line and offloaded to Brent Woolf who passed to Liolevave to who put centre Lee Turner over the line with a smart short pass.
The Gulls were over for their third try in the 13th minute from a possession that resulted from a short McGrady line drop-out that was snapped up Turner. Tweed worked the ball upfield well and on the last tackle it was another clever grubber from Sexton that grabbed the money, this time Robson pouncing on a fumble by Josh Beehag. Sexton’s goal made it 18-0 at the 14th minute mark with Redcliffe having hardly touched the ball.
The score could have easily blown out soon after only for winger Macklin over-running in support of a right-hand shift and the pass from Treymain Spry that put Macklin over the try-line being ruled forward.
Redcliffe scored a much-needed six points when McGrady let a short chip kick into the wind by Cullen but it sat up and bounced at right angles and winger Will Partridge picked up the ball on the second bounce and crossed under the posts, giving himself an easy conversion.
Sexton was denied a try when, after stepping through a yawning gap, the referee called him back for an obstruction by lead runner JJ Collins.
Four minutes before halftime Redcliffe had brought the margin back to six points when he stepped through the defence from short range and scored next to the posts.
Redcliffe went into the second half, knowing they had a strong wind at their backs, with renewed confidence after having such a small proportion of possession in the first half hour and making 56 more tackles than Tweed in the first half.
Yet it was Tweed who had the best of the second session despite running into the wind, winning the half 23-10.
Their first score of the half was a brilliant try scored by right winger Macklin after a great cut out pass from McLinden gave him space on the touchline. Sexton converted into the wind from wide out to give Tweed a 12-point buffer.
Less than four minutes later Jack Glossop was over from a smart pass by Woolf.
The Dolphins put themselves back into the game at 28-18 with a converted try to Jeremy Hawkins with 17 minutes to go after Mackin had squandered possession near his own life.
However, the Seagulls regained control and ran away with the game. And it was Woolf who virtually wrapped up the victory when he plunged over from dummy half to give the Gullies a 34-18 lead in the 67th minute before Sexton dummied and beat two defenders then stepped another from 25 metres to ice the win when he dived under the posts.
Preston Riki scored a consolation try three minutes from the end from an intercept of a Tevin Arona pass before Sexton, who has played four NRL games for the Titans this year, practised for a possible pressure moment when he landed a field goal with five seconds on the clock.
The Seagulls’ last grand final appearance was a 2011 loss to Wynnum Manly 16-10 and their only premiership was in 2007 when they beat Redcliffe 28-18 in the decider.
TWEED SEAGULLS 41 (L Liolevave, L Turner, B Robson, J Macklin, J Glossop, B Woolf, T Sexton tries; Sexton 6 goals, field goal) def.
REDCLIFFE DOLPHINS 22 (W Partridge, C Cullen, J Hawkins, P Riki tries; W Partridge 3 goals) at Tugun Rugby League Grounds.
SEAGULLS OUT TO AVENGE 2019 LOSS AND PROGRESS TO FINAL
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls have the chance to avenge their last-gasp 2019 semi-final loss when they host the Redcliffe Dolphins in the Intrust Super Cup elimination semi-final at Tugun on Saturday.
Those who witnessed the 25-24 Dolphins victory at Piggabeen Sports Complex will remember it as one of the epic finals clashes. The Dolphins, the defending premiers, got home with five-eighth Tyson Gamble kicking a field goal with 15 seconds remaining, taking Redcliffe’s run to 10 wins from 11 matches.
Gamble was about to be awarded a field goal two minutes before the referee was ‘tipped’ by the pocket ref that Tweed’s second-marker Christian Hazard had been unlawfully blocked by Jamal Hopoate.
With 45 seconds to go, Seagulls five-eighth Lindon McGrady had a field goal attempt from 45 metres charged down by Hopoate, giving Redcliffe possession and the final chance they needed to seal victory before golden point extra-time, after Tweed had led 18-6 at half-time.
The Seagulls have won the two clashes between the teams since, 28-16 at Moreton Daily Stadium in round five this year and 14-12 at Piggabeen in round 11. But those results will mean for little on Saturday at Tugun, where the Seagulls have been forced to host the clash because Piggabeen is located just south of the border.
In selection news, former Gold Coast Titans NRL squad member Juwan Compain is on standby for second-rower Joshua Patston who suffered an ankle injury after an outstanding performance against Norths but the remainder of the team looks intact.
The Dolphins will field an experienced side led by halfback Cameron Cullen, the former Titans and Manly Sea Eagles player who led Redcliffe to a premiership in 2018. Redcliffe are a feeder team for the New Zealand Warriors and will field five NRL squad members in Edward Kosi, Viliami Vailea, Jackson Frei, Pride Petterson-Robati and Tom Ale plus former NRL hot property Jayden Nikorima.
“Redcliffe are going to be tough, that’s for sure,” said Woolf. “They’ve got five Warriors players in their squad, plenty of finals experience, and a lot of strike with the ball.
“But I’d like to think that we’ll benefit from last week’s match against Norths, We had two players in the spine who hadn’t played for a few weeks (Lindon McGrady and Toby Sexton) and our kicking game wasn’t as good as it could have been, probably because of that.
“We have to keep possession, as we did for most of the game against Norths, and defend like we have all year and that will put us in the match.
“We’ve might have beaten Redcliffe twice this year but I’d say this is the strongest side they’ve fielded against us.”
The winner of the match plays Wynnum Manly in the preliminary final.
The teams for Saturday’s clash at Tugun Rugby League Fields, kick-off 2.10pm:
TWEED SEAGULLS: Lindon McGrady, John Macklin, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Ryland Jacobs, Will Brimson, Toby Sexton, JJ Collins, Brent Woolf, Harrison Muller, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Joshua Patston, Braden Robson. Interchange (from): Liam Hampson, Juwan Compain, Daniel Ross, Tevin Arona, Darius Farmer, Stuart Mason, Jack Glossop.
REDCLIFFE DOLPHINS: Jayden Nikorima, Will Partridge, Jeremy Hawkins, Viliami Vailea, Edward Kosi, Patrick Gallen, Cameron Cullen (capt), Lachlan Timm, Sheldon Pitama, Jackson Frei, Peesi Kepu, Tom Ale, Pride Petterson-Robati, INTERCHANGE (from): Tyson Cleal, Preston Riki, Kina Kepu, Jarrett Boland, Benjamin King.
- Tweed Seagulls v Redcliffe Dolphins at Tugun Rugby League Fields, Boyd St, Bilinga on Saturday September 25 at 2.10pm
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
ONE CHANGE TO SEAGULLS FOR FINALS REMATCH WITH DOLPHINS
- Tweed Seagulls v Redcliffe Dolphins at Tugun Rugby League Fields, Boyd St, Bilinga on Saturday, September 25 at 2.10pm
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
HEARTBREAKING MIRACLE SINKS SEAGULLS’ BRAVE FINALS EFFORT
Neil Cadigan – Seagulls Media
A miracle Norths Devils’ try with four minutes to go and a controversial no-try decision against the Tweed have seen a brave and desperate Campbell Construction Co. Seagulls beaten by minor premiers 22-16 at Bishop Park in the preliminary semi-final on Sunday.
With the scores locked at 16-all six minutes from the end of an absorbing battle, NRL and Super League veteran Tyrone Roberts put through an infield kick from the left for fullback Matthew Milson on the last tackle, instead of a bomb.
The ball bounced awkwardly for Seagulls winger Ryland Jacobs who had come infield and deflected from Milson’s leg. Norths centre Bernard Gregorius just beat Tweed’s Brent Woolf to the rolling ball and he in turn toed it to despairingly to the right and bouncing ball popped up for winger Jonathan Reuben who just beat Seagulls fullback Lindon McGrady’s desperate tackle to score in the corner.
It was a heart-wrenching defeat for the Gulls who lost three players with injury, used their last interchange with 17 minutes remaining yet defending with astounding will in the spring Brisbane heat.
They had many outstanding players including the tough little Woolf, who had to move from hooker to five-eighth for almost all the second half, after Will Brimson exited with a HIA injury, and soldiered on despite a painful foot injury he has been carrying for a month. He looked like being a match-winner when he was awarded a crucial try only for it to be undone by the bunker.
Forwards JJ Collins, Braden Robson, Lamar Liolevave, Harrison Muller and Joshua Patston – one of the three who had to retire because of injury – were inspirational, as was the entire Tweed side defensively. But a big challenge for coach Ben Woolf might be fielding 17 fit players in the sudden-death semi-final against Redcliffe next Saturday at Tugun.
The first Seagulls’ casualty was second-rower Joe Vuna who was escorted from the field off in the 18th minute with a serious knee injury. After sprinting out of the line in defence, Vuna collapsed without any contact with another player with what looked like an ACL injury.
Earlier Norths had also lost a key forward when prop Piki Rogers suffered a rib injury and left the field in the eighth minute.
“That was hard to take; a lot didn’t go our way but we just hung in there against the best team all season,” said Woolf.
“We ran out of players in the end and it’s going to be interesting what side we can come up with next week.
“But we just have to lick our wounds and get on with it – as we have all season despite the setbacks we’ve faced.
“The character, in defence particularly, was outstanding. Our blokes couldn’t have given any more.”
Vuna’s replacement Patston was on the field for less than two minutes when he scored the first try of the game from a set play from a scrum 10 metres from the Devils’ line. The ball shifted right and Patston broke a tackle when fed a superb pass from Lindon McGrady at the line before Patston beat fullback Matthew Milson with a right foot step.
It took the Seagulls only four more minutes to post another try when lock Braden Robson crossed after a good look to the left, move to the right and excellent pass from dummy half Brent Woolf. Lindon McGrady landed the conversion to give Tweed a 10-0 lead after 23 minutes.
Tweed should have kept Norths scoreless in the first half, however interchange middle forward Darius Farmer, on the field for just two minutes, came up with a costly error after the Seagulls had kept the Devils out with two brilliant defensive scrambles.
Farmer tried an unnecessary offload but the ball went into the hands of Norths hooker Danny Levi just inside Tweed’s half. Four tackles later Reuben crossed in the corner off a Jack Ahearn cut-out pass three minutes before the break.
Connor Broadhurst converted from the touchline to make the half-time score 10-6 to Tweed.
Tweed had a further hurdle to overcome when five-eighth Will Brimson went off for a HIA spell just a minute into the second session and was unable to return.
A rare error by skipper Lamar Liolevave, a tireless performer over the 80 minutes, who had the ball knocked from his grasp in heavy contact, hurt the Seagulls a few minutes later. From the ensuing possession, Ahearn slipped an inside ball for Milson 10 metres out in the middle of the ruck. Broadhurst’s goal gave Norths the lead for the first time in the 51st minute at 12-10.
Then came the controversial decision that cost Tweed a try – and perhaps an incredible backs-to-the-wall victory in the 57th minute. Woolf crossed from a scrum play on the left and the referee awarded a try. But, while awaiting the conversion attempt, it went to video review referee who overturned the on-field decision after multiple replays, claiming Woolf had lost control of the ball before he forced it – despite it appearing he had downward pressure as the ball hit the line.
Yet the Gulls were far from done and in the next set, a sensational desperate tackle by Jacobs hurled Reuben into touch-in-goal in the right corner.
Soon after the 20-year-old Sexton, who was impressive and fresh from four NRL appearances for the Gold Coast Titans, provided his own moment of inspiration when he put in a diagonal grubber to the in-goal and followed through and regathered. He converted his own goal to make it 16-12 to Tweed.
Before the kick-off, Tweed was down to their third man when Patston limped off and Robson returned to the field in their last interchange, leaving the 13 players on the field to complete the final 17 minutes.
With 14 minutes to go Norths Gregorius levelled the scores at 16-all with a try on the right but Broadhurst was unable to land the conversion.
Then came Rueben’s heartbreaking second touchdown – and devastation for a Tweed side who put in what may have been their best performances of 2021.
NORTHS DEVILS 22 (J Rueben 2, M Milson, B Gregorius tries; C Broadhurst 2, T Roberts goals) def.
TWEED SEAGULLS 16 (J Patston, B Robson, T Sexton tries, L McGrady, T Sexton goals) at Bishop Park.
Sexton Leads Seagulls’ Reinforcements For Finals Clash
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will field a team strengthened by the return of key attacking players Toby Sexton and Lindon McGrady when they take on minor premiers Norths Devils at Bishop Park on Sunday in the first week of the Intrust Super Cup finals.
Despite being without all Gold Coast Titans’ contracted players except for Darius Farmer since round 11 on June 20, and several NSW-based players since round 12, Tweed have shown great resilience in being able to retain a position in the top four with a crucial draw with fellow finalists Townsville Blackhawks a fortnight ago.
They were down to their last 17 for players, plus Hastings Deering Colts second-rower Juwan Compain who had been elevated, when they finished the competition rounds with a disappointing loss to PNG Hunters.
Sexton returns with the benefit of four NRL appearances for the Titans in which he was a strong performer and took on the goalkicking duties, landing 16 goals at an 80 percent success rate.
He last wore the black and white butchers stripes in the round 11 victory over Redcliffe with the experienced Luke Jurd filling in well since. However, Jurd tore a hip flexor muscle in the Blackhawks clash and is unlikely to return, so Sexton’s return is critical to Ben Woolf’s side.
Back-rower Joe Vuna, who last played for Tweed in round nine when they took on the Devils, has also been made available by the Titans.
McGrady also returns after missing three matches and will slot in at fullback, renewing the ‘spine’ of McGrady, Will Brimson, Sexton and hookers Brent Woolf and Liam Hampson.
Winger Talor Walters is still missing with a back injury but the Seagulls are well catered for there with Brayden McGrady and Ryland Jacobs.
Coach Woolf says the return of the trio of Sexton, McGrady and Vuna gives the Gulls their strongest side since the 14-12 win against Redcliffe Dolphins (who finished fifth) in round 11 and then had a record of eight wins, two losses and a draw.
“Toby was our dominant attacking player for the first half of the season and gives us the direction we have lacked, so it’s a big plus to have him back – and with the benefit ,of his experience in the NRL,” said Woolf.
“It gives us more balance again with Lindon also a key player when we’ve got the ball.
“And Joe Vuna gives us a lot of energy mand aggression on the edge.
“We’ve done well to stay in the top four, thanks to results that went our way in the last two rounds, but we have to start again now.
“It’s obviously a big challenge against Norths who have undoubtedly been the best team in the competition. They beat us 40-12 in round nine and it wasn’t one of our best performances.
“They control possession really well and like to use the footy like we do. And they’ve got some ‘trick shots’ too like short kick-offs and line drop-outs so we have to minimise their opportunities and control our possession well, kick and chase well and try to play in their half as much as we can.
“We have a few players who have debuted or had a lot of playing time since we’ve been without the Titans boys and they’ll benefit from that experience too going into the finals.
“We achieved our goal of making the top four and getting a second chance and now we have to regroup after getting through a tough couple of months and, if we play to our capabilities, go deep into the finals.”
The Devils, coached by former Titans assistant Rohan Smith, have dangermen across the park including NRL experienced Danny Levi, Nene Macdonald, Leivaha Pulu, Ben Nakabuwai and Broncos’ young gun Brendan Piakura.
Tweed’s under-21s Colts side have finished in sixth place and also play at Bishop Park on Sunday, against Souths Logan Magpies (who finished seventh), at 12.45pm. They went into the finals in convincing form after winning four of their past five games, scoring 38 points or more in all those victories.
All three Tweed senior teams, including the under-18s Mal Meninga Cup team (who won back-to-back titles), have made the finals for a second successive season (2019-2021 with 2020 abandoned). Wynnum Manly is the only other QRL club to achieve that.
The teams for Sunday’s clash at Bishop Park at 3.05pm are:
TWEED SEAGULLS: Lindon McGrady, Brayden McGrady, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Ryland Jacobs, Will Brimson, Toby Sexton, JJ Collins, Brent Woolf, Harrison Muller, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Joe Vuna, Braden Robson. Interchange: Liam Hampson, Darius Farmer, Stuart Mason, Jack Glossop.
NORTHS DEVILS: Jack Ahearn (capt), Rachaun Denny, Jacob Gagan, Bernard Gregorius, Nene Macdonald, Connor Broadhurst, Bryce Donovan, Michael Molo, Danny Levi, Piki Rogers, Moses Noovao-McGreal, Leivaha Pulu, Michael Sio. Interchange: Matthew Milson, Jerome Veve, Ben Nakubuwai, Brendan Piakura, Liam Horne.
“Proud to be a Seagull” A Finals Message From The CEO
Matt Francis – Tweed Seagulls CEO
In what has been another challenging year for all, the Seagulls are one training run away from finals football this week.
Our journey would not have been possible without the staunch support of all our sponsors and members and we acknowledge that critical support that allows us to provide a pathway for local male and female players who aspire to play at the highest level.
We also acknowledge the continued partnership with Seagulls Club and the Norths Collective who have also been unstinting in their support along with our affiliate club the Gold Coast Titans and our governing body in the QRL.
Border closures and NRL COVID restrictions have meant that we have struggled to field a fit team in recent weeks, but we have troops returning this week and will field a strong team in the Channel 9 broadcast game against the highly-fancied Norths on Sunday with our Colts playing in the curtain-raiser elimination game against South Logan. Both games are games at Bishop Park in Brisbane.
The border closure has also meant that we have been unable to train or play at Piggabeen and have all our sponsors and home supporters in attendance.
In this time Ben Campbell’s team from Campbell Construction Co have been able to complete our new multi-purpose facility that will bring the Club to best-practice levels and I thank Ben and Sara Campbell for their personal support that has ensured a facility that will take Seagulls to a new level of operations.
The new facility has also allowed us to reclaim our Club House with Seagulls Club taking over operations with the Preston Campbell Foundation partnering in the running of the canteen providing training and employment pathways for local Indigenous youth.
We will be holding a sponsors function at the new Clubhouse prior to the first trial to give you all a preview of how we will be better able to accommodate you and your guests across the season.
We had a soft launch of the partnership with the Preston Campbell Foundation at our appreciation breakfast at Little Cooly Pizza Pasta bar during the week where Preston and our Gold Coast Airport Women’s captain Georgia Hale were involved in the presentation of two special Tom Searle scholarships with the event being reported on Channel 9 news:
As proud as I am of the teams taking the field on the weekend, the stories of our two Tom Searle Scholarship recipients show why I am equally proud of what our players do in partnership with our sponsors and community organisations away from the game.
Preston interviewed Brooke Saddler who could not make it across the border and her inspirational story shows she is already a great role model for Indigenous youth on and off the field. Her Tom Searle scholarship is sponsored by MaxCoaching where she’ll receive specialist career advice of Jane Lowder.
Darek Turvey was undoubtedly the star of the morning. Darek was introduced to rugby league by Georgia Hale who works with our community partner Support Mates that provides specialist services under the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
Darek is our first all ability signing and will also be provided workplacement opportunities with Paul O’Brien at AirPhysio and Seagull Club who have also provided four gym memberships so he can invite his friends from Support Mates to work out with him.
This is what makes Seagulls more than a footy club and it is the spirit that the boys will take on the field with them on Sunday.
It is the people who make our Club and our playing group are great ambassadors under the leadership of their coaching and support staff.
In Ben Woolf, Matt King, Tim Macaan, Chris O’Connell and Neil Richards we are blessed with quality coaches who also invest in our players as individuals.
That’s what makes a true footy club.
For those of you who can’t make it across the border the game will be live on the big screen at the Club.
Thanks again to all for your support.
Go the Gulls!
SEAGULLS CEMENT SPOT AMONG TOP TWO QRL CLUBS
The progression of the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls to become among the two most successful Queensland Rugby League clubs in the past two (completed) seasons has been confirmed by having all three senior teams again qualify for the finals series.
With the fourth-placed Intrust Super Cup side and the sixth-placed under-21 Hastings Deering Cup teams playing at Brisbane’s Bishop Park this Sunday, it gives Tweed a second ‘clean sweep’ as finals contenders after the under-18 Mal Meninga Cup side won back-to-back titles.
Wynnum Manly is the only other club to achieve the feat of qualifying teams for the finals in all three grades in the past two seasons. The success comes in 2019 and 2021 due to the 2020 competitions being abandoned after just one round.
The ISC side, coached by Ben Woolf, will take on minor premiers Norths Devils at 3.05pm on Sunday, with Matt Kings’ Colts playing at 12.45pm.
“It is very rewarding to, in as year that has been so challenging for the community as well as our club, have all three teams yet again reach the finals despite some obvious hurdles they’ve had to overcome,” said Seagulls CEO Matt Francis.
“It’s a great credit to the coaching staff led by Ben Woolf and football manager David Penna and their support staff.
“They, along with Colts coach Matt King and Mal Meninga Cup coach Tim Maccan – both tremendous long-term servants of this club – provide the equal of any development program I have come across in my many years involved in the game.
“The fact that we have seen players like Xavier Coates, Toby Sexton, Reece Walsh, Tom Dearden and Brendan Piakura come through our under-18s sides to the NRL, and Jayden Campbell prove himself so brilliantly with the Titans after breaking his teeth in senior football with the Seagulls this season, is proof the club’s ability to develop elite talent.
“Issues thrown at the border community through COVID-19 restrictions in the past couple of months has made it that little bit tougher for the ISC and Colts sides but they have risen above those challenges and we’re confident they can continue their success in the finals.”
The ISC team face a tough challenge against the Devils on Sunday. Coach Woolf is still awaiting on confirmation around what Titans players will be able to return to his line-up, the fitness of explosive winger Talor Walters and whether any NSW-based players may become available through the relaxation of border movement for ‘bubble’ residents.
The Colts side go into the semi-final against Souths Logan Magpies (who finished seventh) in convincing form after winning four of their past five games, scoring 38 points or more in all those victories.
Tweed Luck-In With The Dolphins’ Result After Loss To Hunters
Neil Cadigan, Tweed Media
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls may have relinquished a top four final position when they were outplayed and out-enthused by a smart and determined PNG Hunters at Bycroft Oval on Saturday afternoon.
The Hunters won 30-18 with five-eighth Ase Boas and centre Emmanuel Waine outstanding as the depleted Tweed outfit, with so much to play for, didn’t respect possession or their opponents enough and fumbled their way through most of the match with a completion rate of just over 50 percent.
Coach Ben Woolf refused to blame the adversity his side has faced in recent weeks that has seen them without a string of key players including halves Lindon McGrady, Toby Sexton and Luke Jurd, all goalkickers, and without a home ground or regular training field or gym because of Covid restrictions.
However, if any Intrust Super Cup team has had as many hurdles to overcome it has been the Hunters who have played all the season away from home at their Runaway Bay complex, had to overcome the tragedy of talented centre Jokadi Bire who was likely to have been picked up by an NRL club through a serious health incident suffered while training and plenty of mid-season injuries.
“It was an out of character performance, that’s for sure,” said Woolf. “We did completely what we said not too and we just couldn’t pull ourselves away from it. It seemed as though we weren’t content being tackled,” said Woolf. “We just wanted to promote the ball when we didn’t need to.
“We did create a few opportunities but didn’t make enough of them. But full credit to the Hunters, they played well, played smart, had a lot of possession and we couldn’t pull them back.”
Tweed will have to rely on Redcliffe falling to seventh-placed Souths Logan Magpies tomorrow to retain fourth spot and have a second chance in the finals. If the Dolphins win, Tweed will finish fifth and face a sudden death match against the Townsville Blackhawks, Magpies, Northern Pride or Sunshine Coast Falcons such is the compacted ladder.
The Hunters were on top for almost all the match and were first to score after just four minutes when they gained possession from a Tweed error in yardage. PNG shifted the ball to the left and Gilmo Paul was put into space from a block play and shook off a tackle by John Macklin to make the line.
The Seagulls should have scored soon after when Liam Hampson followed through a Lee Turner grubber to the in-goal but referee ruled he knocked on as he tried to ground the bouncing ball. It was an appropriate metaphor for the Seagulls’ entire performance.
The Hunters took advantage of their good fortune. After Stanton Albert just lost control of the ball as he tried to ground a neat stab kick by Edwin Ipape from dummy half, the Hunters were gifted possession when Ryland Jacobs dropped the ball on the second tackle and the Hunters shifted to the right on the third and Waine strolled over after given a comfortable overlap.
Turner made it 8-4 when, after two successive sets of possession, he beat two defenders from 30 metres with a step and a fend which halted the endless momentum PNG had for the first quarter of an hour. Tweed should have scored soon after but Turner, on the first tackle after gaining the ball from Judah Rimbu fumble of a bomb, threw an unnecessary pass which went to the Hunters.
PNG continued to dominate possession with a smart kick-and-chase game while Tweed made too many unforced errors. The Hunters deserved their half-time lead which grew to 20-4 after a try to Epel Kapinias after quick hands shift to the right in the 29th minute and Waine, his second, in the 35th which came off the back of a brilliant 20-40 kick from Ase Boas. Waine beat two tackles brilliantly during an outside-in angled run from 35 metres.
Four tries to one and 16 points behind as they took the field for the second half knowing they were their own worst enemies in the first half by completing only four of 13 sets, Tweed needed to score first and change their attitude.
Despite again coughing up too much possession, the try came through skipper Lamar Liolevave when replacement halfback Tevin Arona, who had just come into the game 10 minutes after the break, put him into space near the line. Brayden McGrady again missed the conversion.
But it was the boot of Boas again that sunk the Seagulls. With no kick-pressure on him, he ran to the line on the last tackle, chipped over on the right from his own half, regathered and fed Solo Wane who ran 30 metres into the right corner. That gave PNG a 20-8 lead with 20 minutes remaining.
Will Brimson gave Tweed some hope when he scored on the left edge in the 64th minute to make it 24-12 but Arona, the fifth string goalkicker behind Brayden McGrady and the absent Lindon McGrady, Toby Sexton and Luke Jurd, missed the conversion.
Boas sealed victory for the Hunters with a try in 70th minute to ensure they finished a tough season away from their homes in glory, even with a token converted try to Seagulls centre Turner in the 79th minute.
PNG HUNTERS 30 (E Waine 2, G Paul, E Kapinias, S Wane, A Boas tries; A Boas 3 goals) def.
TWEED SEAGULLS 18 (L Turner 2, L Liolevave, W Brimson tries; T Arona goal) at Bycroft Oval, Runaway Bay.
SEAGULLS CHASE REWARD FOR CHARACTER AND RESILIENCE
Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls coach Ben Woolf said at the start of the 2021 Intrust Super Cup season that his squad had more depth than ever before. He never envisaged the test that depth, and his team’s character, would face as the season progressed.
No team in the competition has faced the adversity that the Seagulls have in the past three months.
Yet victory against the PNG Hunters on Saturday at Bycroft Oval could secure Tweed a top four position in the finals and possibly second place if other results go their way.
Being NSW-based, the Seagulls have been affected by the Covid restrictions more than any other ISC club. The 17 player who will take on the unpredictable Hunters are the only fit players left in the squad – and includes Colts second-rower Juwan Compain.
They have five players who reside south of the border who are unavailable, including key playmaker and goalkicker Lindon McGrady. The others are winger Caleb Hodges and forwards Daniel Ross, Joshua Patston and Matt Koellner.
And they have no access to Gold Coast Titans’ NRL squad members which means they have lost three halves in McGrady, Toby Sexton and Luke Jurd who was injured in last weekend’s 26-all draw with Townsville Blackhawks.
Ten players who were prominent in the first three rounds are now unavailable – McGrady, Talor Walters, Hodges, Kirk Murphy and Titans Sexton, Jayden Campbell, Herman Ese’ese, Sam McIntyre, Jai Whitbread (now playing for Leigh in England) and Joe Vuna.
Yet Tweed have beaten eight-placed Northern Pride in Cairns and sixth-placed Townsville in the past fortnight with a team that has shown tremendous fighting spirit and is still displaying form strong enough to be a real contender in the finals.
“To be where we are … I don’t think people realise the adversity we have gone through,” said Woolf.
“We’re down to virtually a 17-man squad. The impact of border closure and not having access to Titans players has been enormous.
“Six weeks ago we had so many good players who couldn’t get a run and having to make tough selection decisions every week. Now we’re down to the last men standing.
“We’ve used 40 players this season, which I’d say would be the most of any ISC team.
“But to draw with Blackhawks and beat the Pride is a tribute to the character of our players and how well we are hanging in. Their resilience and consistency and refusal to buckle is something you have to be so proud of.
“I saw a stat where our team that played the Blackhawks had an average of just 20 games’ experience per player and average age of 22.
“I don’t think it is a level playing field and we’ve been hit by setbacks more than anyone. But we won’t use that as an excuse. We know what we’re capable of with the players we still have and their belief in each other.
“But we have to finish the premiership rounds off with a good performance against PNG.
“It’s a danger game; definitely not a game you can bank on winning. They’re going to be tough.
“But our destiny are in our own hands if we win. Redcliffe would have to win by a certain number of points to knock us out of fourth spot, so we just have to win and put pressure on other teams.”
The teams to clash at Bycroft Oval, Runaway Bay on Saturday at 2.10pm are:
TWEED SEAGULLS: Jack Mackin, Brayden McGrady, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Ryland Jacobs, Will Brimson, Tevin Arona, JJ Collins, Brent Woolf, Harrison Muller, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Juwan Compain, Braden Robson. Interchange: Liam Hampson, Darius Farmer, Stuart Mason, Jack Glossop.
PNG HUNTERS: Edwin Ipape, Junior Rau, Gilmo Paul, Brandon Nima, Solo Wane, Ase Boas, Charlie Simon, Stanton Albert, Wartovo Puara, Enock Maki, Benji Kot, Epel Kapinias, Illa Alu (capt). Interchange: Judah Rimbu, Samuel Yegip, Emmanuel Waine, Jordan Pat, Mark Piti.
Arona To Fill Seagulls’ Depleted Halfback Stocks
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls are fortunate that, despite their squad numbers being severely affected by the Covid pandemic, they can call on experience halfback Tevin Arona to take the place of the injured Luke Jurd for the final premiership round clash of the season against PNG Hunters at Bycroft Oval on Saturday.
Arona is a Cook Islands Nines international and New Zealand Residents representative who played under-20s for the Canberra Raiders and was in the Warriors’ NRL set-up, He has played one game for the Seagulls this season, against the Magpies, and was 18th man last weekend.
Jurd, who had been filling in admirably for Titans-contracted Toby Sexton since round 12, suffered the unusual mishap of injuring a hip flexor muscle while converting his own try in the first half against Townsville Blackhawks. He will be sidelined for several weeks.
Arona will be the only change to the side that drew 26-all with the Blackhawks and regained fourth spot on the ladder after losses by Redcliffe, Burleigh and Wynnum Manly. A victory against the Hunters, who are out of finals contention, would mean Tweed will finish in the top four and have the benefit of a second chance in the final series.
A win against the Blackhawks would have had the Seagulls in second place with an incredibly compacted ladder which sees Tweed on 22 competition points alongside Burleigh, Redcliffe and Wynnum Manly with for-and-against difference determining second to fifth place.
Winger Talor Walters, who has been fighting an ongoing back complaint for several weeks, will be given until the end of the week to prove his fitness and may come into the squad.
The Tweed Seagulls team for the clash with PNG Hunters at Bycroft Oval, Runaway Bay on Saturday September 11 at 2.10pm:
1 Jack Mackin
2 Brayden McGrady
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Ryland Jacobs
6 Will Brimson
7 Tevin Arona
8 JJ Collins
9 Brent Woolf
10 Harrison Muller
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Juwan Compain
13 Braden Robson
14 Liam Hampson
15 Darius Farmer
16 Stuart Mason
17 Jack Glossop
18 Ben Liyou
Round Details:
- Tweed Seagulls v PNG Hunters at Bycroft Oval, Morala Ave, Runaway Bay on Saturday September 4 at 2.10pm
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Harvey Norman Under 19s Women’s Competition in 2022
The Tweed Seagulls are announcing their intention to take part in the state-wide Harvey Norman Under 19s Women’s Competition in 2022.
Applications Open
We are now accepting expressions of interest for players who have a desire to take the next step at competing at the highest level of Women’s Rugby League. The competition will see the top players from across Queensland & Northern NSW take the field as part of the expansion of Women’s Rugby League in Australia.
Player Development
The Seagulls is the nest to nurture greatness, we want to see you perform and grow as an athlete so you can achieve your best both individually and as part of an incredible, dedicated and community-minded team. Your commitment to the U19’s will be the foundation of our already well-established BHP Premiership team. The Tweed Seagulls will also be recruiting from their pool of junior affiliate clubs. These players are given the ability to succeed in achieving their sporting goals, whilst staying connected with their grassroots club and local community.
Eligibility
If you are turning 17, 18 or 19 in 2022 you are eligible to play in the U19’s Women’s Comp.
Who are the Tweed Seagulls?
If you haven’t heard of us, the Tweed Seagulls, established in 1908, is Australia’s oldest provincial rugby league club. The history of the black and white butcher stripes is vast, and our ongoing vision reflects that it is our goal to be a competitive and sustainable club that is both successful and respected amongst the Tweed and wider Queensland & Northern NSW community. Our mission includes providing pathways to nurture grassroots and elite football talent for on-field success. We are focused on player development and more extensively, the growth of Rugby League as a sport played by female athletes in Australia.
How to Apply
It’s easy to apply, just fill out your details in the form below and we’ll contact you!
Pre-season training commences in November 2021 and the U19’s Women’s Comp is currently anticipated to finish in April 2022.
Don’t hesitate to contact us via email at fo******@**************om.au if you have any queries or require any further information.
Controversy Dominates Seagulls-Blackhawks Draw
Neil Cadigan, Tweed media
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls have survived a breathtaking and controversial last-minute play to draw with Townsville Blackhawks 26-all at Pizzey Park on Saturday.
A desperate try-saving tackle by Treymain Spry, and a controversial decision by touch judge Daniel Schwass that ruled that Townsville’s ageless winger Kalifa Faifai-Loa had forced the ball touch-in-goal, saw the Seagulls finish with their second draw of the season after leading 22-6 just before half-time.
An equally controversial call in the dying minutes of the first half also proved crucial in deciding the game. Seagulls hooker Liam Hampson crossed from dummy half near the posts and referee Ben Watts stood on the spot appearing ready to award the try when he looked at Schwass who indicated a double movement. The ref went with the call in what amounted to a 12-point turnaround with the Blackhawks scoring 30 seconds later right on the break.
Both calls evened out in the washup and some crucial unforced errors dearly costs the Seagulls, who scored five tries to three in an entertaining high quality match between two sides good enough to challenge for a grand final place, as did the loss of goalkicking halfback Luke Jurd with injury after 24 minutes.
In their last possession of the game after Seagulls five-eighth Will Brimson had narrowly missed a field goal attempt, Blackhawks halfback Shane Noa – outstanding throughout the game – put fullback Jaelen Feeney through a gap in the middle or the ruck and he found Faifai-Loa on the left touchline with 45 seconds remaining.
Spry threw himself at Faifai-Loa as he dived inside the left corner post but the touch judge ruling was that the ball touched the white stripe in a matter of millimetres. While Faifai-Loa threw up his arms in despair, and with no video review available, the Seagulls survived with one competition point.
It was a tale of two halves and Tweed made some crucial unforced errors with the ball, particularly in the second half, with right winger Brayden McGrady ruined a certain try by kicking ahead instead of passing to unmarked fullback John Macklin.
And at 22-18 ahead, the Gulls also elected to run the ball after receiving a penalty in front instead of taking the easy two points and moving a converted try ahead. Hooker Liam Hampson overplayed his hand on the second play, throwing a ball to the right that fell into the hands of Townsville’s Corey Jensen.
“I thought it was a brave effort after losing Jurdy and Brent having to play 80 minutes, most at halfback, and some forwards also having to put in long stints,” said Tweed coach Ben Woolf.
“In the end some self-enforced errors at crucial times cost us and the Blackhawks had all the momentum for most of the second half and we couldn’t arrest that and counter attack.
“The call on Liam Hampson’s try just before half-time proved crucial. It would have been 28-6 instead of 22-12 which could have made a big difference.”
The Seagulls were dominant in the second part of the first half and went 16 points ahead but two converted tries either side of halftime put the Blackhawks back into the match and they had far more momentum and possession than their opponents for much of the second half.
Townsville centre Josh Hoffman, who brilliantly slipped between defenders to gain possession from a Shaun Nona grubber kick to the in-goal on the , opened the scoring in the ninth minute. Nona converted to make it 6-0.
A converted Brent Woolf try from dummy half levelled the scores for the Seagulls before Jurd put Tweed in front when he followed up his own last-tackle bomb from 20 metres. McGrady leapt above Faifai-Loa and threw a pass over his head to Juwan Compain who found Jurd backing up. Jurd converted for 12-6 however, in a major turning point and quite bizarre moment, he injured his hip flexor while converting the try and could not play on. Woolf went to halfback and made a good first of the switch with Liam Hampson coming into the game at hooker.
In the resulting set from the kick-off, McGrady was the villain this time. Put into the clear around halfway from a good one-handed Spry offload, McGrady had fullback Macklin unmarked inside but inexplicable elected to chip over the top and knocked on trying to regather under pressure from Feeney.
Lee Turner pounced on a left-footed Brimson kick that took a deflection and made the try-line with McGrady landing the conversion from wide on the left, making the score 18-6.
Seven minutes before the break, the combination of Spry and McGrady came up trumps again – this time McGrady, after snatching a looping long pass to the right from Woolf, brilliantly slipped a pass over the top of two defenders to Spry who broke Hoffman’s tackle and scored. McGrady’s conversion hit the upright, leaving the score at 22-6.
Feeney scored a confidence-boosting try for Townsville seconds before the half-time siren sounded when he slipped between defenders Turner and Ryland Jacobs from 30-metres. Nona converted from the touchline to send his side into the sheds 10 points behind.
Townsville made it back-to-back tries and were well in the match when Riley Price scored three minutes after the break after they received repeat sets after Brimson lost the ball in the play-the-ball and Jacobs was trapped in-goal after collecting a grubber kick from Nona. Nona followed up by putting Price over from a ‘double-pump’ pass on the left edge. His conversion made it 22-18.
The powerful Spry steadied the ship for Tweed when he beat Bacho Salam one on one for a good individual try in the 54th minute, from a ‘free’ set of possession which came from Michael Bell dropping the ball cold for the Blackhawks, giving Tweed an eight-point lead at 26-18.
Salam had his revenge soon after when he crossed from an inside pass from Faifai-Loa who had been put into the clear from a sharp left-hand shift. Nona made it four from four with the conversion to make it a two-point game with 16 minutes remaining.
A Noa penalty goal levelled the scores at 26-all and Noa and Brimson missed field goal attempts in the last four minutes before the dramatic final Blackhawks’ flurry that ended in Faifai-Loa being denied a winning try.
TWEED SEAGULLS 26 (Spry 2, Woolf, Jurd, Turner tries; Jurd 2, McGrady goals) drew with TOWNSVILLE BLACKHAWKS 26 (J Hoffman, J Feeney, R Price, B Salam tries; Nona 5 goals) at Pizzey Park.
Resilient Seagulls Still Have Top Four Finish As Goal
Neil Cadigan – Tweed Media
A top-four finish and a second chance to stay alive in the Intrust Super Cup final series is a possible reward if the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls if they can beat the in-form Townsville Blackhawks at Pizzey Park on Saturday (2.10pm).
The Seagulls go into the match just a point behind equal second placed Wynnum Manly, Redcliffe and Burleigh with the Blackhawks – who have won six of their past seven clashes – also eyeing a finals place.
Wynnum Manly play runaway ladder leaders Norths Devils on Sunday, opening the opportunity for the Seagulls to go back into the top four if they are victorious tomorrow – their stated goal since the early rounds.
Tweed are resigned to completing their season with a small squad that does not include any Gold Coast Titans players who have played in the NRL season and four NSW-based players who cannot cross the border.
But Ben Woolf’s side has shown character and resilience in spades this season and he is looking for that attitude tomorrow. Without some key players, they still boast plenty of ISC experience, a splattering of NRL experience and a tremendous team spirit and tough defensive attitude which has been moulded during the stop-start 2021 season.
They know what they are up against at Pizzey Park – a Blackhawks side that includes players familiar to Gold Coast/Tweed footy fans in centre Josh Hoffman, the 189 NRL game veteran (including 49 with the Titans) who played five Tests for New Zealand, and winger Kalifa Faifai-Loa, also a Kiwi international, who had two seasons with the Titans during his 78-game NRL journey.
Joining them is lock Corey Jensen who was released from the North Queensland Cowboys’ bubble after nine NRL appearances this season (and 58 in all).
“They’re always a tough side and are in the category with the likes of Wynnum, Redcliffe and Burleigh who never seem to be affected much by not having NRL players because of their depth,” said Woolf.
“We haven’t got any more players training regularly with us than the 18 we’ve named for tomorrow and we’re hoping Talor Walters will be right to come back from a back injury the week after. Some of the guys we’ve used this year are playing in the Gold Coast competition in teams looking at the finals and we’re conscious of disrupting them and then we have Colts players to call on.
“We might know more about availability of any Titans players after this weekend but we’re preparing to finish the season with what we have, and no games at Piggabeen, and we know it’s a strong enough squad to make a statement in the finals.
“These guys who are there have showed they can step up and play really well at this level as a group and we’re looking for them to do the same again.”
The last time the two teams met was in round 15 of 2019 with the Blackhawks winning 24-22 in Townsville. The Seagulls complete the competition rounds against PNG Hunters at Bycroft Oval the following Saturday.
The teams for tomorrow’s clash with Townsville Blackhawks at Pizzey Park at 2.10pm:
TWEED SEAGULLS: Jack Mackin, Brayden McGrady, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Ryland Jacobs, Will Brimson, Luke Jurd, JJ Collins, Brent Woolf, Harrison Muller, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Juwan Compain, Braden Robson. Interchange: Liam Hampson, Darius Farmer, Stuart Mason, Jack Glossop, Tevin Arona.
TOWNSVILLE BACKHAWKS: Jaelen Feeney, Michael Carroll, Michael Bell, Josh Hoffman, Kalifa Faifai-Loa, Kyle Laybutt, Shaun Noa, Joe Boyce, Josh Chudleigh, Sam Hoare (capt), Riley Price, Patrick Kaufusi, Corey Jensen. Interchange: Bacho Salam, Tom Hancock, Kieran Quobba, Sioni Lousi, Sam Murphy.
SEAGULLS PROVIDING HUNDREDS OF MEALS EACH WEEK DURING LOCKDOWN
Seagulls Leagues Club last week launched an initiative intended to support local charities The Family Centre and Fred’s Place during lockdown by delivering over 200 meals to each venue to help with the current increase in need for assistance across the Tweed community.
The charities, who each regularly support upward of 30-50 vulnerable families, youths and homeless people per day, have seen an increase in demand for services due to the NSW lockdown orders as well as the QLD-mandated border closure.
Staff from Seagulls Leagues Club, which is currently closed under the NSW Health Order, have volunteered their time to prepare meals in the Lot Two kitchen and deliver them to the Tweed Heads-based services.
“Being able to help people in need has given me a purpose,” said Seagulls staff member, Kellie Mccrae.
“Life is fragile. If you can help and give support it gives you joy and hope.” Jo Blanchard from The Family Centre said,
“Due to current border restrictions our partnership with OzHarvest has been hindered with the delivery drivers not being able to cross the border for the weekly food box donations – so this amazing donation from Seagulls has been so timely and much appreciated.”
Fred’s Place face an extra obstacle with two of the three full-time staff living in QLD and unable at this time to cross the border, a challenge staff member Femke Romeijn hopes is temporary.
“We are grateful for any and all help at this point, and these meals will go a long way to helping feed our community.” Seagulls General Manager, Stuart Burrows, said, “We are so very lucky to have a team of staff that are committed to supporting those in our community that need it most, especially during this challenging time. We are proud of each and every one of them and thank them for giving their time without hesitation.”
During lockdown, meal deliveries will take place Monday, Wednesday & Friday between 10am and 1pm from Wednesday 1 September.
For more information visit www.seagullsclub.com.au
Seagulls Lose Burton For Key Clash With In-Form Blackhawks
Neil Cadigan
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls have been forced to make one change to the side to take on Townsville Blackhawks at Pizzey Park this Saturday (2.10pm) with second-rower Luke Burton forced to miss the important clash after copping a head knock in the 34-12 victory over Northern Pride last Saturday.
With his NSW players unable to take part in the remaining rounds because of border restrictions and uncertainty around whether Titans’ NRL squad members will again be available, coach Ben Woolf’s biggest fear is injury.
The 22-year-old Burton, a utility who has shown fine form in his five appearances this season that has reaped him five tries, has been forced from the field a few times for HIA inspection and he would have to satisfy strict concussion protocols if he was to play again in 2021.
Queensland under-18s representative Juwan Compain, who has been promoted from the under-20s Colts side three times this season and played off the bench last weekend, has moved not the starting pack to take Burton’s place this Saturday against a Blackhawks side that will be desperate for victory to assure a top eight finish and a place in the finals.
After winning six of their past seven games, the Blackhawks are on 20 competition points – three points behind fifth-placed Tweed – alongside the Magpies and Pride with the Sunshine Coast Falcons two points behind in ninth spot.
The Seagulls also see the importance of the clash with second-placed Wynnum Manly playing leaders Norths Devils on Sunday. If Wynnum lose and Tweed win, it will put the Seagulls back in the top four where they stood for the first 12 rounds.
Tweed’s game has been switched from Piggabeen Sports Complex because of border restrictions. The Hastings Deering Colts game will be played at Pizzey Park at midday.
The Tweed Seagulls team for the clash with Townsville Blackhawks at Pizzey Park on Saturday September 4 at 2.10pm:
1 Jack Mackin
2 Brayden McGrady
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Ryland Jacobs
6 Will Brimson
7 Luke Jurd
8 JJ Collins
9 Brent Woolf
10 Harrison Muller
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Juwan Compain
13 Braden Robson
14 Liam Hampson
15 Darius Farmer
16 Stuart Mason
17 Jack Glossop
18 Tevin Arona
Round Details:
- Tweed Seagulls v Townsville Blackhawks at Pizzey Park, Pacific Pde, Miami on Saturday September 4 at 2.10pm
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Five Seagulls U18’s selected in Australian Schoolboys
The Tweed Seagulls RLFC have had five players named in the 2021 Australian Schoolboy side.
Deine Mariner, Tom Weaver, Jack Cullen, Ryan Foran, Blake Mozer.
All five have put in strong performances for their respected schools in Palm Beach Currumbin State High School (PBC) [Deine Mariner, Tom Weaver, Jack Cullen, Ryan Foran] and Keebra Park State High School [Blake Mozer].
Titans Elite Player Development Manager Jamie McCormack says it is great recognition for the players named.
“This is a great recognition of the Titans Junior System and also our links to the elite rugby league schools on the Gold Coast – in this case, Palm Beach Currumbin State High School,” McCormack said.
“They’ve followed the same path since they were 14-years-old and have put in plenty of hard work that has been rewarded with this selection.
“Three boys are Norther Rivers products, with Tom and Jack playing for Cudgen and Ryan with Murwillumbah junior rugby league clubs.
“These three are great examples of our junior pathway system at work. They’ve gone from a local junior rugby league club, into our Northern Rivers Titans representative teams, they’ve played for one of our affiliate schools (PBC) and also with our feeder club in Tweed Seagulls.
“There are plenty of other young players within our Junior Titans System that would have been on the fringe of selection and the depth in our program with young players from across our whole catchment area is fantastic.”
Once their schoolboy commitments are complete, all five players will get to taste an NRL pre-season when they link with either the Brisbane Broncos [Deine Mariner, Blake Mozer] or Gold Coast Titans [Tom Weaver, Jack Cullen, Ryan Foran] for training in November.
The Australian Schoolboys are recognised as part of the NRL’s elite pathway, and while the capacity to play an international fixture this year is unlikely, the 2021 merit team continues the tradition of representing Australia at the U18 level.
Congratulations, It’s a case of remembering these names for the future!
Come From Behind Win Keeps Top Four Hopes Alive
Neil Cadigan – Tweed Media
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls return from Cairns this morning with a convincing 34-12 victory against Northern Pride under their belts, securing their second successive Intrust Super Cup finals berth and with a top four finish still in play.
The Gulls, as has become somewhat of a habit this season, had to come from behind – scoring unanswered 34 points after being 12-0 down after 21 minutes (from two converted tries) in their first match in five weeks because of Covid restrictions in Queensland.
Without key attacking backs Lindon McGrady and Talor Walters, Tweed piled on five seconds half tries after second-rower Luke Burton opened their scoring in the 26th minute.
“It was a really good performance, especially the second half,” said a delighted coach Ben Woolf.
“As you’d expect after a long break and with some new combinations, we were clunky early and didn’t have much possession after conceding five six-again calls for holding down. We had to defend a few successive sets which gave the Pride good field position and that fatigued us.
“But once we got into the game, we kicked well, were good in yardage and that led to some well-constructed tries. It was a really pleasing effort that showed a lot of character and toughness.”
The only downside to the victory was another head knock suffered by key utility player Luke Burton who scored the Gulls’ first try in the 26th minute through a typically smart tight running line off halfback Luke Jurd. The rest of the team, down on numbers because of unavailability of Titans players and NSW-based squad members, finished the match unscathed which is important with the finals three weeks away.
Skipper Lamar Liolevave opened the second half scoring when he crossed three minutes after the break after chasing through a Will Brimson grubber.
Centre Lee Turner put Tweed ahead for the first time in the match in the 51st minutes and completed a double seven minutes later off a fast play-the-ball and a dart from dummy-half by Liam Hampson.
Prop Harrison Muller also put himself on the try-scorers’ list when Hampson ran the ball inside Pride’s 20-metre zone on the last tackle and Muller pushed through and found some space of Hampson’s pass close to the line.
Winger Brayden McGrady finished scoring when he converted his try that came off a good long pass from Brent Woolf, playing halfback after Jurd came off the field late in the game.
“We were able to cash in on some good ruck speed and charges down the middle in the second half and good finishes to our sets,” said Woolf. “Once we got a fair share of the ball we really shut them out which is what you want as we head to the finals.”
The Seagulls are in fifth place with two rounds to play but only one point behind Redcliffe, Burleigh and Wynnum Manly who all had victories yesterday. Wynnum play leaders Norths Devils next weekend, who have lost only one game in 2021. A Devils win would open up a top four finish for the Seagulls if they can beat Townsville Blackhawks (currently sixth) and PNG Hunters (10th) in the final rounds.
One victory in those two matches will secure at least sixth place.
TWEED SEAGULLS 32 (L Turner 2, L Burton, L Liolevave, H Muller, B McGrady tries; Jurd 4, McGrady goals) def. NORHERN PRIDE 12 (P Pua, J Stuckey tries; G Anderson 2 goals) at Barlow Park, Cairns (5.30pm Saturday).
Gulls Head To The Tropics To Secure Finals Berth
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls head to Cairns tomorrow (Saturday) knowing victory against Northern Pride will almost certainly secure an Intrust Super Cup finals position – but Ben Woolf’s side have their eyes focussed on greater rewards.
Tweed know they will face a desperate Pride team that, in the last round of matches five weeks ago, beat second-placed Wynnum Manly 42-12 and will see this as the clash that might decide if they play in the eight-team final series. The Pride face fourth-place Redcliffe and third-placed Burleigh in their final two matches.
The Seagulls, after missing an opportunity to take second spot in the loss to Souths Logan, are fifth with a three-point buffer ahead of the Pride, Townsville Blackhawks (who Tweed play in the next round) and Souths Logan. They have their finals fate clearly in their own hands.
And despite their NSW-based players being taken from them for the remainder of the season because of the Covid shutout and uncertainty surrounding whether any Titans’ NRL squad members (other than Darius Farmer) will be back, the Gulls have a squad depleted in number but still experienced and classy when it comes to quality.
And Woolf says his team – that had been unable to train as a group for a month before last Friday – are focussed on making the most of the rescheduled last few weeks of 2021, whether that is from fifth or in the top four where they would get a second chance in the finals.
“We’re planning on only having the players we’ve got now for the rest of the season and there is enough class and experience there to be very competitive in the finals,” said Woolf.
“Our biggest challenge is staying fit. We’ve only got Talor Walters missing this weekend because of an ongoing back issue but without Lindon McGrady, Josh Patston, Daniel Ross and Matt Koellner (all NSW-based) and the chance we won’t get any more Titans back, we don’t have the numbers. We might have to call up Colts players if we hit some injuries.
“On top of the 17 we’ll take to Cairns, I think we’ve only got three others left who have played with the team this season (Walters, Jack Glossop and Tevin Arona).
“But we’ve got a lot of experience still with Lee Turner back from injury and Will Brimson back from suspension and a strong pack who have really defended well, so we know it’s a team that can go up there and win and then build some confidence for the finals.
“The Pride are a very good side with a good blend of talented youth and experience and they showed that by how convincingly they beat Wynnum. And their training would not have been as disrupted as ours.
“It will be a lot warmer and more humid up there too and they’ve got a lot to play for.”
Tweed and Pride drew 18-all at Piggabeen in round seven back in May and these clashes are traditionally close. In the past eight matches between the two sides, Tweed have won four with two draws while seven of those eight have been decided (or not) by six points or less.
The Seagulls are chasing their 200th Intrust Super Cup victory in their 404th match.
The teams for the clash at Barlow Park, Cairns on Saturday August 28 at 5.30pm:
1 Jack Mackin
2 Brayden McGrady
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Ryland Jacobs
6 Will Brimson
7 Luke Jurd
8 JJ Collins
9 Brent Woolf
10 Harrison Muller
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Luke Burton
13 Braden Robson
14 Liam Hampson
15 Darius Farmer
16 Stuart Mason
17 Juwan Compain
SEAGULLS ADJUST TO BORDER CLOSURE AND LIFE OUT OF HOME
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls resume the 2021 Intrust Super Cup season in Cairns this Saturday knowing their finals push will be conducted with challenges unique to them as the only New South Wales-based club in the Queensland Rugby League competition.
No ISC matches have been played since the last weekend in July because of Covid restrictions, when an understrength Tweed went down 38-28 to Souths Logan Magpies in the rescheduled round 12 clash which saw the Seagulls drop to fifth on the ladder when victory would have given them second spot.
The reformatted competition restarts this weekend with Tweed taking on the eighth-placed Northern Pride at Barlow Park in what was initially the final (round 19) round of games before the finals. However, rounds 16 and 17 have been rescheduled and the grand final put back two weeks.
While the remaining weeks return to almost ‘business as usual’ for their rivals – although the availability of NRL players after this weekend is still unknown – it is a different story for the Seagulls.
Several NSW-based players, particularly experienced key utility back and goalkicker Lindon McGrady, can not compete while the NSW-Queensland border is closed and the Gulls cannot train or play matches at Piggabeen Sports Complex which is just south of the border.
The following weekend Tweed has had to relocate its clash with Townsville Blackhawks to Pizzey Park, home of Burleigh Bears (on Saturday, September 4 at 2.10pm), while their last pre-finals game will be against PNG Hunters at Bycroft Oval, Runaway Bay (Saturday, September 11 at 2.10pm). The finals will be played from October 2 over four weekends, with the grand final at Redcliffe’s Moreton Daily Stadium on the weekend of October 9-10.
The Seagulls will train at Robina and Mudgeeraba with only Queensland-residing players available which means key man McGrady, who has been playing fullback with Jayden Campbell in the Titans’ NRL side, is unavailable at least until the finals along with forwards Joshua Patston, Daniel Ross and Matt Koellner who were called up from the Northern Rivers competition mid-season to boost Ben Woolf’s squad, and key emerging winger Caleb Hodges who was promoted from the Colts several times this season.
Tweed are hopeful of getting some Titans players back after this weekend but their availability may be determined by whether Gold Coast make the NRL finals (Covid protocols currently do now allow them to play in feeder competitions) and the NRL’s ruling on releasing players with the chance they may have to return late to pre-season training in November after the required break enforced by the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
For now only Darius Farmer, who had been released from the NRL ‘bubble’ in July, is available for the Seagulls.
Fortunately, Brayden McGrady – who usually works in NSW – was in Queensland when the border was closed and has remained there. He will be a vital member of the team as they look to elevate themselves back into the top four and gain ‘two bites of the cherry’ in the finals.
Jack Mackin will play fullback in place of Lindon McGrady against Pride. He had missed much of this season with a knee injury after starring for Runaway Bay during their premiership-winning 2020 season and played for the Seagulls in 2019.
The teams for the clash at Barlow Park, Cairns on Saturday August 28 at 5.30pm:
1 Jack Mackin
2 Brayden McGrady
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Ryland Jacobs
6 Will Brimson
7 Luke Jurd
8 JJ Collins
9 Brent Woolf
10 Harrison Muller
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Luke Burton
13 Braden Robson
14 Liam Hampson
15 Darius Farmer
16 Stuart Mason
17 Jack Glossop
18 Juwan Compain
19 Tevin Arona
Round Details:
- Northern Pride v Tweed Seagulls at Barlow Park, Cairns on Saturday August 28 at 5.30pm
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Statewide Competitions Update
-
- Finals Week 1: September 18-19
- Finals Week 2: September 25-26
- Preliminary Finals: October 2-3
- Grand Final: October 9 or 10
-
- Round 19: August 28-29
- * Round 16: September 4-5
- * Round 17: September 11-12
Seagulls Fly to Rocky With ‘Must Win’ Attitude
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls take the field with no Titans NRL players in Rockhampton when they take on bottom-placed Central Queensland Capras on Saturday (6pm).
While some other NRL club feeder teams in the Intrust Super Cup will welcome back professional players into their teams this weekend after the NRL’s COVID restrictions have been relaxed, Tweed won’t have that liberty as NRL players are still unable to travel on commercial flights or mix in the community generally.
Hopefully, the Seagulls will have key players like Toby Sexton, Jayden Campbell, Jai Whitbread and Herman Ese’ese back the following weekend when they take on Townsville Blackhawks at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Coach Ben Woolf will still take an experienced team to Browne Park for a must-win match after dropping to fifth place after the loss to Souths Logan Magpies last weekend.
The match will be played after the NRL clash between the Dragons and Rabbitohs, so a big crowd is expected.
Despite the Capras’ standing on the ladder, there is no way his side will take them lightly, said Woolf.
The Capras rattled Tweed in the first half of the opening game of the season, leading 18-12 at the break after out-enthusing the Seagulls, before Tweed fought back to win 28-18. The Capras went down only 30-24 against fourth-placed Redcliffe last weekend after beating Brisbane Tigers the week before.
Tweed will benefit from the return of hooker Brent Woolf (ankle) and centre Lee Turner (knee) who missed the Magpies’ clash but will again be without winger Talor Walters and have lost bench prop Darius Farmer with injury.
That has forced switches in the backline with Lindon McGrady returning to fullback and Tevin Arona, who was impressive in his debut off the bench last Saturday, starting at five-eighth. Brayden McGrady returns to the wing after playing fullback last round and Luke Burton goes to the second row.
“We’ve got to keep winning to stay in the race for a top four position and we certainly don’t go up there thinking the two point are going to be easy to get,”: said Woolf.
“The Capras have been very competitive in a lot of their games and have struck a bit of form. And they’ll be fired up in front of a big crowd and we know how physically they like to play
“We can’t drop any games (five rounds remain) if we want to finish in top four, so we have to go up there with the right attitude and play with more patience and commitment than we did last weekend.”
Tweed have a tremendous record in Rockhampton, winning in their last nine visits, and in 17 of the past 18 clashes between the two teams.
If the Seagulls win it will be their 200th in the Intrust Super Cup (from 404 games).
The teams to play at Browne Park, Rockhampton on Saturday July 31 at 5pm:
TWEED SEAGULLS: Lindon McGrady, Ryland Jacobs, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Brayden McGrady, Tevin Arona, Luke Jurd, JJ Collins, Brent Woolf, Harrison Muller, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Luke Burton, Braden Robson. Interchange: Liam Hampson, Stuart Mason, Daniel Ross, Jack Glossop.
CENTRAL QLD CAPRAS: Blake Moore, Cooper Marshall, Jake Maizen, Elliott Vincent, Jedidiah Simbiken, Radean Robinson, Jack Madden (capt), Tyler Szepanowski, Caleb Daunt, Bailey Butler, Caleb Tull, Nixon Putt, Lachlan Hubner. Interchange: Jack Pattie, McKenzie Yei, Takai Mokohar, Joel Brown, Myles Gal.
Seagulls Waiting on Injury and NRL Calls
Neil Cadigan – Seagulls Media
Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls coach Ben Woolf will again have to wait until the last training session before being able to confirm his line-up for Saturday’s clash in Rockhampton against the Central Queensland Capras.
Intrust Super Cup feeder teams are awaiting confirmation from the National Rugby League and Queensland Government on whether NRL squad may be released from the ‘bubble’ for this weekend’s round of matches.
Considering this, and awaiting the fitness checks of hooker Brent Woolf, winger Talor Walters, centre Lee Turner and other players who missed last Sunday’s 38-28 loss to Souths Logan Magpies which has seen Tweed drop from third to fifth on the ladder, the Gulls named a provisional team on Tuesday without their Titans-affiliated players, other than Darius Farmer, and Woolf who has a knee injury.
Taylor and Walters are expected to overcome their injuries and return to field for the must-win match against a Capras team that may be last on the ladder but were beaten by only six points (30-24) by fourth-placed Redcliffe Dolphins on Sunday after a win against Brisbane Tigers the previous week and a draw with Ipswich Jets two rounds earlier.
And if Woolf needs any reminder that this is going to be a tough game, he only has to recall the opening match of the season the Seagulls won 28-18 after being behind 18-12 at half-time.
The Tweed Seagulls team to play Central Queensland Capras at Browne Park, Rockhampton on Saturday July 31 at 5pm:
1 Brayden McGrady
2 Ryland Jacobs
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Talor Walters
6 Lindon McGrady
7 Luke Jurd
8 JJ Collins
9 Liam Hampson
10 Harrison Muller
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Juwan Compain
13 Braden Robson
14 Tevin Arona
15 Daniel Ross
16 Luke Burton
17 Stuart Mason
18 Matt Koellner
Round Details:
- Central Queensland Capras v Tweed Seagulls at Browne Park, Rockhampton on Saturday July 31 at 5pm
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Seagulls Let Slip Big Opportunity and Drop to Fifth
Neil Cadigan, Tweed Media
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls, without key players, have missed an opportunity to go to second on the Intrust Super Cup ladder and have instead slipped to fifth after a 38-28 loss to Souths Logan Magpies at Davies Park on Sunday.
Both sides scored six tries each with the difference being goalkicking in the blustery conditions and costly errors made by the Seagulls in ‘good ball’ in the first half.
Tweed’s effort, led courageously by forward utility Luke Burton who had to fill the uncustomary role of centre for most of the game but came up with two impressive tries, was down in intensity and patience compared to their consistent performances that had seen them lose just five games from their previous 21 matches since their run to the 2019 finals.
With five rounds remaining it leaves them out of the top four for the first time this season on a congested ladder. Norths Devils have run away to a six-point gap on 26 points, wins to Burleigh and Redcliffe see them slip past the Seagulls to 20, alongside Wynnum Manly who went down to Northern Pride. Tweed are next on 19 ahead of Townsville Blackhawks, Souths Logan and the Pride on 16.
“It was disappointing; we just weren’t committed enough,” said coach Ben Woolf who refused to blame the amount of established players who were missing.
“We had the team to win the game; Souths were down a few players too.
“We just pushed balls we didn’t have to, especially in the first half, and should have kicked better and finished out sets better.
“It was a costly loss with us dropping back to fifth. But it is what it is and we have to learn from it, dust ourselves off and get ready for the Capras.”
Tweed had two players in debut in Tevin Arona and Matt Koellner and were without Brent Woolf, Toby Sexton, who was impressing in his NRL debut for the Titans, Talor Walters, Will Brimson, Lee Turner, Jayden Campbell, Jai Whitbread, Herman Ese’ese, Joe Vuna and Kirk Murphy who have all played regularly in the black and white this season.
Ultimately, it was some brilliant play by 18-year-old Magpies halfback Ezra Mam, who has scored seven tries in six games this season which led to him being signed last week by the Brisbane Broncos, that decided the match.
Mam scored three tries within 17 minutes either side of halfway and put through a neat grubber for another (to second-rower Unga Wolske) for the Magpies to go from 14-12 behind to 36-18 ahead.
The Seagulls still had a chance to win the match after fighting back to 36-28 with 18 minutes to go but Lindon McGrady landed only one goal from four attempts and Luke Jurd one from two as opposed to Mam’s seven from seven in his 26-point haul.
The Seagulls led 10-0 after 12 minutes with tries to skipper Lamar Liolevave off a Jurd grubber and prop Harrison Muller off a dart out of dummy half by Liam Hampson. However, their mindset seemed to be that points would continue to come easily and three times in the next 20 minutes they got within 10 metres of the Magpies’ line with good ball-carrying down the centre only to come up with unnecessary ‘flop back’ balls that costs them possession.
Not only did those errors relieve pressure but ended with Souths twice going the length of the field soon after to score.
Magpies’ tries to Creedence Toia and Kobe Tararo, combined with Mann’s first touchdown, saw the Gulls behind 18-14 at half-time despite Burton crossing on the left after good lead-up work from Lindon McGrady who was one of Tweed’s best.
Mam scored just 50 seconds into the second half when he broke through the middle from 50 metres, stepping past Darius Farmer before looking, pivoting and then running straight through the larger Brayden McGrady (playing fullback for the Seagulls) and scoring.
Burton scored his second try, running a great line off Lindon McGrady, four minutes later but it was a case of “bam, bam, thank you Mam” when the little Magpies halfback grubbered for Wolske then crossed himself after another grubber off his boot was unsuccessfully trapped by Tweed centre Treymain Spry and ricocheted safely into Mam’s arms to take the score to 36-18 with his conversion.
Left winger Rylan Jacobs, another one of Tweed’s best, lost his footing in taking a pass from Lindon McGrady but regained his feet and scored in the left corner before Hampson snuck over from dummy half late but the Seagulls were never playing with enough composure to rope in the Magpies’ 18-point lead.
Prop JJ Collins, without doubt one of the best and most consistent props in the Intrust Super Cup in 2021, again led from the front with some strong carries but too often the momentum he created was wasted with impatience or ineffective kicking.
Souths Logan Magpies 38 (E Mam 3, K Tararo, C Toia, U Wolske tries; Mam 7 goals) def.
Tweed Seagulls: 28 (L Burton 2, L Liolevave, H Muller, L Hampson, R Jacobs tries; L McGrady, L Jurd goals) at Davies Park.
Seagulls Forced to Make Changes for Magpies Clash
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls’ depth will receive a further test after losing five-eighth Will Brimson and second-rower Joshua Patston for Sunday’s (rescheduled round 12) clash with Souths Logan Magpies at Davies Park.
Brimson, the older brother of Titans and Maroons star A. J. (Alexander) Brimson, has been in tremendous form in recent weeks but will miss two games after taking an early plea on a crusher tackle charge.
Patston, who has impressed in his two appearances since being promoted from Lismore Marist’s A-grade side, was unsuccessful in challenging his charge (also a crusher) and will miss three matches.
This is scheduled as being the last Intrust Super Cup round in which NRL players in the bubble cannot back to their feeder teams, so it takes on extra importance for the Seagulls (Titans’ feeder team) and Magpies (Broncos) who will be missing several players who have been regular performers for them this season.
Tweed have performed tremendously in the past two weeks with their core semi-professional players – going down narrowly to Burleigh Bears and winning convincingly against Sunshine Coast. Darius Farmer, who played against the Falcons, had been released from the Titans’ bubble and will come off the bench in Ben Woolf’s side after playing against the Falcons.
On top of Brimson and Patston, the Gulls will be without starting hooker Brent Woolf and winger/interchange forward Ryland Jacobs through injury, which gives another couple of talented players their opportunities.
Caleb Hodges, who played in the round three clash with Wynnum Manly, goes onto the wing with Brayden McGrady to play fullback, the position he excelled at as an under-20s player with the Titans under the coaching of Woolf. Lindon McGrady switches back to five-eighth.
A newcomer is Tevin Arona, an experienced utility player, a Cook Islands Nines international and New Zealand Residents representative from his hometown of Christchurch who played under-20s for the Canberra Raiders and was in the Warriors’ NRL set-up. He has been in the Seagulls system for two seasons but his playing time has been limited by some head injuries but he has returned to full fitness and confidence and been impressive with Runaway Bay in the Gold Coast competition.
Also debuting for the Seagulls will be Matt Koellner, the second-rower/lock who has been playing for Ballina under the coaching of former Titans and Sharks ironman prop Luke Douglas.
Coach Woolf is confident the team’s best level of depth in his four seasons as coach will again show through on Saturday in another must-win game with the Bears and Redcliffe Dolphins just a point below on the ISC ladder.
“We’ve had to make a few changes but we still have plenty of experience and talent in the team and we’ve shown a lot of character the past couple of weeks,” he said.
“Souths will be without their NRL players too but they still have Kiwi international Kevin Locke on the wing and a few talented young players, including their halfback Ezra Mam who’s pretty lively and we have to watch closely.
“Our number one goal is to stay in the top four so this becomes a very important game for us with all teams getting their NRL players back the following weekend, all being well.”
The teams for the clash at Davies Park, Brisbane on Sunday July 25 at 2.10pm:
TWEED SEAGULLS: Brayden McGrady, Caleb Hodges, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Talor Walters, Lindon McGrady, Luke Jurd, JJ Collins, Liam Hampson, Harrison Muller, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Juwan Compain, Braden Robson. Interchange: Tevin Arona, Matt Koellner, Stuart Mason, Darius Farmer.
SOUTHS LOGAN MAGPIES: Creedence Toia, Kevin Locke, Ethan Qaui-Ward, Jacob Tonge, Jack Goodsell, Ezra Mam, Lachlan Cooper, Logan Bayliss-Brown, Brad Frith, Raiden Fonoti, Kobe Tararo, Unga Wolske, Rory Ferguson. Interchange: Blake Scott, Jacob Elmore, Fabien Paletua-Kiri, Justin Fai.
Round Details:
- Souths Logan Magpies v Tweed Seagulls at Davies Park, Montague Park, West End, Brisbane on Sunday July 25 at 2.10pm
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
- Telecast live on Kayo
Seagulls Wait on Judiciary and Injury Updates
Neil Cadigan – Tweed Seagulls Correspondent
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will have to wait until late this week before being able to confirm its line-up for Saturday’s all-important clash with Souths Logan Magpies due to judiciary charges and injuries.
The Seagulls had five-eighth Will Brimson and second-rower Joshua Patston subject to crusher tackle charges in last Saturday’s 40-18 win against Sunshine Coast and will decide today on whether to challenge any of the charges.
There are also some minor injury doubts over a couple more players so coach Ben Woolf has little choice but to wait at least until Thursday evening’s session to get a better idea of what team he will take to Davies Park for the 2.10pm Saturday clash that will be telecast on Kayo Freebies. This is a round 12 clash rescheduled after the matches set down for the first weekend of July were postponed because of COVID-19 restrictions.
He has plenty of options if he loses either of the pair, with Lindon McGrady able to revert back to five-eighth and Talor Walters and Brayden McGrady having played plenty of football at fullback.
Already the Seagulls will be without their Titans NRL squad members other than prop Darius Farmer who has been released from the NRL bubble while the Magpies will be missing their Brisbane Broncos players.
The club is delighted for halfback Toby Sexton to be given his NRL debut against the Dragons at Cbus Super Stadium this Sunday after his fine form for Tweed in 10 Intrust Super Cup games this season (nine try assists), following the impressive debut of fullback Jayden Campbell (six tries in six games for Tweed in 2021) against Melbourne Storm in round 13.
“It’s great to see both these players get their NRL debut and be rewarded for their good performances for Tweed this season,” said Woolf. “It’s obviously exciting for us to see them progress and to think their time with us in the ISC has benefitted them.”
The Tweed Seagulls team to play Souths Logan Magpies at Davies Park, Brisbane on Sunday July 25 at 2.10pm:
1 Lindon McGrady
2 Brayden McGrady
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Talor Walters
6 Will Brimson
7 Luke Jurd
8 JJ Collins
9 Brent Woolf
10 Harrison Muller
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Luke Burton
13 Braden Robson
14 Liam Hampson
15 Daniel Ross
16 Stuart Mason
17 Juwan Compain
18 Joshua Patston
19 Charlie Murray
20 Jack Cook
Round Details:
- Souths Logan Magpies v Tweed Seagulls at Davies Park, Montague Park, West End, Brisbane on Sunday July 15 at 2.10pm
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
- Telecast live on Kayo
Spry Flies in Impressive Victory for the Seagulls
Right centre Treymain Spry scored three tries in his most dominant performance of the season for the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls in their 40-18 victory over Sunshine Coast Falcons in Murgon.
The 21-year-old, who played five NRL games for the Titans last season, devastated the Falcons defence with his strong fend and ability to beat defenders one-on-one in a first-class effort that reminded fans of his natural talent and his hopes to progress back to the big stage.
Spry’s first try came in just the second minute from his first touch of the ball when he beat his opposing centre BJ Aufaga-Toomaga on the outside and was too fast for the closing defence to cross from 30 metres.
His second try was déjà vu, although this time he beat Aufaga-Toomaga with a left-handed fend then shook off two more tacklers near the line.
Spry’s third came in the dying moments when he stepped inside, then out, and pushed off defenders again in a show of class from 25 metres.
“I think it was Treymain’s best performance of the season and our plan to give him early ball and let him create his own opportunities worked well,” Seagulls coach Ben Woolf said after the game.
“He was very classy on the right edge. He’s a very good attacking player and we utilised him better than we had been.
“Our attack was very sharp generally which was pleasing. We wanted to go wide with early ball to Treymain and play more direct on the left and it worked well on the back of some strong running in the middle.”
Five-eighth Will Brimson was strong on the left-hand edge too, ensuring Tweed had plenty of ammunition to throw at their opponents on the back of some strong carries by their pack, led by prop JJ Collins.
Brimson threw a brilliant long ball for winger Brayden McGrady for the Seagulls third try in the first half, after Brent Woolf had crossed from dummy half on the right, and in the second half put skipper Lamar Liolevave over on the left edge with a perfect short ball.

After starting the season at centre with Lindon McGrady at five-eighth, he has warmed to the five-eighth role since McGrady has moved to fullback while Jayden Campbell has been in the Titans NRL side (or more recently in the NRL bubble).
Aufaga-Toomaga had brief revenge on the Seagulls when he crossed from a Todd Murphy grubber into the in goal in the 16th minute to put the Falcons into the game at 8-6 before Brayden McGrady’s try made it 12-4.
In the 27th minute, on the back of successive penalties, Falcons middle forward Daniel Dole crossed from a dummy-half pass from Kurt Baptise for a soft try that saw Sunshine Coast get within two points at 14-12 despite Tweed dominating the first half hour.
Spry’s second try, and Liolevave’s only a minute into the second half, gave Tweed a clear lead at 24-12. Hard-working second-rower Josh Patston, in his second Intrust Super Cup appearance, crossed off a neat pass at the line from halfback Luke Jurd midway through the second half and the Seagulls were not to be beaten from then.
Lindon McGrady’s try in the 73rd minute typified Tweed’s attacking performance. Woolf went right from dummy half and created space for prop Harrison Muller who offloaded in the tackle to his fullback who anticipated brilliantly a chance was brewing.
It was an important victory for third-placed Tweed who can expect to be without their Titans players for a few more weeks.
With Burleigh Bears upsetting leaders Wynnum Manly Seagulls and the Redcliffe Dolphins getting the points against Ipswich, Tweed’s win keeps them a point ahead of both in-form teams going into next round’s clash with seventh-placed Souths Logan Magpies at Davis Park.
Compain and Farmer Strengthen Seagulls
Outstanding young second-rower Juwan Compain is the latest player to have come through the Seagulls’ development system and grab his chance in Ben Woolf’s third-placed side which travels to Murgon searching for a vital victory against Sunshine Coast Falcons on Saturday afternoon.
The 20-year-old went into the Titans senior squad as a development player after a fine season in Tweed’s all-conquering under-18s side of 2019, which saw him play two Intrust Super Cup matches that season as an 18-year-old. However, he stepped away from the game for a break during the COVID-19 affected 2020 season before returning via Tweed’s under-20s this year.
He has been one of Tweed’s best in Matt King’s Hastings Deering Colts side and has been 18th man three times in the first grade outfit. In Murgon tomorrow, he gets his chance to make an impact in the Campbell Construction Co. ISC side that needs victory to stave off the group of teams just below it on the ladder and protect the top four position the Seagulls’ have made their top goal for 2021.
Compain played in the Queensland under-18s side in 2019 alongside current NRL stars Sam Walker, Reece Walsh, Xavier Coates, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Tesi Nui and was regarded alongside Walsh, Coates, Toby Sexton and Brendan Piakura as the best prospects from the Seagulls Class of ’19, so he has the ability to achieve his goal of playing NRL and is enjoying his football again.
At the other end of the scale the Seagulls have been boosted by the return of Titans-contracted Darius Farmer who has been released from the NRL bubble to return to their feeder team. The 104kg Kiwi-born prop has played nine times for the Seagulls this season and will provide Woolf with added experience alongside Northern Rivers products Joshua Patston and Ben Ross, who debuted in the 28-22 loss to Burleigh Bears last Saturday, and Compain.
“It’s great to see Juwan become another one of the players from our development system to get their chance in the side and he is really deserving of it with his consistent performances for the Colts team,” said Woolf. “We all know what ability he has and he has been unlucky not to have played earlier, just missing out on the 17.
“It’s good to give opportunity for players during this period when the Titans boys are unavailable to get experience at ISC level and give them a taste for when we might need them again later in the season. We had Charlie Murray come up from the Colts last week and he performed well and will travel as 18th man to Murgon.
“This is another important game for us. Like a lot of other teams, Sunshine Coast included, we don’t know when NRL players might be back so it’s important we keep the momentum going with our core squad members.
“Josh Patston played 80 minutes on debut against a tough side like Burleigh last week who threw a lot of attack at him and handled it really well, Luke Jurd came back and played well as our dominant organising half, and Charlie and Dan Ross showed they can handle this level.
“Sunshine Coast have plenty of experienced players and they will be desperate to win to keep in touch with the top six. We have to win to keep ahead of the teams just outside of the top four, so there’s plenty hanging on this match.
“It think we go into the game taking a fair bit of benefit from how we played last week with a few players in the team for the first time, or at least the first time this season in the case of Jurdy. Their teammates will have more confidence in them and know how they play.”
The Falcons, in ninth position on 12 points (five behind Tweed) will field an experienced, hard-nosed side despite being without the few Storm players who have filtered back to their side this season.
Hooker Kurt Baptise is a PNG international and a 79 NRL game veteran, prop Patrice Siolo has played three NRL games and has a wealth of NSW Cup matches while winger Paul Ulberg (24 tries in 54 games), centre Nathan Saumalu (22 tries in 52 games), skipper Todd Murphy (104 games and 36 tries) and forwards Louis Geraghty and Sam Burns are ISC stalwart players.
This is the third time the two teams have met in Country Week. Sunshine Coast won 28-16 in Gympie in 2016 and Tweed won 34-24 in Woodford in 2013. The Falcons have won three of the past four clashes between the two sides.
The teams:
TWEED SEAGULLS: Lindon McGrady, Brayden McGrady, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Talor Walters, Will Brimson, Luke Jurd, JJ Collins, Brent Woolf, Harrison Muller, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Joshua Patston, Braden Robson. Interchange: Liam Hampson, Daniel Ross, Darius Farmer, Juwan Compain, Charlie Murray.
SUNSHINE COAST FALCONS: Luke Polselli, Paul Ulberg, Nathan Saumalu, BJ Aufaga-Toomaga, Nat McGavin, Jack Wright, Todd Murphy (capt), Patrice Siolo, Kurt Baptiste, Wyatt Reynolds, Louis Geraghty, Dalton Smith, Sam Burns. Interchange: Daniel Dole, Sam Bernstrom, Campbell Duffy, William Toloi,
- Sunshine Coast Falcons v Tweed Seagulls at Murgon RL Grounds, Murgon on Saturday July 17 at 2.10pm
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
- Telecast live on Kayo Freebies
VALE: DES BOLSTER
Seagulls Head To Murgon For Country Week Clash
Neil Cadigan
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls go bush this weekend to take on the Sunshine Coast Falcons in round 14 of the Intrust Super Cup – heading to the town of Murgon that produced one of Queensland’s most brilliant players, Steve Renouf.
And coach Ben Woolf, who has a great affinity with the annual Country Week Round having been born and raised in Mt Isa, is hoping to take the strongest possible with minimal changes to the line-up to the one that was beaten 28-22 by Burleigh Bears in last Saturday’s cliff-hanger local derby.
The same 17 has been named for Saturday’s clash, with the addition of Ryland Jacobs, who was a late withdrawal with injury against the Bears, and Hastings Deering Colts back-rower Juwan Compain as 19th man. There are some slight injury doubts over a couple of players so the team will not be finalised until Thursday night’s training session before the team departs on Friday to the Central Queensland town.
The Seagulls and Sunshine Coast, a Melbourne Storm feeder team, will again be without their NRL-aligned players because of COVID-19 restrictions.
“We really enjoy getting out to the bush in Country Week Round and although we lost last week it’ll be good to take our group of core players for the trip,” said Woolf.
“I think we can take a bit of confidence from how we played against the Bears without our NRL players and hopefully we’ll have pretty close to the same line-up again.
“It’s an important match after Burleigh moved to within a point and having the postponed game against Souths Logan (three points behind Tweed on the ladder) the next weekend.”
The Tweed Seagulls team to play Sunshine Coast Falcons at Murgon RL Grounds, Murgon, on Saturday July 17 at 2.10pm:
1 Lindon McGrady
2 Brayden McGrady
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Talor Walters
6 Will Brimson
7 Luke Jurd
8 JJ Collins
9 Brent Woolf
10 Harrison Muller
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Joshua Patston
13 Braden Robson
14 Liam Hampson
15 Daniel Ross
16 Stuart Mason
17 Ryland Jacobs
18 Charlie Murray
19 Juwan Compain
Round Details:
- Sunshine Coast Falcons v Tweed Seagulls at Murgon RL Grounds, Murgon on Saturday July 17 at 2.10pm
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
- Telecast live on Kayo
We Did Enough to Win the Game But Fell Just Short
Neil Cadigan
The injection of livewire little Burleigh halfback Shallin Fuller, and a lapse of patience in the final minutes of the first half, has seen the Bears come from 12-0 down to pull off a vital 28-22 Rivalry Round victory over fierce rivals Tweed Seagulls at Pizzey Park on Saturday.
While Seagulls coach Ben Woolf was disappointed with giving up a 12-0 lead after a first-class effort in the first half-hour, he left Pizzey Park knowing his team answered the debate about whether they had the depth to be competitive against the top teams without the large contingent of Gold Coast Titans that has been influential in the first 12 rounds.
It was another spirited, high-quality derby despite the clash being bereft of up to a dozen Gold Coast Titans players who were unable to assist the two feeder teams because of COVID restrictions.
With three players on debut against a Burleigh side that was hardly affected by the Titans’ lockdown, Tweed competed admirably and would have taken a lot of confidence out of the narrow victory.
“There were just a couple of moments where we let ourselves down and we got things slightly wrong and that ended up being the difference in the end,” Woolf said.
“In the period before halftime we got impatient; we’d talked a lot about playing tough and waiting for fatigue to set in and give us opportunities but we made a couple of poor decisions and didn’t defend them very well.
“Fuller turned the game a little bit when came on. He put our left edge under a bit of pressure; he’s a small body and plays his hand and can get through the defence. Having said that, our left edge created all four of our tries and probably bombed two more.
“We did enough to win the game but fell just short. I think there was a bit of doubt whether we could defeat with the better teams without our Titans players and we came up against one of the sides who least depend on NRL players and took them right down to the wire, so our performance was full of merit.”
Fuller’s unconventional play after he was brought into the game in the 31st minute to replace the injured Conner Toia was a match-winner for Burleigh.
A chip ahead by Fuller on the last tackle that was fumbled by the Seagulls led to Burleigh’s first try in the 34th minute after Tweed had led 12-0 and had gained all the momentum.
And the 21-year-old from Beaudesert played a major role in two second half tries at a time in the match when whichever team gained the upper hand was likely to win.
In the end it was a try to winger Andre Niko to break a 22-all deadlock with five minutes to go that secured a Bears’ victory – from a short grubber kick from centre Sami Sauiluma after Burleigh ran the ball to the left on the last tackle.
The win took the Bears to within one point of Tweed in fourth place on the ladder and was their seventh win in eight matches after a poor start to the season.
Left winger Brayden McGrady, in his first appearance for seven weeks because of a hamstring injury, scored three tries with five-eighth Will Brimson inside him setting up two and left centre Lee Turner also outstanding. Prop JJ Collins led a tough grinding performance by the Tweed pack that was missing mainstays Jai Whitbread and Joe Vuna with tremendous support from skipper Lamar Liolevave.
But some crucial plays in the final 10 minutes of the first half, and McGrady being denied two more tries – one when the referee overruled his touch judge on a knock on and another when McGrady’s left boot just shaved the touchline – proved the difference in the match that featured some spectacular tries.
A major turning point came when Niko safely defused a high kick to the right corner by Seagulls hooker Liam Hampson, after Tweed received two six-again rulings in the same set, 90 seconds before the break and the Bears were able to take the 90 metres in three plays with right winger Carey latching onto a bust by fullback Kurtis Rowe and scoring in the shadow of half-time. Josh Rogers’ conversion from the touchline left the Bears just behind at 12-10 after being 12 points in arrears six minutes earlier.
Tweed had scored the first try which began from an offload by their players’ player Collins. Luke Jurd scooped up the ball just inside the Seagulls’ half and went to the left, threw a dummy which fooled the Burleigh defence and broke through and sent a perfect long pass inside to the supporting Brayden McGrady who scored under the posts. Lindon McGrady converted for 6-0.
The Seagulls went further ahead in the 21st minute when Brimson went over from dummy half, darting left and dummying then burrowing under two tacklers to push over the line. McGrady again added the extras to give the visitors a handy 12-0 lead.
Seven minutes before the break, Fuller took the odds of a midfield last-tackle chip over the top which was fumbled between Collins and Lindon McGrady. It was the break Burleigh desperately needed and they took advantage with the ball going left through Rogers to Rowe who tipped the ball onto Niko who snuck into the left corner in the 34th minute.
Carey’s try made it 12-10 but Tweed struck back 11 minutes into the second half when Brimson threw a brilliant long ball to McGrady on the left touchline to put Tweed six clear at 16-10.
It took only four minutes for the Bears to strike back. And it was all through the effort of Fuller. First he put centre Josh Berkers through on the right but he was brought down by Lindon McGrady. Fuller again stepped and beat a tackle in the next play, bounced off the ground and offloaded to Rogers who scored to the left of the posts and converted for 16-all.
Just short of the 60th minute-mark Burleigh’s X-Factor Fuller tormented the Seagulls again when he grubbered into the in-goal and Rogers was first to the ball to put the Bears into the lead for the first time at 22-16 with Rogers’ conversion.
Tweed levelled at 22-all in the 72nd when Brimson went down short side from dummy half and passed to Turner who beat three defenders before feeding Brayden McGrady on the outside to post a brilliant try. Lindon McGrady converted.
Then came the crucial play in the 75th minute when Burleigh elected to run the ball, Rogers took over the play with a long pass to Sauiluma who got a little lucky with his grubber under pressure five metres short of the line which popped up for Niko to grab it and score … and activate one of his familiar try celebrations.
BURLEIGH BEARS 28 (A Niko 2, J Rogers 2, C Carey tries; Rogers 4 goals) def. TWEED SEAGULLS 22 (B McGrady 3, W Brimson tries; L McGrady 3 goals) at Pizzey Park.
Seagulls’ Goal is to Control Finals Destiny
Neil Cadigan
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls have plenty of incentive to put on a strong showing in part two of this year’s Intrust Super Cup Rivalry Round when they travel to Pizzey Park today to take on Burleigh Bears (2.10pm).
With the game to be bereft of Gold Coast Titans players because of COVID-19 restrictions, it is certainly clash between the well-resourced Bears who won premierships with little reliance on Titans players in 2016 and 2019 and maintain most of those squads, and the border-located Seagulls who will provide debuts to three players and welcome halfback Luke Jurd into the team for the first time this season.
The Seagulls have the chance to secure their first double victory in the local derby since 2013 but their biggest incentive is what has been their catch-cry for the past month – ‘control our own destiny’.
Third-placed Tweed have a three-point gap ahead of four teams on the ladder, of which Burleigh are won after winning six of seven games since the two sides met in round four.
Another is Redcliffe who the Gulls beat in their last match (when the Dolphins were one point behind them), another is Souths Logan who Tweed were scheduled to beat last weekend before the round was rescheduled to July 24-25. The fourth is Northern Pride who Tweed face in the last round in Cairns (they drew 18-all in round seven),
“It was the same against the Magpies last week but the game was postponed, and Redcliffe the week before, when we were up against the team immediately below us on the ladder,” said Tweed coach Ben Woolf. “If we beat Burleigh we can open up a bigger gap and have a lot more control of our own destiny; if we lose we’re back to one point in front.
“We want to finish top four and have a second bite of the cherry in the finals; that’s our main goal.
“And if we can beat the teams just behind us on the ladder and each time widen the gap, we have more control of that and don’t have to rely on other results.
“It’s a big challenge (against Burleigh), that’s for sure. We’ll be without the Titans players who have been so good for us this season so it’s a test for our more experienced guys to step up and take more senior roles.
“We’ve got three players on debut in Charlie Murray, Daniel Ross and Joshua Patston and Luke Jurd is playing his first game in the team this season, and that’s exciting for them.
“Burleigh obviously have a strong roster, with a lot of guys who have won one or two competitions with them, and they’ve got the resources to put good squads on the paddock all the time and not rely on NRL players.
“And these derby games are always intense and physical.”
Tweed won the derby battle 16-12 at Piggabeen Sports Complex in April and have not secured the double since 2013. In 2014 Tweed won the first clash 24-8 at Pizzey Park, the Seagulls’ last win there, before Burleigh came from behind to draw 12-all at Piggabeen. After Tweed won the only clash in 2015, Burleigh had won eight derbies in succession before this season.
However, history will mean for little on Saturday – character and performance will.
The 19-year-old middle forward Murray, who played under-18s for the Bears before heading to Parramatta in 2020 but returned after COVID saw the under-20s season abandoned, will make his ISC debut off the bench for Tweed after impressing in Hastings Deering Colts this season. So too will fellow forwards who have been in fine form in the Northern Rivers A-grade competition this year – Patston (Lismore Marist) and Ross (Tweed Coast Raiders where he has been coached by Test prop Brent Kite).
Another Northern Rivers product, prop Stuart Mason, will play his second ISC game of the season off the bench.
They will look for guidance from senior players like skipper Lamar Liolevave, cousins Lindon and Brayden McGrady in the backs, seasoned hooker Ben Woolf, prop JJ Collins who like Liolevave has NRL experience, and lightweight lock Braden Robson, the Murwillumbah product and older brother of North Queensland Cowboys hooker Reece Robson, who has been a consistent solid performer for the Seagulls this season. Another key forward is prop Harrison Muller who played for Sunshine Coast Falcons in the 2017 ISC grand final and is now at his third club.
The teams to clash at Pizzey Park, Miami on Saturday July 10 at 2.10pm:
TWEED SEAGULLS: Lindon McGrady, Brayden McGrady, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Talor Walters, Will Brimson, Luke Jurd, JJ Collins, Brent Woolf, Harrison Muller, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Joshua Patston, Braden Robson. Interchange: Liam Hampson, Daniel Ross, Stuart Mason, Charlie Murray.
BURLEIGH BEARS: Kurtis Rowe, Andrew Niko, Sami Sauiluma, Josh Berkers, TBA, Josh Rogers, Conner Toia, Jeff Lynch, Pat Politoni, Luke Page, Dylan Kelly, Hayden Schwass, Sam Coster. Interchange: Shallin Fuller, Api Noema-Matenga, Reece Summer, Lochlyn Sheldon.
Round Details:
- Tweed Seagulls v Burleigh Bears at Pizzey Park, Pacific Pde, Miami on Saturday July 10 at 2.10pm
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Seagulls Chasing Double In Derby Clash
Ben Woolf’s side has confidence in the depth of the squad and is ready for the tough character test and the opportunity to beat their neighbours for a second time in the same season for the first time since 2013.
That season Tweed won 24-8 at Pizzey Park then 26-20 at Piggabeen Sports Complex. The following year they almost pulled off the double again after a 24-0 win at Pizzey Park only for Burleigh to fight back from 12-4 at half-time to snatch a 12-all draw at Piggabeen.
The Bears have dominated since, snaring eight wins in a row (after a loss in the only clash of 2015) before Tweed turned the trend with a 16-12 victory at Piggabeen earlier this season in round four.
However, the Bears have won six of seven games since then to stand fifth on the ladder with often only two Titans players in their line-up.
Both sides will field players with plenty of NRL experience including Tweed skipper and Fijian international Lamar Liolevave, prop JJ Collins and centre Treymain Spry. The Seagulls also boast a wealth of Queensland Cup/NSW Cup experience in Lindon and Brayden McGrady, Talor Walters, Braden Robson, Brent Woolf and Lee Turner.
“We still have a lot of experience at Cup level with players who really have stood up consistently this season and I think they’re up for the challenge,” said Woolf.
“It’s also a good opportunity for some guys to make their debuts after playing well in lower grades in the Northern Rivers competition (Joshua Patston and Ben Ross) and show what they can do.
“Obviously, it’s a big game, they always are against Burleigh. They are three points behind us on the ladder and keen to reel us in a bit and avenge the loss earlier this season while we could go five points clear of Burleigh and maybe a couple of other teams on 14 points who face sides higher than them on the ladder (Souths Logan and Redcliffe).
“Burleigh are one of the teams who have always been pretty strong without NRL players coming back so we know we’re in for a tough one.”
The Tweed Seagulls team to play Burleigh Bears at Pizzey Park, Miami on Saturday, July 10 at 2:10pm.
1 Lindon McGrady
2 Brayden McGrady
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Talor Walters
6 Will Brimson
7 Luke Jurd
8 JJ Collins
9 Brent Woolf
10 Harrison Muller
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Joshua Patston
13 Braden Robson
14 Liam Hampson
15 Daniel Ross
16 Stuart Mason
17 Ryland Jacobs
18 Charlie Murray
Round Details:
- Tweed Seagulls v Burleigh Bears at Pizzey Park, Pacific Pde, Miami on Saturday July 10 at 2.10pm
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Seagulls Depth On Show In Clash With Magpies
Neil Cadigan
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will display the club’s strongest depth of talent in many years when they take on Souths Logan Magpies at Davies Park on Sunday with both teams bereft of their NRL players because of the COVID-19 restrictions.
While the NSW Rugby League competitions, including the NSW Cup ‘reserve grade’, have been ordered to be suspended for two weeks, the Intrust Super Cup is scheduled to continue at this stage after the three-down South-East Queensland lockdown ends on Friday night.
However, NRL players must remain in their bubbles which means the Seagulls will be missing their Gold Coast Titans players and the Magpies their Brisbane Broncos players.
This means halfback Toby Sexton, who has played 10 games for Tweed in 2021, and Jayden Campbell (six appearance before this three NRL games filling in for AJ Brimson) will be among seven Titans squad members who will be missing while the Magpies this season have fielded Albert Kelly, Karmichael Hunt, Dale Copley, Corey Oates and Jamayne Isaako (both recalled to the Broncos side) among other Broncos.
The Seagulls have still included eight players who have been part of NRL squads or have vast ISC or NSW Cup experience. This includes skipper Lamar Liolevave, JJ Collins, Lindon and Brayden McGrady, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Brent Woolf, Ryland Jacobs and Braden Robson.
Luke Jurd, the former Cronulla Sharks under-18s representative who played 12 ISC games for the Seagulls in 2019, comes into the side at halfback after a dominant performance for Currumbin Eagles when they ended Burleigh Bears’ unbeaten run in the Gold Coast competition last weekend.
Interchange hooker Liam Hampson returns after missing the round 11 victory over Redcliffe with a knee injury, winger Brayden McGrady is back after a month out with a hamstring injury while prop Stuart Mason, picked on the bench, has had plenty of ISC experience.
A positive feature of the team announcement, which lists 20 players because of injury doubts over several players, is the inclusion of two prominent Northern Rivers players, which shows how valid that pathway has become into this level of rugby league.
Middle forward Daniel Ross, from Tweed Coast Raiders, could make his ISC debut while Lismore Marist second-rower Joshua Patston is in the running to also get his first appearance at this level.
Two Hastings Deering Colts players – Juwan Compain, who was on a Titans NRL development contract in 2020, and lock Charlie Murray – have also been named.
Utility back Talor Walters was not on the provisional list but will come into the side if he passes the required medical protocols after suffering a head knock in the match against Redcliffe.
The Seagulls, like all teams, have been forced to alter their training schedule this week because of the three-day lockdown.
They had an hour long session before the 6pm curfew was enforced on Tuesday, will have their next session at 6pm Friday and, with the advantage of being involved in the only Sunday match this weekend, will get in a third session on Saturday morning if the lockdown is not extended.
The Tweed Seagulls team to play Souths Logan Magpies at Davies Park on Sunday at 2.10pm:
1 Lindon McGrady
2 Brayden McGrady
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Ryland Jacobs
6 Will Brimson
7 Luke Jurd
8 JJ Collins
9 Brent Woolf
10 Harrison Muller
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Luke Burton
13 Braden Robson
14 Liam Hampson
15 Daniel Ross
16 Stuart Mason
17 Juwan Compain
18 Joshua Patston
19 Charlie Murray
20 Jack Cook
Round Details:
- Tweed Seagulls v Souths Logan Magpies at Davies Park, Montague Park, West End on Sunday June 30 at 2.10pm
- Davies Park,
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Seagulls End Dolphins’ Run with Grinding Victory
Neil Cadigan
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls ended Redcliffe Dolphins’ five-game winning streak with a grinding 14-12 victory at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Sunday in a performance that was not pretty but reinforced their resilience that will be a major asset come finals time.
It was a dour, physical confrontation between two teams that defended well, conceding tries only in the face of possession flows to their opponents until the Seagulls nailed the victory, coming from behind at or just after half-time to do so for the sixth time this season.
Redcliffe led 6-4 at half-time and had a strong southerly wind at their backs in the second half. With six minutes remaining they led 12-8 but, while they made crucial errors searching for the match-sealing try, Tweed iced their one golden opportunity of the final 10 minutes – with the hero coming in an unlikely shape.
It was burly prop Herman Ese’ese, returning from a three-game NRL suspension, who scored the match-winner in the 74th minute.
Four minutes earlier a try went begging when a pass from fullback Lindon McGrady to right-winger Treymain Spry went behind him when the Seagulls were struggling to gain any territorial momentum into the wind.
Then came a break for the Seagulls when Dolphins prop Ryan Turner, who had been a strong performer, coughed up the ball 35 metres from his own line. On the last tackle of the resulting set, Seagulls halfback Toby Sexton squeezed a grubber into in-goal on the left edge and Ese’ese steamed through to be first for the ball.
That levelled the score at 12-all with McGrady, who failed with his two earlier conversion attempts from the touchline, given the chance to break the deadlock. He did without trouble.
It was the second Tweed try of the second half that came from a short-range grubber, the other resulted in a try to Spry (then on the left wing before Talor Walters was forced off the field with a head knock) from a kick by Will Brimson.
Redcliffe’s two tries were also short-range efforts, the first by halfback and skipper Cameron Cullen in the 36th minute after several six-again calls against Tweed for ruck infringements. Giant prop Jamayne Taunoa-Brown stood in a three-man tackled and stuck a pass to Cullen metres from the line, with the little No. 7 squeezing under the scramble to score
The try of the match -.and the only one of the five from a slick attacking shape – had been scored by Walters in the 11th minute. An Esan Marsters’ pass gave Walters a little room on the outside but the brilliant mover Walters still had plenty of work to do from 25 metres and beat two tacklers with an in-and-away and a burst of speed.
While the return of Titans props through ‘reserve grade’ Ese’ese (suspension) and Sam Lisone (pectoral injury), and the return of Joe Vuna after two games in the big league strengthened the Seagulls upfront, the victory was built on the efforts of their regular non-NRL players.
Second-rower Braden Robson, who returned after a HIA stint, was outstanding for the home side while JJ Collins, whose time was limited because of a head knock, and skipper Lamar Liolevave led the finals-like tough effort of the forwards who were up against a much bigger pack.
Cullen was a constant threat when he ran the ball for the Dolphins, hooker Manaia Cherrington – who scored his side’s second try when he looked right and darted left near the line in the 59th minute – created several opportunities while big men Turner, Brown Pride Petterson-Robati made their presence felt in attack and defence.
Tweed opened up a three-point gap in third place ahead of four teams – Souths Logan, Burleigh, Redcliffe and Northern Pride going into next week’s representative weekend break – emphasising what an important victory it was.
TWEED SEAGULLS 14 (T Walters, T Spry, H Ese’ese tries; L McGrady goal) def. REDCLIFFE DOLPHINS 12 (C Cullen, M Cherrington tries; V Vailea 2 goals) at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Third Spot At Stake In Clash With Red-Hot Redcliffe
Neil Cadigan
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls have plenty at stake in their 400th Intrust Super Cup game when they take on the firing Redcliffe Dolphins at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Sunday (2pm).
The Dolphins sit fourth on the ladder just one point behind third-placed Tweed after winning all five games since the teams met in Redcliffe in round five, with the Seagulls toughing out a 28-16 victory.
A loss by Ben Woolf’s side in the round 11 clash could see them drop to fifth if Northern Pride spring an upset against Norths Devils while a win would see them go three points clear of their next rivals with eight games to play before the finals.
“Redcliffe have certainly hit some form since we played them and they can jump us on the ladder, so it’s a big game for both teams,” said Woolf.
“They’re obviously a good side with a lot of experience and size.
“They had a lot of possession and put us under pressure with their defensive line speed in Redcliffe; they’re a big team and play a very physical game.
“We played with a bit of skill and got joy from moving the ball around but they will be better prepared for us this time.
“They’ve got plenty of strike players too. Fullback Trai Fuller is not very big but he’s very strong and good runner of the ball and their halfback and skipper Cameron Cullen is one of the most experienced ISC players in the competition with a good running game and controls play well from deep in the line.
“It’s a big test for us. We want to stay in the top three and keep the momentum going.”
Prop JJ Collins returns to the side after missing the 24-16 win in Mackay last Saturday night and that will be a boost for the Seagulls. He has been one of several forwards who have been integral to this season’s success.
While there have been few stand-out forwards week to week, their defensive attitude and ability to stay in the grind with often much bigger opponents has been the cornerstone of Tweed’s record of sevens wins, a draw and just two losses in 2021.
Braden Robson, who has moved between the edge and middle often this season, was outstanding against the Cutters and has switched d to the second row with usual run-on hooker Brent Woolf named at lock.
Gold Coast Titans centre Esan Marsters will play his first game for the Seagulls. The 24-year-old Kiwi international has played six times for the Titans since being signed from the Cowboys before round nine but coach Justin Holbrook has preferred Brian Kelly and Patrick Herbert in recent weeks. Treymain Spry will move to the wing.
Tweed’s record over their 399 Queensland Cup games is 197 wins, 188 losses and 14 draws. The Seagulls have won one premiership, in 2007.
The teams for the clash at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Sunday at 2pm:
TWEED SEAGULLS: Lindon McGrady, Talor Walters, Esan Marsters, Lee Turner, Treymain Spry, Will Brimson, Toby Sexton, Herman Ese’ese, Liam Hampson JJ Collins, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Braden Robson, Brent Woolf. INTERCHANGE (from) Jack Cook, Darius Farmer, Harrison Muller, Ryland Jacobs Luke Burton.
REDCLIFFE DOLPHINS: Trai Fuller, Josh Beehag, Jeremy Hawkins, Viliami Vailea, Setu Tu, TBA, Cameron Cullen (capt), Nathan Watts, Shane Pumipi, Jackson Frei, Ryan Turner, Pride Petterson-Robati, Lachlan Timm. INTERCHANGE (from): Benjamin King, Preston Riki, Brayden Dee, Sheldon Pitama, Harrison McIndoe.
Round Details:
- Tweed Seagulls v Redcliffe Dolphins, Sunday June 20 at 2pm
- Piggabeen Sports Complex, Carramar Drive, Tweed Heads
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Future Titans Earn Tom Searle Scholarships
Five members of Tweed Seagulls’ successful Mal Meninga Cup squad have been named as the inaugural male recipients of education and training scholarships under the Tom Searle Scholarship program announced last year.
It was appropriate that rugby league Immortal and Titans’ high-performance senior adviser Meninga was on hand to congratulate the scholarship winners Tom Weaver, Oskar Bryant, Jack Cullen, Ryan Foran and Jaylan De Groot at a luncheon at The Seagulls Club today.
All five players are under contract to the Titans as part of the astutely developed pathway program which sees many of the best talent from the Gold Coast, Tweed and Northern Rivers region being filtered into the NRL club’s program.
Former Titans and Queensland Maroons heroes Nate Myles and Ash Harrison were also present at the luncheon to discuss player development in the game as well as this year’s State of Origin series which began with the shock 50-6 thrashing of the Maroons in Townsville on Wednesday.
The previous winners of scholarships included four members of the Seagulls’ women’s side that competed in the statewide QRL competition. They are Australian representative Tarry Aiken, Queensland State of Origin second-rower Jessika Elliston, this year’s Maroons squad member Zara Canfield and NRLW Warriors captain and Kiwi Ferns representative Georgia Hale.
The program provided funding towards the players’ education and training and includes a 12-month gym membership at Seagulls.
It was launched in honor of Seagulls legend Tom Searle, who led the club as a player and/or coach to several premierships in the 1970s, represented NSW Country and had great success as a talent identifier and recruiter as the inaugural Titans recruitment officer.
Seagulls CEO Matt Francis, a close friend and colleague of Tom Searle who passed away last June, said it was an honour for the club to work with the Searle family in perpetuating the great legacy of Tom’s service to rugby league and in particular promoting young talent.
“As a life member of Seagulls, Tommy’s heart was always with the club and he would be delighted to see these five young players coming through the Seagulls’ rank and aspiring to play at the highest level,” said Francis.
“And he would be proud to know they have been identified by the Titans at this age. It was Tom’s passion to find and encourage young players and he identified and scouted so many of the Titans who came through the development ranks into the NRL during the club’s early days when his son Michael was CEO.”
Neil Cadigan
Marsters To Wear Black And White For First Time
Gold Coast Titans centre Esan Marsters has been dropped back to the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls for Sunday’s vital clash with the in-form Redcliffe Dolphins at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
The 24-year-old Kiwi international has played six times for the Titans since being signed from the Cowboys before round nine but coach Justin Holbrook has preferred Brian Kelly and Patrick Herbert in recent weeks, with Marsters holding 18th man duties.
He will come into Ben Woolf’s backline which has plenty of depth with Treymain Spry switching to the wing. Brayden McGrady, who has missed the past two games with a hamstring injury, has not been chosen in the preliminary side chosen on Tuesday and his fitness will be tested at the end of the week.
Fullback Jayden Campbell has been announced as the Titans No. 1 after impressing in his two NRL appearances, however AJ Brimson is in the extended Titans line-up with jersey No. 21 which appears to leave the door open for him to play and Campbell to possibly drop back.
Prop Jai Whitbread has been rewarded for his consistent good form for the Seagulls and was chosen on the interchange bench for the Titans. With their squad not to be finalised until possibly Friday or Saturday, there still could be changes to Tweed’s outfit.
Jack Cook has been named on the bench after an impressive return to the Gulls’ side in the 24-16 victory over the Cutters in Mackay and coach Woolf has named Liam Hampson (hooker) and Brent Woolf (lock) in the starting line-up in the positions they played last Sunday.
Tweed’s effort to beat Redcliffe 28-16 in round five rates with the 54-12 drubbing of Brisbane Tigers as their best this season. However, since then the Dolphins have won five straight and will be out to avenge that earlier loss.
The Tweed Seagulls team to play Redcliffe Dolphins at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Sunday at 2pm:
1 Lindon McGrady
2 Talor Walters
3 Esan Marsters
4 Lee Turner
5 Treymain Spry
6 Will Brimson
7 Toby Sexton
8 Herman Ese’ese
9 Liam Hampson
10 JJ Collins
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Braden Robson
13 Brent Woolf
14 Jack Cook
15 Harrison Muller
16 Darius Farmer
17 Ryland Jacobs
18 Luke Burton
Round Details:
- Tweed Seagulls v Redcliffe Dolphins, Sunday June 20 at 2pm
- Piggabeen Sports Complex, Carramar Drive, Tweed Heads
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Media: Neil Cadigan
Seagulls Overcome Deficit Again to Earn Tough Victory In Mackay
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls were made to work hard to the competition points at Mackay yesterday, having to come from behind at half-time to secure a 24-16 victory against the Cutters at BP Print Stadium.
Again the Seagulls were out of the blocks impressively with centre Treymain Spry crossing after five minutes from a good attacking movement from just inside the Cutters’ half.
A week earlier against Norths Devils, Talor Walters crossed in the fourth minute only for it to be Tweed’s sole points of the first half, and history repeated itself in Mackay.
The Cutters crossed through fullback Matiu Stone-Dunn in the 13th minute and skipper and prop Ross Bella crashed over 10 minutes later. Both tries were converted and the home side controlled the ball well, completing 20 or 22 sets in the first half, and deserved the 12-6 lead at the break.
However, two smart tries by five-eighth Will Brimson gave the Seagulls the momentum and confidence they needed to take hold of the game.
Both times Brimson dummied and slid past the defence – the first after a scrum from a Mackay dropped ball, the second in a short-side raid – after Tweed had built some pressure with a much-improved kicking game than the preview week, a 40-12 drubbing by the Devils.
Lock Braden Robson added Tweed’s fourth try in the 58th minute when he crossed the line on the right edge after Tweed put their opponents on the back foot with some good attacking shape, with Lindon McGrady’s conversion giving the Seagulls a 24-12 lead.
Second-rower Jess Dee scored to brought it back to 24-16 with 14 minutes left to play and the Cutters pressured Tweed’s line relentlessly in the final five minutes but were denied.
It was a much better 80-minute effort by Tweed as they needed to get back on the winning list after the poor effort against Norths. There were some errors with the ball, which has been a feature of the Seagulls’ play this season as they maintain an expansive attacking style, but pleasing was the fact they again had to character to defend their errors.
“The Cutters really took the game to us and controlled the ball really well in the first half,” said Tweed coach Ben Woolf.
“They put up some good towering bombs which we had trouble with and we gave them some cheap ball too.
“But our kicking game was a lot better and once we got into the game more in the second half we took control and it was a good effort.
“They really threw plenty at us in the last few minutes and if they scored a converted try it would have been ‘game on’ but we stuck solid on our line which was really pleasing.”
Jai Whitbread was a late inclusion in the Tweed line-up, only dropping back from the Titans’ extended squad on Friday afternoon, and he was a tireless leader upfront as he has been in most games for the Seagulls this season.
Toby Sexton was back on song with his game management while wingers Walters and Ryland Jacobs, who moved from the bench to the left wing with the withdrawal of Brayden McGrady, were strong in starting possession-sets powerfully while Robson was again faultless.
Woolf started the game with both hookers on the field with the sharp Liam Hampson at dummy half and Brent Woolf, who can hit in defence as good as most 10kg heavier, at lock in a strategy that worked well.
Third-placed Tweed return to Piggabeen Sports Complex next Sunday to take on Redcliffe Dolphins, who stand in fourth place and have won five games since their 28-16 round five loss to the Seagulls in Redcliffe.
TWEED SEAGULLS 24 (W Brimson 2, T Spry, B Robson tries; L McGrady 3 goals) def.
MACKAY CUTTERS 16 (M Stone-Dunn, R Bella, J Dee tries; A Hungano, J Quinn goals) at BP Print Stadium, Mackay.
Media: Neil Cadigan
Woolf Expecting Tough Clash With Wild Card Cutters
Coach of Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls, Ben Woolf, knows firsthand what a threat the struggling Cutters pose to his side in Saturday’s clash at BP Print Stadium in Mackay.
While the Cutters, coached by former Cowboys and Raiders assistant coach Michael Crawley, may have had only one win this season they will field some of the brightest young players in the competition.
Woolf had three Cutters in his Queensland Emerging Under-20s squad last year who were set to play in the annual State of Origin clash which had to be abandoned because of COVID-19 restrictions, all contracted to the North Queensland Cowboys.
They are 19-year-old utility back Daejarn Asi who will play halfback on Saturday, 20-year-old centre Michael Bell and 19-year-old second-rower Ben Condon who has played six NRL games for the Cowboys this season.
Add the experienced five-eighth Ata Hingano, who has played 24 NRL games for the Raiders and Warriors and eight Tests for Tonga, and the Cutters will field plenty of danger men against the third-placed Seagulls.
“The Cutters had a big loss to Wynnum last weekend but they have been contention right to the end of most matches this season, so I’m expecting a real hard game,” said Woolf.
“The three young Cowboys guys are very talented and I saw that firsthand when they were with the under-20s emerging squad. Ben Condon has played NRL and Daejarn Asi has been 18th man a couple of times this season while Michael Bell has enormous potential.
“And you add some pretty decent forwards and Hingano who is a real threat with the ball, it means we have to be right on our game up there.”
It is likely the Seagulls squad will be boosted by only three Titans players in prop Herman Ese’ese who is returning from a three-week NRL suspension, second-rower Darius Farmer and halfback Toby Sexton, the side’s main game manager.
The other regular Titans who have played most matches for the Seagulls this season – Jai Whitefield, Joe Vuna and Jayden Campbell – are likely to be kept on ice waiting for the fitness of the Titans’ four returning Origin I players.
The Seagulls have been good on the road this season, a big contributor to their standing on the ladder, and have four victories from their past five away matches. They have won in their past two visits to Mackay.
With the final line-up to be determined after Friday evening’s last training session, the game could see the return of regular good performer of 2016-19 Jack Cook. The tough utility player has been in excellent form for Southport Tigers in the Gold Coast competition after spending a season in France with the Limoux.
Tweed are determined to put behind them their worst performance of the season last Saturday, a 40-12 loss to second-placed Norths Devils.
The teams for the clash at BP Print Stadium, Mackay on Saturday, 6pm kick-off:
TWEED SEAGULLS: Lindon McGrady, Talor Walters, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Brayden McGrady, Will Brimson, Toby Sexton, Herman Ese’ese, Brent Woolf, JJ Collins, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Darius Farmer, Braden Robson. INTERCHANGE (from): Liam Hampson, Ryland Jacobs, Harrison Muller, Luke Burton, Jack Cook.
MACKAY CUTTERS: Josh Smith, Jake Riley, Michael Bell, Blake Atherton, Keanu Kemp, Ata Hingano, Daejearn Asi, Ross Bella (c), Sean Mullany, Jack Brock, Jesse Dee, Ben Condon, Jack Quinn. INTERCHANGE: Brandon Finnegan, Kell Jenner, Aidan Beard, Jaymon Moore.
Round Details:
- Mackay Cutters v Tweed Seagulls v Norths Devils at BP Print Stadium, Saturday June 12 at 6pm
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Media: Neil Cadigan
Ese’Ese Returns To Add Starch To Seagulls’ Pack
Experienced NRL prop and New Zealand international Herman Ese’ese will return from a three-match suspension to boost the Campbell Construction Group Tweed Seagulls side that takes on the Cutters at Mackay’s BP Print Stadium on Saturday night (6pm).
And he is likely to be joined by fellow Titans forwards Jai Whitfield and Joe Vuna, who both last weekend played well in the NRL clash against Melbourne Storm, if Maroons players David Fifita, Moeaki Fotuaika and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui get through Wednesday’s State of Origin opener in Townsville without injury or undue fatigue.
Jayden Campbell, who made an impressive NRL debut against Melbourne, has been chosen as a reserve in the Titans’ 23-man provisional squad but is likely to remain on standby for Queensland utility AJ Brimson, who took a bruised knee into the game.
Ese’ese, who has played four games for the Seagulls this season, was suspended for a high shot on Penrith’s Brian To’o while playing for the Titans in the NRL round 10. He moves into the front row in Ben Woolf’s line-up with Darius Farmer moving back to the second row for Kirk Murphy who has picked up a minor leg injury.
Tweed put in their worst performance of the season in the 40-12 loss to second-placed Norths Devils last Saturday yet retain third spot on the Intrust Super Cup ladder. They will be out to return to form against the Cutters who, although they have won only one match this season, have been highly competitive in six of their nine games.
The Campbell Construction Co. Seagulls team to play Mackay Cutters at BP Print Stadium, Mackay on Saturday:
1 Lindon McGrady
2 Talor Walters
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Brayden McGrady
6 Will Brimson
7 Toby Sexton
8 Herman Ese’ese
9 Brent Woolf
10 JJ Collins
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Darius Farmer
13 Braden Robson
14 Liam Hampson
15 Harrison Muller
16 Ryland Jacobs
17 TBA
Round Details:
- Mackay Cutters v Tweed Seagulls v Norths Devils at BP Print Stadium, Saturday June 12 at 6pm
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Norths Give Seagulls a Devil of a Time at Piggabeen
Neil Cadigan
Norths Devils opened up a three-point gap on the Intrust Super Cup ladder between them and the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls after a convincing 40-12 victory over the Seagulls at Piggabeen Sports Centre on Saturday.
After a tough 30-minute period of scrapping between the two physical packs, as would be expected between the second and third-placed teams, the Devils gained the upper hand either side of half-time with three converted tries and never relented.
It was an impressive performance against a Seagulls side missing key backs Brayden McGrady and Jayden Campbell and in-form forwards Joe Vuna and Jai Whitbread.
After a try, each in the first 11 minutes saw the Devils lead 6-4 before they scored three tries in 12 minutes from the 31st to the 43rd to take a 24-4 lead and were too resilient to let their dominance slip.
Key to their success behind a strong performance by their forwards were playmakers Jack Ahearn and Jack Miers, and Kiwi international hooker Danny Levi who continually created hesitation in the Tweed defence with his smart feigning and probing from dummy half.
Skipper Ahearn was back calling the shots after two weeks’ absence and he and Miers were prominent in five of Norths’ seven tries with coach Rohan Smith’s ploy of playing Ahearn at halfback in attack and fullback in defence working perfectly.
Winger Talor Walters scored Tweed’s first two tries, the first in the fourth minute from a smart shift to the right, and his second eight minutes into the second half. Lindon McGrady had a rare off day with the boot and was unable to convert any of Tweed’s three tries.
And 24-8 Tweed were still in the game with half an hour remaining but lacked the finesse at the end of their sets that they had become accustomed to this season and the strike of fullback Campbell who had been chosen to make his NRL debut with the Titans.
Then came the game-breaking moment. After Norths fielded a Toby Sexton bomb in goal, the ball went to Miers who quickly took the 20-metre tap and, in a set move, took the ball to the unprepared Seagulls line and put Reuben into a hole and he ran 80 metres to give Norths an unassailable lead at 30-8 with Miers’ conversion from the right touchline.
Among Norths’ stars were two local Gold Coast products who got away.
Former Seagulls Mal Meninga Cup star of 2019, 19-year-old Broncos prospect Brendan Piakura, who ran a good outside-in line off Ahearn to score a first-half try and 18-year-old fellow Bronco Xavier Willison who had gained a reputation at Palm Beach Currumbin high school. He did not play a lot of minutes but showed the locals what they were missing with some impressive work.
“We competed alright early on and put Norths under pressure but we really didn’t finish our sets well enough after that,” said Tweed coach Ben Woolf of his team’s performance.
“We knew what was coming from their attack but didn’t respond well enough. They challenge you with the ball; they challenged us in yardage and in good ball. You can’t rest and you can’t assume against them.
“They caught us out on a couple of short [line-drop out] kicks and got us on some one-one-ones. We gave them too much easy ball which enabled them to get down our end and put us under pressure and play attacking football on our line.
“Plus our kicking game and chasing game that has been our strength this season weren’t good enough today.”
Tweed retains third spot despite the loss, only their second this season, and travel to Mackay next weekend to take on the Cutters on Saturday night.
NORTHS DEVILS 40 (J Rueben 2, L Pulu, B Piakura, P Rogers, J Ahearn, J Riki tries; J Miers 6 goals) def. TWEED HEADS SEAGULLS 12 (T Walters 2, L Turner tries) at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Revamped Seagulls Face Toughest Test Against Devils
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls face their toughest test of the season to date when a reshuffled side takes on fellow form team Norths Devils at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Saturday.
Without regulars Jayden Campbell, Jai Whitbread and Joe Vuna who have been called up to the Gold Coast Titans side to play Melbourne Storm, the Seagulls core line-up will get an indication of where it stands as a genuine premiership contender against a Devils side that has plenty of NRL experience and faces familiar to Tweed-Gold Coast footy fans.
Brisbane Broncos feeder team Norths, coached by former Titans assistant coach Rohan Smith (son of four-time NRL grand final coach Brian Smith) are second on the ladder and have won their past five games.
Their outfit includes NRL-seasoned performers Dale Copley, Kiwi international Danny Levi, Leivaha Pulu and Broncos young gun Brendan Piakura while former Newcastle Knights, Titans and Warrington Wolves half Tyrone Roberts is likely to make his comeback from a long-term ankle injury.
Tough forward Ethan Bullamor, who played 12 minutes off the interchange bench for the Broncos on Thursday night, may also be slotted into the Norths side.
The Seagulls, third on the ladder after losing just one of their eight games this season – to unbeaten leaders Wynnum Manly in round two – go into the clash with just two Titans squad members in halfback Toby Sexton and prop Darius Farmer who are both yet to make their NRL debuts.
Yet coach Ben Woolf has full faith in the depth of his squad although he admits the clash with Norths will be its biggest test.
Typical of this depth is that regular five-eighth Lindon McGrady, who scored a club record (for Queensland Cup) 22 points against Brisbane Tigers last round, will slot easily into fullback where winger Talor Walters could also fill the spot. This enables Will Brimson, older brother of Queensland Maroons player A.J. Brimson, moves from centre to his best position of five-eighth.
It is in the forwards where the biggest test will come with early season stand-outs Vuna, Whitbread, Sam McIntyre and Herman Ese’ese all missing. However, reliable performers who have all been in NRL systems like Fijian international and skipper Lamar Liolevave (Wests Tigers), JJ Collins (Canberra Raiders), Braden Robson (Wests Tigers), Faitatoa Faitatoa (Newcastle Knights), Brent Woolf (North Queensland Cowboys) and Juwan Compain (Titans) fill out his extended squad for Saturday’s game.
“This will be a real good challenge for us and will show where we are at,” said Woolf.
“I’m not sure what Norths final side will be like but they have a lot of NRL experience, some good young players as well, are well coached and play a style like we do – a lot of ball movement rather than bash and barge.
“I think Tyrone Roberts will be there somewhere, and we know how skilful he is, and Dale Copley has dominated at this level this year.
“The changes we have had to make shouldn’t worry us. We trained with these combinations regularly in the pre-season.
“And we’re lucky that forwards like Harrison Muller, Faitatoa (Runaway Bay) and Jack Glossop (Mudgeeraba) have been playing big minutes in local A grade and are up to this level.
“Will Brimson (who has played twice at five-eighth this season) is actually better suited at five-eighth than centre and gives us a different dynamic. He’s more of a runner than Lindon, bigger and strong in defence, while Lindon is more a ballplayer.
“With Lindon at No. 1 instead of JC (Campbell), we go from a running fullback and ball-playing five-eighth to a ball-playing fullback and running five-eighth, so there won’t be a lot of change.”
Another Norths player familiar to locals is centre/five-eighth Connor Broadhurst who played under Woolf in the Titans’ under-20s before spending three seasons with Burleigh Bears.
Piakura, the 19-year-old who has just signed a new three-year deal with the Broncos, was a member of Tweed’s all-conquering 2019 under-18s outfit alongside current NRL stars Reece Walsh and Xavier Coates, plus Sexton and Compain.
The teams:
TWEED SEAGULLS: Lindon McGrady Talor Walters, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Brayden McGrady, Will Brimson, Toby Sexton, Darius Farmer, Brent Woolf, JJ Collins, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Kirk Murphy, Braden Robson. INTERCHANGE (from): Liam Hampson, Ryland Jacobs, Harrison Muller, Jack Glossop, Faitatoa Faitatoa, Juwan Compain.
NORTHS DEVILS: Kyle Van Klaveren, Johnathon Reuben, Dale Copley, Tony Tumusa, Rachaun Denny, Connor Broadhurst, Jack Ahearn (capt), Michael Molo, Danny Levi, Leivaha Pulu, Piki Rogers, Moses Noovao-McGreal, Michael Sio. INTERCHANGE (from): Jack Miers, Xavier Willison, Jerome Veve, Brendan Piakura, Jared Chambers, Liam Horne, Tyrone Roberts.
Round Details:
- Tweed Seagulls v Norths Devils, Saturday June 5 at 2.10pm
- Piggabeen Sports Complex, Carramar Drive, Tweed Heads
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Titans’ Origin Selections Filter Down To Seagulls
Neil Cadigan
The Gold Coast Titans’ feat of having four players chosen to participate in the first State of Origin match of the series next Wednesday has filtered down to the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls’ selections for Saturday’s home clash with Norths Devils.
Three regular Seagulls team members have been called up to the Titans’ side to take on Melbourne, forcing Tweed coach Ben Woolf to make changes for the match against Norths who stand one-point above the Seagulls in second place on the ladder.
Exciting young fullback Jayden Campbell will make his NRL debut in place of Maroon A.J. Brimson, edge forward Joe Vuna will make his Titans debut while prop Jai Whitbread has been rewarded for his consistent form for Tweed by being chosen in Gold Coast’s 17. Darius Farmer has been named in the Titans’ 21-man squad but could drop back to play for Seagulls if not retained in the final 19.
The Seagulls have good depth, and versatility in their squad, to adequately cater for the changes.
Lindon McGrady will drop back to fullback from five-eighth, with Will Brimson to wear the No. 6 jersey after missing the round eight 54-12 victory over Brisbane Tigers because of concussion.
In the forwards, regular winger Ryland Jacobs, who has been playing in the middle off the interchange bench, has been named at prop although he will drop to the bench if Farmer is available. Kirk Murphy has been elevated to the second row from the bench.
Former Newcastle Knights’ NSW Cup and under-20s prop Faitatoa Faitatoa has been chosen on the bench for the second time this season with former Titans development player and member of Tweed’s 2019 national under-18 championship winning team, Jowan Compain, is also on an extended bench.
Second-rower Compain has been a stand-out in Matt King’s Hastings Deering Colts side this season. He played two ISC games in 2019 as an 18-year-old.
The Campbell Construction Co. Seagulls team to play Norths Devils at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Saturday:
1 Lindon McGrady
2 Talor Walters
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Brayden McGrady
6 Will Brimson
7 Toby Sexton
8 Ryland Jacobs
9 Brent Woolf
10 JJ Collins
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Kirk Murphy
13 Braden Robson
14 Liam Hampson
15 Harrison Muller
16 Jack Glossop
17 Faitatoa Faitatoa
18 Juwan Compain
Round Details:
- Tweed Seagulls v Norths Devils, Saturday June 5 at 2.10pm
- Piggabeen Sports Complex, Carramar Drive, Tweed Heads
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Seagulls’ Future as Key League Pathway Secured For Three More Years
The Tweed Seagulls’ immediate future as one of the most successful pathways to the National Rugby League has been given a major boost with the announcement of a $1.4 million three-year extension of funding by Norths Collective, parent company of The Seagulls Club.
The Seagulls licenced club is one of five in the Norths Collective group which also funds the North Sydney Bears in the NSW Cup competition.
The ongoing commitment of Norths was widely welcomed today by the Queensland Rugby League, which hosts the Seagulls in the Intrust Super Cup (Queensland Cup), BHP Premiership (women’s statewide competition), Hastings Deering Colts (under-20s) and Auswide Mal Meninga Cup (under-18s), The Cyril Connell Challenge (under-16s) and the Gold Coast Titans who have the Seagulls as a vital feeder team.
The Seagulls are enjoying their most successful period in 15 years with their under-18s having won back-to-back statewide titles and producing some of the NRL’s most exciting prospects while the ISC team stands third on the ladder after making the finals in the last completed competition in 2019.
“The funding of Norths Collective is vital for us to continue as a legitimate pathway for local youth at a critical time in our history,” said Seagulls CEO Matt Francis.
“We are unique in that we provide opportunities for young players across two states – from Northern NSW, the Tweed and the Gold Coast – to play in elite competitions as a direct pathway to the NRL men’s and women’s competitions.
“In the past three years we have seen our former Mal Meninga Cup players like Xavier Coates, Reece Walsh and Tom Dearden make their NRL debuts, we have others like Brendan Piakura and Toby Sexton who are on the verge of following them plus our current ISC fullback Jayden Campbell has come into prominence with his brilliant form.
“And from just three seasons with a women’s team we have produced an Australian representative in Tarryn Aiken, a State of Origin player in Jessika Elliston and have just had Currumbin Eagles product Zara Canfield chosen in the Queensland Origin team.
“It is an exciting time for the Seagulls with development of our ground at Piggabeen Sports Complex in its first stage, thanks to the support of Tweed Council, also taking place.
“Norths Collective’s further commitment plus our close association with the Titans are cornerstones of us continuing to be one of the best rugby league pathways in the country.”
Norths Collective president Mark Holman said the group is proud to extend its partnership for the 2022-24 seasons and further support rugby league at grassroots level.
“Norths Collective, with venues throughout New South Wales, are proud to be part of the NSWRL and QRL families through our involvement with rugby league and this is an extension of our commitment to growing this great game wherever it is played in the community,” Mr Holman said.
Seagulls Club general manager Stuart Burrows added: “Norths Collective and its venues throughout NSW are proud to be part of the QRL family and to extend our commitment to growing this great game and supporting footy wherever it is played in our community. We’re excited to be able to continue our great relationship with, and financial support of, the Tweed Seagulls Rugby League Football Club in a time where people really need community events and engagement.”
Titans CEO Steve Mitchell, whose club has 11 Seagulls under-18s players of 2021 under contract, said he was delighted one of their two feeder teams, along with Burleigh Bears, remains well-positioned to continue producing players of the future.
“We’re excited to know that this funding will go into helping develop the next generation of NRL and NRLW stars,” he said.
“The Tweed Seagulls are a place where kids can start their rugby league journey and go right through to become professional players in our game.
“The Seagulls and Titans share the same philosophies have very similar goals, which sees us both striving to not only be successful on the field but to be clubs that make our local community clubs and the Gold Coast-Tweed region is proud of.”
The Seagulls ISC side is third on the ladder behind Wynnum Manly and Norths Devils after winning 12 (plus a draw) of their past 15 games. The Colts team is running fifth after eight rounds while the under-18s are undisputedly the best junior representative team in Queensland competitions after winning the statewide final in early May in Townsville to add to the 2019 state and national titles (the 2020 season was abandoned after one round).
The BHP (women’s) premiership team finished fifth out of eight teams with the seven-round statewide competition completed last weekend.
Of this year’s under-18s, 16 players have secured agreements.
Seagulls and Tigers play out final round draw
Neil Cadigan
The Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls’ BHP Premiership season ended with a combination of pride and heartbreak after a 16-16 draw with Brisbane Tigers at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Sunday.
The Seagulls scored four tries to three, the last coming less than two minutes from full-time when five-eighth Amy Turner crossed scored a brilliant individual try off a set move off a centre-field scrum.
The Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons representative doubled around after passing to left centre Shaylee Bent and beat the scrambling defence with pace.
That left second-rower Zara Canfield – one of Tweed’s best all season in a brave, but under-manned side playing for the second time this season with only 16 players because of injury – with the opportunity to land a difficult goal and give her side a second successive victory to end a tough season, following a 20-14 win against the Capras in Emerald the previous weekend.
However, the ball just swung wide, leaving Tweed with a draw and fifth spot on the ladder in the eight-team competition.
“We certainly didn’t deserve to lose, so a try near the end to draw was just reward for the girls’ efforts,” Tweed coach Chris O’Connell said.
“We dominated the game for a good period and scored four tries to three.
“It was the story of our year. We had a lot of ball, started well, but couldn’t convert that into enough points.
“In most of our games we played really well for 55-60 minutes, but we’d lapse and let in a few tries in the other periods.
“But considering the injuries we had and how we struggled to field enough numbers quite a few times, and to get all the team at training, the girls really put in and hopefully we can keep most of them together and improve further next season.”
Tweed played the entire season without State of Origin second-rower Jessika Elliston who suffered a bad ankle injury in the dying minutes of the final trial game and lost Indigenous All Stars fullback Leticia Quinlan with an ACL injury in the first round.
Yet, they competed to the end with Canfield and Australian representative Tarryn Aiken prominent.
Canfield scored Tweed’s first try in the 12th minute after a long pass to the left from halfback Aiken 10 metres from the line.
Kathrine Moore responded for the Tigers by crashing through the defence from short range on the left edge, with Shae Yvonne De La Cruz giving the Tigers the lead with the conversion.
Brooke Saddler put the Seagulls back in front two minutes after half-time after winning the race for the ball in the left corner from a neat grubber kick off the boot of Canfield, taking the score to 8-6.
Tweed were in again four minutes later when Georgia Hale went over after good lead-up work from dummy half by Rona Peters to make it 12-6.
In the 49th minute, Emily Veivers looked left then darted to the right corner to score for Brisbane after winger Lucy Cuppari had been brought down metres from the Seagulls’ line.
Lock Moore went over for her second try in the 53rd minute, just to the left of the posts after stepping off her right foot and burrowing under the defence. Veivers converted to make it 16-12.
After forcing a Tigers’ error, the Tweed players were ecstatic when Turner crossed in the dying seconds, but with a crosswind, it was a difficult kick for Canfield who was warmly embraced by her teammates after full-time.
Main image: Dylan Parker Photography
Seagulls Nail Biggest Win in Six Years
Neil Cadigan
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls today recorded their biggest winning margin since 2015 with a 54-12 demolition of Brisbane Tigers at Piggabeen Sports Complex, proving they are a genuine contender to win their first Intrust Super Cup premiership since 2007.
Five-eighth Lindon McGrady converted all of Tweed’s nine tries, three from right on the touchline, and added a try of his own for a career-best 22 points as the Seagulls came from behind for the seventh time in eight games this season.
It was the first half-century posted by the Seagulls since a 52-24 win against the Cutters in Mackay in the corresponding eighth round in 2018, with a Tweed side that boasted NRL heavyweights Kane Elgey, AJ Brimson and Moeaki Fotuaika, and the biggest margin since the 50-4 slaughter of Burleigh Bears in the Rivalry Round clash of ’15.
Yet it took 23 minutes for Tweed make an imprint on the scoreboard, while the Tigers were down to 14 men with Mitch Frei in the sin bin for a high tackle, after Brisbane had gone to a 6-0 lead after nine minutes with a converted try to fullback Michael Purcell.
It was a tough, even encounter for the first 20 minutes before McGrady opened the scoring with one of several long-range Tweed tries. Lindon backed up to take an inside pass from cousin Brayden McGrady after centre Lee Turner had broken free.
That started a scoring spree that saw the Seagulls score nine tries in 44 minutes to demoralise the Tigers who were missing some key players but still fielded an experienced ISC side.
Skipper Lamar Liolevave, one of Tweed’s unsung heroes this season with his tough carries and efficient defence on the left edge, said it wasn’t the points barrage that impressed him most about the victory but the consistency in applying pressure over 80 minutes, something Tweed have struggled to do this season despite only one defeat in eight games.
“The boys were able to keep the pressure on them non-stop and the score showed that,” said the Fijian international. “That was the most pleasing thing for me.
“We started a bit slow again, as we have been in most games this season, but we struck back quicker than usual and didn’t let go.
“They were missing a few players but the belief in the team is building, and to post a big score like that will be good for our confidence. We have Norths Devils, who are above us on the ladder, next round so that will be the real indication of where we’re at.”
Coach Ben Woolf agreed that it wasn’t the exhibition of tryscoring that was the most important component but the defensive effort of the forwards and the team’s step forward in controlling the ball and constructively building pressure in an effort that mirrored the 28-16 round five win against Redcliffe.
“We know we have plenty of strike out wide but the forwards deserved the most credit today in getting on top after a physical first 20 and going on with the job.”
Fullback Jayden Campbell again impressed with some brilliant touches from fullback in front of Titans coach Justin Holbrook and his number one No. 1 AJ Brimson. He scored Tweed’s second try in the 23rd minute after stepping around three defenders and was prominent in three others.
Treymain Spry, who played five NRL games for the Titans last season, picked up two tries while Darius Farmer made his mark, scoring a try and pulling off the hit of the day with a brutal head-on tackle on Tigers halfback and skipper Darren Nicholls in the 55th minute.
The ball was coughed up because of the impact with Joe Vuna scooping it up and running away before sending an overhead pass to the supporting Spry who ran under the posts. Farmer was later sin-binned for a high tackle.
Tweed scored some polished tries after spreading the ball on the back of good downfield headway, with half Toby Sexton and Lindon McGrady directing play well in the team’s most dominant performance of the season.
McGrady took his points tally to 425 points since joining the club in 2017 and needs only eight more to pass James Wood’s 432 to become the third-highest scorer for the club in Queensland Cup competition – behind Brad Davis’ 1066 and Nathaneal Barnes’ 514.
The Seagulls are unbeaten in their past five games this season and have won 12 and drawn one of the past 16 matches since 2019. They take on the Devils in two weeks after a well-earned rest next weekend in the second week of the split round.
TWEED SEAGULLS 54 (T Spry 2, L McGrady, J Campbell, L Hampson, D Farmer, B McGrady, K Murphy, T Walters tries; L McGrady 9 goals) def. BRISBANE TIGERS 12 (M Purcell, J People tries; B Torpy 2 goals) at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Hampson Cleared to Strengthen Gulls Against Tigers
Neil Cadigan
Lively hooker Liam Hampson has been cleared to take his place on the bench in the Campbell Construction Co. team to take on Brisbane Tigers at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Sunday after recovering from a head knock suffered late in the match against Northern Pride last Saturday.
His tag-team combination with Brent Woolf at dummy half has been one of the real strengths of the Seagulls’ performances this season that has them in third position going into the round eight clash against the Tigers who have gathered confidence and momentum in recent weeks.
Coach Ben Woolf is also hopeful of having Titans squad members Jayden Campbell, who has been in hot form at fullback, and chief organiser Toby Sexton (halfback) available although he is resigned to consistent prop Jai Whitbread missing the game.
Campbell and Sexton were named in the Titans’ 21-man squad for Saturday’s game against Canterbury but are expected to drop off the list being the final 19 is declared this afternoon. If this happens, Luke Jurd will drop out of the side, Talor Walters will go back to the wing and Ryland Jacobs back to the bench.
Lock Braden Robson, who has missed the last three games with a knee injury, has also been cleared to take his place. The skillful former Wests Tigers/Magpies forward was in solid form before suffering the injury.
The Tigers, a Melbourne Storm feeder team, had a poor start to the season with a 40-10 loss to Norths Devils and30-0 drubbing by Townsville Blackhawks but have since found form with their only other losses a 22-14 defeat by unbeaten leaders Wynnum Manly and last Sunday’s 14-12 deficit against Redcliffe Dolphins.
They have this season fielded Storm players in Brenko Lee, Ryles Jacks, Aaron Pene, Aaron Booth and Isaac Lumelume.
“They have suffered a bit through injuries and suspensions and fullback Gerard Beale has just been picked up by the Dragons,” said Tweed coach Ben Woolf. “But they have a few decent Storm players and a lot of experience in halves Brayden Torpy and Darren Nicholls, hooker Aaron Booth and (prop) Jordan Grant.
“They’ll be tough. They put 50 points on Burleigh which shows what they’re capable of and have plenty of depth and good players.
“We just have to remain consistent during the game. We know we’ve been behind in plenty of games this season and had to fight back; with the way the game is being refereed these days with the six-again rule and sin-binning, you expect the momentum to ebb and flow.
“If you drop behind you have to show some toughness and composure and claw back into it and fortunately were have been able to do that consistently this season.”
The telling stat in 2020 is that Tweed have been behind at half-time or within 10 minutes after the break-in all but one of their eight games. That was when they led 18-4 at the break against the Dolphins in Redcliffe and went on to win 28-16 in the Seagulls’ best performance of the season.
Likely teams – Seagulls v Tigers, 3pm Sunday at Piggabeen Sports Complex:
Tweed Seagulls: Jayden Campbell, Talor Walters, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Brayden McGrady, Lindon McGrady, Toby Sexton/Luke Jurd, Darius Farmer, Brent Woolf, JJ Collins, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Joe Vuna, Braden Robson. INTERCHANGE (from): Liam Hampson, Rylan Jacobs, Kirk Murphy, Harrison Muller, Luke Burton.
Brisbane Tigers: Tyson Purcell, Isaac Lumelume, Solomona Faataape, Kea Pere, Ronald Phillitoga, Brayden Torpy, Darren Nicholls (capt), Jack Svendsen, Aaron Booth, Jordan Grant, Mitch Frei, Ioane Seiuli, Bennett Leslie. INTERCHANGE: Hugh Pratt, Jack Peoples, Tagiolupe Tivalu, Brett Greinke.
Seagulls Wait on Titans’ and Doctor’s Decisions
Neil Cadigan
The third-placed Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls coach Ben Woolf will not know until he gathers his squad at Friday’s final training session before he can confirm his line-up for Sunday’s Intrust Super Cup clash with Brisbane Tigers at Piggabeen Sports Complex (2pm).
One change that is confirmed is the loss of centre Will Brimson who suffered a head knock in the draw with Northern Pride last Saturday. The Gulls are fortunate to have NRL-experienced Treymain Spry ready to return to the side after missing last weekend’s game because of illness.
However, Woolf was unable to name regular strong performers Jayden Campbell, Toby Sexton and Jai Whitbread who have all been chosen in the Titans’ initial 21-man squad to play Canterbury at Cbus Super Stadium on Saturday.
Talor Walters has been listed as provisional fullback, Darius Farmer has been elevated from the bench to the front row and Luke Jurd, who broke his hand during a pre-season trial, is fit to return and has been named at halfback.
Campbell and Sexton will come back into the side, and train on Friday, if not retained in the final Titans’ 19 which has to be declared by 3pm Friday. Consistent prop Whitbread could even take his place against the Tigers if he carries the Titans’ 18th-man duties on Saturday but doesn’t get onto the field.
Hooker Liam Hampson has also been left off the Seagulls’ team list submitted to the Queensland Rugby League on Tuesday because he failed to return to the field after a head knock last Saturday. But if medically cleared on Thursday, he will take his regular No. 14 jersey.
“There are a few balls in the air but we’re used to not having the Titans players train with us until Friday anyway, so our preparation won’t be affected much,” said Woolf.
“Will has definitely been ruled out and we’re fortunate that a player the calibre of Treymain comes straight back in after having to drop out last week.
“The forward depth is good too with Darius Farmer there to start at prop and hopefully Braden Robson will be fit to play after missing the last three rounds.”
The Campbell Construction Co. Seagulls team to play Brisbane Tigers:
1 Talor Walters
2 Ryland Jacobs
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Brayden McGrady
6 Lindon McGrady
7 Luke Jurd
8 Darius Farmer
9 Brent Woolf
10 JJ Collins
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Joe Vuna
13 Braden Robson
14 TBA
15 Kirk Murphy
16 Harrison Muller
17 Luke Burton
Round Details:
- Tweed Seagulls v Brisbane Tigers, Sunday May 15 at 2pm
- Piggabeen Sports Complex, Carramar Drive, Tweed Heads
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Campbell Stars with Three Tries In Seagulls’ Draw with Northern Pride
Neil Cadigan
Slightly-built fullback Jayden Campbell scored three brilliant tries reminiscent of his famous father Preston during the Campbell Building Co. Tweed Seagulls’ 18-all draw with a resolute Northern Pride at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Saturday afternoon.
As Seagulls fans have come to expect this season Tweed again had to come from behind, again they drove into tackles in the middle in an absorbing battling between the forwards and, again, the 21-year-old Campbell had some magic touches in taking his try tally to five in five games as his Dad watched on.
Two came from kick-and-regather efforts, the first his own boot and the second from classy halfback Toby Sexton, and the other when he exploded off a neat Jai Whitbread pass from 40-metres for a try that levelled the scores at 18-apiece in the 60th minute.
Both teams could not get across the line after that and had failed field goal attempts, Pride five-eighth Tom Steadman hitting the left upright from in front in the 72nd minute and Sexton missing from just to the right of the post in the 75th.
Tweed – who had two tries in the first half called back by the referee for obstruction in what seemed harsh calls and Whitbread sin-binned in the sixth minute for a high tackle – did well to strike back from 18-6 behind after the Pride scored two soft tries in successive sets early in the second half.
Seagulls coach Ben Woolf felt his side became too conservative and one-dimensional in the final 10 minutes as they ran one out looking for field goal position when he would have liked them to continue their positive passing which has been a feature of their success this season.
“We paid for a couple of defensive lapses early in the second half but I thought we did well to come back and level the scores,” said Woolf, “but, after starting to break them down by playing some footy, we went away from that and were looking at hit up after hit up to set up for a field goal or the one winning play instead of probing them and probing them.
“We went from rolling well down the middle then playing some good shape to going one out. But that’s part of learning as a team.”
On Campbell’s performance, Woolf says his footwork and speed has troubled every defence this season, whether returning the ball or jumping onto some good lead-up work, but the 80kg string bean may need to build his weight and strength to handle the rigours of week to week play NRL.
Tweed had three clear scoring opportunities go begging in the first half to spoil what could have been a decisive start to the game.
Talor Walters looked set to cross in the right corner in the seventh minute but went touch-in-goal as he dived over the line with the defence converging. Three minutes later Lindon McGrady seemed to have scored on the left edge but was called back for obstruction by a lead-runner.
The Pride were able to ice their first real chance after gaining possession when Campbell lost the ball in a tackle after taking a bomb. Three tackles later, with Tweed down to 12-men with Whitbread’s binning, Pride halfback Matthew Egan brilliantly ran into space from close range for a try to the left of the posts which gave the Pride a 6-0 lead with Steadman’s conversion in the 18th minute.
Campbell’s first try came in the 30th minute. He snapped up a pass from Sexton near his ankle on the right side, finished on his knee, found his feet and ducked under a tackle, crabbed to his left then grubber kicked through the line from 10 metres and regathered under the posts.
That finished the first-half scoring with Tweed denied another try after left centre Lee Turner crossed from a neat held-up pass from Lindon McGrady in what seemed a well-executed shape, only for another obstruction call.
The Pride started the second half better than their opponents and were rewarded when they took advantage of an error in yardage by the Seagulls (a pass from Liam Hampson went to ground). Two tackles after the resulting scrum Steadman stepped through the defence to score and, from the set after the kick-off, the ball went to the left and winger Shawn Bowen grabbed an overlap, broke away and found fullback Jayden Corrigan in support. His converted try made it 18-6 after 47 minutes.
To their credit, the Seagulls upped the tempo and Campbell soon after was in for his second try. Halfback Sexton put a crafty last-tackle grubber kick through from 30 metres and Campbell shot through the line to be first to the ball and shook off a defender before scoring for 18-12 with McGrady’s goal.
At the 59th-minute mark Whitbread, who had a strong game, drew in the defence and created space for Campbell with a good pass at the line. Once Campbell gets into space on the fly there is little chance of stopping him and he easily stepped Corrigan to go in beside the posts to level the scores.
One of the Pride’s strongest performers, skipper and hooker Chris Ostwald, looked like he might snatch victory in the 65th minute when he burrowed over the line but he was brilliantly held up by Lamar Liolevave and Hampson who went off for a HIA spell for his troubles.
From then neither side was able to create a winning play and the Pride secured their second draw of the season (both 18-18) after sharing the points in round two with the Capras while the Seagulls took their unbeaten run to five games.
Both packs of forwards deserve credit for tearing into each other relentlessly on the heavy surface while Titans-contracted 20-year-old Sexton controlled play well for Tweed as he continues his apprenticeship towards an NRL debut.
TWEED HEADS SEAGULLS 18 (B Campbell 3 tries; L McGrady 3 goals)
NORTHERN PRIDE 18 (M Egan, T Steadman, J Corrigan tries; Steadman 3 goals) at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Campbell Back for Clash with In-Form Pride at Piggabeen
Neil Cadigan
Exciting fullback Jayden Campbell will return to Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls side to take on fifth-placed Northern Pride in tomorrow’s Intrust Super Cup clash at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
The 21-year-old, who travelled with the Titans side to Sydney last weekend as 19th man, had been in brilliant form for the Seagulls in the first five rounds and comes back into a strong backline, even with the loss of strike centre Treymain Spry through illness.
Coach Ben Woolf has the benefit of good depth right across the squad and certainly versatility in the backs which will enable a shuffle of positions that should cause little disruption.
Lindon McGrady will revert to five-eighth (from fullback) and Will Brimson switch to the centres. Brayden McGrady, initially listed as 18th man, comes onto the wing, with Ryland Jacobs dropping to the bench.
Campbell’s elusive running from the back has been a feature of Tweed’s excellent form this season that sees them in second spot behind the unbeaten Wynnum Manly. They will benefit from his presence against the North Queensland Cowboys’ feeder side that has won three and drawn one from their six matches, including a 26-16 victory last weekend against a Souths Logan Magpies team that included NRL-experienced players Corey Paix, Tom Dearden, Albert Kelly, John Asiata and Tesi Nui plus Broncos squad member Kobi Hetherington.
Tweed are chasing their fifth straight win in a game that celebrates last Saturday’s three-try winger Talor Walters’ 50th ISC appearance.
“They’re going to be pretty tough; they’ve been going well while slipping under the radar a bit,” Woolf said of the Pride.
“While some of their more prominent Cowboys players who were there earlier in the year have moved back up to the NRL, they’ve got some good young Cowboys squad members like big forwards Heilum Luki and Ieremia Nanai.
“The Pride will definitely be tough; they’re travelling pretty well without making too much noise. Their big forwards are their strength and we have to match them in the middle but that’s been one of our strengths this season.
“We’re fortunate that we have such good depth in the backs, as shown by being able to rest Treymain who has been crook during the week and still have Ryland Jacobs on the bench, who can cover the backs or time in the forwards.
“We haven’t been perfect and still haven’t had great completion rates but we’re finding ways to win games without a lot of possession which reflects our defensive attitude and our ability to get points when we do have the ball.
“It’s a tough competition though and we have to maintain our consistency and enthusiasm every week, especially against teams like the Pride who are playing with a lot of confidence.”
Other Tweed Seagulls matches this weekend:
BHP Premiership (women’s) – Central Qld Capras v Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls at McIndoe Park, Emerald, 4pm
Hastings Deering Colts – Tweed Seagulls v Northern Pride at Piggabeen Sports Complex, 1.30pm
The ISC teams:
Tweed Seagulls: Jayden Campbell, Talor Walters, Will Brimson, Lee Turner, Brayden McGrady, Lindon McGrady, Toby Sexton, Jai Whitbread, Brent Woolf, JJ Collins, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Joe Vuna, Darius Farmer. INTERCHANGE: Liam Hampson, Ryland Jacobs, Kirk Murphy, Luke Burton.
Northern Pride: Jayden Corrigan, Shawn Bowen, Grant Anderson, Evan Child, Bernard Lewis, Todd Steadman, Matthew Egan, Rod Griffin, Chris Ostwald, Nick Lui-Toso, Joshua Stuckey, Heilum Luki, Tom McGrath. INTERCHANGE: Ieremia Nanai, Terrence Casey-Douglas, Ewan Moore, Paea Pua.
Round Details:
- Tweed Seagulls v Northern Pride, Saturday May 15 at 3.30pm
- Piggabeen Sports Complex, Carramar Drive, Tweed Heads
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Seagulls Stability Handy as They Chase Sixth Win
Neil Cadigan
Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls coach Ben Woolf will continue to face tough selection decisions as his side approaches the round seven clash with Northern Pride this Saturday at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
With no injury problems emerging from last weekend’s 32-26 victory over Ipswich and a chance to have an extra player drop back from the Gold Coast Titans later in the week, he has a riches of talent in the backs and the forwards.
The 17 declared on Tuesday afternoon saw former Penrith Panthers centre-winger Brayden McGrady listed as 18th man despite the Seagulls being likely to field only three Titans-contracted players in Toby Sexton, Jai Whitbread and Darius Farmer.
Regular good performers from the first five rounds, Jayden Campbell and Sam McIntyre who travelled to Sydney as the Titans’ 18th and 19th men, were again not named as they are in the Titans’ initial listing of 21 players available for Sunday’s NRL Magic Weekend clash with Penrith Panthers at Suncorp Stadium.
With the make-up of the Titans side swinging on David Fifita successfully challenging a high tackle charge on Wednesday and wanting to have the cover of 19 available players up to match day, coach Woolf will against rely on his regular Seagulls personnel who have done the job so well for him this season.
The strength of the side despite McIntyre and Campbell’s likely absence shows the depth coach Woolf has to choose from this season.
“It’s good to have good coverage across the squad and we won’t be able to confirm the 17 until later in the week,” said Woolf.
“First will be seeing how the Titans end up after they attempt to get David Fifita’s charge downgraded. We’ll look at how a few players come up with injuries too and how we get through the week at training before we decide the final team.
“But it’s good to be low on injuries and having plenty of players fighting for positions.”
The only change to the team that beat the Jets is lock Braden Robson will most likely come back into the starting pack after missing last Saturday’s game because of a minor knee injury and reliable winger Rowland Jacobs, who returned from a month’s absence with injury on the bench against the Jets, elevated into the starting line-up in McGrady’s place in the provisional team.
The Seagulls, who stand second on the ladder behind the unbeaten Wynnum Manly Seagulls after five wins and a loss to the other Seagulls, will confront tough opponents in the North Queensland Cowboys’ feeder team who beat Souths Logan Magpies 26-16 last weekend to take them to fifth place with three wins and a draw.
The Campbell Construction Co. Seagulls team to play Northern Pride:
1 Lindon McGrady
2 Talor Walters
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Rowland Jacobs
6 Will Brimson
7 Toby Sexton
8 Jai Whitbread
9 Brent Woolf
10 JJ Collins
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Joe Vuna
13 Braden Robson
14 Liam Hampson
15 Darius Farmer
16 Kirk Murphy
17 Luke Burton
18 Brayden McGrady
Round Details:
- Tweed Seagulls v Northern Pride, Saturday, May 15 at 3.30pm
- Piggabeen Sports Complex, Carramar Drive, Tweed Heads
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Mal Meninga to Head Legendary Panel at Seagulls Origins of Success Luncheon
Rugby League Immortal Mal Meninga will head a list of Queensland State of Origin heroes who will be special guests of the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls event to raise funds for the Tom Searle Scholarships and the Seagulls to Heroes Pathways programs on June 11.
The Tweed Seagulls have proved to be one of the most successful pathway systems in the country with their Mal Meninga Cup (under-18s) teams winning successive statewide finals and producing current fulltime NRL squad members Xavier Coates, Tom Dearden, Reece Walsh, Brendan Piakura and Toby Sexton.
The Tom Searle Scholarship program was established in 2020 to assist Seagulls male and female team members in areas of education and football needs.
A Seagulls life member and club legend Tom Searle was synonymous with rugby league in the Tweed and Gold Coast region for over 50 years. Tom was passionate about giving youth the opportunity to succeed on and off the field and the scholarships named in his honour will continue to support the next generation of Seagulls players.
Origin’s most successful figure as a player and coach, Mal Meninga will be joined on stage at the Friday, June 11 luncheon hosted by Seagulls Leagues Club by Maroons legends Ashley Harrison, Nate Myles, Chris Walker and Kevin Campion to dissect this year’s first State of Origin clash (played the two days earlier), what it takes to build a successful team and the value of successful development systems.
Campion began his grade career with the Seagulls in the early 1990s before winning two premierships and playing four times for Queensland while Myles, Harrison and Walker all spend time on the Gold Coast with the Titans – Harrison and Walker as inaugural players in 2007.
Tickets are available from our online store for $110pp (Inc. GST) for a two-course luncheon and drinks package. You can book tables of 8 or individual tickets.
https://www.tweedseagulls.com.au/product/seagulls-origins-of-success-luncheon/
The club will announce at the lunch the inaugural Cyril Connell Cup (under-16s) and Mal Meninga Cup recipients of the Tom Searle Scholarships and also celebrate the extraordinary success of the under-18s teams.
Hope to see you there!
Seagulls Retain Second Place After Come-From-Behind Win at Ipswich
Neil Cadigan
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls had to, yet again, come from behind on the scoreboard to record their fifth win from six games and claim second place on the Intrust Super Cup ladder with a 32-26 victory against Ipswich Jets at North Ipswich Reserve on Saturday.
The Seagulls have only once this season not given up a lead either by halftime or in the second half, failing only once to peg back the deficit – in the second round 36-24 loss to the unbeaten Wynnum Manly. In four of their five victories – against the Capras, Magpies, Bears and Jets – they have shown the character and confidence to overhaul their opponents (they led most of the game against Redcliffe, the Gulls’ best win of the season).
And it was the case again against the unconventional Jets in a game in which Tweed conceded an eight-point try, four penalty goals and possession from three shallow kick-offs – all of which shows what visiting teams confront in Ipswich: a style which can put opponents out of stride.
“It wasn’t a pretty victory but that’s what you get against Ipswich,” said coach Ben Woolf.
“It’s hard to keep any momentum against them because it’s such a stop-start game with their short kick-offs, slow play the balls and a heap of penalties. It was a frustrating game but we rolled downfield well against them and I always thought we could score points if we kept the ball.
“We stood back waiting for something to happen and let them run across the field too much but in the end, we corrected that a bit and got a valuable win.”
Right-winger Talor Walters scored a hat-trick of tries, the first coming in the sixth minute from a smart passing movement down the short side after a run of possession. Lindon McGrady’s conversion made it 6-0 but the Jets scored the next 18 points over 28 minutes, a period that saw Tweed forwards Darius Farmer and JJ Collins spend HIA stints on the sideline.
The first of the Jets’ touchdowns was ruled an eight-point try with McGrady penalised for using his legs dangerously even though it seemed an innocuous incident after Ipswich prop Nathanial Neale pounced on a grubber kick that rebounded off a Tweed defender.
A converted try and two more penalty goals gave Ipswich an 18-6 lead after 34 minutes before Lee Turner crossed on the left to bring the score back to 18-10 at the break.
The Jets went to 24-10 ahead with a converted try scored by second-rower Julian Christian when he rolled through the middle of the ruck from close range.
Tweed quickly gained some composure with Walters crossing for his second try from a scrum after a Jets’ dropped the ball before former Souths Logan Magpies forward Luke Burton picked up a double on debut for the Seagulls within seven minutes with McGrady’s conversions giving Tweed the lead at 26-24 for the first time since early in the match.
Burton, who played for Runaway Bay in the Gold Coast competition last season after the Intrust Super Cup was abandoned, accepted a tip-back from centre Treymain Spry after a Seagulls bomb and then hit a hole off hooker Liam Hampson to grab his second.
It was left to Walters, who played strongly and had plenty of work to cross for all three of his tries, to secure the victory when he crossed in the right corner with three minutes remaining. His strength, footwork and pace has turned the former fullback into a quality finisher on the right flank and his hat-trick gives the utility back, who scored 14 tries in 2019, five for the season.
There were no stand-out performers for the Seagulls in a match marred by continual stoppages but none were better than prop Jai Whitbread who has dropped back from the Titans with good energy and commitment in every game this season.
The Seagulls stand two points behind leaders Wynnum Manly on the ladder, level with the unbeaten Norths Devils who were scheduled to play Burleigh Bears on Sunday. Tweed takes on Northern Pride at Piggabeen Sports Complex next Saturday.
TWEED HEAD SEAGULLS 32 (T Walters 3, L Burton 2, L Turner tries; L McGrady 4 goals) def. IPSWICH JETS 26 (N Neale, T Coburn, J Christian tries; J Cleeland 7 goals) at North Ipswich Reserve.
Farmer Has Chance to Make His Mark Against Jets
Neil Cadigan
Gold Coast Titans forward Darius Farmer has the opportunity to put an early stamp on the fortunes of the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls after being handed a starting position for the first time when the Gulls take on Ipswich Jets at North Ipswich Reserve on Saturday (6pm kick-off).
Farmer, who has played four times off the bench for Tweed this season with good effect but has averaged only 29 minutes playing time, comes into the lock position after Braden Robson has withdrawn because of a knee injury.
The 104kg 22-year-old Junior Kiwis representative is yet to make his NRL debut but will be encouraged by the elevation of Sam McIntyre and Herman Ese’ese into the Titans side in recent weeks off the back of good form for the Seagulls.

KPM Photography
He now gets his chance to make an impact against the unpredictable Jets and put himself on the roadmap, alongside consistent prop Jai Whitbread who must be knocking on the door for a recall to the Titans’ side.
Centre Treymain Spry will return to action for the Seagulls in a further backline change. The 21-year-old, who made five NRL appearances for the Titans last season, has not played since the round one victory over Central Queensland Capras. He comes into the centres with Brayden McGrady switching to the wing and Rowland Jacob dropping back to the bench.
Even though the Jets have won only one of their first five games, they continue to be a threat to any team by playing the unconventional style that includes shallow kick-offs, wide shifts of the ball from any side of the field, chip kicks and second phase offloads aplenty that they were renowned for under the coaching of Ben and Shane Walker.
The Seagulls have a new halves combination gelling together for the first time in Toby Sexton and Will Brimson with Lindon McGrady dropping to fullback to cover the unavailability of Jayden Campbell, who has been in brilliant form.
Yet despite the changes, Woolf is confident his side will maintain their momentum against the Jets who they have beaten in three of their past four visits to Ipswich.
To do that though, says coach Ben Woolf, they have to keep their discipline and effort in defence against a Jets side that has dominated the possession and line-break stats in the first five rounds yet come up with only one victory, 40-24 against the Capras, in their last outing.
“If you allow the Jets to do what they set out to do with their unconventional style, they can suddenly put a lot of points on you,” said Woolf.
“We need to improve our completion rate, which still hasn’t been above 70 percent this season. One positive thing from that has been we’ve learned to win with less possession than our opponents and hopefully, that will put us in good stead against a side like the Jets.
“We’ve got a few players who have come up against them in the past few seasons so they know what to expect. And that’s to expect the unexpected and understand they’ll get some repeat sets against you and put you under pressure.
“We’ve got a few changes which we can expect will take a little time to click. But the main thing is we continue to dig in on our line defensive, be physical and scramble.
“Darius has been good for us off the bench but this is his chance to have a presence early and get more game time.
“I think we have been building in confidence and character and the win against Redcliffe last round was our best this season. But you never know how the week off is going to affect you so we have to be ‘on’ from the start.”
The Campbell Construction Co. Seagulls team:
Tweed Seagulls: Lindon McGrady, Talor Walters, Lee Turner, Brayden McGrady, Will Brimson, Toby Sexton, Jai Whitbread, Liam Hampson, JJ Collins, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Joe Vuna, Darius Farmer. INTERCHANGE: Brent Woolf, Rowland Jacob, Kirk Murphy, Luke Burton.
Ipswich Jets: Jayden Connors, Ratu Jope Rotavisoro, Ben White, Jordan Carriera, Richard Pandia, Josh Cleeland, Julian Christian, Tyson Lofipo, Kierran Moseley, Nathaniel Neale (capt), Tyler Coburn, Zac Hetherington, Seb Pandia. INTERCHANGE; Ono So’oialo, Todd White, Blake Lenehan, Wilson Malaesilia.
Round Details:
- Ipswich Jets v Tweed Seagulls, Saturday May 8 at 5pm
- North Ipswich Reserve, 43 The Terrace, North Ipswich
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Seagulls Forced To Make Backline Switches
Neil Cadigan
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls have been forced to shuffle their backline for Saturday’s clash with Ipswich Jets at North Ipswich Reserve with exciting young fullback Jayden Campbell called up to the Gold Coast Titans’ extended squad chosen for their clash with Wests Tigers in Sydney.
Campbell has been in brilliant attacking form this season but the Seagulls are fortunate to have plenty of backline choices with five-eighth Lindon McGrady dropping back to the custodian position which he handled well in several games in 2019.
Talor Walters returns on the wing after missing the victory against Redcliffe Dolphins in round five because of illness. This allows Brayden McGrady, who made his comeback from a hamstring injury on the wing against Redcliffe, to move closer to the action in the centres, his regular position.
Ever-reliable Ryland Jacob returns to the other wing after missing three matches because of a broken finger.
Will Brimson, older brother of Titans fullback Alexander (AJ) Brimson will move from the centres to five-eighth.
“We’re lucky we have some backs who can cover several positions so even though we’ll miss Jayden, who has been in really good form, if he remains in the Titans’ travelling squad to Sydney, Lindon has played plenty of fullback and Brayden has played most of his football at centre and Will at five-eighth, so we are well covered,” said coach Ben Woolf.
“That’s the good thing about our squad this season, we have better depth and more options than we’ve had before in time here as coach.”
The major change in the forwards is the loss of experienced prop Herman Ese’ese who impressed in his first appearance for the Titans against his former club Brisbane Broncos during a 28-minute stint off the bench. He has retained his spot and Kirk Murphy is likely to play in his place off the interchange bench.
However, Tweed could get back Sam McIntyre who has played off the bench for the Titans in their past two games but has made way in the initially-selected 17 for Tino Fa’asuamaleaui who is back from suspension.
The Campbell Construction Co. Seagulls team:
1 Lindon McGrady
2 Talor Walters
3 Brayden McGrady
4 Lee Turner
5 Rowland Jacob
6 Will Brimson
7 Toby Sexton
8 Jai Whitbread
9 Liam Hampson
10 JJ Collins
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Joe Vuna
13 Braden Robson
14 Brent Woolf
15 Darius Farmer
16 Kirk Murphy
17 Jack Glossop
18 Harrison Muller
Round Details:
- Ipswich Jets v Tweed Seagulls, Saturday May 8 at 5pm
- North Ipswich Reserve, 43 The Terrace, North Ipswich
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Seagulls Become Undisputed Champions in Townsville
Neil Cadigan
The Tweed Seagulls can lay claim to being the best under-age statewide team in Queensland after securing back-to-back Mal Meninga Cup (under-18) titles with a 30-24 victory over the previously unbeaten Townsville Blackhawks on the Blackhawks’ home soil yesterday.
In a pulsating game of brilliant attack and desperate defence, the underdog Seagulls were inspired to lift themselves for absent forward leader Jack Cullen, their family group of supporters who had to abandon their trip to Townsville on the morning of the game because of a flight delay and the strong mateship within Tim Maccan’s squad.
Tweed conceded a try in the first minute to be 6-0 behind before touching the ball but led 20-6 just 20 minutes later and 20-12 at half-time. Yet they had to come from 24-20 behind with seven minutes remaining to match the feat of the 2019 side that went on to become national champions.
The players ran out with the name of their mate ‘Cully’ written on their wrists in a message to take the trophy home to Cullen, the competition’s leading metre-eater who was controversially suspended for a “probable crusher tackle” in the semi-final win against Souths Logan.
They were faced with a setback, however, in the first set of the match when Blackhawks prop Damon Marshall split the right edge defence open and sent halfback Tom Duffy in for a try.
After absorbing a lot of pressure in the next 10 minutes, the Seagulls’ response was emphatic when it began in the 12th minute on the back of a neat grubber into the in-goal from five-eighth half Harradyn Wilson that gained repeat possession from a line-dropout.
Right centre Deine Mariner soon after showed great footwork and desire to make the line from dummy-half to put the Seagulls on the scoreboard.
During the next set from the kick-off outstanding hooker Oscar Bryant busted the defence line wide open from dummy half from inside Tweed’s half and head-geared fullback Jaylan De Groot pushed up brilliantly to finish off a 70-metre raid by crossing under the posts.
At the 20-minute mark, Wilson laid on a pin-point pass at the line to put second-rower Brock Priestley through a narrow gap 10 metres out and his try was converted by halfback and skipper Tom Weaver for an 18-6 lead.
A Weaver penalty goal made it 20-6 before Blackhawks hooker Tyreice Baira-Gela burrowed through the middle of the ruck after talking a tap restart just over a minute before the break to give Townsville renewed confidence, going into the sheds at 20-12.
It was Baira-Gela who found the line again after a scoreless 26 minute period of the second half with a determined run from dummy half close to the line that gave him a try under the posts. And the vocal home crowd thought the Blackhawks had the trophy in their keeping when Dudley Dotoi scored four tackles into their set after the kick-off.
Townsville marched upfield strongly and Dotoi brilliantly moved infield after a shift to the left to put the ball down under the posts. Harley Taylor’s conversion gave the home team the lead at 24-20 and left the Seagulls just seven minutes to regain the Queensland under-18 crown.
The inspiration came from fullback De Groot with four minutes remaining when he broke through on the kick-return that began 10 metres from his goal-line. After a shift to the right that took Tweed within 10 metres of the Blackhawks’ line, with the home side down a man struggling with cramp, interchange hooker Blake Mozer sighted space on his left and darted over on the fourth tackle with two and a half minutes remaining to level the scores at 24-all.
That left Weaver with a conversion kick 12 metres in from the right touchline to give the Seagulls a piece of history – successive statewide titles after the 2020 season was abandoned after one round. He coolly potted the goal to ice an impressive captain’s playmaking role over the 70 minutes – and shattered the raucous crowd’s mood.
Tweed regained possession when Townsville’s short kick-off did not travel 10 metres and, with seconds on the clock, left centre Kaleb Ngamanu stole the ball from Blackhawks fullback Ragarive Wavik who had gathered in a last-tackle kick from Weaver and Ngamanu strolled over for a bonus try.
Weaver was awarded man of the match honours but the Seagulls were well served across the park without their most dominant forward Cullen, with none better than Bryant and Mozer – who coach Maccan claims are the best two hookers in the competition – and Priestley.
Weaver said appropriately after the match, “We set a goal at the start of the year to be the team in the competition that improved the most every game and we really put in the whole performance in the grand final when it mattered the most.
“I’d like to thank one bloke in particular, our starting front-rower Jack Cullen. He has been our stand-out player all season but got denied an opportunity to play here today. We wrote it on all our wrists to play for Cully today and I think we did him proud.”
Coach Maccan, who took his side to the 2019 title, was relieved as much as related after the match.
“The start wasn’t ideal but games go for a long time, so it was just a case of staying calm, sticking to the plan and knowing there was plenty of time to fix it,” he told qrl.com.au.
“I thought out defence was excellent and I believe we have the two best hookers in the Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup. Mozer and Bryant were just outstanding and I just had to figure out the best way to use them.
“I had to get Mozer back out there to clean up for us and keep tackling and then he came up with that massive play at the end for the try.”
TWEED SEAGULLS 30 (D Mariner, J De Groot, B Priestley, B Mozer, K Ngamanu tries; T Weaver 5 goals) def. TOWNSVILLE BLACKHAWKS 24 (T Baira-Gela 2, T Duffy, D Dotoi tries; T Duffy 2, H Taylor 2 goals)
@ Jack Manski Oval, Townsville
Ese’ese in line for Titans debut in local derby clash
Titans.com.au
Herman Ese’ese could line up in Titans colours for the first time in Friday night’s local derby clash against the Brisbane Broncos, with the forward named in Justin Holbrook’s 17.
Ese’Ese replaces the injured Sam Lisone in the 17, with Anthony Don the other inclusion for the round eight clash.
Don was a late scratching last week but has recovered from a hip injury and will take his place on the wing.
Phillip Sami moves back to the centres to replace the injured Patrick Herbert, while Sam McIntyre will play for the first time at Suncorp Stadium as he makes his second appearance for the Titans.
An Up-Tempo Tweed Outmatched Wynnum in Semi Final
Tweed Heads Seagulls will play Townsville in the Meninga Cup grand final after Blackhawks great escape against a gutsy Central Capras at Kourgari Oval today.
Tweed beat home side Wynnum Manly 40-18 in semi-final No.1, while in a late thriller Luke Jack and Will Latu spearheaded Townsville Blackhawks who snuck past Central Capras 28-24.
The result means Blackhawks will now host the grand final on Saturday afternoon in Townsville.
Tweed Seagulls could not have been more impressive across the width of the field as they maintained a high standard from start to finish against a Wynnum team which offered too many mistakes.

Dylan Parker Photography
“That is what we want to do, keep the ball rolling and get as many quick play the balls as we can because we knew they were a big forward pack and if we could get them tired, there might be some space,’’ said Tweed coach Tim Maccan.
Tweed played an up-tempo match, with the Seagulls two No.9s, Oskar Bryant and Blake Mozer, complementing the style of play with wide passes from the ruck to halfback Tom Weaver and five-eighth Harradyn Wilson.
“We try and squeeze them in the middle there and with those passes, catch them on the edge there with some fast feet with our edge men,’’ Maccan said.
At times it looked like a game from the 1990s as both teams struggled to wrestle and slow the play down in the ruck.
In the end Tweed had better ball control, and with their halfback Weaver feeding threatening backrowers and centre Deine Mariner, Tweed were too strong.
At the back fullback Jaylan De Groot loomed like a lightning bolt and Tweed’s potency was there for all to see.
Wynnum coach Jesse Maclean said his team never really gave themselves a chance.
“It was an enjoyable season. Our thoughts all week was that we could win if we controlled the ball and we wanted to get on the front foot and attack, but we kept on turning over cheap possession.
“Tweed had too much class. We just couldn’t make it work, but full credit to them.’’
Wynnum suffered a blow when hooker Shaun Packer sprained his ankle in the last home and away fixture.
Teitzel Double Troubles Tweed
A two-try haul from North Queensland Gold Stars captain Romy Teitzel helped her side to a dominant 26-4 victory over Tweed Seagulls at Jack Manski Oval on Sunday afternoon.
Jordii Mahendrarajah, Lauren Moss and Katie Green also troubled the scoreboard attendant, each scoring a four-pointer; whilst Tawana Sullivan-Togo on the wing was the lone Seagull to cross.

Playmaker Tarryn Aiken in action for Tweed. Photo: Alix Sweeney/QRL
The Gold Stars will be hoping for the same success next weekend at home when they go up against Brisbane Tigers.
Tweed will travel up the M1 to face West Brisbane Panthers.
Seagulls Show Anzac-Like Character to Sink Dolphins
Neil Cadigan
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls showed enormous character to overcome adversity and break a second long-standing hoodoo in successive weeks with their 28-16 victory at Redcliffe on Saturday night.
Displaying all the ANZAC characteristics that were being celebrated nationwide over the weekend, the Seagulls dug in defensively and refused to surrender against a disciplined and aggressive Dolphins side, only securing the victory with a Herman Ese’ese try in the 73rd minute.
Tweed had not won at Redcliffe since 2015 and had not got within 20 points of the Dolphins in their previous four visits, copping some hammerings along the way (74-6, 30-4, 42-16 and 26-6).
They lost experienced winger Talor Walters, who was bedridden with illness, the day before the game with Ethan O’Neill a worthy replacement. Already they were without their best player of recent weeks, Sam McIntyre, who played superbly in his NRL return with the Titans on Friday night.
Then chief playmaker, halfback Toby Sexton, surrendered to a sternum injury in the 55th minute, meaning hookers Liam Hampson and Brent Woolf had to cover the No. 7 role despite obvious fatigue in a match where Tweed did most of the defending.
“It was a really gutsy effort,” said a delighted coach Ben Woolf, a week after his side broke an eight-game losing streak against Burleigh Bears.
“Redcliffe completed 18 from 20 sets in the second half and threw everything at us all game, so we really had to hang in there.
“And we overcame some adversity too.
“First, Joe Vuna had to come off with a shoulder injury after 25 minutes but then went back on for the last 15.
“We had to keep both our starting props, Jai Whitbread and JJ Collins, on the field for nearly 50 minutes (Whitbread returned for the last nine) in a really tough game but they just keep going.
“Then Toby Sexton finally bowed to the sternum injury that was troubling him and that obviously threw our attack out. But Liam Hampson and Brent Woolf really stood up for us, swapping between half and hooker and overcoming fatigue from their workload.
“It was a tremendous team effort again and the way we defended our line when Redcliffe threw some good shape at us for long periods and we were able to dig in and ward them off. And Redcliffe’s line speed and physicality was top class too; it was a really tough 80 minutes.”

Dylan Parker Photography: Will Brimson on the run
Amid the grit was also some brilliance, again coming from slightly built fullback Jayden Campbell who scored the try of the match in the 30th minute to give the Seagulls a 10-4 lead.
Campbell fielded a bomb on his own line but weaved his way past several Dolphins defenders through outstanding footwork and speed before getting to fullback Trai Fuller, who he stepped and then beat for pace. It was no fluke from the son of Dally M Medal winner Preston Campbell – he scored a similar try in round three against the Magpies.
After Redcliffe had opened the scoring with a try out wide to centre Jeremy Hawkins after just three minutes before Vuna responded the set after a Lindon McGrady 40-20, Campbell’s try broke a relentless grinding deadlock between the two sides.
A try to winger O’Neill just over a minute before the break gave Tweed an 18-4 half-time lead but Sexton’s injury and Redcliffe’s consistent high-quality attack under the direction of skipper Cameron Cullen ensured the match was far from over.
A converted try to Dolphins lock Jackson Frei made it 18-10 before Lindon McGrady broke Redcliffe’s stride against the run of play, a la Campbell, when he charged down a kick and ran 80 metres to just make the line before the cover converged.
That took the score 22-10 but the Dolphins kept piling on the pressure and were rewarded when Brayden Dee crossed in the 63rd minute with Justin Worley’s conversion taking Redcliffe to within six points of the Gulls.
But it was the brave Seagulls who iced the result. Hampson floated from dummy half close to the line and Ese-ese pushed up into the space Hampton created and crashed over.
Campbell was outstanding for the Seagulls, positioning himself well to smother Cullen’s accurate short kicking game and withstanding some heavy defence while Woolf (who played the final 57 minutes) was first-class, tackling himself to a standstill yet still finding energy to shine in attack with great support from Hampson who played 58 minutes in two stints.
The Seagulls, who have won four of their first five games and 10 of their past 13, face their third game on the road next weekend when they travel to North Ipswich to take on the Jets.
TWEED SEAGULLS 28 (E O’Neill, J Vuna, B Campbell, L McGrady, H Ese’ese tries: L McGrady 4 goals) def.
REDCLIFFE DOLPHINS 16 (J Hawkins, J Frei, B Dee tries; J Worley 2 goals) at Moreton Daily Stadium.
Late Inclusions Likely In Seagulls Side To Take On Dolphins
Neil Cadigan
Try-scoring whiz Brayden McGrady is likely to finally make his return to the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls side when they take on the formidable Redcliffe Dolphins on Saturday night after being forced to abort his comeback two weeks ago.
The 24-year-old last played in the Intrust Super Cup for the Seagulls in round 12, 2018 after having scored 12 tries in seven games. He suffered an ACL injury in that match, a week after signing with Penrith Panthers, and returned to star for the Panthers in the NSW Cup in 2019.
Former NRL and Super League veteran Fetuli Talanoa would drop out of the side (demanding work commitments) and McGrady take his place on the wing if he proves his troublesome hamstring is 100 per cent right at the team’s last training session on Friday evening.
In the other change, Titans prop Herman Ese’ese will start in the front row, with fellow Gold Coast full-time professional Jai Whitbread reverting to lock, giving the Seagulls a strong pack to take on the Dolphins, now a Warriors NRL feeder team, despite the absence of Sam McIntyre who has deservedly been rewarded for his outstanding form with inclusion in the Titans’ 17 to take on South Sydney.
The main focus of Ben Woolf’s Seagulls will be to improve the efficiency of their attack at Moreton Daily Stadium (formerly Dolphins Stadium) on Saturday evening. While they have averaged 27 points a game in their first four matches, the Gulls haven’t completed with the ball at better than 70 percent and are averaging just 63 percent of retained possession.
“We haven’t been able to complete at better than 70 percent but still scored plenty of points, which is encouraging,” said Woolf. “But we have to get better.
“The biggest issue is concentration errors in yardage (coming out of their own half) and we have to improve there. We lost the ball on tackles one to three on three occasions in the last 10 minutes against Burleigh last week but we were just fortunate the Bears weren’t much better.
“We’re still getting our combinations working too with team changes and new players, so hopefully completions should improve as players become more familiar with each other. But we have to improve those concentration errors.
“Redcliffe are a strong side who have probably been more affected by team changes that anyone else yet so far this season but have still been very competitive and only been beaten narrowly by the two undefeated teams.
“We know how tough it will be up there and we’ll have to play really well to win.”
This will be the first time since the two teams have met since the incredible finals week one clast at Piggabeen in September 2019 when a Tyson Gamble field goal in the 79th minute gave the Dolphins a 25-24 win.
The Seagulls could be up against their former Mal Meninga Cup star of 2019, Reece Walsh. He was given an immediate release from the Broncos two weeks ago and played five-eighth for Redcliffe in their 34-28 loss to Wynnum Manly last weekend.
Walsh has been named in the Warriors’ 21-man squad to take on Melbourne Storm on Sunday. If not chosen to make his NRL debut, he will return to the Dolphins and the quick, elusive player would be a real threat to his former club.
Likely teams:
TWEED SEAGULLS: Jayden Campbell, Talor Walters, Will Brimson, Lee Turner, Brayden McGrady/Fetuli Talanoa, Lindon McGrady, Toby Sexton, Herman Ese’ese, Liam Hampson, JJ Collins, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Joe Vuna, Jai Whitbread. INTERCHANGE: Brent Woolf, Darius Farmer, Braden Robson, Jack Glossop.
REDCLIFFE DOLPHINS: Trai Fuller, Josh Beehag, Justice Utatao, Jeremy Hawkins, Edward Kosi, Jarrett Subloo, Cameron Cullen (capt), Lachlan Timm, Manaia Cherrington, Jackson Frei, Brayden Dee, Pride Petterson-Robati, Jarrett Boland. INTERCHANGE: Shane Pumipi, Preston Riki, Tyson Cleal, Joseph Ratu.
Round Details:
- Redcliffe Dolphins v Tweed Seagulls, Saturday April 25 at 6pm
- Moreton Daily Stadium, Redcliffe, Klingner Rd & Ashmole Rd, Redcliffe
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Seagulls Lose McIntyre For Clash With Redcliffe
Neil Cadigan
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls will go into Saturday’s crucial away clash with Redcliffe Dolphins with no major injury concerns as they try to maintain momentum after three victories in the first four rounds – yet will be without inform middle forward Sam McIntyre.
McIntyre, who was the Seagulls’ best in their tough victory against Burleigh Bears last Saturday, has been elevated to Gold Coast Titans’ team to take on South Sydney on Friday night as the replacement for the suspended Tino Fa’asuamaleaui.
However, Ben Woolf’s fourth-placed side has good depth to cover for McIntyre’s absence with fellow Titan Jai Whitbread, who has been impressive coming off the bench, likely to start.

Credit: Dylan Parker Photography
Herman Ese’ese, the experienced Titan and Samoan and New Zealand international, is currently 19th man in the Titans’ squad but will also start for Tweed if he misses selection in the Gold Coast’s 17. He has played in three of Tweed’s four games this season.
Tweed have good depth to cover for the absence of McIntyre with the reliable Kirk Murphy, a defensive leader for the Gullies in recent seasons, ready to take his place in the 17 for the second time this season while Jack Glossop and Luke Burton have been included in the 18-man squad.
The Dolphins, who beat the Seagulls by a point in their 2019 semi-final clash, have won only two of their first four matches but will be a formidable challenge. Their losses were narrow defeats against the only two unbeaten sides – Norths Devils by 26-24 and Wynnum Manly by 30-24.
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls Team:
1 Jayden Campbell
2 Talor Walters
3 Will Brimson
4 Lee Turner
5 Fetuli Talanoa
6 Lindon McGrady
7 Toby Sexton
8 Jai Whitbread
9 Liam Hampson
10 JJ Collins
11 Lamar Liolevave (capt)
12 Joe Vuna
13 Braden Robson
14 Brent Woolf
15 Darius Farmer
16 Kirk Murphy
17 Jack Glossop
18 Luke Burton
Round Details:
- Redcliffe Dolphins v Tweed Seagulls, Saturday April 25 at 6pm
- Moreton Daily Stadium, Redcliffe, Klingner Rd & Ashmole Rd, Redcliffe
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Seagulls Named in Extend Queensland Maroons
Queensland Rugby League is ramping up its commitment to provide the best possible preparation for the Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons with confirmation today of additional training and financial support for players.
Head coach Tahnee Norris has named a 32-member squad, which will assemble on Monday evening, with a further seven sessions planned as the Maroons build towards the June 25 clash against New South Wales.
All squad members will receive a training contract as part of the QRL’s increased investment into the women’s program.
Norris, and assistant coaches Ben Jeffries and Aaron Zimmerle, will oversee the squad training sessions, with further support from a number of specialists in their fields, including renowned kicking coach Dave Alred.
Norris has been impressed with the standard of play in the early rounds of the BHP Premiership.
The representative squad includes players from seven clubs – Tweed Seagulls, Burleigh Bears, Central Queensland Capras, Valkyries, North Queensland Gold Stars, Valleys Diehards and West Brisbane Panthers.
“I’m really excited about the group we are bringing together over the next few months,” Norris said.
“We’ve got a lot of experience, as well as new players who will bring extra energy to the squad.
“I’m also very encouraged by the form of our regional teams, and the players selected from central and northern Queensland teams deserve their opportunity.”
In a further boost to the Maroons’ chances of keeping the shield in Queensland, the selected team will now spend more time together with the duration of the Origin camp extended to 10 days leading into the game.
“We’re delighted to have this extra support, and now it’s up to our coaching staff and playing group to prepare well and deliver a performance that all Queensland fans can be proud of,” Norris said.
Maroons Extended Training Squad:
Tarryn Aiken – Tweed Seagulls
Belinda Arthur-Clarke – Burleigh Bears
Chelsea Baker – Central Queensland Capras
Annette Brander – Central Queensland Capras
Brittany Breayley-Nati – Burleigh Bears
Ali Brigginshaw – Valleys Diehards
Lauren Brown – Burleigh Bears
Karina Brown – Burleigh Bears
Zara Canfield – Tweed Seagulls
Shenae Ciesiolka – Valleys Diehards
Brianna Clark – Valleys Diehards
Rangi-Marie Edwards-Bruce – North Queensland Gold Stars
Jess Elliston – Tweed Seagulls
Lavinia Gould – Valleys Diehards
Tazmin Gray – Burleigh Bears
Tallisha Harden – Burleigh Bears
Chelsea Lenarduzzi – Burleigh Bears
Shellie Long – Burleigh Bears
Emma Manzelmann – North Queensland Gold Stars
Shannon Mato – North Sydney Bears
Michaela Peck – Valkyries
Rona Peters – Tweed Seagulls
Shaniah Power – North Queensland Gold Stars
Natassja Purontakanen – Valleys Diehards
Julia Robinson – West Brisbane Panthers
Romy Teitzel – North Queensland Gold Stars
Zahara Temara – Burleigh Bears
Chante Temara – Burleigh Bears
Amy Turner – ?
Tamika Upton – Burleigh Bears
Meg Ward – Valleys Diehards
Acacia Wulf – West Brisbane Panthers
Derby Hoodoo No Longer A Cross For Tweed To Bear
Neil Cadigan
The Rivalry Round hoodoo has been broken. After losing the eight previous clashes with neighbours and fellow Titans feeder team Burleigh Bears, the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls ended the drought with a pulsating 16-12 victory at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Saturday afternoon.
Ahead 4-0 at half-time after a physical first half of relentless vigour, but 12-4 behind after 11 minutes of the second half, the Seagulls scored two tries in the last 23 minutes to secure a victory that puts them, temporarily at least, in the top four.
It was Tweed’s first victory against Burleigh since 2015 and takes their tally to nine victories from their past 12 games since the second half of 2019, confirming they are a genuine finals candidates.
And at the heart of it was a tireless performance by Titans forward Sam McIntyre who was a stand-out for the Seagulls in effort and effectiveness in his 61 minutes on the field, the first 50 in the one stint from the kick-off.
“It’s the first time that I felt we won the physical battle this season,” said Seagulls coach Ben Woolf.
“That was a win full of character. We had to do a lot of D in the first half and it was a great effort to come in at half-time in front.
“Every player did his job, including our smaller guys like Toby Sexton, Lindon McGrady and Jayden Campbell who were obviously targeted defensively.
“But Sam McIntyre was enormous for us; he really stood up and had plenty of commitment around him.
“We made some errors, sure, but we defended the errors really well and our speed and physicality of our defensive line was outstanding. That was a really tough derby game; a real grind – Burleigh took it to us.”
The first half produced only one scoring play with former NRL and Super League winger Fetuli Talanoa crossing in the left corner 90 seconds before half-time.
Burleigh had most of the ball and opportunities in the first half and, when Tweed halfback Toby Sexton was controversially sin-binned in the 27th minute for what seemed an innocuous leg pull, his teammates had to dig in defensively.
A clever shift to the left saw Talanoa cross and taking a lead into half-time lifted the spirits of the Seagulls after what was as physical a half of football the fierce rivals had produced in years.
However, the Bears crossed twice within the first 10 minutes of the second half to take advantage of a momentum swing. The first try was scored by winger Cory Denniss down the short side on the right and soon after fullback Kurtis Rowe was over on the left after a neat backline movement.
However, the steely Seagulls refused to surrender and regained composure, took control of the middle of the field and waited for opportunity to come.
And that happened on the back of two errors by the Bears near their line.
The first came when Bears halfback Guy Hamilton, who was a threat all match with the ball, was being pushed back into the in-goal by Sexton and Brent Woolf and released the ball only for Sexton to react quickly and gain possession over the line.
The next Seagulls try also came from a kick and involved some luck. A grubber from Sexton took a deflection from a Bears player and Joe Vuna picked up the redirected ball and scored under the posts. Lindon McGrady converted both tries for a 16-12 lead with nine minutes remaining.
The remaining time was frantic, with both sides making errors under pressure, but the Seagulls defence stuck solid to give Tweed a victory that showed they have the physical capability to grind away for tough victories and trouble any team in the competition.
Sami Sauiluma made an impressive return for the Bears in his first appearance for the season and Jacob Hind revelled in the tough exchanges but Burleigh have not developed any great attacking flow this season, something coach Rick Stone continues to work on as he tries to mingle Titans representatives like Tanah Boyd, who switched between five-eighth and hooker, into his line-up.
TWEED SEAGULLS 16 (F Talanoa, T Sexton, J Vuna tries; L McGrady 2 goals) def. BURLEIGH BEARS 12 (C Denniss, K Rowe tries; J Rogers 2 goals) at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Tweed Ready for Fired Up Bears Local Derby
Neil Cadigan –
The fifth-placed Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls know they have to ignore form and the ladder standings when they take on reigning premiers Burleigh Bears in the always physical and intense local derby at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Saturday (3.30pm).
The Bears have won only one of their opening three games of 2021 and were thrashed 50-10 by Brisbane Tigers last round.
Yet the clash between the neighbouring Gold Coast Titans feeder teams will bring out the best in both teams and Tweed coach Ben Woolf is expecting a fired up Bears – who have won the past eight clashes between the teams and the last four at Piggabeen – to rip in from the outset.
And the fact there will be nine Titans squad members in the game will only add to the competitiveness.
The Seagulls will field the most of the local NRL squad in Herman Ese’ese, Sam McIntyre, Toby Sexton, Jayden Campbell, Jai Whitbread and Darius Farmer while the Bears have included in their 17 Greg Marzhew, Tanah Boyd and Sam Stone, while they have former regular NRL players in Jack Stockwell, Pat Politoni, Blake Leary and Lloyd Perrett.
Woolf is glad to have 16 backing up from the 17 who played well in last Saturday’s 40-26 win against Souths Logan with the only change being the experienced top-liner Fetuli Talanoa coming onto the wing, as his side has slowly built familiarity in combinations.
“We know Burleigh will come out firing, as they always do against us, and they will be out to strike back from last week’s performance,” said Woolf who has had the benefit of a “regular” week of training at Piggabeen after having limited training time at Tugun in the previous month.
“So we have to match their energy and enthusiasm from the start and be physical back at them.
“We’ve been a bit disjointed because of the team changes and new players in the squad but, week by week, are getting better and building combinations and understanding.
“But we still only completed at 51 per cent last week and we have to control the ball better against teams like Burleigh.
“A lot of that came from too many unforced errors, like in the play the ball and sloppy errors at key times after tries or when we had built pressure. We were pretty dominant yet kept the Magpies in the game.
“We expect Burleigh to be really aggressive and take us to us early on so we have to match their enthusiasm and be more disciplined.”
This is the first week since the start of the season that Tweed have had full training sessions on a full field because of their return to a dried-out Piggabeen, and team gym sessions rather than players having to individually do their weights.
Ese’ese and McIntyre come into the starting side after dropping out of the Titans 19 to play Manly.
The teams:
TWEED SEAGULLS: Jayden Campbell, Talor Walters, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Ethan O’Neill, Will Brimson, Toby Sexton, Herman Ese’ese, Liam Hampson, JJ Collins, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Joe Vuna, Sam McIntyre. INTERCHANGE: Brent Woolf, Darius Farmer, Jai Whitbread, Braden Robson, Lindon McGrady (one to be omitted).
BURLEIGH BEARS: Kurtis Rowe, Greg Marzhew, Cory Denniss, Josh Berkers, Curtis Dansey-Smaller, Josh Rogers, Guy Hamilton, Luke Page, Pat Politoni, Jack Stockwell, Blake Leary, Hayden Schwass, Sam Coster. INTERCHANGE: Tanah Boyd, Sam Stone, Lloyd Perrett, Jacob Hind, John Palavi
Round Details:
- Tweed Seagulls Vs Burleigh Bears, 17th April, 3:30pm
- Piggabeen Sports Complex, Carramar Dr, Tweed Heads West NSW 2485
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Talanoa to Takeover for the XXXX Rivalry Round
Neil Cadigan
Coach Ben Woolf has called in vastly experienced winger Fetuli Talanoa into his side for the big local derby clash with Burleigh Bears at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Saturday (3.30pm).
The 33-year-old, who has played 223 NRL and Super League matches (95 with South Sydney and 228 with Hull) and won two Challenge Cups in England, will play just his second match for the Campbell Building Co. Seagulls after being restricted to the Gullies’ only match last season before the Intrust Super Cup competition was abandoned.
He played a handful of games with Tugun in the Gold Coast competition last year but this will be his first appearance for 2021 after work commitments saw him become a late starter to Seagulls’ off-season training.

Credit KPM Sports Images: [Ethan O’Neil making a break on the wing]
“Ethan played well last Saturday against Souths Logan but Fetuli is in good shape now and I thought I’d just go for the extra experience in this game, which is always a tough, physical battle against an experienced Burleigh,” Woolf said.
“Fetuli has had a lot of big-match experience and it will come in handy.
“Burleigh are the reigning premiers but they’ve had a slow start to the season. They’ll be really keen to bounce back in a derby match after being beaten 50-10 by Easts Tigers.”
That is likely to be the only change in the Tweed side, which is otherwise as was selected last Tuesday.
Titans players Sam McIntyre and Herman Ese’ese have again been chosen in Gold Coast’s 21-man squad (to take on Manly on Saturday) and will drop back to the Seagulls’ starting 13 if not required by the Titans.
Centre Brayden McGrady, who was last round set to make his first appearance for Tweed since 2018 but dropped out because his hamstring injury had not quite recovered well enough, will be given further time to get back to full health.
With the persistent wet weather predicted to be behind us, Piggabeen has recovered and this will be Tweed’s first appearance there in 2021 after having to relocate the rounds 1 and 3 games to Tugun.
Your Campbell Construction Co Tweed Seagulls Team to Take on Burleigh Bears:
1 Jayden Campbell
2 Talor Walters
3 Will Brimson
4 Lee Turner
5 Fetuli Talanoa
6 Lindon McGrady
7 Toby Sexton
8 Jai Whitbread
9 Liam Hampson
10 JJ Collins
11 Lamar Liolevave
12 Joe Vuna
13 Braden Robson
INTERCHANGE
14 Brent Woolf
15 Darius Farmer
16 Kirk Murphy
17 Jack Glossop
18 Ethan O’Neill
Round Details:
- Tweed Seagulls Vs Burleigh Bears 3.30pm – QLD
- Piggabeen Sports Complex, Carramar Dr, Tweed Heads West NSW 2485
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Aiken Outstanding in Tweed’s Terrific Victory
Cameron Stallard – QRL Content Producer
Tarryn Aiken’s 2021 season could not have started any better; bagging a second-half hat-trick in the Tweed Seagulls’ 42-22 win over the Queensland Valkyries at Tugun RLFC.

Photo Credit KPM Photography [K. Phillips too strong for the defender breaking the tackle and making the offload to G. Hale in support]
Fellow NRLW representatives Zara Canfield and Lailee Phillips also crossed the chalk; but not to be forgotten, Liahona Theodore’s double for the Valkyries kept the visitors in the fight for the entire 70 minutes.
The Seagulls will be tasked with soaring over 2020 Holcim Cup champions Burleigh Bears in next week’s XXXX Rivalry Round.
Second Half Onslaught Sinks Magpies
Neil Cadigan
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls gave an indication of what they are capable of in this year’s Intrust Super Cup when they scored 28 unanswered points against Souths Logan Magpies before running out 40-24 winners at Tugun on Saturday afternoon.
The Seagulls were behind 14-12 at half-time before running away with the match.
Highly professional and often unheralded left centre Lee Turner picked up two tries with all other tries scored by Gold Coast Titans representatives with lock Sam McIntyre also getting a double and prop Jai Whitfield, fullback Jayden Campbell and bench forward Darius Farmer each crossing.

Photo Credit: KPM Photography [Lee Turner burning a wimpy Souths Logan defender]
“But after letting them in for a try in the fourth minute, on the back of a couple of penalties, I thought we competed well, particularly with our aggression in defence.
“We’re fortunate to have a really good impact off the bench (Whitfield, Farmer, Brent Woolf and Braden Robson) and didn’t get Darius Farmer onto the field until the last 30 minutes, which showed how well our middle performed.
“The bench forwards did a really good job for us in the middle of the game before the starting middle came back on and that’s going to be one of our strong points this season.”
However, for the third time in their three matches this season, the Seagulls were behind on the scoreboard at half-time before finishing stronger than their opponents.
Woolf’s hope that his side would get off to their best start of the season was smashed in just the fourth minute when Magpies lock Kobe Hetherington crossed in only Souths Logan’s second set with the ball. Kevin Locke’s conversion gave them a 6-0 lead.
However, Tweed settled into their stride soon after and posted two tries just two minutes apart, to take the lead 12-6, only for the Magpies to hit back quickly and level the scores with a try to hooker Cory Paix in the 19th minute.
The Seagulls tries came from lock Sam McIntyre when he was too strong from close range in the 12th minute. The Magpies hadn’t touched the ball again after that setback when Turner crossed from a smart shift after the forwards had worked upfield strongly. Lindon McGrady converted both tries.
A Locke penalty goal saw the Magpies go to the break at 14-12 ahead.
The Seagulls scored the next five tries though to run away with the match, going to a 40-14 lead in 71st minute.
Whitfield barged over just two minutes after half-time after good lead-up work by Brent Woolf and Braden Robson.
Although the Magpies had more of the possession in the next 10 minutes, Tweed’s defended with confidence and purpose. Joe Vuna, the former Warriors hot prospect before missing the past two seasons while working as a Mormon missionary, was impressive on debut with his aggressive defence and he led the tempo for his side.

Photo Credit: Dylan Parker Photography [Jayden Campbell about to take flight]
Just two minutes later Turner crossed for his second try after some good shape on the left edge before Farmer was rewarded for an impressive second-half effort. He returned the ball strongly from a line-drop out and backed it up two rucks later with a powerful bust through the defensive line.
The Magpies – who lost experienced halfback Albert Kelly before the match – scored two consolation tries in the last three minutes, to Jacob Elmore and Isaiah Tass, but they had been completely outplayed in the second half.
Hetherington was a strong performer in his 64 minutes on the field while fullback Toia and bench forward Rory Ferguson played well.
The 20-year-old Campbell, all 80kg of him, was a constant threat returning kicks and won the Seagulls’ players’ player award while Turner was close to their best on the field.
TWEED SEAGULLS 40 (S McIntyre 2, L Turner 2, J Whitbread, J Campbell, D Farmer tries; L McGrady 6 goals) def. SOUTHS LOGAN MAGPIES 24 (K Hetherington, C Paix, J Elmore, I Tass tries; K Locke 2, Tass 2 goals) at Tugun.
McGrady Setback Balanced by Titans Duo’s Inclusion
Neil Cadigan
There was good news and bad news during the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls’ preparations for tomorrow’s (Saturday) clash with Souths Logan Magpies at Tugun (3.30pm).
The Gullies were looking forward to welcoming back 2018 try-scoring sensation Brayden McGrady but his troublesome hamstring is not quite strong enough to make his first appearances for the side since 2018 and he will have to wait another week.
His place on the wing will be taken by Ethan O’Neill.
However, Titans forwards Herman Ese’ese and Sam McIntyre have dropped out of the Gold Coast’s 21-man squad to take on Newcastle Knights tomorrow and will strengthen the Tweed pack.

Photo Credit: KPM Sports Images [Herman Ese’ese running the ball]
The inclusion of the Titans pair will hopefully greatly assist the Seagulls to achieve their number one goal going into the round three clash – start much better than they have in the first two rounds and be more “connected” defensively.
After scoring the first try in the fifth minute in the opening clash against Central Queensland, the Gulls fell to 18-6 at half-time before recovering to win 28-18. Last weekend against Wynnum Manly they were 16-0 after 12 minutes and chasing their tail from then (26-8 at half-time) in the 36-24 loss.
“The effort was there last week, where the week before we were too passive in the first half, said coach Ben Woolf. “We were a bit disconnected in our approach, especially defensively.
“It was just that some were doing well while others weren’t and it cost us a bit. A couple of crucial things went against us early – a debatable six-again call and a dropped kick on the last – and suddenly we were chasing from 12-0 down after 10 minutes under fatigue.
“We just have to make sure we are connected better with our ‘D’; making sure we are working as a unit.”
Tweed have had a difficult few weeks with poor training preparation because of wet weather and have not been able to train at Piggabeen Sports Complex for over a month, instead of trying to alternate with Tugun teams at their ground and on Tuesday found a public park at Kirra to run some drills.
“Training hasn’t been perfect but it is what it is and other teams have had to adapt too,” said Woolf.
“We just have to make sure our attitude and communication is there from the start and come in at half-time feeling we have got off on the right foot this time.”
The Magpies have begun the season strongly with a 36-20 victory over reigning premiers Burleigh Bears before a 26-32 loss to the Melbourne Storm-aligned Sunshine Coast Falcons.
They have a wealth of NRL experience in Kevin Locke, Karmichael Hunt and Albert Kelly plus Brisbane Broncos squad member Kobe Hetherington.
The team to take on the Magpies at Tugun on Saturday at 3.30pm is:
Jayden Campbell, Talor Walters, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Ethan O’Neill, Will Brimson, Toby Sexton, Herman Ese’ese, Liam Hampson, JJ Collins, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Joe Vuna, Sam McIntyre. INTERCHANGE: Brent Woolf, Darius Farmer, Jai Whitbread, Braden Robson, Lindon McGrady (one to be omitted).
Round Details:
- Souths Logan Magpies v Tweed Seagulls, 3:30pm – QLD
- Tugun Leagues Club, 44 Boyd St, Bilinga QLD 4225
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Adaptable Aiken aiming for another big season ahead
When asked to sum up 2020, the only word Tarryn Aiken could find to describe her year was ”crazy”.
But the surreal experience has left the 21-year-old with some valuable life lessons and on the eve of the BHP Premiership competition kicking off, Aiken is looking forward to the new season ahead.
The Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons playmaker endured a rollercoaster of emotions during the COVID-affected year; including an ankle injury requiring surgery, multiple pre-seasons, strict quarantine bubbles and the challenge of living on the Queensland / New South Wales border.
Though; in the midst of it all, she overcame a multitude of roadblocks and challenges to end the season as an NRLW and Origin champion and can’t wait to take the field for the start of the upcoming BHP Premiership season this weekend.

However, the 2020 Nellie Doherty medallist was hoping the new season will be a little less eventful than the past 12 months.
It was around this time last year that Aiken clearly remembers the heartache of the inaugural Queensland women’s BHP Premiership being cancelled due to the pandemic after just one round, and of being at home recovering from an ankle injury sustained at last year’s Perth Nines when the news broke.
“It was exciting to see the competition and everyone at Tweed was very excited to be involved with it, but yeah, hearing it was cancelled was disappointing; everyone was upset by it,” the Seagulls half said.
“I remember sitting at home and I saw it posted on Instagram that the BHP Premiership and Intrust Super Cup had been cancelled and the first thing I did was ring all the girls and be like… ‘what the heck?’
“It was so disappointing doing the whole pre-season, only for the competition to get cancelled.”
The prospect of having no rugby league in 2020 was starting to set in for the sporting-mad talent, until a breakthrough competition was announced by the QRL last June to allow female players to press their case for State of Origin selection.

“We only had three or four weeks to get together,” Aiken said.
“The second pre-season we had was a lot shorter and we had a lot of new girls who had come into our team who weren’t at the first one, so it wasn’t as full-on as a typical pre-season.
“I think the main thing was everyone was able to play footy, because it didn’t look like we were going to play footy.”
But one week into the new Holcim Cup, adversity struck again for Tweed when the Queensland / New South Wales border shut at a moment’s notice; ruling the Seagulls out of Round 2 and potentially, the entire competition.
“The borders had shut, but they had the border bubble, so I wasn’t sure [about what would happen], but I remember we got to training one day and our coach said we wouldn’t be able to play and they’ve pretty much canned it,” Aiken said.
“I think we played one game and then we were told… ‘oh, you aren’t playing again’ and we’re like… ‘what?’
“I was actually lucky, because me and my friend Jess [Elliston] quickly moved over the border – we had less than 24 hours to find somewhere; so I played with Wests for a week and Jess played with Easts.
“The whole time, we were hoping Tweed could figure a way out to come back into the competition, which they did.
“Because I was with Jess, we ended up just renting a holiday apartment in Rainbow Bay for a few weeks, so it wasn’t too bad at all.”
After returning to the competition in Round 3, the Seagulls ended up finishing the Holcim Cup third overall, overcoming the whirlwind of emotions to end on a high.

“Considering it was a very crazy season, it was good to finish how we did,” Aiken said.
“We have a really close team and we really like each other’s company and playing together, so that really helped us at the time and we just wanted to play footy, so that really helped us play at the end of the season.”
Not long after, Aiken was selected for the Brisbane Broncos and the Maroons, sacrificing ‘freedom’ to spend the following two months in and out of quarantine bubbles playing the game she loves.
But the tough few months away from family and friends was all made worthwhile when she headed back home with a premiership ring and the Origin player of the match medal around her neck.
“It was awesome… it was the cherry on top really,” Aiken said.
“Lifting the trophies made everything worth it.

“Most of us couldn’t work. I think there was only two people in the group that could work from home. We couldn’t see our families.
“It just made every sacrifice worth it.”
Primed for a big 2021 season ahead, beginning with Tweed’s Round 1 matchup against the Queensland Valkyries this Saturday, Aiken said there were a number life lessons to gain out of the past crazy 12 months.
Match: Seagulls v Valkyries
ROUND 1 –
Venue: Tugun RLFC, Tugun
“I’ve learnt to be adaptable,” Aiken said.
“We didn’t know what was going to happen and when it was going to happen, so I’ve learnt to just to be adaptable and not focus on the things that you can’t change and just go with it.
“Don’t complain about it. Just get on with it.”
With this advice in mind, the star halfback is hoping a big year in all her respective teams will earn her a green and gold jersey at the end of the season.
“Obviously, the Jillaroos and making the World Cup squad is my overall goal for 2021, but I’m just going to focus on Tweed to start with and hopefully play NRLW with the Broncos and obviously Origin,” Aiken said.
“I just want to focus and give my full commitment to each team one by one.”
Brayden McGrady Back for First Appearance Since 2018
Neil Cadigan
COVID REQUIREMENTS: You must wear a mask to the game and in indoor spaces.
Brayden McGrady makes his first appearance for the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls in almost three years when he takes his place on the wing in the Gullies’ side that will take on Souths Logan Magpies at Tugun on Saturday (3.30pm).
McGrady will replace the injured Ryland Jacobs, with the consistent and resilient winger out indefinitely with a compound fracture of a finger. Jacobs had missed only one match out of 50 since joining the club in 2018.
McGrady, playing in the centres, had scored 12 tries in just seven games for the Seagulls to be the ISC’s leading try-scorer at the time – and one of the most dangerous attacking weapons in the competition – before he suffered an ACL injury in round 12 of 2018 (on May 27). The injury was suffered just days after he had signed a two-year deal with Penrith Panthers.
After his return midway through 2019, he impressed with his form in the NSW Canterbury Cup but was unable to force his way into the Panthers side that was a runaway minor premiers last season on their way to the grand final.
The Goondiwindi product, who had two seasons with the Gold Coast Titans’ under-20s, has returned to the Tweed but missed the first two rounds because of a hamstring injury.
In another boost for Ben Woolf’s side, the Titans players have been cleared to return to normal training in Queensland and those not in the NRL squad for Saturday’s clash with Newcastle Knights at Cbus Super Stadium can turn out for feeder teams Tweed or Burleigh Bears.
With Herman Ese’ese and Sam McIntyre selected in the Titan’s 21-man squad that leaves Jai Whitfield, Treymain Spry, Toby Sexton, Jayden Campbell and Darius Farmer are the Titans who will take their place against the Magpies. Ese’ese and McIntyre could still be added to the 17.
The team to take on the Magpies at Tugun on Saturday at 3.30pm is:
1 Jayden Campbell
2 Talor Walters
3 Treymain Spry
4 Lee Turner
5 Brayden McGrady
6 Will Brimson
7 Toby Sexton
8 Jai Whitbread
9 Liam Hampson
10 JJ Collins
11 Lamar Liolevave
12 Joe Vuna
13 Braden Robson
INTERCHANGE
14 Brent Woolf
15 Darius Farmer
16 Kirk Murphy
17 Jack Glossop
18 Lindon McGrady
Round Details:
- Souths Logan Magpies v Tweed Seagulls, 3:30pm – QLD
- Tugun Leagues Club, 44 Boyd St, Bilinga QLD 4225
- COVID safe practices will be enforced
Woolf Refuses to Blame Late Changes for Loss
Neil Cadigan
Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls coach Ben Woolf refused to blame the withdrawal of all five selected Gold Coast Titans players as an excuse for a lacklustre performance that saw the Gulls outplayed by Wynnum Manly 36-24 at Iona College on Sunday.
Don’t let the 12-point margin camouflage the poor effort by a Seagulls side that went into the clash with seven wins from their previous nine games.
Wynnum led 26-0 after just 20 minutes as they too freely rolled through the middle of the ruck and picked up five tries in the first quarter of the match.
While Tweed were certainly on the back foot after an NRL directive, as a follow up to the COVID-19 scare in Brisbane, came through on Saturday ruling all NRL squad members had to be withdrawn from matches played in Brisbane. That meant Jai Whitbread, Jayden Campbell, Treymain Spry, Toby Sexton and Darius Farmer.
But Woolf was having nothing of it if his side wanted to use that as an excuse.

Credit: Dylan Parker Photography
“That’s no excuse at all for how we played; we played with no energy and just didn’t turn up which is really disappointing,” he said. “For the second week in a row we were out-enthused in the first half but this time it was too late to turn in around.
“Wynnum made few errors in the first half and we able to maintain possession and just steamrolled through us in the middle. Even though we were missing the Titans players we had plenty who have played at this level and a few debutants you’d expected to be excited and bring energy. It just wasn’t there.
“We had no line speed in defence and they scored in the first four minutes; we weren’t in the game from then.”
Wynnum’s first try, to winger Edward Burns, came after two ‘six-again’ rulings in the same set. Their next came after a dropped bomb, scored by halfback Kauri Aupouri-Puketapu. By the time winger Matthew Lyons scored the first of his two tries in the 20th minute, Tweed had conceded a try at an average of every four minutes and rarely seen the ball for 10 minutes.
A barge over try by Jaleel Seve-Derbas in the 33rd minute brought the score back to 28-6 before the break but the second half began as poorly as the first for Tweed, with hooker Jayden Berrell and Lyons crossing for Wynnum which saw the score blow out to 36-6.
Tweed picked up three consolation tries in the last 20 minutes to make the score respectable.
The first was scored by fullback Talor Walter, who proved a threat with the ball all match, when he beat the defence with footwork and pace from a scrum. Hooker Liam Hampson, who again brought enthusiasm from the bench, picked up a double in the 63rd and 67th minutes when he dummied and darted from dummy half close to the line.
To make the day worse for coach Woolf, winger Rowland Jacobs left the field with 10 minutes remaining with a badly cut finger. He will go for a scan to see if the finger is also broken.
WYNNUM MANLY SEAGULLS 36 (M Lyons 2,K Aupouri-Puketapu 2, , E Burns, S Cobbo, J Berrell tries; J Campagnolo 4 goals) def. TWEED SEAGULLS 24 (L Hampson 2, J Saveel-Derbas, T Walters, L McGrady 4 goals) at Iona College.
Woolf Knows ‘Flock-Buster’ is Test of Character
Neil Cadigan
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls coach Ben Woolf has no doubt that the annual ‘Flock-Buster’ clash with Wynnum Manly Seagulls in Brisbane on Sunday (3pm) will be the team’s biggest test of character since their one-point loss to Redcliffe in their semi-final clash back in September 2019.
The Tweed Gulls go into the clash at Iona College having won seven of their past nine matches since the start of an impressive run into the 2019 finals.
However, they have won just two of 12 clashes between the Seagulls, the last being three-tries-apiece 20-16 loss at Kougari Oval in July 2019, before Wynnum went on to make the grand final, beaten 28-10 by Burleigh Bears.
“They’re a quality side who made the last grand final and have probably strengthened since then with the inclusions of Isaac Luke and Jessie Arthars,” said Woolfe.
“It’s the sort of game that will show us where we are at but I know we are more than capable of mixing it with them.
“We know there is a lot of improvement in how we can play. We weren’t so good in the first half against the Capras last week as we were sorting out combinations but as game wore on we got better.
“With our first full game under our belt with quite a few new players, we will be much better again this week. That’s obvious from talking to group and seeing the attitude around what they are doing.
“But we also know we have to be a lot better against such a strong team.”
Woolf will not finalise his team until probably Saturday as he waits a fitness check on Titans prop Herman Ese’ese who had a tooth knocks out and face injury from a shocking head clash last Saturday, and whether Ese’ese or Sam McIntyre will travel to Townsville with the Titans. Both played against the Cutters.
Otherwise, the selected 18 players are all fit to play. The depth of the Tweed squad will be further highlighted in round three when they play Souths Logan Magpies on April 10 (there are no matches next weekend) with centre Brayden McGrady likely to be fit.
It will be fascinating to see Joe Vuna, the former Warriors NRL player who is the younger player of dual rugby union/rugby league topliner Cooper Vuna, make his debut against Wynnum. He has had two years’ break from the game while undergoing Mormon mission work but was regarded as an outstanding prospect when he made his NRL debut as a 19-year-old in 2018.
THE SQUAD: Jayden Campbell, Talor Walters, Treymain Spry, Lee Turner, Rowland Jacobs, Lindon McGrady, Toby Sexton, Jai Whitbread, Brent Woolf, JJ Collins, Lamar Liolevave (capt), Joe Vuna, Braden Robson, Liam Hampson, Darius Farmer, Harrison Muller, Kirk Murphy, Will Brimson, Sam McIntyre, Herman Ese’ese.
Round Details:
- Wynnum Manly Seagulls vs Tweed Seagulls, 3pm – QLD
- Iona College – 85 North Rd, Lindum QLD 4178
- COVID safe practices will be enforced. FACE-MASKS TO WE WORN AT GROUND. MANDATORY!
Tweed’s Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup RD4
Tweed’s Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup side will likely enter as favourites this weekend after their initial 28-20 win over the Ipswich Jets in round 1. They will be taking on the Jets again this weekend playing in Ipswich which traditionally the Ipswich team seem to ‘turn it on’ for the home crowd.
It will be a match to watch with the Jet’s team hungry for their first win, up against a Tweed side who seem to have ‘woken up’ since their last encounter, clocking an impressive 34- 20 win against the Burleigh Bears.
Seagulls will be missing key player Keano Kini who’s explosive tackle breaking runs constantly put the opposition on the backfoot.
2020 Brisbane Grammar First XV’s star wing combination will be back on show with Kruz Rimene and Campbell Watchirs as the players to watch.
ROUND 4 – SUNDAY 28TH MARCH – 12:00PM
North Ipswich Reserve, Ipswich
- JAYLAN DE GROOT
- KRUZ RIMENE
- KALEB NGAMANU
- DEINE MARINER
- CAMPBELL WATCHIRS
- RILEY LACK
- TOM WEAVER ©
- JACK CULLEN
- OSKAR BRYANT
- JOTHAM RUSSELL
- RYAN FORAN
- JAYDEN WRIGHT
- JT MANUOFETOA
- BLAKE MOZER
- BAILEY MARTIN
- RILEY GADSBY
- JORDAN LEWIS
- REICO RATANA
- NICK HILTON
- BROCK PRIESTLEY
- ELIJAH LUI
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Brimson Adds Depth To Seagulls Line Up
Neil Cadigan
Will Brimson, older brother of Gold Coast Titans sensation AJ Brimson, has returned from suspension and has been included in the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls 18-man squad for the clash with Wynnum Manly at Iona College, Brisbane on Sunday (3pm).
The utility player who specialises at five-eighth joins ever-dependable forward Kirk Murphy on the extended bench as the Seagulls go into the ‘Flock-buster’ with a clunky, yet valuable, first round victory against the Capras under their belt as they prepare to take on a Wynnum side that beat PNG Hunters 20-18.
Titans forwards Herman Ese-ese and Sam McIntyre, who played against the Capras, have not been initially named in Ben Woolf’s squad as they have been included in the 21-man Titans squad to take on the Cowboys on Sunday in Townsville. They could come into the side although the Titans are monitoring Ese’ese’s mouth injury that saw him lose a tooth in a nasty collision with Capras’ PNG Test forward Nixon Putt last Saturday.
His Titans squad mate Jai Whitbread has been named to start in the front row with JJ Collins after coming off the bench late in the first half and making a substantial impact last Saturday.
Joe Vuna has again been named, as he was last week before having to withdraw because of a minor knee injury. A call will be made on the former Warriors player later in the week.
“We’ve already got some tough selection decisions with Will now available and a lot of depth as shown by the performances of those who came into the side last weekend,” said coach Ben Woolf.
“It’s still a matter of working out the best combinations in the early rounds.”

Will Brimson In Action – Trail Game Vs Wynnum
The team to take on the Capras is:
1 – Jayden Campbell
2 – Talor Walters
3 – Tremain Spry
4 – Lee Turner
5 – Rowland Jacobs
6 – Lindon McGrady
7 – Toby Sexton
8 – Jai Whitbread
9 – Brent Woolf
10 – JJ Collins
11 – Lamar Liolevave
12 – Joe Vuna
13 – Braden Robson
14 – Liam Hampson
15 – Darius Farmer
16 – Harrison Muller
17 – Kirk Murphy
18 – Will Brimson
Seagulls Fend Off Aggressive Capras
Neil Cadigan
A second half lift in intensity saw the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls fight back from a 12-point half-time deficit to beat a physical Central Queensland Capras 28-18 at Tugun on Saturday.
The Capras, with no NRL-aligned players, rattled a Seagulls side that included seven Gold Coast Titans with their aggressive defence, spoiling tactics, hard straight running and controlled kicking game during the first 40 minutes.
Despite the Seagulls being first on the scoreboard through a barge-over try by newcomer JJ Collins in the fifth minute, the Capras dominated the rest of the first session, scoring three converted tries as the Seagulls were put out of stride by the Capras’ relentless aggression and intensity. Tweed made a string of unforced errors to gift the Capras possession as they ran with a strong wind at their backs.

Photo Credit: KPM Sports Images
Tries came to lock Lachlan Hubner in the eighth minute when he crashed through the centre of the ruck from short range. Another followed soon after, scored by halfback Jack Madden on the left edge after Tweed winger Talor Walters has spilled a bomb.
A third Capras’ try came in the 27th minute when a good offload from McKenzie Yei put second-rower Nixon Putt over for an 18-6 lead.
A rev up by Seagulls coach Ben Woolf at half-time, which challenged his players to match the Capras’ unbridled intensity, and to respect the ball more, took his side out of their complacency.
Walters scored after a good shift to the right less than four minutes after the break and slightly-built fullback Jayden Campbell, son of Titans legend Preston, put Treymain Spry into space for a 50th minute try which brought the score back to 16-18 with Lindon McGrady’s conversion.
Yet it was the 59th minute before the Seagulls again had the lead when 20-year-old Titans-contracted halfback Toby Sexton, who showed some good touches on debut and defended strongly, shook off Putt with a left-handed fend and ran 30 metres to score on the right. McGrady’s conversion made it 22-18.

Photo Credit: KPM Sports Images
The victory wasn’t sealed under left centre Lee Turner scored the try of the game in the 76th minute. The opportunity came after Spry switched from the right of the ruck to the left, probing for an opening. He landed a smart pass to McGrady who threw a cut-out ball to always-reliable Turner who squeezed into the left corner.
Woolf would not have been pleased with the succession of unforced errors, particularly in the first half, but was impressed with the lift in intent in the second – particularly the effort of Titans players who were at the forefront of the comeback with aggressive defence, led by prop Jai Whitbread, and the strong carries of Darius Farmer.
“I told them at half-time that the Capras’ intent was just way better, and it doesn’t matter how fast and how good you are, if the other team has an intent to run hard and tackle hard and an intent to scramble they will get the better of you,” said Woolfe.
“We matched their intent, or even bettered it, in the second half and the game swung around.

Photo Credit: KPM Sports Images
“We have another attacking strike in the side if we roll up our sleeves and give those players the opportunity. Darius Farmer had some good carries when we needed it and the Titans boys showed they wanted to play and do the job for our regular boys.”
Prop Collins showed he will be a handy acquisition, Campbell gave glimpses how elusive he can be in the second half with acceleration and ability to change direction quickly – reminiscent of his father. Spry was often dangerous when in the attacking zone, bench hooker Liam Hampson made a strong impact and Titans’ prospect Sexton grew into the match and will obviously develop further as he gets more familiar with his teammates.
The Capras, Hunters and Ipswich may be the only Intrust Super Cup teams without direct alignments to NRL clubs but the Rockhampton boys showed that reputations won’t bother them and they have enough class, size and aggression to match most sides if they can maintain their effort for 80 minutes.
TWEED SEAGULLS 28 (JJ Collins, T Walters, T Spry, T Sexton, L Turner tries; L McGrady 4 goals) def. Central Queensland CAPRAS 18 (L Hubner, J Madden, N Putt tries; T Browne 3 goals) at Tugun.
ROUND 2 – SUNDAY 28TH MARCH @ Iona College, Brisbane – WM Seagulls Vs Tweed Seagulls
RD1 Intrust Super Cup Preview
Neil Cadigan
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls side has been boosted with the inclusion of New Zealand and Samoan international prop Herman Ese’ese for tomorrow’s season-opening home clash against Central Queensland Capras at Tugun Leagues Club (3pm).
The 26-year-old prop, who joined Gold Coast Titans this year after three seasons with Newcastle Knights, comes into the 17 after originally being listed at No. 19 in the Titans’ 21-man squad selected for their Friday night derby clash with the Broncos.
Seagulls coach Ben Woolf says Ese’ese has the potential to make a big contribution to the Seagulls’ start to the season with his powerful running and deft offload.
“Herman obviously has a point to prove, that he should be in the Titans’ 17, and he’s going to be really good value for us,” said Woolf. “He was terrific in the trial against Burleigh and he has nearly 100 NRL games’ experience (93 for the Broncos and Knights).
“We have really good representation from the Titans to boost a good balance of experience and youth in our own squad.”
Ese’ese’s inclusion takes the number of Titans players in Saturday’s team to seven – joining youngsters Jayden Campbell (fullback), Toby Sexton (five-eighth), Tremain Spry (centre) and middle forwards Jai Whitbread, Sam McIntyre and edge player Darius Farmer. It’s perhaps the largest contingent in the one match since 2014 and most of those players have the benefit of four training sessions with the Seagulls.
Woolf’s preparations have been about his side playing “fast”, using the ball but being able to switch on defensively if they have to defend successive sets with the Seagulls playing under the new “six-again” rule for the first time in the Intrust Super Cup.
“We want to use footy, play with confidence and back ourselves to play fast,” said Woolf. “But to do that we have to have the ability to defend six-to-go rulings against us and back to back sets.
“If you can’t defend back to back sets that turns into conceding tries and defending kick-offs under fatigue. It’s difficult to stop momentum under pressure these days and we have to respect that.
“We have a blend of good experience with the nucleus of the side from the past few seasons still there in Lindon McGrady, Lamar Liolevave and Rowland Jacobs then Lee Turner, Brent Woolf and Tremain Spry who have come through since 2019 – plus other regular players not in the 17 on Saturday.
“And there are exciting young guys like Toby Sexton and Jayden Campbell, plus the Titans guys who have quite a bit of NRL experience. We just have to blend it all together.”
The team: Jayden Campbell, Talor Walters, Tremain Spry, Lee Turner, Ryland Jacobs, Lindon McGrady, Toby Sexton, Jai Whitbread, Brent Woolf, JJ Collins, Lamar Liolevave, Joe Vuna, Sam McIntyre. Interchange: Liam Hampson, Darius Farmer, Harrison Muller, Braden Robson.
Hale’s Australian Sojourn Continues
When the NRLW competition finished four months ago, Warriors captain and Veronica White Medal winner Georgia Hale’s journey in Australia was only just beginning.
Hale was one of five Warriors players who committed to play in the NRLW and travelled to Australia before the competition, quarantining for 14 days an hour north of Sydney.
Along with forward Crystal Tamarua, who is also living in Queensland, the Auckland local was granted permission to remain in Australia despite having nothing but a suitcase full of clothes.
Hale had intended to move to Australia 12 months earlier to reunite with her partner, Titans prop Sam Lisone, before the COVID-19 pandemic threw those plans into disarray.
“I basically sent a few emails to find out if there was any chance I could stay after the NRLW and got the green light once I provided some paperwork,” Hale told NRL.com.
“For as long as I’ve played the game my mind has always been set on being one of the girls who was based in New Zealand paved the way and create opportunities for others.
“We’ve made some huge progress so I was adamant that I’d never leave but coming over for the NRLW last year and being in my mid-20s, I was keen for another experience.
“It’s not just with footy but living away from home and working things out for myself.
“Having Sam here is a bonus too, but if anything, it gave me the push at a time no one else could travel. It was just something different for me to stay.”
Taking leave without pay at her job with the Warriors as a community coordinator, where she was also recognised by the NRL to earn the Veronica White Medal last season, Hale has settled into her new surroundings on the Gold Coast.
She’ll turn out for the Tweed Seagulls in Queensland’s BHP Premiership starting next month, while her father, Laurie, is the Warriors’ NRL team manager and is based on the Central Coast.
“The rest of my family are back home but he’s not too far away if I need him,” Hale said of her father.
“The Warriors have been really understanding that I’m young and want to start a new chapter, and with the men’s team over here it’s good to touch base with a few staff members.
“I still have a great relationship with the Warriors and don’t want to close that door as a player or an employee.”
Like many who participated in last year’s NRL Telstra Women’s Premiership, Hale is eager to hear if the competition will expand in 2021.
“It’s hard sometimes as a player but you’ve just got to sit back and wait but I think extending the competition this year is crucial,” she said.
“We’ve had three years running off the same template, which has been great, but we’re all ready for the next step.
“If we had a couple more weeks together at the Warriors last year who knows what we could’ve done. I felt like we were only just starting to find our feet.”
Hale is just as hopeful about the upcoming 2021 World Cup.
The Kiwi Ferns were the only top-tier nation that were able to play an international match last year against a Samoan invitational side.
“Hopefully it goes ahead … as a player we want to be playing as much football at the top level as we can,” she said.
“If not, we need something on a smaller scale to look forward to. We haven’t played a proper Test since 2019 so I would hope there is something on the calendar.”
Source: https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2021/03/17/hales-australian-sojourn-continues/
Titans Talent Set To Boost Seagulls
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Seagulls have been allocated a strong group of Gold Coast Titans players who will potentially play a leading role in the Gulls’ quest to play finals football for successive seasons.
And that includes classy 20-year-old five-eighth Toby Sexton, who was an outstanding contributor to the Seagulls’ Mal Meninga Cup and national under-19s title-winning side of 2019 and prop Joseph Vuna after going through a pre-season train-and-trial regime.
Vuna made his NRL debut for the Warriors, and represented the Junior Kiwis, in 2018 before spending two years as a Mormon missionary. He is the younger brother of former Wallabies back and Newcastle Knights winger Cooper Vuna.
The other Titans squad members who could wear Seagulls’ colours in early rounds are fullback/winger, back-rower Sam McIntyre, props Herman Ese’ese, Sam Lisone and Jai Whitbread, winger/centre Tremain Spry, who played 20 games for Tweed in 2019 (nine tries), and second-rower Darius Farmer.
The Seagulls kick-off their 2021 campaign against Central Queensland Capras on Saturday March 20 (3pm), only their second game after playing finals in 2019 due to last year’s competition being reduced to just one round because of the impact of COVID-19.
Ese’ese – who was chosen at jersey number 20 in the Titans’ extended squad which will start their against the Warriors on the Central Coast on Saturday – is the most experienced of the Titans-allocated players. The former Broncos and Knights prop has played 93 NRL games and represented New Zealand (one Test) and Samoa (six) and is expected to push for inclusion in the Titans’ 17 early in the season.
Campbell, 20, is the son of Titans legend and Dally M Medal winner Preston Campbell and has similar exciting attacking skills and pace, although taller and with a slight frame.
“Our allocation of Titans players is certainly concentrated up front with three front-rowers but generally there is a lot of youth there and players who are still developing as NRL players,” said Seagulls CEO Matthew Francis.
“Obviously injuries to Titans will play a big role in how much of these players we will see in the Intrust Super Cup but the Titans go into the season with a very clean bill of health, so we can look forward to being strengthened by their inclusion in Ben Woolf’s team.
“Joey Vuna is an interesting pick-up. He showed tremendous potential when he played four NRL games for the Warriors in 2018 before following the path of players like Will Hopoate and embarking on two years of mission work and has his best football ahead of him.
“We could see a bit of Toby Sexton as he adapts to senior football after losing last season’s opportunity to develop in ISC. We’re excited about having him in the side after watching him develop into one of the best teenage prospects in the state with our Mal Meninga Cup side in 2019.”
Zara Canfield Re-Signes BHP Premiership 2021
Zara Canfield is back for a big year to come at Tweed – keep an eye out for Canfield!
Keep an eye out if you’re running in her channel because you’re about to get flattened.
Keep an eye out if you’re a fan because she’s knocking on doors to make her NRLW debut! And you’ll want to be there when she does.
Zara’s work ethic and leg drive makes her one of the consistent players in the squad. She clocks up meters and loves the big contact. One of the original Tweed girls from the first 2019 squad, her game has improved from stride to stride as she progresses through the ranks.
Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup – Rd 2 Team List Vs Magpies – Away
Your Tweed Seagulls team for round two of the
U18’s Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup
“Round one against the Ipswich Jets was a big wake up call, it’s a big step up from the Andrew Johns Cup – we are playing against the best in Queensland for our age-group now.”
Said Jaylan De Groot
Some of the standouts from round one were Ryan Foran who’s played consistently throughout the trial matches and will want to keep that form throughout the competition.
The Northern Rivers combination of Oskar, Tim and Jaylan was on fine display in round one and will be something to watch as they tear apart the defensive line. The intuition the boys have comes from having played together for six years.
ROUND 2 – SUNDAY 14TH MARCH – 3:00PM
Davies Park, Brisbane
1 Jaylan De Groot
2 Keano Kini
3 Kaleb Ngamanu
4 Campbell Watchirs
5 Tim Sielaff-Burns
6 Harradyn Wilson
7 Tom Weaver
8 Jack Cullen
9 Oskar Bryant
10 Jotham Russell
11 Ryan Foran
12 Jayden Wright
13 JT Manuofetoa
14 Blake Mozer
15 Bailey Martin
16 Nick Hilton
17 Jesse Jackson
18 Kruz Rimene
19 Reico Ratana
20 Kyen Murphy
21 Elijah Lui
The game will be streamed live on QRL’s new platform Q+.
https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2021/03/09/souths-logan-magpies-v-tweed-seagulls/
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Georgia Hale Signs with Tweed
We are honoured to be taking in Georgia Hale as one of the club’s most prominent new name signing for 2021.
A classy performer in the halves with the versatility and work-rate to play hooker or lock, Georgia Hale has become one of Women’s Rugby League’s most recognisable – and through her community work, hardest-working – figures over the past five years. The signing of Georgia brings so much more than just her skills on the field.
Born in Auckland, NZ, ‘G’ grew up as an elite performer in a wide range of sports throughout her teens, rugby league, touch, tag, rugby union and netball among them.
She broke into the international scene at just 19 years of age; selected in the Kiwi Ferns squad in the historic Kiwi Ferns-Jillaroos series at the 2015 NRL Auckland Nines.
Her career appearances have stacked up since:
9 NRLW Appearances – Warriors
11 International Tests – New Zealand Kiwi Ferns
2015-17 NRL Auckland Nines – New Zealand Kiwi Ferns
2017 Kiwi Ferns’ Rugby League World Cup
2019 Kiwi Ferns’ World Cup Nines
Named a Kiwibank Local Hero Medal recipient and the New Zealand representative player of the year at the RLPA Players’ Champion awards, Hale’s contribution to rugby league and community initiatives for children and people with disabilities was further recognised when she was honoured as the 2019 Young New Zealander of the Year.
The inspirational Hale – one of just five New Zealand-based players to head to Australia for the 2020 NRLW premiership – was appointed the Warriors’ captain, starring in the No.13 jersey in all three of the club’s games and averaging 39 tackles and 68 metres. She was awarded the Veronica White Medal on NRL Grand Final day for her exceptional off-field work.
Kaitlyn Phillips Re-Signs
Kaitlyn Phillips packs down for another season at the Seagulls!
She’s a quiet achiever and incredibly humble about the footy resume she has already built.
Born in the NSW town of Orange, Phillips started playing league tag with the country club Orange Hawks and only began playing full contact in 2018.
She’s now considered one of the best forwards in the BHP Women’s Premiership. She’s gone from playing against the NSW country leagues best to playing alongside the world’s best, seemingly in the blink of an eye. In 2019 she played in the NSW Country team at the Women’s National Championships and in the same year went on to represent the Prime Minister’s XIII in their win over Fiji. The Jillaroos coach, Brad Donald, dubbed the group as the next generation of women’s rugby league stars.
And his comments are correct in the case of Kaitlyn Phillips! The now twice capped Indigenous All-Star has made her NRLW debut for the Roosters last year, and we don’t expect it will be her last. Phillips is ready to build on her game and is prepared to take it to the next level.
It will be a pleasure to watch her excel this season for the Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls Women’s BHP Premiership side.
Jessika Elliston Re-Signs with Tweed Seagulls
Gold Coast Airport Tweed Heads Seagulls’ Jessika Elliston made history by becoming the first Seagulls women’s player to be chosen to play at the State of Origin level.
As a foundation player, she is a leader of the team and her signing for season 2021 was critical in both retaining and attracting new players to a refreshed team with ambitions for success this year.
An uncompromising and skilful player her experience will be critical in helping Coach Chris O’Connell develop the talented group of young players coming through the ranks.
A qualified hairdresser, Jessika is looking to further her qualifications and develop a career path after being awarded an inaugural Tom Searle Scholarship for 2021.
Seen as an enforcer on the field the crowd favourite embodies all that Seagulls as a Club strives to be
Gold Coast Airport’s Tweed Seagulls Women to soar in All Stars
Tweed Seagulls Players Abelee Stanley, Jaime Chapman, Kaitlyn Phillips, Lailee Phillips, Leticia Haas-Quinlan and Shaylee Bent have all been named to play in the NRL All Stars game in Townsville.
For proud Buranggin and Biria-gubba woman Abelee Stanley her selection in this week’s Indigenous All Stars game is a dream come true.
As a young girl growing up in Cherbourg and Murgon – the home of Indigenous Team of the Century members Steve Renouf and Frank Fisher – she can remember attending All Stars games with her family and being inspired by the players representing their mob and culture.
“I was overwhelmed when Dean Widders called me as I didn’t believe I could make the side so it was a very emotional moment,” Abelee said.
“Growing up I was inspired by watching both the men and women’s teams and the pride they displayed in representing our culture.”
Stanley plays for the Tweed Seagulls and will have plenty of support in Camp as she is joined by team mates Kaitlyn and Lailee Phillips as well as Shaylee Bent, Jaime Chapman and Leticia Haas-Quinlan in what is believed to be a record representation from one club.
Seagulls celebrated their selection at their season launch last week with Shaylee, Kaitlyn and Abelee being the proud recipients of the inaugural Tom Searle scholarships to assist them in their equally impressive off-field endeavours.
Stanley is enrolled at Bond University where she is progressing towards a degree in Social Science while Bent is in the second year of an Education Degree, Haas-Quinlan is majoring in Global Indigenous Studies and Kaitlyn Phillips has just enrolled in a Cardiac Sonography Degree after completing a Paramedic Degree.
All six players have committed to inspiring the next generation of players in their coming through Tweed Seagulls and paid homage to those who have gone before them.
Shaylee Bent, a proud Wiradjuri woman, singled out inaugural Women’s captain Bec Young for special mention.
“I remember her speaking to us about the pride she had in the jersey,” Shaylee recounted. “She was so inspiring with her community work off the field and that’s the message the Tweed girls want to deliver to young Indigenous girls – that they can achieve anything”
Who knows?
There might be a young girl in Cherbourg who will be inspired to dream of what is possible.
Just like Abelee Stanley.
Witness the best of the best from both sides of the Tasman. As athletes and as people from the First Nations.
Hear us. See us.
Be there as cultures collide.
Chapman ready to make No.1 mark in All Stars debut
After watching All Stars clashes on television and being part of extended Indigenous squad camps as a teenager, Jaime Chapman had been counting down the days until her 18th birthday.
And who could blame her?
With women’s rugby league on the rise each year, Chapman is coming into a period where the opportunities available are better than ever before.
The former Cronulla local will get the chance to play in her favoured fullback position for the Indigenous All Stars on Saturday after making her NRLW debut for the Dragons on the wing last year.
“I’m really excited to play fullback, I didn’t get a chance at the Dragons with Sammy [Bremner] there so I’m looking forward to it,” Chapman told NRL.com.
“I feel like I can definitely shine playing that role and it’s a position I’m comfortable with and have played there a lot growing up.”
Chapman is a prime example of the new pathways in place across the women’s game developing the next generation of stars.
She began playing rugby league as a six-year-old before stopping due to previous restrictions preventing girls from playing at age 12.
It resulted in her father, David Chapman, starting a rugby sevens team in the Sutherland shire to keep his daughter and other players active with the ball in hand.
From there, Chapman reverted to league once the Tarsha Gale Cup and Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership began to take shape at the Sharks.
“It’s been a bit different for me, whereas you get a lot of girls who are in their 20s but have only played for a few years,” Chapman said.
“It’s just really good to see that there is a clear pathway in place now for young girls to work their way up and know what the next steps are.”
Chapman’s goals for the season won’t end with an Indigenous All Stars debut in Townsville with the promising youngster looking to build on her inclusion in the Jillaroos train-on squad ahead of the World Cup.
“We had a camp the other week and it was awesome, I felt like I’d been there for years,” she said.
“The girls are so inclusive. Meeting a lot of them face-to-face is very different to what you see on the field.
“What I took away from that experience is I want to build on myself as a person. I want to build my strength mentally and physically and I need to get in the gym a bit more and get some more muscle.
“Isabelle Kelly, you see her train every day. I would love to play for the Jillaroos next to her one day.”
A change of scenery in the off-season, with the 18-year-old moved to Ocean Shores in northern NSW to live with her father, has given Chapman a fresh perspective on the game.
Chapman’s grandmother is from Kamilaroi land, near Gunnedah.
“I was introduced to my Aboriginal heritage in my older years when I asked dad if I can play in the Indigenous Oztag team because I was aware of it,” Chapman said.
“I’ve learned lots about my culture, my mob, and my tribe over the past couple of years since.”
Witness the best of the best from both sides of the Tasman. As athletes and as people from the First Nations.
Hear us. See us.
Be there as cultures collide.
Source Link: NRL.com
Celebrating Our History and Embracing Our Future
The recent Campbell Construction Co ‘Seagulls to Heroes’ Business Breakfast was a great success bringing together our family of long-term partners and new sponsors along with our community organisations that create the fabric of what Seagulls is all about.
To be able to award the inaugural Tom Searle Scholarships to members of the Gold Coast Airport Women’s team was a highlight of the morning as we honoured our past while embracing a bright new future.
Thanks to all who attended and particularly to our sponsors for their unstinting support.
Please enjoy some of the highlights from the morning including our special guests Ben Ikin, Preston Campbell, Seagulls Head Coach Ben Woolf and Gold Coast Titans Head Coach, Justin Holbrook:
In a week that saw Tweed Seagulls building new female dressing rooms and club gymnasium, the club was also laying foundations on the field with the welcomed return of the Cyril Connell Challenge for 2021.
Naming rights sponsor Campbell Constructions Co are constructing the new facility, which cements the club’s commitment to female rugby league.
Elsewhere in the club, the RJ Beaufils & Son Auswide Bank Mal Meninga squad recently had an impressive outing against Gold Coast neighbours Burleigh Bears in a high-quality pre-season hit-out at Piggabeen Oval, where the works had commenced.

In an important week for the club, Tweed Seagulls celebrated the start of the season with a business networking breakfast which catered for more than 200 guests to thank existing sponsors and welcome new partners after what was a challenging year not only for rugby league, but the whole community.
The breakfast highlighted the importance of the game in bringing the community together by celebrating the contribution of life-member Tom Searle, who passed last year.
Gold Coast Titans head coach Justin Holbrook was joined by two additional special guests in Ben Ikin and Preston Campbell, who were both ‘discovered’ by Searle.
Affectionately remembered as ‘the Lion’, Searle dedicated more than 50 years of his life to rugby league, in the district and beyond.
Both Campbell and Ikin went from young hopefuls recruited by ‘the Lion’ to not only have stellar careers on the field, but retain their status after retiring due to their unstinting commitment to the community and our great game.
It was only appropriate then that Tarryn Aiken should be one of the Tom Searle Scholarships’ inaugural recipients named in honour of the great man.
As a young Bilmabil junior and Tweed River High student, Aiken returned to the game when the Gold Coast Airport got behind the Seagulls’ bid to enter the BHP Premiership.
Aiken’s meteoric rise includes being an NRLW Premiership winner and player of the match in the Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons State of Origin victory which was broadcast to more than one million viewers.
Her story captured the ‘Seagulls to Heroes’ theme of the breakfast in a week that also saw six of her team mates selected in the Women’s Indigenous All Stars team.

These are what dreams are made of and are the same dreams that the Cyril Connell trialists were pursuing when they took the field at Piggabeen for the first time.
They are the same dreams that bring together players, coaches and support staff, and a great family of sponsors to build a new future.
Together, they create a strong foundation for success.
Nervous Phillips determined to honour a legacy
Indigenous forward Kaitlyn Phillips says honouring the legacy left by Bec Young will provide plenty of motivation in Saturday night’s Harvey Norman All Stars match in Townsville.
After making her NRLW debut for the Roosters last year, Phillips is ready to build on her debut at the senior level after getting a taste with the PM’s XIII and All-Stars in recent seasons.
Her next task is a switch to the front row following Young’s retirement. The veteran prop said goodbye in 2020 having represented the Indigenous All Stars team in each of the eight matches the side has played.
At Queensland Country Bank Stadium she will look to set a platform against the likes of veteran Rona Peters, boom forward Kennedy Cherrington and Broncos prop Shannon Mato.
No easy feat.
“I’m not going to lie, I’m packing it,” Phillips laughs, telling NRL.com.
Match Highlights: Indigenous All Stars v Maori Ferns
“But it might be an opportunity for me to be able to play prop in the future. It was so great to be able to play alongside Bec last year, who had been there a long time and who I have associated with growing up.
“I know how much the jersey means to her so to be able to pull on number eight, I’ll try and do it some justice.”
Unlike last year, where Phillips made her All Stars debut in a 10-4 victory, the 23-year-old will have some family support on the field with younger sister Lailee named on the bench.
Born in Orange, the pair began playing rugby league in 2018 in western NSW but have since moved to Tweed Heads with their mother 12 months ago.
The jersey means a lot … it’s the acknowledgment of the sacrifice and resilience that many have made before us
Indigenous All Stars forward Kaitlyn Phillips
Their Indigenous heritage comes from their father Craig’s side, who Kaitlyn said gave the family the “perfect” upbringing around their culture and sport.
“We’ve always identified as aboriginal and we’re still in contact with Dad all the time and he’s super proud of us,” Kaitlyn said.
“To be able to play with my sister will be an extremely special experience. She’s wanted this opportunity and I’ve been able to watch how hard she’s worked to get it.
“The jersey means a lot … if I had to sum it up, it’s the acknowledgment of the sacrifice and resilience that many have made before us.
“And the other is the gratefulness that we all hold for people when we’re all there together and more importantly to inspire the next generation of Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander girls coming through.
Indigenous Unity Dance
“It’s more than just a game. It’s an extremely unique experience and you can bring a whole group together very quickly even if you may not know each other for the most part.
“Before words are spoken or any team bonding needs to be done there’s just an overwhelming feeling that we are already connected.”
The Phillips sisters will return to Tweed Heads once the All-Stars campaign is over and begin club football with the Seagulls, who have also signed Warriors captain Georgia Hale and Indigenous fullback Jaime Chapman for the upcoming BHP Premiership season.
Witness the best of the best from both sides of the Tasman. As athletes and as people from the First Nations.
Hear us. See us.
Be there as cultures collide.
Article Source: NRL.com
Tarryn Aiken Re-Signs for 2021
The Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls are proud to formally announce the retention of foundation player Tarryn Aiken for season 2021. On Wednesday, February 10; Tarryn will be interviewed by former Seagull Ben Ikin.
Tarryn’s personal rise from local Tweed River High student to player of the match in last year’s Women’s State of Origin game encapsulates the theme of the breakfast. Her story is one that will inspire the next generation of female players, along with her scintillating attacking skills and tenacious defence. Tarryn’s success is not limited to on the field. She’s a dedicated academic, studying an Honours in Psychology at Griffith University Gold Coast
The Club will announce other major signings in coming days with the squad already in intense preparations under new Coach Chris O’Connell.

Six Seagulls named for NRLW All Stars clash
Congratulations to the six Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls players selected in the Indigenous All Stars Women’s team.
Abelee Stanley along with sisters Lailee & Kaitlyn Phillips will be joined by new signings Shaylee Bent, Jaime Chapman and Leticia Haas-Quinlan to represent their culture in what will be a thrilling clash against a strong New Zealand Maori selection.
Tweed have a proud history with the local Indigenous community and are equally proud of these six outstanding women who are also champions off the field.
A 25,000-strong capacity crowd is expected for the game at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.
The All Stars match will be the first played under the rule changes introduced to the Telstra Premiership this season, which are aimed at keeping the ball in play longer and speeding up the game.
Davis returns to Titans
Author: Titans.com.au
“I am really excited to be back.”
The Titans have welcomed back one of their own, in former player and Tweed Heads Seagulls legend, Brad Davis, who has joined the club coaching ranks in a full-time capacity.
Davis played six games for the Titans in 2008 and had a decorated career playing for the Tweed Heads Seagulls in the Intrust Super Cup (formerly Queensland Cup).
Davis famously captained the victorious 2007 Queensland Cup premiers for the Seagulls – the first time a team from New South Wales had won the competition.
Davis was also named five-eighth and captain of the team of 20 years in 2015 and widely regarded as one of the best to have played in the competition.
“It was a long time ago back in 2008 (being at the Titans), but it is really exciting and really great to get an opportunity to be back at the club. Davis said.
Of his new role, Davis said he will be working with players as they transition between NRL and the Intrust Super Cup squads.
“I have come on board as the NRL Assistant and Transition Coach, so I will be overseeing those guys that are not playing NRL and going back to the Intrust Super Cup and playing with our feeder clubs in Burleigh Bears and Tweed Heads Seagulls.
“(The players) are extremely excited and it is really important for them after missing out on all of the footy last year and they are jumping out of their skin and really hoping to play a lot of games this year and push themselves further up the pecking order.
Davis has come through the Titans programs, working with the JTS (Junior Titans System) programs as well as being a teacher at Palm Beach Currumbin, one of the club’s affiliate schools.
“They are two really great organisations (Titans & Palm Beach Currumbin). PBC has helped me develop as a coach and along the way you do build really good relationships with the young players who have progressed up into the Titans squad.
And where does Davis see himself fitting in amongst the current coaching staff?
“The two Jimmys (Dymock and Lenihan) are more the characters, along with Justin (Holbrook), so I am just finding my way there and I am really stoked to be learning off some great experienced heads in rugby league, who have been around the game for a long time.
“I am learning plenty and that is a big goal of mine at the moment, to put my head down and get on board with the systems in place.”
Watch his interview here 👇👇
Xavier Coates: ‘Bring on 2021’
Electric Queensland Maroons winger Xavier Coates is determined to have a cracking 2021 after 2020 he described as a year of “huge ups and downs”.
The 19-year-old, who started last year “fighting for a position in the Broncos”, said he was forever grateful his year finished on a high, winning the State of Origin, after a year full of struggle.
“We didn’t have the best year in general at the Broncos,” Coates, who played his first game for the year against Manly in Round 5, said.
“I was feeling a bit down at the time because all you did was you trained, you played and you’d go home. When we weren’t getting the results on the field, you’d just be turning on the TV, seeing it on the news non-stop, then going back to training and there’s all media there and you’d be interviewed…. it just wasn’t a good atmosphere around the club.
“I think at the end of the year when I got the call up into the Origin squad, I didn’t really understand… not understand, but I didn’t know how I made the team with the year we had.
“I think Wayne and a few of the coaching staff saw something in me throughout the year and ended up picking me… I just wanted to go in there and learn as much as I could.
“Then I ended up playing the first game and that was… well my interview, you could tell how much excitement I had. It meant so much to me. As a kid, any rugby league kid’s dream is to play Origin. To finally fulfil that dream, it’s something I hold very dear to my heart.
“2020, in a nutshell, was a lot of ups and downs, but at the end of the day, I can’t complain how it turned out… finished on a high.”
The Papua New Guinea international said he enjoyed the back end of the year so much, he did not want to leave the Origin bubble on the Gold Coast.
“We spent four or five weeks together… we weren’t allowed out, we were stuck in the bubble, but that didn’t hold us back from having a good time,” Coates said.
“When we had to leave I was really sad because I didn’t want to see all the boys go… we created such a good bond within the camp.
“With all the coaching staff, it was an awesome time. I want to get a taste of it again this year.”
Coates said he wanted to take all of the lessons he learned during the bubble, under the watchful eyes of coaches Wayne Bennett, Mal Meninga and Neil Henry, and “take that into my club football”.
“Hopefully I can play some good footy… make a stand in 2021,” Coates said.
“I had a good, refreshing start to 2021. Had a good break off, so coming back into the pre-season, it was good to go and get amongst the boys again. See the new coaching staff. It’s a real good atmosphere. It’s really family-oriented. Kevie has made it really family-orientated, which is good. We’re bringing inclusiveness within the club again, so it’s good to be around that.”
Coates said he was confident his niggling injuries during Origin would not be an issue moving forward.
“I made sure after Origin I went and looked after my injuries. I went and looked after my groin, got my shoulder looked after, so I’m feeling good… fit and ready to go,” Coates said.
“I definitely want to put the Origin jersey on one more time… if not more times in the future. I just want to play the best footy I can and just learn as much as I can in this pre-season from Kevie and all of the coaching staff we have, especially with the calibre of players we have there at the club, it’s good to learn off them.
“We have a lot of old boys coming back and helping us out. I’ve got Darbs helping me out with the outside backs. If I can learn as much as I can from that and put that into my football, I think everything will go well.
“Milford has been really impressive. He’s been playing really good in the pre-season. He’s looking really good and fit and ready to go for 2021. I reckon he’s a player to watch out for.
“We’ve got a few new faces. We’ve got David Mead, who was, as a young kid growing up, one of my idols. As a PNG kid, seeing what he did in NRL at the Titans and moving to the Broncos and over to the UK, seeing how good a footballer he is and where he came from, and how he plays his football, he was definitely an idol of mine. To hopefully take the field with him this year will be really good.
“Bring on 2021.”
Source – [https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2021/01/21/xavier-coates-bring-on-2021/]
Sexton feeling fresh after chance to find his feet
Toby Sexton’s 2019 can be best described in three words… footy, footy and more footy. The mammoth season of success – which included winning the Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup and National Under 18 Championship with Tweed, Allan Langer Trophy with Palm Beach Currumbin and a call-up to the Australian Schoolboys – culminated in a three-year deal with the Gold Coast Titans and straight into an NRL pre-season.
However, last year was a stark contrast to the whirlwind journey experienced in 2019. Sexton only played a grand total of 70 minutes of football for the Tweed Seagulls in the Hastings Deering Colts due to cancellation of the competition due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the lack of game time, the up-and-coming halfback feels the break was a blessing in disguise to find his feet in the elite rugby league arena.
“After the first round, corona came around and because we were in the bubble here and the boys were playing first grade, that was the only game I got for the year, which was tough. But it was kind of a good thing as well because I could just slow down my whole development and there was no pressure on me to perform,” Sexton said.
“At first, it was a bit frustrating as a young fella getting through pre-season. I just wanted to play footy, but towards the back of it, I saw the benefits of it and I think it’s been the best thing for me moving forward to this year.”
I didn’t have that pressure of having to perform on a week-to-week basis and trying to maintain weight off the field because being fresh out of school, it’s been such a big step up coming here so I kind of enjoyed [not playing].
“I was in a pretty good environment as well. I didn’t have to work, I was here full-time.”

Even though the break was good for the Gold Coast junior, it was still tough to sit on the sideline.
“It’s something I definitely missed last year, just playing ’cause that’s what you enjoy,” Sexton said.
“Getting through pre-season is the hard bit, playing footy is the easy bit. – I was looking forward to doing that [playing footy], but it didn’t happen. At the end of the day, it was kind of a good thing for me though I reckon.”
In the final weeks of pre-season training before trials, Sexton feels the shorter conditioning period due to last year’s later finish has allowed him to be fresher for the season ahead.
“It’s been really good actually. I’m feeling really fresh and feeling good,” Sexton said.
“It’s been good as well because it’s been shorter due to Corona and the season finishing later. With the shorter pre-season, your body is definitely fresher.
“I’ve put on a few kilos – I’m up at 86kg now which is definitely going to help me in the long run and I’m feeling really confident going into the season.”
Not having even debuted in the Intrust Super Cup yet, the youngster is wanting to take this season one step at a time, focusing on gaining experience in the second tier competition before anything else.

“I just have to take it slow and not really think too much into the future,” Sexton said.
“I think I’ve just got to try and get through the trials first and impress and start playing a bit of Cup because I still haven’t played a game of Intrust Super Cup yet. – I’ve got to get used to playing against men on a week-to-week basis and just see where you’re at on that week-to-week basis.”
In an added boost to Sexton’s year ahead, the 19-year-old is extremely excited to have former Gold Coast halfback Brad Davis join the Titans’ coaching staff after playing under the esteemed coach at Palm Beach Currumbin.
“I came all the way through school with him from Grade 8 to 12 and to see him here now, it’s unreal,” Sexton said.
“It’s only going to help me as an individual being an ex-halfback and we’ve got a pretty good relationship off the field as well, so it’s pretty good having him here.”
Source – [https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2021/01/22/sexton-feeling-fresh-after-chance-to-find-his-feet/]
‘Seagulls to Heroes’ Business Breakfast and Season Launch
Tweed Seagulls RLFC has the pleasure of inviting the community together to join us in breakfast which is to be held on Wednesday the 10th of February 7:30AM – 9:30AM [QLD Time].
Gold Coast Titans Coach Justin Holbrook will be joined by NRL legend Preston Campbell on the morning as special guests at the ‘Seagulls to Heroes’ Business Breakfast and Season Launch to be held at Seagulls Leagues Club. Justin and Preston will be interviewed by former Seagull and Fox League NRL 360 host Ben Ikin. Ben has also accepted the role as an ambassador for the Tom Searle scholarships that will be launched as part of the ‘Seagulls to Heroes’ Pathways program.
Tarryn Aiken from our BHP Premiership Women’s team will also be interviewed sharing her tremendous rise to becoming a Queensland State of Origin’ legend’ having been awarded the Nellie Doherty Medal for Player of the Match in the recent 2020 clash.
Tarryn is a local Tweed girl who has excelled since the introduction of our female program while impressively maintaining her academic studies in Psychology. Her story, along with the likes of Jessika Elliston, Xavier Coates, Ryan James, Will Brimson and Moeaki Fotuaika are examples of current NRL/NRLW players who have been part of the Seagulls system.
We hope their narratives inspire the next generation of male and female players.
The “Seagulls to Heroes” Pathways Program will be an investment in our future to ensure we maintain this legacy, one we have held for over a century, of providing opportunities for local youth both on and off the field.
To book a seat for the 2021 “Seagulls to Heroes” Business Breakfast – at the money-for value price of $35pp – go to the following link:
https://www.tweedseagulls.com.au/product/2021breakfast/
Plated Breakfast – Coffee & Juice
Proceeds from this event will go towards supporting the Tom Searle Scholarships & Seagulls to Heroes Pathways Program
Keep an eye out for our next major event in 2021. We are hosting a Sportsman Luncheon that will launch the “Seagulls Hall of Fame” recognising over a century of Rugby League on the Gold Coast and Northern NSW.
Let’s start getting excited about the 2021 season!
Brimson back in love with footy
CREDIT:
Will Brimson fell out of love with football.
Having been part of a Broncos under-20s team that featured NRL players Ash Taylor, Jai Arrow and Keegan Hipgrave, Brimson reached a point where he needed a change.
The older brother of Titans star AJ says he was almost lost to the game.
“My football journey started when I was 16 or 17,” Brimson said.
“I got contracted by the Broncos and then I went into under 20’s and had three years there, then I signed with Wynnum Manly and played a year of Q-Cup footy there and then for whatever reason I just decided to stop playing.
“I had two years off, 2018 and 2019.”
AJ Brimson says growing up, the brothers were competitive, especially when it came to football.
“Growing up with two older brothers, especially Will, we were pretty competitive and we all loved footy so every time that we got to be outside playing footy we’d be playing and I’d be crying because I’d lost,” he said.
“Back then I was still earning footy, I was more into touch footy, but for him to be at a Club like the Broncos that was definitely the first step in our family towards making that dream come true.”
While AJ went into the Titans system, Will exited the Broncos and found himself inside Ray Beaufil’s office.
Ray, who is a long time Titans and Tweed Heads Seagulls supporter and partner, helped Will into an apprenticeship.
“When I stopped playing footy I started an apprenticeship pretty much straight away,” Will said.
“When I first came to see Ray for the interview he was telling me to get back into footy and I had no intention of coming back and playing.”
It was while working with Ray and learning his trade, that Will decided to give footy another crack.
AJ picks up the story.
Will Brimson training with the full-time squad for 2020 pre-season.
“I’ve been trying to get him back in the game for two or three years now,” he said.
“I kept telling him you know how fun it is and that you miss it and it just happened that he knew the coach down at Tweed Ben Woolf and he invited him down for one session and I guess he felt the love just being around the boys in a team environment.”
After a season with the Seagulls, Will was selected to be part of the Titans NRL pre-season.
With no guarantee of an NRL contract, Brimson has tested himself at the highest level just one year into his return to the game.
“I’ve never trained with the first grade fulltime boys before, so it’s been good to test myself both mentally and physically,” he said.
“I’m preparing well and just giving it my best shot.”
Ray Beaufils says Will’s traits off the field shine through in how he plays his footy.
“He’s honest, hard working and you can’t fault this guy at all,” he said.
“He’s been given the chance to have a step up and we appreciate that and back him all the way.”
The older Brimson says he has been inspired by his younger brother and is back enjoying rugby league.
“Not just being his brother, but he (AJ) is pretty inspiring,” Will said.
“For his Club, for his state … he is a weapon player and he deserves everything.
“He works really, really hard and he has had a few pretty major setbacks and for him to come back and be even better than he was that speaks a lot about his character.”
So is there a chance that we might see two Brimson brothers lining up in Titans colours?
“It’s good to see him back, he’s only had one year back and now he is doing an NRL pre-season so he’s obviously doing something right,” AJ says.
“With the Titans, I’m only training up until Christmas,” Will explains.
“If I could get an extension even until the trials that would be ideal but if not I’ll head back to Tweed and continue to keep working hard and basically just play consistent footy and to the potential of what Woolfy sees in me.
“Whether it is as a Titan or a Seagull, the good news is Will Brimson will be playing footy in 2021 and has re-discovered his love for the game.
Collective Martial Arts – Women’s Preseason
The Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls Women’s team kicked off their preparations for the BHP Premiership season with a specialist martial arts session at Collective Martial Arts.
Collective Martial Arts is located within Seagulls Leagues Club and with the shared values of mindset, teamwork and discipline is an excellent addition to the family of Seagulls partners.
They provide specialist programs for kids through to adults, and as you can see from the clip, the team had an enjoyable and strenuous workout.
For more information, visit:
collectivemartialarts.com
https://www.facebook.com/tseagullsrlfc/posts/3951156831570899
Seagulls and TopSport raise funds for Preston Campbell Foundation
Tweed Seagulls has teamed up with bookmaker TopSport to raise over $2000 for The Preston Campbell Foundation.
“The Charity Betting Competition saw a Seagulls Old Boy (former players and staff) take on a Seagulls Young Gull (current players and staff) each week by placing a $100 bet on a horse race,” Seagulls CEO Matt Francis said.
“Each week TopSport provided a $100 bonus bet to a punter from each team and then it was us to them to prove their ‘punting prowess’ to try to raise some money for this very worthy cause. Any weekly winnings were set aside and then at the end of the competition each teams winnings were combined.”
“In what some might consider to be a surprising result the Young Gulls won $1,475 compared to the Old Boys $680.”
“A number of the Young Gulls had never placed a bet before, so it just goes to show that picking a horses name or number that you like is sometimes the best way to go.
“Regardless of who won the bragging rights, the competition was a fun way to raise funds for a very worthy cause and I know that the $2,155 will be well utilised by The Foundation.
“We’re thrilled to be able to donate these funds to such a worthy cause, Tristan Merlahan, TopSport’s Director said.
“At TopSport we love our footy which is why we partnered with our local club, Tweed Seagulls last season and to be able to collaborate with them to raise funds to support the work that Preston does is fantastic.
“2020 has been a tough year for so many, and since the mighty Seagulls couldn’t get on the field this year we thought the competition would help create a bit of banter and fun amongst the fans and players – and raise some funds to a great cause, said Mr Merlahan.
“Tweed Seagulls and rugby league have a great history in supporting the communities they serve,” Preston Campbell said.
“I am honoured that the Club in conjunction with TopSport have seen fit to contribute the proceeds to the Foundation.
“These funds will be dedicated to giving local kids – both Indigenous and non-Indigenous – a helping hand to bring their dreams to life,” said Mr Campbell.
The Preston Campbell Foundation supports Titans legend, Preston Campbell’s vision of developing programs and opportunities which inspire and mentor participants to achieve their aspirations and dreams by connecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with their culture, sense of place and well being.
Vale Kevin Judd
Lion’s Legacy to Live on…
Lion's Legacy to Live on…Seagulls and the broader Rugby League Family celebrated the life of Tom Searle earlier this…
Posted by Tweed Seagulls RLFC on Wednesday, 21 October 2020
Gulls Snatch 3rd Place In Thriller Performance [Post-Match Report, FINALS]
A thrilling 60 minutes of rugby league has wrapped up the Gold Coast Airport women’s Seagulls 2020 Holcim Cup Season.
The Seagulls held their nerve in a nail biting third place decider, taking down the West Brisbane Panthers 28-26.
Down by 4 with less than five minutes remaining, fans at Pizzey Park were on the edge of their seat when Gulls go-getter Lailee Phillips rolled over the line tying up the score.
Chelsea Baker capped off her Seagulls season with a successful conversion, giving the Seagulls a 2 point lead to claim the victory.
Barely 60 seconds had ticked by when the girl Gulls opened their account, with Tarryn Aiken scoring not one but two tries within the first 10 minutes of play.
Her leadership qualities certainly didn’t go unnoticed.
“Tarryn (Aiken) is such a good leader. She just told us to focus on our jobs and that’s what we did,” Seagulls Jessika Elliston said.
The classy playmaker proved she’s one to watch, with Seagulls coach Mike Castle knowing she won’t look out of place in a Queensland jersey.
“I think Jess (Elliston) and Tarryn (Aiken) have certainly got enough. They put their hand up every week and I wouldn’t be surprised if there was another one or two grabbed in,” Mike said.
Jessika Elliston also scored a double, with hopes of representing her state for the second time.
“I would love to make origin again, and this time get a win,” Jessika said.
Not winning their first game until Round 4, the impressive season turn around will be one to remember.
“They’re a different team. We had a lot of new faces right throughout the year but the last five or six weeks have been consistence and they’ve become really good friends,” Mike said.
Despite the win, there is still plenty of room for improvement heading into next years season.
“Errors will happen – the challenge is about how we respond to it.”
Gulls plan to defy all odds in finals showdown – Holcim Cup Finals Preview
Saavanah Bourke – Seagulls Reporter
In one of the most unpredictable seasons of rugby league, the Gold Coast Airport women’s Seagulls have tackled every challenge thrown their way.
With the bronze medal in reach, the girl Gulls have shown just what a little bit of consistency can do.
“it’s a shame it’s finishing now because we are just finding our strengths,” coach Mike Castle said.
All Mike wants for his team now, is to finish on a high.
“At one point it didn’t look like we would play at all,” he said.
“We were on then we were off, it’s been a nightmare.
“I’m hoping we can finish on a high and take that into next year.”
Still with plenty to prove, the Seagulls know they will be leaving the field with nothing left to give ahead of Saturday’s podium decider against the West Brisbane Panthers.
“The girls tend to make a mistake and drop their heads,” Seagulls Chelsea Baker said.
“We will really be concentrating on handling our errors and getting that bit of confidence back,” she said.
With both sides winning one half each in last week’s full game, the Gulls will have to be in full form if they want to seal the deal once and for all.
An unchanged side will square up against the Panthers at Pizzey Park on Saturday, kicking off at 12.30pm.
Holcim Cup Finals preview. 🎤Read More:Gold Coast AirportSeagulls ClubABC Building ProductsQRL – Queensland Rugby LeagueHolcim Australia@TopSport
Posted by Tweed Seagulls RLFC on Friday, 4 September 2020
Holcim Cup Round 5 Team Of The Week
Colleen Edwards
QRL Content Producer
6. Tarryn Aiken – Tweed Seagulls
The Seagulls halfback produced her trademark footwork and showed her knack of playing eyes up football in her side’s first half win over West Brisbane Panthers. Never afraid to take on the line, Aiken produced both a try assist and a try of her own.
16. Jess Elliston – Tweed Seagulls
Leading the way once again for the Seagulls, the Maroons forward was highly involved in all aspects for her side and featured in some important go-forward runs.
Plenty of big hits this week 👊 #YTG
Posted by QRL – Queensland Rugby League on Tuesday, 1 September 2020
Gutsy Gulls To Give It All In Finals Clash – [Post-Match Report, RD5]
Saavanah Bourke – Seagulls Reporter
The Gold Coast Airport women’s Seagulls have secured themselves a place in the Holcim Cup finals, after swooping into form against the West Brisbane Panthers on Saturday.
A classy Gulls proved too strong for the Panthers in the first game, keeping their opponents from crossing the line and securing the defeat 4-0 at full time.
But the girl Gulls high was short lived, after the Panthers bounced back 18-6 in the second game.
The two sides will square up for the third week in a row on Saturday at Pizzey Park, in what will be a tough bronze medal decider.
Coach Mike Castle said while his sides performance continues to improve, there still are plenty of areas to work on.
“Overall I’m happy with the efforts – it was a really physical game and we stood up against them,” Mike said.
“It comes down to making better decisions,” he said.
Returning to the field with a score to settle, Seagulls half Chelsea Baker said her and halves partner Tarryn Aiken will be taking the reins ahead of this weekend’s clash.
“Myself and Tarryn will be taking more of a step up to calm everyone down and take a little bit more control around the ball,” she said.
“I’m hoping we can take a handle on our errors and get that confidence back.”
The Seagulls and Panthers will reignite the rivalry for the third week in a row at Pizzey Park on Saturday.
Holcim Cup Round 5 Preview
Saavanah Bourke – Seagulls Reporter
The Gold Coast Airport women’s Seagulls will be chasing their third win in the Holcim Cup competition on Saturday afternoon at Tugun Rugby League Club.
The girl Gulls will have the opportunity to make it three in a row when they go head-to-head against the West Brisbane Panthers for the second week straight.
The Seagulls showed signs of promise last week winning both games against East Tigers and West Brisbane Panthers.
But coach Mike Castle said it won’t be an easy ride for the girls heading into this weekend’s rematch.
“I know West’s (West Brisbane Panthers) will be disappointed with their performance on the weekend – they’re a really good rugby league team so we’re just going to have to try and match them,” Mike said.
Last weeks back to back games worked in the Gulls favour, with this week being a good test for the side to tackle their first 60 minute game since March.
“The start of the game or the start of the second half is where we always dip off and pick it up for the rest of the half,” Mike said.
“It’s something we have addressed and we have been working on.
“This weekend’s 60 minute game is what we are used to and what we trained for all off-season,” he said.
Following last week’s success, Mike said it’s a no brainer for the side to remain unchanged.
“Chelsea (Baker) and Tarryn (Aiken) were really good last week and formed a great combination.
“Diaz (Seumanutafa) gave us more options and moved the ball around.
“Last week we couldn’t pick one player – they all did their job really well and we are hoping for the same thing again this week.”
With finals in sight, the Gulls will have a chance to secure the bronze medal next weekend if they are successful in knocking down the Panthers on Saturday.
The 60-minute rematch between the Seagulls and the Panthers will kick off at 3.30pm.
Holcim Cup RD5 preview. 🎤Read More:https://www.tweedseagulls.com.au/holcim-cup-round-5-preview/Gold Coast Airport
Posted by Tweed Seagulls RLFC on Friday, 28 August 2020
Finals Places On The Line In Round 5 Holcim Cup Action
Colleen Edwards – QRL Content Producer
After swooping into form last weekend to claim two wins, the Tweed Seagulls will be playing for a place in the Holcim Cup finals when they face off in a full game against West Brisbane Panthers in Round 5.
Led by an inspired performance from Tarryn Aiken and her halves partner Chelsea Baker; the Seagulls were too strong for both Easts Tigers and the Panthers in their Round 4 match-ups.
“Off the back of both of those games, their confidence will improve even more now going into this weekend’s game,” Tweed Seagulls coach Mike Castle told the club’s website.
“We’re still in with a shot at the finals – if Tigers can’t manage to take down top-of-the-table Burleigh or the Magpies in both their clashes this weekend, we will be sitting fourth on the table going into the finals.
“If we win both halves against Panthers, we’ll take their spot in third.”
The Panthers will be looking to bounce back this Saturday at Tugun after an unusually flat performance last weekend where they were held to a scoreless draw by the Tigers and pipped 10-6 by Tweed.
The Tigers too will be fighting hard for their chance to play on and feature in the finals; but face a tough challenge against Burleigh in their first half and Souths Logan in their second.
For those who are unable to attend to watch live, all matches will be broadcast via QRL.com.au and the QRL Facebook page.
Holcim Cup Round 5 Squad List
Tweed Seagulls
1. Chantelle Holloway-Samuels 2. Olivia Fien 3. Olivia Attenborough-Doyle 4. Abelee Stanley 5. Riley Hodgson 6. Chelsea Baker 7. Tarryn Aiken 8. Kirra Stedman 9. Lailee Phillips 10. Kaitlyn Phillips 11. Zara Canfield 12. Jessika Elliston 13. Diaz Seumanutafa 14. Brittany Faulkner 16. Serena Martin 17. Alani Sullivan 20. Amy-Leigh Crockett
Coach: Mike Castle
Holcim Cup Round 4 Team Of The Week
Tweed Seagulls lifted to claim their first points of the competition.
Each week, QRL.com.au will publish a Holcim Cup team of the week made up of outstanding performances by players in the competition each round.
4. Abelee Stanley – Tweed Seagulls
A two-try performance from the Tweed young gun helped seal important back-to-back wins for the Seagulls. With some powerful runs and good awareness on the field, Stanley provided plenty of spark.
6. Chelsea Baker – Tweed Seagulls
Baker has played in numerous different positions in the past few weeks, but clicked into another gear in Round 4 at five-eighth, proving a great foil for halves partner Tarryn Aiken. Baker also crossed for a try of her one in the win over Easts Tigers and slotted some difficult conversions.
7. Tarryn Aiken – Tweed Seagulls
Aiken has been impressive throughout the Holcim Cup tournament, but stepped it up in Round 4 to lift Tweed to post their first wins of the competition. As well as scoring a double in the victory over Easts and providing a try assist, her energy and intent in both games also provided a boost for her side.
9. Lailee Phillips – Tweed Seagulls
The Tweed rake was a key performer for her team, showing great involvement and energy to help push the Seagulls pack forward. She was also active in defence in a well-organised side.
12. Jessika Elliston – Tweed Seagulls
Great effort from one of the more experienced Tweed forwards, who can be counted on to put on a wholehearted performance. In attack, her footwork was an asset as she cut her way in between defenders.
Top five moments 👌 #YTG
Posted by QRL – Queensland Rugby League on Monday, 24 August 2020
Girl Gulls Take Off In Back-to-Back Wins – [Post-Match Report, RD4]
Saavanah Bourke – Seagulls Reporter
A classy performance from the Gold Coast Airport Women’s Seagulls has secured the side not one but two wins at Pizzey Park on Sunday afternoon.
A combination of change in attitude and a minor tweak to this week’s starting side worked all in favour for the Gulls, who secured their first wins in the Holcim Cup competition.
The Seagulls had the upper hand in their first game against West Brisbane Panthers, with Abelee Stanley taking advantage of a weak edge and making her way over the line in the 6th minute.
Confidence grew for the girls when Olivia Fein extended the lead 10-0 with 11 minutes of play remaining.
The Panthers brought themselves back into the game in the 22nd minute, but a determined Gulls held on for the remainder of the first half to secure the 10-6 defeat.
A slick start by the Tigers in the second game caught the Gulls off guard, giving their opposition a 10 point lead just eight minutes into play.
But it was Tarryn Aiken who kept her team in the game, scoring a double in the 14th and 16th minutes.
Locked up at 10 all with 12 minutes to go, consecutive tries from Chelsea Baker and Abelee Stanley turned a 10-point lead into a 20-10 win.
Coach Mike Castle said it was the result his side have been chasing for the last four rounds of competition.
“The whole week they had a different attitude and were a bit more positive and confident in how they can perform,” Mike said.
“Off the back of both of those games their confidence will improve even more now.”
A couple of key changes to the side worked wonders for the Gulls, with a similar side predicted to take the field in next weekend’s game against the Panthers.
The Gulls will have a home ground advantage when they take on the West Brisbane Panthers at Tugun Rugby League Football Club on Saturday.
Holcim Cup Round 4 Preview
Saavanah Bourke – Seagulls Reporter
The hope of making finals is still in reach for the Gold Coast Airport women’s Seagulls, if they are successful in this weekend’s clash against the West Brisbane Panthers and Easts Tigers.
While the Gulls continue to chase their first win in the Holcim Cup competition, the gritty side will have the opportunity to do just that at Pizzey Park later this afternoon.
After a disappointing finish to Round 3, coach Mike Castle hopes this week’s team shake up can seal the deal in Round 4.
Today’s clash will see Chelsea Baker pair Tarryn Aiken in the halves, while Diaz Seumanutafa will move to the middle.
“It gives us that opportunity to move the ball around a little bit more with three playmakers across the field,” Mike said.
Seagulls co-captain Tarryn Aiken and forward Kirra Stedman were both named in the competitions side of the week, something Mike said he wasn’t surprised by.
“They are both always looking to be involved,” Mike said.
“Tarryn is always asking for the ball and Kirra is an attacking machine who works very hard.
“If you’re always willing to put your hand up to do the work you’re always going to get seen,” he said.
This will be the second week in a row where the girl Gulls will face off against the West Brisbane Panthers, taking last week’s experience and using it to their advantage this time round.
“They’re a big physical side,” Mike said.
“We had a bit of joy playing wider when we held onto the ball last week so we will be trying to work on that and moving the ball around the halves this week,” he said.
It will all unfold on Sunday at Pizzey Park as the Seagulls go head-to-head against the West Brisbane Panthers at 3.25pm followed by Easts Tigers at 4.05pm.
Gulls’ Courageous Return to Play – [Post-Match Report, RD3]
Seagulls Reporter – Saavanah Bourke
The Gold Coast Airport Seagulls are still chasing their first win in the women’s Holcim Cup competition, missing the mark against the West Brisbane Panthers and Souths Logan Magpies at Pizzey Park on Saturday.
Forced from Round 2 of competition due to tough new border restrictions, the girl Gulls returned to Round 3 already on the back foot in comparison to their more experienced competitors.
A gritty Seagulls did themselves no favours in their first game against the Panthers, knocked back by unforced errors and conceded penalties.
It was star playmaker Taryn Aiken who put her team on the board, making her way over the line shortly after the Panthers first try.
With the Gulls hot on the Panthers tail, the penalty count quickly turned out of their favour contributing to the 20-4 full time margin.
It was a similar scenario in the second half with a classy Magpies proving they were too strong for a fatigued Gulls.
Failing to maintain any territory in their own half, the girls hopes of catching the Magpies quickly slipped away.
Coach Mike Castle said he is looking for more from his side following the 22-0 full time defeat.
“They are more capable than what they show,” Mike said.
“We are not really giving ourselves the opportunity to score many points because we are not getting enough good field territory.
“It’s been a bit of a disjointed start but that doesn’t excuse the errors. They are all talented enough, we just need to fix those errors and we will be a really good football team,” he said.
Despite the losses, Seagulls forward Jess Elliston said there was plenty of positives to take away from a disappointing performance.
“We are quite a small team and to go up against big girls like that I thought we really held our own,” Jess said.
“We will work on the things we didn’t ace this game but every week we are improving – especially having that setback last week, I think today was a massive improvement from our first game,” she said.
The Seagulls will continue to chase their first win of the competition in Round 4 as they gear up to take on Easts Tigers and West Brisbane Panthers at Pizzey Park on Sunday.
Holcim Cup Round 3 Preview
RD3 Holcim Cup Pre-Game Interview
The first two weeks of the women’s Holcim Cup has been a roller-coaster ride for the Gold Coast Airport Seagulls, who are now searching for some consistency in the last three rounds of competition.Read more:https://www.tweedseagulls.com.au/pre-game-interview-rd3-womens-holcim-cup/
Posted by Tweed Seagulls RLFC on Friday, 14 August 2020
Seagulls Reporter – Saavanah Bourke
The first two weeks of the women’s Holcim Cup has been a roller-coaster ride for the Gold Coast Airport Seagulls, who are now searching for some consistency in the last three rounds of competition.
The Government’s latest border shutdown forced the girl Gulls to withdraw from Round 2 of competition, who return to the field this weekend with a fight to make up for lost time.
Coach Mike Castle said it’s an opportunity for the girls to prove their place in the competition.
“After some disappointment last week they have come back with some excitement about playing again,” Mike said.
“Because we have been given the opportunity to come back I think it’s more important to make it known that we deserve to be here and that we can add something to the competition,” he said.
The Gulls will face the West Brisbane Panthers in their first half at Pizzey Park on Saturday, taking on competition leaders Souths Logan Magpies in the second half.
With both sides having size in their favour, Mike said his side will have to play to their strengths.
“They will have to be brave – we are a smaller side but we have some quick and exciting players,” he said.
“They are all excited to go – across the board they all want to put their hand up for a Queensland spot so I’m hoping we see the best of them.”
Co-captain Tarryn Aiken will return to the team after playing for the Panthers in Round 2, with forward Jess Elliston and influential back Chelsea Baker also named in the side after featuring for Easts Tigers last week.
Border difficulties have pulled Abbie Beecher, Lizzy Ross and Hannah Calugay out of the side, meaning Burleigh Bears Linda Edmuns joins the Gulls on loan.
The Seagulls will kick off against the Panthers at 2pm, followed by the Magpies at 2.40pm.
Gutsy Gulls Don’t Back Down Without A Fight – [Post-Match Report, RD1]
Saavanah Bourke – Tweed Seagulls Reporter
The opening round of the Women’s Holcim Australia Cup kept the Gold Coast Airport Seagulls on their toes at West Mitchelton RFLC yesterday afternoon.
The new innovative six rounds of competition will see five teams play two 30-minute halves each weekend.
Unforced errors resulting in lack of possession saw the Gulls first competitors Easts Tigers quickly put points on the board.
But it was Seagulls winger Riley Hodgson who put the girls back in the game, crossing over the line just before full time.
The Gulls gritty defence reflected in the 4-8 fulltime score, but captain Brittany Faulkner said by the time the girls found their groove, it was too little too late.
“As we got our role on we only had a couple of minutes left, so it was hard for us to squash everything in.”
Ahead of taking the field for their second game against the Burleigh Bears, the skipper said the plan of attack was to go hard from the “get go”.
While the Gulls held their own against one of the competition favourites, unforced errors continued and the Bears secured the victory 20-0.
Despite going down for a second time, Australian Nines representative and co-captain Tarryn Aiken said the loss came with plenty of positives.
“We had lots of enthusiasm which was good. When we held the ball and had good field position we looked really threatening.”
Coach Mike Castle said while there was plenty of moments he was happy with, there is still work that needs to be done.
“It’s always hard to know without trials and coming off the back of a long break (how you compare to other sides) so to be able to get onto the field and have a look at what we need to work on is really positive.”
The Seagulls will go head-to-head against the West Brisbane Panthers and shape up against the Easts Tigers again in next week’s competition at Albert Bishop Park on Saturday afternoon.
Seagulls Draw – QRL Women’s Holcim Cup
The Holcim Cup will begin on Saturday, August 1 and is being staged to provide much-needed game time to help bolster the preparations of the Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons squad, who will be aiming to claim the State of Origin shield in November.
The teams taking part are Burleigh Bears, Easts Tigers, Souths Logan Magpies, Tweed Seagulls and West Brisbane Panthers.
An innovative competition format has been designed to accommodate five teams, with all matches each round being played at one location. Each round will consist of five 30-minute halves, with all teams playing 60 minutes each weekend to avoid a bye.
Under this format, it is not possible to play each other exactly the same number of times, but everyone plays the same number of halves.
The five teams will play across five rounds, with finals matches scheduled for September 5.
The scoring system to determine rankings for finals consideration is as follows:
- One point for cumulative points win (0.5 for draw)
- One point on offer for each half won (0.5 for a draw)
- A maximum of three points per round is available per team
Round 3 & 5 are easy games to get to as a Gold Coast local so there isn’t any excuse to get behind our girls and show some support for your club.
Vale Tom Searle
You are invited to celebrate the outstanding life of revered rugby league icon Tom Searle.
Where: Seagulls Club, Gollan Drive Tweed Heads West
When: Friday 10 July 2020
Arrival Time: 9:45 am – please arrive early to allow for check-in and seating. Service starts at 10:30 am.
Light refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the service.
Function to conclude at 2:30 pm.
Because of the COVID-19 public health order, YOU MUST register your name and mobile with TryBooking.
Social distancing practices will be mandatory for all attending this function. Please also note that unfortunately numbers will be capped for this event because of COVID restrictions.
Register here https://www.trybooking.com/BKINZ
“Lion’s Den” – Ep4 (Adrian Vowles)
Tommy Searle remembers Adrian Vowles as a tough, uncompromising player who always played ‘above his weight’.
His passion was infectious and even when things were tough he was a great club man and committed to the Seagulls.
“As players we loved being there and loved playing for the club” Vowles said
Adrian was ‘Player of the Year’ in his début year with the Gold Coast Seagulls and was selected as a reserve back in Queensland’s second State of Origin match in 1994 played for the first time in Melbourne.
After two seasons in North Queensland, Vowles moved to England to play with Castleford from 1997 through to 2001. During that time he was selected to represent Scotland in the 2000 Rugby League World Cup,[3] as well as being voted the winner of the Man of Steel award in 1999.
Learn more about the life and times of this Seagulls legend as he enters “The Lion’s Den”.
Vale Tom Searle
Vale rugby league stalwart, Tom Searle.
He was a former Tweed Heads Seagulls player and president and more recently worked recruiting players for the Titans. But Tom will be remembered most for his passion for the club he arrived to play footy at back in 1972.
Matt Francis, the Interim CEO of Tweed Seagulls Rugby League Football Club and Tom’s mate, reflects on his life.
Duration: 9min 31sec
On Breakfast with Joanne Shoebridge
Vale Tom Searle
Many people associated with Seagulls will be aware of the sad passing of life member Tom Searle yesterday.
Tom Searle is – and always will be – a club legend.
Arriving back from England in 1972 Tom made an immediate impact as captain-coach taking the team from wooden-spooners to the Grand Final in his first season.
It was the beginning of a relationship that saw the birth of not only many rugby league careers but friendships that have lasted to this day.
Tommy was not only a friend but a mentor who made a positive difference to the lives of so many in our community.
In recent weeks people had a glimpse into his influence on others when he hosted ‘The Lion’s Den’ connecting with other Seagulls legends who all were unstinting in their praise of the great man.
The Club will celebrate the life of Tommy at an appropriate time in the future.
We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to his partner Helen, Carmel and their children Mike, Jodie and Nicole, his grandchildren Chandler, Nate, Jai and Mackenzie, as well as his extended family and close friends.
The Lion sleeps in eternal peace.
“Lion’s Den” – Ep3 (Mick Ryan)
Tom Searle remembers Mick Ryan not only as a skilful, hard-running but as a great tactician and communicator as a winning Seagulls Coach.
Mick Ryan’s connection to the Seagulls started when his father was captain-coach in the 1950s with Mick also following in his Dad’s footsteps when he played with Newtown in a Flegg team captained by another Gold coast identity in Neil Pringle.
Upon returning to Tweed he was recruited by the Bulldogs where he lived with another Seagulls legend Steve Hage playing with and against some of the game’s true greats.
He was enticed to move to the Newtown Jets where he had the opportunity to be coached by his namesake Warren Ryan and he described playing under him “like going to football university.”
Mick played for the Jets in the famous 1981 Grand Final against Parramatta before playing a final season in Sydney with the Roosters.
Returning to Seagulls he captain-coached the Club to two Premierships and a Grand Final making him one of the most successful coaches in the Club’s history.
Tommy recounts some of those glory days with Mick as well as other memories.
Join Mick as he enters ‘The Lion’s Den’…
🎙🏉 Lion's Den Episode 3 🎙🏉 (Mick Ryan)
Tom Searle remembers Mick Ryan not only as a skilful, hard-running but as a great tactician and communicator as a winning Seagulls Coach.Mick Ryan’s connection to the Seagulls started when his father was captain-coach in the 1950s with Mick also following in his Dad’s footsteps when he played with Newtown in a Flegg team captained by another Gold coast identity in Neil Pringle.Upon returning to Tweed he was recruited by the Bulldogs where he lived with another Seagulls legend Steve Hage playing with and against some of the game’s true greats.He was enticed to move to the Newtown Jets where he had the opportunity to be coached by his namesake Warren Ryan and he described playing under him “like going to football university.”Mick played for the Jets in the famous 1981 Grand Final against Parramatta before playing a final season in Sydney with the Roosters.Returning to Seagulls he captain-coached the Club to two Premierships and a Grand Final making him one of the most successful coaches in the Club’s history.Tommy recounts some of those glory days with Mick as well as other memories.Join Mick as he enters ‘The Lion’s Den’….
Posted by Tweed Seagulls RLFC on Tuesday, 2 June 2020
COMPETITION QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Michael Hillier – QRL Media
The impact of COVID-19 is far and wide, creating lots of questions about rugby league, in particular the Intrust Super Cup, and its future. Here are some recently asked questions, answered by the QRL.
COMPETITION QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
WILL THE REDUCTION IN REVENUE FROM THE NRL AND ARL IMPACT ON INTRUST SUPER CUP TEAMS?
Most likely, however any impact is unknown as the NRL is yet to finalise its broadcast deal. What we do know is that the ARLC fully understands the role and relevance of the Intrust Super Cup. Our clubs met with the new chairman and acting CEO this week and were pleased with the initial discussions. We have been providing assistance to all of our Intrust Super Cup clubs in developing their financial strategies to help them get through this challenging time and to set them up for the future.
IS THERE A DANGER INTRUST SUPER CUP CLUBS WITH LIMITED FINANCES MAY NOT SURVIVE?
It’s a challenging time for all sports and industries, no doubt. The Intrust Super Cup clubs are going to have to adjust their business models to accommodate a possible reduction in revenue. This may include a reduction in elements of their cost base, including resourcing or a reduction in player payments, for example.
COULD THE REDUCTION IN FUNDING LEAD TO A REDUCED, SHORTER COMPETITION IN 2021, OR A REDUCTION IN THE NUMBER OF TEAMS?
We’re working with all 14 clubs and our intention is to continue to deliver statewide competitions. In terms of the length of competitions, it’s too early to speculate on any possible outcomes. We’ll be guided by the findings of a newly-created working group which is seeking feedback from our clubs on a range of factors associated with the competition, including length, pre-game travel and overnight accommodation.
IS THE WOMEN’S COMPETITION FINANCIALLY SECURE?
Female participation and the BHP Premiership is of vital importance to the QRL and NRL from a strategic perspective. We’re working diligently to ensure the viability and sustainability of our female programs and competitions.
WILL THE AUSWIDE BANK MAL MENINGA CUP AND HASTINGS DEERINGS COLTS COMPETITIONS REVERT BACK TO A SOUTH EAST COMPETITION TO SAVE FUNDS?
Both the Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup and Hastings Deering Colts have been integral to our development pathways for participants and the structure of these competitions is also being examined by the working group.
WILL THE REDUCTION IN REVENUE FROM THE NRL AND ARL IMPACT ON GRASSROOTS CLUBS?
Community clubs generate their own revenue and obviously some of their traditional income streams have been heavily impacted due to the health pandemic. We are here to support and service all of our community clubs and leagues. We have recently set up cross-regional project teams who will focus on delivering support in key areas, including governance, volunteer engagement, club resources, future participation, competition structures and financial management.
“Lion’s Den” – Ep2 (Peter Gill)
Peter Gill one of Tommy Searle’s all-time favourite players for the Seagulls.
After 71 games for the Dragons, Gill played 67 games for the Seagulls between 1992-95 and also worked in the club’s marketing and sponsorship department.
On the field, he was an uncompromising player with a high level of skill and Searle compares his cover defence with the likes of the greats in Ron Coote and John Raper.
Off the field, he was and remains a great Clubman.
He rarely showed nerves on the field but he has had to summon all his courage as he enters “The Lion’s Den”
“Lion’s Den” – Ep1 (Ben Ikin)
Seagull’s legend Ben Ikin’s Origin call-up to State of Origin at the age of just 18 is fairly well known. So too is the fact that Paul Vautin, the Queensland coach at the time, thought that when Ikin arrived at the team hotel to report for a training camp, he was an eager teenager hunting for autographs.
Only months out of playing schoolboys football, Ikin had played just three first grade games. Sitting at home, Ikin was watching the Maroons team being named at home, when his jaw dropped.
Named on the bench: Ben Ikin, Gold Coast Seagulls, number 14.
It was also a proud moment for the man who ‘discovered’ Ikin and signed him to the Seagulls.
Tom Searle is a legend of rugby league on the Gold Coast and a life member of the mighty Seagulls. Know universally as ‘The Lion’, Tommy will host this series of interviews right here on the Seagulls website.
All QRL competitions abandoned for 2020
Queensland Rugby League has cancelled of its four statewide competitions in 2020 due to the ongoing public health emergency. The NSW Rugby League has made the same decision on its competitions south of the border as well.
This means the Campbell Constructions first grade side and the Gold Coast Airport women’s team will play no more matches past their opening round games completed on March 15.
The Intrust Super Cup team’s campaign was restricted to the 16-10 opening round victory over Northern Pride and the scenes like above will make up the final memory until next season.
The QRL announced the unprecedented decision to bring a premature close the Intrust Super Cup, BHP Premiership, Hastings Deering Colts and Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup was made in the interests of the health and safety of players and staff.
QRL managing director Robert Moore acknowledged the enormity of the decision, which comes after the initial move to suspend the competitions after round 1 earlier this month.
“We understand the outcome is a heartbreaking one for the rugby league community, but it’s a call that simply had to be made given the current circumstances,” Moore said.
“Rugby league is part of the fabric of Queensland, and as such we have key responsibilities to the wider community as well.
“These four competitions require a significant level of travel and accommodation, both of which pose a risk to the health of our participants and possibly others.”
Moore said there was some light at the end of the tunnel.
“By making this announcement now, it provides our clubs with the opportunity to reset and turn their attention towards the 2021 season,” Moore said.
“It also gives the clubs some much-needed breathing space to concentrate on important off-field matters.
“Financial sustainability is crucial for all clubs moving forward and we’ll continue to work closely with each of them during this challenging period.”
Moore congratulated the entire rugby league community for the way it had come together during the public health emergency.
“The game is resilient – and so are our people,” Moore said. “It’s not going to be easy, but we’re all in this together.
“We are fortunate to have the support of so many great partners, including Intrust Super, BHP, Hastings Deering and Auswide Bank.
“It is also comforting to have the backing of the Australian Rugby League Commission and the National Rugby League, as well as the Queensland Government and the game’s broadcasters, during such a difficult period.”
Tough win in tough conditions starts campaign
Neil Cadigan, Tweed Heads Seagulls media
The Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Heads Seagulls certainly ‘won ugly’ against Northern Pride in driving intermittent rain and a howling southerly at Tugun on Sunday but it was a ground-out victory that Ben Woolf’s side can build their season on.
With a new halves pairing in Will Brimson and Blake Goodman and players having to play out of position because of injuries, the Seagull struggled for an hour to create any momentum or extended cohesion. Yet they were able to hang in until utility Kody Parsons twisted over the line to break a 10-all deadlock six minutes from full-time to give the Gulls a 16-10 season-opening win.
The Pride dominated physically and territorially despite running into the big wind in the first half. They scored from their first set of possession through Cowboys half Jake Clifford who was the most influential player in the first half. Not only did his game management and kicking game lead the way, he set the tempo in the Pride defensive line and pulled off some decisive tackles.
They led 10-8 at half-time but, like the Seagulls in the first 40 minutes, were not able to take advantage of the southerly howler that was too strong for contained ball control or kicking. Both sides failed to hold the ball regularly as rain set in, and a Lindon McGrady penalty goal was the only score for 50 minutes – from the 26th to the 76th when Parsons crashed over from a right-side shift.
Parson bounced out of a three-man tackle, stepped inside and twisted backwards over the line – gaining the right side of what must have been a 50-50 decision on a double movement. The try was awarded and coach Ben Woolf breathed a sigh of relief with a vital victory in the match that was relocated from Piggabeen Sports Complex because of recent rain.
With the Gulls’ Auswide Mal Meninga Cup and Hastings Deering Colts recording convincing victories, it was the momentum the home side needed with last year’s players’ player Talor Walters (injury) and player of the year (and skipper) John Palavi (suspension) watching from the sideline.
“Sure it was clunky and I don’t think either side what they are capable of attacking-wise because of the conditions,” said Woolf.
“But I was proud of the way we hung in and particularly how we defended our line in the second half. I was disappointed with our first half; I think the Pride were running harder and doing a better job tackling and beat us in every aspect in the first 40. We seemed to be defending our line and made too many errors in yardage.
“We copped a few injuries and which meant we had to our whole middle out, except for Bayley Faull. But we hung in there and toughed out a victory in the end.
“The wind was very tricky and spoiled the game a little bit; they really were difficult conditions. It was hard to build momentum with the wind picking up so many passes and affected the kicking game.
“Kody’s try was a great effort. We didn’t throw much shape at them for a long while. He did a good job to bounce off them when they jammed him and had enough determination to get over the line.”
Clifford crossed for the Pride in just the second minute when he grubber to the left bounced awkwardly and winger Bernard Lewis gained possession and gave Clifford a clear run to the line for 6-0.
The Seagulls struck back quickly though. After hooker Brent Woolf was stripped of the ball over the line after darting into the in-goal from dummy half, right centre Fetuli Talanoa scored with his first touch for the club. The two-time English Challenge Cup winner with Hull received a good lofted pass from Lindon McGrady to give him give him a 10-metre clear run to the tryline to make it 6-4.
The Pride were next to score after gaining possession in rather bizarre circumstances. Faced with a line-drop-out into a southerly gale flying across the open space of Gold Coast airport that adjoins the field, the ball travelled over the 10m-line in the air but was caught by the Pride on their tryline.
After smartly working play upfield left centre Connelly Lemeule crashed over from an inside switch play close to the line top give the visitors a 10-4 lead after 15 minutes.
The Seagulls brought the Pride’s lead back to two points 14 minutes before the break through left centre Lee Turner after good lead up work by Lamar Liolevave who had a strong game. However, Northern Pride took a 10-8 lead into half-time.
Northern Pride failed to take advantage of their continued momentum early in the second half and, into the gale, Tweed only found their way into Pride’s red zone twice in the first 25 minutes of the second session before they were able to throw some shape at the Pride defensive and build some pressure.
They elected to take a penalty kick at goal in the 64th minute to draw level at 10-all before Parsons sealed the victory.
The forward battle was physical with players often coming up with spilled possession with the wet ball in tackles as Josh Stuckey and interchange big men Joe Elchner and Brad Lupi served it up to the Gulls pack. But they were up to the task in the second session – with props Rory Lillis, Stuart Mason and leading the way.
TWEED HEADS SEAGULLS 16 (F Talanoa, L Turner, K Parsons tries; McGrady 2 goals) def. NORTHERN PRIDE 10 (J Clifford, C Lemeule tries; Clifford goal) at Tugun RLFC Grounds.
Gulls Girls brave in defeat against Magpies
Clancy Nugent, Tweed Seagulls media
An injury depleted Gold Coast Airport Seagulls women’s side fought hard in their 32-0 loss against competition powerhouse Souths Logan Magpies in the opening game of the season at Tugun RLFC.
Down star playmaker and Australian Nines representative Tarryn Aiken, the Seagulls struggled to contain a dominant Magpies forward pack – led by Jillaroos legend Steph Hancock (pictured below)- that not only set a platform for an elusive backline but picked up three tries scored through the middle third of the field.
MAIN PICTURE: Queensland Origin rep Jessika Elliston on the charge for the Seagulls. Photo: Jason O’Brien, QRL
Despite a strong southerly at their back in the first half, the Seagulls failed to maintain any territory, putting themselves in the difficult position of having to chase down a 14-point deficit with all the conditions against them.
An early second-half sin-binning to Magpies back-rower Tyesha Mikaio gave the Seagulls a 10-minute window of dominance. However, they couldn’t capitalise on what was a must score period of the game. While the Gulls remained in the fight, unforced errors continued in the second half as Souths Logan dominated through their middle forwards.
Consistent points by the Magpies were built on relentless field position and pressure which resulted in six tries dispersed across the 60 minutes. Souths Logan five-eighth Meg Ward also added four conversions to complete a 32-0 victory away from home.
The Seagulls spine, led by hooker Abbie Beecher, showed glimpses of their potential as they continue to improve their chemistry without Aiken.
This tough loss to start the season did not come without some positives, however, as the small yet mobile side develop their game style and improved their combinations.
Coach Mike Castle praised his side for consistently showing up in defence, acknowledging that they gave too much ball to an extremely athletic opposition.
“Until they got fatigued, their defence was outstanding. They got numbers in and tried hard for each other,” said Castle.
“We’ve got plenty of young girls who went well; they tried their heart out. It was just the mistakes [that was their undoing]. We tried to force our hand a little bit and, against a big team, you can’t give them the ball.
“If you’re defending more sets than them you’re always going to struggle towards the end of the game.”
The team has struggled to train consistently as rain has hindered their preparations due to field closures. Coach Castle remains positive, suggesting that the unforced errors that kept them out of the game can be quickly addressed.
The Seagulls depth will be improved over the coming weeks as Jillaroos squad member Kaitlyn Phillips (Mounties) and rugby union international Gabby Senft (Queensland Reds) join the side. And Jillaroos stalwart of a decade, Heather Ballinger, will postpone retirement and step out in some games for the young Seagulls, adding vital experience in the middle.
SOUTHS LOGAN MAGPIES 32 (S Yvonne De La Cruz, E Veivers, M Ward, E Albert, A Kuk, F Faulato Seu thries; M Ward 4 goals) def. TWEED HEADS SEAGULLS 0 at Tugun RLFC Grounds.
Airport launch as Gulls Girls fly into new territory
The Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls women’s team will take part in Queensland Rugby League history this season by claiming their place in the inaugural eight-club statewide BHP Premiership.
The Tweed club fielded a women’s team for the first time only last season yet has developed quickly enough to be chosen alongside some of the most established teams in the women’s game – and believe they can compete well.
PICTURED ABOVE: Seagulls players Daisy Gordon (left) and Abby Beecher with coach Mike Castle and general manager operations and service delivery, Brett Curtis, at today’s media launch of the Gold Coast Airport Seagulls women’s team season.
A second piece of history takes place this Sunday when the team plays a curtain-raiser to the men’s Intrust Super Cup side. They open their 2020 season campaign at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Sunday with the Gold Coast Airport women’s team taking on Souths Logan Magpies at 1.20pm followed by the Campbell Construction Group ISC side going head-to-head with Northern Pride at 3pm.
“It is a tremendous reward for the effort of the girls and the coaching staff last season to earn entry into the first BHP Premiership – and also a great recognition of the board’s decision to pursue what is the quickest growing part of rugby league,” said Seagulls CEO Paul Stephenson.
“Without the support of the Gold Coast Airport, however, this would not have been possible. Their sponsorship and ongoing support of the team has made it financially viable for us and together we are very proud of how much we have progressed women’s sport on the Tweed in such a small space of time.”
Gold Coast Airport General Manager Operations and Service Delivery, Brett Curtis said, “We are excited about supporting the Gold Coast Airport Tweed Seagulls Women’s Rugby League team, as they represent northern NSW in the Queensland Rugby League BHP Premiership this year.”
“Competing at a state level represents a significant step up for the team in only their second year playing together and comes after a successful first year. This is evidence of the vision for the team being realised.
“This partnership, which we have extended by two years, is important to us because it ensures women’s rugby league in northern NSW continues to be represented at a state level. We are proud to support and promote women’s sport and the creation of opportunities for talented females to compete at the highest level.
“We are pleased to see that the Tweed Seagulls have been able to attract the best talent from Australia and overseas, while providing opportunities for players from northern NSW and the Gold Coast.”
The women’s team will go into their second season confident of their ability to compete at this new level. In 2019 they produced the club’s first State of Origin women’s player in back-rower Jessika Elliston who switched from rugby sevens to league only last season.
And in October halfback/hooker Tarryn Aiken joined Elliston in being contracted to the Brisbane Broncos for the second NRLW competition and was lasted shocked to be selected in the Australian team for the end of season for the World Cup Nines competition. And the Seagulls claimed the upset of the season with a 22-18 victory over women’s game Queensland champion side Burleigh Bears.
The Seagulls have picked up some experience in Canadian rugby union Test player and current member of the Queensland Reds squad, Gabby Senft, and Souths Magpies experienced forward Diaz Seumanutasa who has been in the QAS program for the past two years.
And the club is close to securing another major signing (watch this space).
Coach Mike Castle, who takes over from Kelvin Wright, expects further improvement in 2020.
“The bulk of last year’s squad are still with us and will benefit greatly from last season’s experience and we have been fortunate to add some experienced players too,” said coach Mike Castle.
“The goal is to just to keep improving. Kelvin set a really good platform last year and the success of Tarryn and Jess going onto high representative honours is a great incentive for our girls.
“I expect us to keep building on that hopefully provide the opportunity for more girls to go onto higher level. We have a really skillful and mobile team, certainly in the forwards, and hopefully we can use that to our advantage and worry most teams.
“It’s a tougher competition than last year but I’m confident we will compete really well.”
Gold Coast Airport supports more than 40 groups and initiatives on the Gold Coast and in northern NSW each year through its corporate sponsorship program and Community Benefit Fund.
Titans confirm feeder team allocations
QRL media
The Gold Coast Titans have announced their feeder club allocations for 2020, with an even spread of talent divided between the club’s two Intrust Super Cup affiliates, Burleigh Bears and the Campbell Construction Co. Tweed Heads Seagulls.
Every player from the Titans 29-man NRL squad and five development squad players have been assigned to either the Bears or the Seagulls for the upcoming season.
While most top-line players are expected to play NRL for the majority of the season, the Bears will have the likes of Greg Leleisiuao, Erin Clark, Kea Pere and Darius Farmer in their Round 1 side, while the Seagulls will only have the services of Ioane Seiuli to face the Northern Pride on Sunday afternoon.
The Seagulls could see established forwards like Keegan Hipgrave and Shannon Boyd (pictured) – who will miss the Titans’ opening match against Canberra on Friday because of injury – in the early rounds.
The allocation of Titans players is:
Tweed Seagulls
AJ Brimson, Ash Taylor, Phillip Sami, Bryce Cartwright, Ryan James, Keegan Hipgrave, Shannon Boyd, Mitch Rein, Moeaki Fotuaika, Brian Kelly, Treymain Spry, Tyrone Roberts, Jonus Pearson, Sam Lisone, Nathan Peats, Juwan Compain, Ioane Seiuli and Toby Sexton.
Burleigh Bears
Anthony Don, Dale Copley, Jai Arrow, Jai Whitbread, Jarrod Wallace, Kevin Proctor, Sam Stone, Darius Farmer, Tyrone Peachey, Kallum Watkins, Tanah Boyd, Erin Clark, Greg Leleisiuao, Beau Fermor, Jamal Fogarty and Jaimin Jolliffe.
Seagulls women take place in QRL history
Eight emerging and senior stars of the women’s game have come together to launch the inaugural statewide women’s competition, which from today will be known as the BHP Premiership.
The women’s players joined all 14 Intrust Super Cup coaches as well as representatives from the Hastings Deering Colts and Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup competitions to officially welcome in the start of the new season.
All four statewide leagues start this weekend with a total of 25 games to be played throughout the state and northern New South Wales.
The Gold Coast Airport Seagulls women’s team will proudly take their place in the inaugural BHP Premiership after last season entering the sport for the first time in the south-east Queensland competition. The progress of the women’s team, which beat reigning premiers Burleigh Bears and had a State of Origin representative in Jessika Elliston and an Australian player in the Nines competition in Taryn Aiken was exceptional.
QRL managing director Robert Moore said excitement was building ahead of the new season.
“The 2020 season is shaping up to be ground-breaking year for rugby league in Queensland with the start of the highly-anticipated BHP Premiership,” Moore said.
“We congratulate all eight clubs for the work they have put in to get to this point, as well as our passionate and dedicated team here at the QRL.
“Like so many other people, I’m looking forward to the opening round and watching the progress of our state’s leading female athletes as many of them press their claims for Queensland representative jerseys.”
Moore thanked BHP for its support of the inaugural premiership.
“Like us, BHP is passionate about all things Queensland, so to have such a community-minded company extend its partnership with us to incorporate the naming rights of the women’s premiership over the next two years is a huge boost for the game,” Moore said.
Dominic Nolan, Head of Corporate Affairs at BHP, said, “BHP is excited to play a central role in elevating women’s rugby league to new heights in Queensland in 2020″.
“We are committed to achieving a more diverse workforce, and increasing the number of women working at BHP is a critical part of that,” Nolan said.
“It made sense for us to work with the QRL to explore how we could help it to take the women’s game further.”
An extraordinary amount of hard work and sacrifice goes into preparing teams, and if pre-season standards are anything to go by, we’re in for an outstanding year across all competitions,” Moore said.
The Gold Coast Airport Seagulls women’s team will begin their 2020 BHP Premiership campaign against Souths Logan Magpies at Piggabeen on Sunday in a 1.20pm clash which will precede the Intrust Super Cup match between the Seagulls and Northern Pride at 3pm.
PHOTO: Seagulls skipper Brittany Faulkner at the BHP Premiership launch in Brisbane.
Skipper Palavi to miss season opener
Neil Cadigan, Tweed media
The Campbell Construction Company Tweed Heads Seagulls will go into Sunday’s season opener against Northern Pride at Piggabeen Sports Complex without inspirational skipper John Palavi.
It’s a big day for the club as the Seagulls enter 2020 as finalists from last year and also have the Gold Coast Airport women’s team playing in the curtain-raiser for the first time. They clash with Souths Logan Magpies in the first round of the inaugural BHP statewide premiership.
Prop Palavi (pictured), who won last year’s Col Hayes Trophy as ISC best and fairest player, will miss the men’s clash because of a two-match enforced on him for a shoulder charge in the trial match against Burleigh Bears last month. It was only a grade one charge but carry over points see him miss two games.
However, Ben Woolf’s side has good depth with Stuart Mason, Rory Lillis and Bayley Faull, who played several ISC games last year, joining newcomer Fabian Kiri (Redcliffe) and Harry Hughes, who missed much of last season with injury, chosen in the front row and bench in the preliminary side announced on Tuesday.
Several newcomers are in the Seagulls’ squad with the final line-up of 17 to be announced at the club’s season launch on Friday evening. They include Kiri, halfback Blake Goodman (North Sydney), middle forward Jamie Hill (CQ Capras) and Fetuli Talanoa, the talented 32-year-old outside back who has returned from Hull where he played 130 games – including two winning Challenge Cup finals at Wembley – after an eight-season stint with South Sydney (95 NRL appearances).
Woolf – who will also work as Queensland under-20s coach and part of Justin Holbrook’s Gold Coast Titans coaching staff in 2020 – is pleased with the preparation of his squad and confident it can repeat last season’s effort of making the finals. He believes the depth is there between some improving players from last year’s all-conquering under-18s Auswide Mal Meninga Cup and the under-20s Hastings Deering Colts finals squad and several newcomers to the Tweed.
Among the new breed are some interesting family lines. Ethan O’Neill is the son of former Brisbane Broncos, Queensland and Australian Test back Julian O’Neill and Will Brimson, older brother of Titans fullback and Maroons squad member Alexander Brimson.
O’Neill has joined from the Sydney Roosters where he played under-20s last year while Brimson, 24, played in the NYC competition for the Broncos and ISC for Wynnum Manly before spending the two years taking a break from the game after being worried by persistent injuries.
“I’ve known Will for ages through Keebra Park (high school) and tried to get him here at the start of pre-season after he’d been overseas but he wasn’t sure,” said Woolf. “He agreed to come down and do an opposed session with us after Christmas and has stayed and he’s been really good in the trials. He could prove a pretty handy acquisition.”
Last year’s top tryscorer, utility back Talor Walters who has looked great during pre-season, may not start the season after having a double injury setback – a hernia and broken foot.
“It’s a pity; I haven’t seen Talor fitter or keener but he could miss the first couple of rounds and we won’t rush him. We have pretty good cover in the backs.”
This means that Lindon McGrady is likely to start the season at fullback where he performed well in the second half of 2019 with the Gulls retaining good depth in the halves with Luke Jurd, last year’s gun under-18s halfback Toby Sexton who is in the Titans’ full-time squad, Brimson and Goodman, a former a CQ Capras halfback who played for Norths Sydney last year in the NSW Canterbury Cup competition.
“We lack a bit of experience in some areas but have quite a bit of depth in other areas; we have got some young players who I think will show a lot of improvement during the season,” said Woolf.
“We’ve improved each trial, I think we’re going better each week at training. They are working on the areas we’ve been focussing on.
“The team is starting to play the style of footy we want to play this year. We got good minutes into everyone in the final trial against Burleigh where we spread the squad across two games.”
The Seagulls 2020 changes:
Gains: Fetuli Talanoa (Hull FC), Blake Goodman (North Sydney), Jamie Hill (Central Queensland Capras), Jack Glossop (Townsville Blackhawks), Fabien Kiri (Redcliffe Dolphins), Braden Robson (Wests Tigers), Jesse Cronin (Parramatta Eels), Ethan O’Neill (Sydney Roosters), Will Brimson.
Losses: Christian Hazard (Souths Logan Magpies), Jack Cook (Albi France), Kirk Murphy (Albi France), Kalani Going (Canberra).
Top squad shaping well says Woolf
Head coach Ben Woolf goes into the Intrust Super Cup opener against Northern Pride at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Sunday week pleased with the preparation of his squad and confident it can repeat last season’s effort of making the finals.
The biggest change in his squad will be in the forwards where the Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls have lost mainstays like Jack Cook, Kalani Going, Kirk Murphy and Christian Hazard.
However Woolf – who will also work as Queensland under-20s coach and part of Justin Holbrook’s Gold Coast Titans coaching staff – believes the depth is there between some improving players from last year’s all-conquering under-18s Auswide Mal Meninga Cup and the under-20s Hastings Deering Colts squads and several newcomers to the Tweed.
Among the new breed are some interesting family lines. Ethan O’Neill is the son of former Brisbane Broncos, Queensland and Australian Test back Julian O’Neill and Will Brimson, older brother of Titans fullback and Maroons squad member Alexander Brimson.
O’Neill has joined from the Sydney Roosters where he played under 20s last year while Brimson, 24, played in the NYC competition for the Broncos and ISC for Wynnum Manly before spending the two years taking a break from the game after being worried by persistent injuries.
“I’ve known Will for ages through Keebra Park (high school) and tried to get him here at the start of pre-season after he’d been overseas but he wasn’t sure,” said Woolf. “He agreed to come down and do an opposed session with us after Christmas and has stayed and he’s been really good in the trials. He could prove a pretty handy acquisition.”
Last year’s top tryscorer, utility back Talor Walters (pictured) who had looked great during pre-season, may not start the season after having a double injury setback – a hernia and broken foot.
“It’s a pity; I haven’t seen Talor fitter or keener but he could miss the first couple of rounds and we won’t rush him. We have pretty good cover in the backs,” said Woolf.
This means that Lindon McGrady is likely to start the season at fullback where he performed well in the second half of 2019 with the Gulls retaining good depth in the halves with Luke Jurd, last year’s gun under-18s halfback Toby Sexton who is in the Titans’ full-time squad, Brimson and Blake Goodman, a former a CQ Capras halfback who played for Norths Sydney last year in the NSW Canterbury Cup competition.
Other new boys include Jesse Cronin, a middle forward who played under-20s with Parramatta last year, Jamie Hill, a middle forward from the Capras and Fabian Kiri, another big middle forward who has joined from Redcliffe Dolphins.
Hill has quickly impressed and will be handy in the middle in a pack that will be led by skipper John Palavi. Last year’s fringe players Stu Mason, Bayley Faull, Harry Hughes, Rory Lillis and Kody Parsons add further depth around Palavi, along with Lamar Liolevave, Jarrod Morfett, Rory Lillis, the Titans-contracted 20-year-old Ioane Seiuli who successfully switched from the backs to the forwards last season and hookers Brent Woolf and Liam Hampson.
The Seagulls could see a bit of Titans hardman Keegan Hipgrave too early in the season after he returns from a long time out of the game because of repeated concussions. He has been given permission to return to contact training. And last year’s Mal Meninga Cup star Jowan Compain, now with the Titans, has been allocated back to the Seagulls along with his fellow NRL squad members Treymain Spry and Sexton.
“We lack a bit of experience in some areas but have quite a bit of depth in other areas; we have got some young players who I think will show a lot of improvement during the season,” said Woolf.
“We’ve improved each trial, I think we’re going better each week at training. They are working on the areas we’ve been focussing on.
“The team is starting to play the style of footy we want to play this year. We got good minutes into everyone in the final trial against Burleigh where we spread the squad across two games.”
A big addition to the Seagulls squad is Fetuli Talanoa, the talented 32-year-old outside back who has returned from Hull where he played 130 games – including two winning Challenge Cup finals at Wembley – after an eight-season stint with South Sydney (95 NRL appearances).
Gains: Fetuli Talanoa (Hull FC), Blake Goodman (North Sydney), Jamie Hill (Central Queensland Capras), Jack Glossop (Townsville Blackhawks), Fabien Kiri (Redcliffe Dolphins), Braden Robson (Wests Tigers), Jesse Cronin (Parramatta Eels), Ethan O’Neill (Sydney Roosters),
Losses: Christian Hazard (Souths Logan Magpies), Jack Cook (Albi France), Kirk Murphy (Albi France), Kalani Going (Canberra)
CEO Stephenson resigns to take up QRL post
The Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls is on the lookout for a new chief executive officer after the resignation of Paul Stephenson to take up a newly created position with the Queensland Rugby League.
Stephenson, 36, (pictured second from far right) leaves the Seagulls in good health after the club’s most successful season in 2019 and with its women’s team, new last season, about to enter the inaugural QRL statewide premiership. Off the field, work is about to begin on development of facilities at the club’s home ground, Piggabeen Sports Complex.
The Gulls, under coach Ben Woolf who is going into his third season in the role, last season made Intrust Super Cup finals for the first time since 2014, their under-20s Hastings Deering Colts also played in the finals while the under-18s took all before them, winning the Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup and national championships.
“Paul has done an outstanding job during an exciting development stage for the club in 2018-19 and his successor will have an outstanding opportunity to take the Seagulls forward,” said club chairman Ian Paton.
“We thank Paul for his hard work that has contributed largely towards results on and off the field in a competition where we compete against clubs with far greater resources in most cases. We wish him well in this new opportunity at the QRL.”
Stephenson, who played 55 NRL games for Manly and Cronulla and also in the Queensland Cup competition, will take up his position with the QRL as state manager of match officials on March 23. It is a strategic role with the objective of increasing participation of match officials throughout the state and improving the capabilities of current officials.
Stephenson first joined the Tweed Seagulls as sponsorship, operations and player wellbeing manager in 2017 before taking over the CEO’s job last April after Matthew Jobson’s brief period in the position. Previously former Gold Coast Titans head of football Scott Clark held the role. Stephenson had previously had extensive corporate experience as a business development executive at Coca Cola Amatil and as a business development manager with Konnect Building.
However, his heart is in rugby league and he is excited about the new challenge with the state body, based out of Brisbane.
“I’m really sad to be leaving after the momentum we have gathered on and off the field, particularly in the past 12 months, but roles like this with an organisation like the QRL don’t come up very often,” Stephenson said.
“I leave knowing the club is in a really strong position and well placed to secure more excellent growth in the immediate future.
“The fact we’ve worked really hard to get quality staff in place will see the club prosper in the short and medium term and it has been great to witness a new level of confidence and pride in the Seagulls during my period here.
“I’d like to pass on a big thank to the board for their faith in giving me an opportunity when they did, to the hard-working staff, coaches and their support staff through all our teams and obviously the players who have been a pleasure to deal with.
“I look forward to seeing the Gullies have further success in the coming years.”
Paton said that, while the club is naturally disappointed to see Stephenson leave, it creates an opportunity for a new CEO to add his or her stamp on the club that can look forward to the future with confidence. It has a stable sponsorship base, led by ISC team sponsor Ben Campbell Building Group and the women’s team sponsor Gold Coast Airport, has further plans to develop Piggabeen and has some of the region’s best young players in its ranks.
The club will advertise the position extensively online in search of a replacement.
The Seagulls play premiers Burleigh Bears in their final trial matches this Saturday at Pizzey Park before opening their ISC campaign against Northern Pride at Piggabeen on Sunday, March 15 (3pm kick-off).
Wembley winner heads Seagulls’ new faces
Two-time Challenge Cup winning winger at the famous Wembley Stadium, Fetuli Talanoa, will head the list of eight new faces in the Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls side in the first of two full-scale pre-season trial matches leading into this year’s Intrust Super Cup competition.
The 32-year-old former Hull FC and South Sydney flyer, who twice won the prestigious British silverware in 2016 and ’17, will take his place at the end of the backline in Ben Woolf’s blend of old and new that takes on Souths Logan Magpies at Tugun Seahawks’ Boyd St Reserve this Saturday (kick-off 3.30pm).
The clash will be preceded by the Auswide Mal Meninga Cup (under-18s) clash at 12.30pm and Hastings Deering Colts (under-20s) at 2pm.
Prop John Palavi will again lead a strong line-up that includes members of last year’s semi-finalists Lindon McGrady, Rowland Jacobs, Luke Jurd, Lee Turner, Kody Parsons, Lamar Liolevave, Brent Woolf and Rory Lillis. However, there is a component of new blood too.
Blake Goodman, a former a CQ Capras halfback who played for Norths Sydney last year in NSW’s Canterbury Cup, will partner Jurd in the halves. Coming off the bench will be middle forwards Jesse Cronin, who played under-20s with Parramatta last year, and Jamie Hill, a middle forward from the Capras who (with Goodman) has been a consistent Intrust Super Cup performer for the past two seasons.
Other newcomers in Saturday’s line-up are Jack Glossop, a former North Queensland Cowboys under-20s captain who played prop for the Blackhawks last season, Fabien Puletua Kiri (Redcliffe Dolphins) and Will Brimson, the 24-year-old older brother of Gold Coast Titans sensation AJ Brimson. Will played in the NYC competition for the Broncos and ISC for Wynnum Manly before spending the two years taking a break from the game.
Jaylon to’o (Colts) and Caleb Hodges (under-18s) are developing young players who performed well in under-age teams last year and have been stepped up to ISC after impressing in the pre-season.
The ISC squad for Saturday’s trial is: Lindon McGrady, Rowland Jacobs, Lee Turner, Kody Parsons, Fetuli Talanoa, Blake Goodman, Luke Jurd, John Palavi (capt), Brent Woolf, Bayley Faull, Lamar Liolevave, Jamie Hill, Liam Hampson. Interchange: Stuart Mason, Jesse Cronin, Jack Glossop, Fabien Puletua Kiri, Will Brimson, Caleb Hodges and Jaylon to’o.
Woolf mentors elite as Qld U20s coach
Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls head coach Ben Woolf has had his status as one of the state’s most credentialled mentors endorsed with his appointment as the Queensland under-20s State of Origin coach for 2020.
Woolf, the younger brother of the coach of the all-conquering Tonga international team and British Super League champions St Helens Kristian Woolf, has been handed the responsibility of moulding Queensland’s elite under 20s talent for the curtain-raiser clash against New South Wales before Origin II in Adelaide this season.
Ben will have players with NRL experience like Tom Dearden and Xavier Coates (Brisbane), Tanah Boyd (Gold Coast) and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui (Melbourne) at his disposal plus Ioane Seiuli who was part of his ISC club side last year, as well as the Seagulls’ national title winning under-18s teammates of last season in Coates and Juwan Compain (Titans).
The squad was involved in a weekend camp on the Sunshine Coast last weekend in their first opportunity to come together as a new coaching staff and squad, and former tough Queensland and Australian forward Michael Crocker was involved as a mentor.
Woolf said the camp was mainly about the players developing trust in themselves and the coaching staff and he would be imparting mostly benchmarks around the “effort areas” which are so important in matches at representative level.
“Michael Crocker was a great effort player himself and the message he gave them will be invaluable for them,” Woolf said.
“This is a really good experience for me; it’s the first time I have done any of the high level rep stuff although I have done a lot of coaching in the [Intrust Super] Cup and 20s as well. I’m hoping to learn from the players as well and learn from the experience.”
After four seasons as Gold Coast Titans under-20s National Youth League coach, Woolf took over – after the ending of the NRL under-20s competition in 2017 – from Aaron Zimmerle as the Seagulls’ head coach in 2018. He last year took the side to the semi-finals for the first time since 2014.
He has continued a Tweed tradition of providing Queensland rep coaches after Zimmerle led the Queensland Resident’s team in 2015-16.
https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2020/02/04/woolf-its-a-really-good-opportunity/
Woolf gets his chance this weekend to get a first glimpse at his 2020 Seagulls side in action, and the depth of talent through the senior under-age teams, when the Seagulls conduct their opening trial matches at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Saturday’s schedule is:
This Saturday’s match schedule:
Under-18s v Northern Rivers-Titans U18s at 3pm
Women’s v Northern Rivers-Titans at 4.15pm
Under-20s v Northern Rivers-Titans under 23s at 5.30pm
ISC v Gold Coast Titans at 6.45pm
Photo courtesy QRL
Test of strength begins with trial
The Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls will provide a first glimpse of their capacity to strongly follow up their best season for over a decade when they have four teams on show at Piggabeen Sports Complex this Saturday.
The Seagulls’ under-18s, who last year won the national title, under-20s and women’s side will take on Northern Rivers/Titans representative teams with and Intrust Super Cup squad going head-to-head with a team of the Gold Coast Titans’ young NRL hopefuls.
While the senior teams are yet to be finalised, some of the region’s brightest young players will throw on their boots for the first time in 2020 and give local fans a glimpse of what is to come.
Tweed made the finals in all three Sunday competitions in 2019 (ISC, under-20s Colts and Mal Meninga Cup under-18s) for the first time. It was the first grade side’s first finals appearance since 2014, going down in a heartbreaking last gap loss to defending premiers Redcliffe Dolphins 25-24. The club also fielded a women’s team for the first time which produced a Queensland State of Origin representative in Jessika Elliston and an Australian representative (Nines) in Tarryn Aiken.
Several of last year’s the under-18s are now at NRL clubs and a couple may be up against the black and whites in their first match in Titans colours with halfback Toby Sexton and back-rower Juwan Compain, both allocated as Seagulls feeder team players, who are likely to be in the young Titans squad. Their Mal Meninga Cup teammates Caleb Hodges, Ben Liyou and Carsil Vaikai are likely to be in the Seagulls’ trial squad.
Ben Woolf’s side will have a similar look to last year’s successful squad, with the addition of some good acquisitions, developing players progressing from last year’s under-20s and under-18s and a surprise signing of a player with over 200 games’ experience in the NRL and English Super League.
He is Fetuli Talanoa, the talented 32-year-old outside back who has returned from Hull where he played 130 games after an eight-season stint with South Sydney (95 NRL appearances) and was keen to play locally.
Last year’s skipper John Palavi will again lead a strong line-up in 2020 with backline mainstays Talor Walters, Lindon McGrady (pictured), Rowland Jacobs, Luke Jurd, Lee Turner and Titans-contracted Treymain Spry and forwards Lamar Liolevave, Jarrod Morfett, Kody Parson, Rory Lillis, Ioane Seiuli (Titans-contracted) and Brent Woolf.
The Gulls have lost Christian Hazard (Souths Logan), Jack Cook and Kirk Murphy (France), Kalani Going who has returned to Canberra for family reasons and Cheyne Whitelaw who will sit out 2020 after a second knee reconstruction.
Yet they will be replaced by some exciting newcomers like Jesse Cronin, a middle forward who played under-20s with Parramatta last year, Ethan O’Neill, the son of former Broncos and Australian fullback Julian O’Neill who has been in the Sydney Roosters system for five years, Blake Goodman, a former a CQ halfback who played for Norths Sydney last year, middle forward Jerry Key, who played for Norths in the NSW Cup last season, Jamie Hill, a middle forward from the Capras and Fabian Keary, another big middle forward who has joined from Redcliffe Dolphins.
“I think we will have good strength and depth again in our ISC squad and plenty of talent in our under-age sides and the women’s team which improved so much during the course of last season,” said Seagulls CEO Paul Stephenson,
“We’ve concentrated on bringing in some good young talent which we fell can develop into very good players at this level and to pick up someone like Fetuli, who approached us just wanting to continue playing after moving back from England, is a real bonus.”
Saturday is the first of two trial match days for the Seagulls. They will play Souths Logan Magpies the following Saturday at Acacia Ridge.
This Saturday’s match schedule:
Under-18s v Northern Rivers-Titans U18s at 3pm
Women’s v Northern Rivers-Titans at 4.15pm
Under-20s v Northern Rivers-Titans under 23s at 5.30pm
ISC v Gold Coast Titans at 6.45pm
Liolevave to debut for Fiji Bati
Seagulls second-rower Lamar Liolevave will make his Test debut for Fiji against Samoa at Eden Park in Auckland this Saturday – becoming the the Gulls’ fifth international selection this year, capping off an outstanding year for the club and its players.
The 23-year-old Auckland-born forward qualified for Fijian selection through his grand-father on his mother’s side.
Liolevave, who had one NRL appearance for Wests Tigers in 2015 and represented the Junior Kiwis in 2014 and Australian Schoolboys in 2013 from Keebra Park, finished this season strongly for the Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls and missed only one match. He was outstanding in the one-point loss to Redcliffe in the first round of the finals.
His resilience and consistency has been superb in his three seasons on the Tweed, missing just one game in each season (he has played 66 games for the club) and winning the Col Hayes Trophy as the Seagulls’ best and fairest player in 2017.
Liolevave will come of the bench in the clash against Samoa (11.20am kick-off AEST) in a match that will feature plenty of top line NRL talent in Tim Lafai, Joey Leilua, Junior Paulo, Martin Taupau, Bunty Afoa (Samoa) and Suliasi Vinivalu, Kevin Naiqama, Kane Evans, Tui Kamikamica and Viliami Kikau (Fiji Bati).
Liolevave’s former Tweed Seagulls teammate Ben Nakubuwai, now with Super League’s 2019 grand finalists Salford in England, is also in the Fijian side as a starting second-rower.
The Bati team play against Papua New Guinea the following weekend. The Kumuls are likely to include the Seagulls’ Mal Meninga Cup star of this season, Xavier Coates, who is contracted to the Brisbane Broncos.
Liolevave becomes the fifth Seagulls to achieve senior international honours this season and the third Seagulls’ Fijian internationals after CJ Sims and Teaghan Hartigan represented their women’s team. Xavier Coates was chosen in the centres for Papua New Guinea in their clash with Samoa in June while Tarryn Aiken played for the Jillaroos in the recent World Nines.
Congratulations to all for their outstanding achievements in 2019.
Aiken stunned by call-up to Jillaroos
Tarryn Aiken’s first season in rugby league – well since when she was a small junior after she whinged to her mother to let her play in her brother’s team when she was six – has ended with a meteoric to international representation.
Aiken has been called into the Australian Jillaroos team for this weekend’s World Cup Nines in Sydney after withdrawals of Brittany Breayley and Tamika Upton.
It is an amazing rise for the 20-year who only joined the Seagulls women’s team February after having concentrated on touch football for many years, gaining selection in the Australian under-20s.
She was a stand-out at halfback in Tweed’s first season in the South-East Queensland division one competition under coach Kelvin Wright, winning the team’s players’ player award.
She was then contracted to Wright’s Brisbane Broncos side that went on to win their second successive grand final in the NRLW competition, playing as hooker off the bench.
Now she has had to abandon some important university work after rushing to Sydney to take her place in Brad Donald’s Jillaroos – becoming the club’s first women’s Australian international.
Having played just four games off the bench in Brisbane’s successful NRLW premiership defence, after just seven appearances with the Seagulls, Tarryn was naturally in shock when she received a call from Donald on Monday afternoon.
“I was just sitting at home. It was pretty random, I wasn’t expecting it,” Aiken told nrl.com.au.
“But I was really excited when he asked me.
“I pretty much had an hour from when I got off the phone to [Donald] to get ready and get ready and get to the airport, pack my bag, and then I came straight here to the airport and then trained this morning.”
Aiken had to quickly defer her psychology exams at Griffith University on hold to represent her country this weekend.
“They’ll sort it out. The sports college said they’ll help me defer it so it’s not officially done but… I have faith.”
Donald told nrl.com.au: “Tarryn had a terrific debut season with the Broncos this year and brings plenty of skill and speed across the field.
“She’ll have plenty of experience around her and I’m looking forward to seeing our Australian women take on our competitors this Friday and Saturday at Bankwest Stadium.”
Palavi wins club best and fairest award
John Palavi has capped an outstanding first season for the Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls by winning the club’s best and fairest award at the annual awards dinner held at Seagulls on Friday night.
Palavi, the former NZ Warriors player signed this season from Norths Brisbane, took over the captaincy from last year’s award winner Cheyne Whitelaw who suffered a second ACL injury mid-season, and led the Ben Woolf-coached side to their first finals appearance since 2014.
The tough and consistent prop – who is set to stay for a second season on the Tweed – was humble in accepting the major award of the night, the Col Murphy Trophy, thanking his teammates for accepting him as a senior player and leader.
“I am very fortunate that this close-knit playing group accepted me coming from Norths and I am so proud of the way we finished the season, making the finals and fighting right to the end of the semi against Redcliffe,” he said.
“I think we have a lot of improvement still in us and hopefully the team can stay together and go further next year.”
Palavi was a tremendous contributor up front, averaging 111 metres and 10 hit-ups a game, making 41 tackle busts for the season, and averaging 24 tackles at an efficiency of an outstanding 91 per cent.
“JP was a massive addition to our team; so tough, consistent and durable and a natural leader in the team,” said coach Woolf.
“His positive attitude was a big influence on out improved performance and he has the respect of everyone.”
Utility back Talor Walters, who scored 14 tries after starting at fullback and playing the last third of the season on the right wing, was the players’ player for 2019 while high-workrate forward Kirk Murphy won the coach’s award.
Around 150 people celebrated the Seagulls’ much-improved season that saw all three men’s teams – ISC, Colts and Mal Meninga Cup – make the finals, with the under-18s going on to snare the national championships trophy after beating the NSW Jersey Flegg Cup winners Illawarra.

2019 WNC Round 01 – South East Queensland Women v NSW City Women, Pizzey Park, 2019-06-01. Digital image by jason obrien © NRL Photos
Tweed’s inaugural women’s team beat defending premiers Burleigh Bears and had second-rower Jessika Elliston play for Queensland’s State of Origin team and then be joined by halfback Tarryn Aiken (pictured left) in the Broncos NRLW squad.
Australian Schoolboys and Queensland under-18s rep Brendan Piakura, signed by the Broncos, was the under-18s players’ player with Titans-bound Juwan Compain taking the coach’s award.
The Colts’ award winners were Ben Thomas (players’ player) who took home the Craig Farrugia award in honour of the late club stalwart, while Callum Boomer won the coach’s award.
The Seagulls had players in all Queensland representative sides in 2019, and no less than 12 members of Tim Maccan’s Mal Meninga Cup squad have agreements with NRL clubs, showing what an outstanding pathway the Titans’ feeder club has become.
Award winners for 2019:
Intrust Super Cup
Col Hayes Trophy for best and fairest: John Palavi
Players’ player: Talor Walters
Coach’s award: Kirk Murphy
Hastings Deering Colts Cup (under-20)
Players’ player: Ben Thomas
Coach’s award: Callum Boomer
Auswide Mal Meninga Cup (under-18)
Craig Farrugia players’ player award: Brendan Piakura
Coach’s award: Juwan Compain
SE Qld division one women:
Players’ player: Tarryn Aiken
Coach’s award: Serena Martin
Club person of the year: Gavin Holmes
John Palavi looks at heartbreaking loss
Skipper John Palavi, who led from the front again, talks about the disappointment of the last-gasp loss to Redcliffe in today’s elimination semi-final at Piggabeen. He was rightly proud in defeat.
Last gasp field goal sinks Gulls in cliffhanger
Neil Cadigan
An 80th minute field goal by Redcliffe five-eighth Tyson Gamble has kept the Dolphins’ hopes of defending their title alive but broken the hearts of a brave Tweed Heads Seagulls in a dramatic elimination final at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Sunday.
The Devils came back from an 18-6 half-time deficit to win 25-24 and take their winning run to 10 victories from their last 11 games.
Gamble looked to have won the match two minutes earlier when he landed his drop kick from 35 metres only for the pocket referee to tip that Seagulls hooker Christian Hazard was obstructed by Redcliffe lock Jamil Hopoate when he tried to pressure the kick from dummy half. The two points were disallowed and the Dolphins’ elation was halted.
The Seagulls methodically tried to set up their own field goal attempt and it came on the last tackle via fullback Lindon McGrady from 40 metres.
But Hopoate went from villain to hero in what proved the play of the match when he charged down McGrady’s kick and was able to regather with 45 seconds left on the clock.
Redcliffe effectively rucked the ball towards the middle of the field and five-eighth Gamble, who had earlier landed a pressure kick from the right touchline but just failed to land a second which would have broken the 24-all deadlock in the 70th minute, coolly snatched the victory with 15 seconds remaining – even though his kick was deflected by Seagulls prop John Palavi.
“It was heartbreaking, I was so close to getting more of a touch on it,” said skipper Palavi who was again outstanding for the Seagulls.
“I thought we had some crucial calls go against us in the second half but also we just didn’t come up with some crucial plays when we needed to. But I’m so proud of our effort.”
Many thought the Seagulls, although the finished on place ahead of the rampaging Dolphins, would be fodder for the in-form defending premiers.
And that looked like it might have been the case when Redcliffe crossed for the first try of the match in the eighth minute of the back of a repeat set from a line-drop out. They ran the ball to the right edge on the last and second-rower Aaron Whitechurch crossed from 10 metres. Gamble converted for 6-0.
Yet the Seagulls matched the bigger aggressive Dolphins in the grind for the next 15 minutes and gained the ascendancy to score three tries in 10 minutes and turn the match around.
They came up trumps from their first attacking set on the Dolphins line in the half. After good charges by Hazard and Palavi, Ash Taylor gave Ioane Seiuli a small gap with a good pass close to the line and Seiuli shook off two tackles to score.
Lindon McGrady’s conversion levelled the scores at 6-all with 16 minutes of the first half remaining and the Dolphins started to look vulnerable, making errors in possession.
Tweed took advantage and Seiuli was in for his second when he charged through the line from a Hazard pass. McGrady’s conversion gave Tweed a 12-6 lead.
The Seagulls were in again when winger Talor Walters scored on the right touchline. McGrady offloaded to Taylor in a driving tackle on the last play who threw an overhead lofted pass to Walters who was unmarked 15 metres out. Taylor showed his confidence was up by converting from the right touchline to make it 18-6.
Redcliffe regained momentum seven minutes into the second half. Off the back of a relieving penalty in their own half, they rolled upfield and a good Crossfield kick by Gamble and Talor Walters failed to clean it up and Justice Utatao pounced on the loose ball. Gamble converted for 18-12.
Redcliffe had a 5-1 run of penalties and the Seagulls looked like they could not get a 50-50 call, not awarded penalties for high or lifting tackles yet conceding a couple for a debatable strip and high tackle. After two penalties in quick succession, from a strip on the last tackle and then Taylor being penalised for offside after intercepting and running away from his own tryline, Gamble took two points from the penalty goal to reduce their deficit to 14-18 with 28 minutes remaining.
Tweed scored next through right centre Lee Turner when he dummied and stepped left and was in for the Seagulls’ fourth try, and McGrady’s conversion made it 24-14.
A double to Redcliffe winger Jedidiah Simbiken set up the dramatic finish – but not before a crucial penalty against Tweed that was one of several major turning points in the final 20 minutes.
Both of Simbiken’s tries came from Gamble electing to run the ball to the right and the Seagulls not being able to get off their line aggressively enough and kill the ball. Gamble converted the first to make it 24-20 but his second went to the right of the posts in the 68th minute and the scored were locked at 24-all.
Tweed lost forward Seiuli with a shoulder injury at that moment which was a crucial replacement. He was just about the home side’s best.
In between the tries came a crucial call. Simbiken fumbled backwards a long clearing kick by Taylor and was nabbed just into the field of play. On the next tackle Palavi was penalised for a high shot when the Seagulls will argue strongly was not warranted. From the ensuing set of tackles, Simbiken crossed to tie the scores.
“I thought we were on the wrong end of a few 50-50 calls in the second half but we also didn’t finish off some sets when we needed to,” said Seagulls coach Ben Woolf.
“It was disappointing but I could not have been prouder of how we stuck it to a team that has been in red hot form; our forwards were outstanding.
“A lot of people thought Redcliffe would come here and run away with it. We took them right to the wire – and we proved we belong here in the finals.”
Redcliffe Dolphins 25 ( J Simbiken 2, A Whitechurch, J Ulatao tries; T Gamble 4 goals, field goal) def. Tweed Heads Seagulls 24 (I Seiuli 2, Walters, Turner tries; McGrady 3, A Taylor goals) at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
This is the test we have been working for
There is definitely a lot of satisfaction in making the finals for the first time since 2014 – and the fact that this would have been the case even if the QRL had stuck to the previous top six system and not extended the finals to eight teams this season.
The achievement reflects the progress in attitude and experience of the playing group in the two seasons I have been here as coach.
Last year we had a very inexperienced team when it comes to Intrust Super Cup experience but we have built with a core group progressing with regular game time and building on that with good recruitment of players like John Palavi and Christian Hazard this season and certainly Cheyne Whitelaw last year. It’s a real pity Cheyne won’t be there on Sunday to reap the benefits of his contribution.
Yet one thing can’t be understated – we want to keep improving and we want to show we are worthy finalists against a team used to success in Redcliffe, who are the defending premiers and in good form having won nine of their past 10 games.
That’s our challenge at Piggabeen on Sunday morning. To prove we belong in the finals.
To achieve that we have to do what we do best for 80 minutes, not for only 60 or 70 which has been our undoing in quite a few games this season. And That has proved costly against the best teams in the competition.
If we want a benchmark of how we can, and have to play, it was the 36-8 win against Norths Devils in round nine. Their coach Rowan Smith said it was the best performance of the season against his side that ended up finishing fifth on the ladder. We stuck at our processes and were content with grinding away and waiting for our opportunities, for the whole game.
That has to be our mindset against a team like the Dolphins who are very physical, have good aggressive line-speed in defence, a good kicking game and are prepared to earn their scoring opportunities off those basics.
And the Dolphins could have two Broncos players coming back to boost them as well, which will make them tougher. Centre Izaia Perese has been chosen as No. 16 for the Broncos in their game against Canterbury tomorrow in Sydney at 5.30pm and if he doesn’t play at all or plays 10 minutes or less, he is qualified to fly back and take his place on Sunday morning.
Joe Ofahengaue was listed at No. 21 by the Broncos after missing last week with a calf injury but has since been cut from their squad but I wouldn’t be surprised if he also slips back – and everyone knows how good he is.
Either way, we know what we have to do to win. Play with patience, meet their physical tempo early in the game and stick to what we know we have to do – right through the game.
A key to that is obviously Ash Taylor in the halves. He’ll be right to play and we all know what class he’s got. He’s the player key to executing our plan and he has become more confident and more adept with our style of play every time he has taken the field.
Four wins in a row has definitely boosted our confidence after that patch of five losses, although three of them were by four points or less. We’d probably started to second guess ourselves a bit but we have regained confidence and picked up momentum in the past month and have done it without the enormous contribution that Cheyne provided through his on-field efforts and physicality and vocal leadership, and that’s a credit to our forwards and John Palavi who has been tremendous as sole skipper. And Leilani Latu hasn’t been there the past three weeks either.
We’ve got a lot of good, tough ISC players across the park now who are capable of taking us well into the finals. And a bonus for us is also having the experience and good footy IQ that Will Matthews provides. He has played over 100 NRL games and is a great communicator and leader and he’s going to be a big asset for us on Sunday.
We can look back on how we played when we beat the Blackhawks, who finished fourth, early in the year and beat Easts 16-4 the week after the Norths (and 38-18 in round 21) when we grinded it out for all or just about all of the game.
But we go to a whole new level on Sunday and we can’t afford to have little lapses where we get away from our plan or lose patience and get too anxious to score points after periods of going three or four sets for sets with our opposition. That’s when we have come up with errors or given up possession and given our opponents a chance to grab opportunities.
Sunday is an exciting day for the club and the players, with the Colts playing a semi-final as well. As a coach, these are the situations that we work so hard for and I’m really proud of the effort and the attitude of our close-knit playing group and support staff that have given us all this opportunity.
I hope we can get plenty of supporters there to make some noise and get behind the boys. They deserve it.
Best season since ’07 double premiership
Neil Cadigan
Irrespective of Sunday’s semi-final results at Piggabeen Sports Complex, 2019 will go down as arguable the best in the history of the Tweed Heads Seagulls outside of their double premiership year of 2007.
This is obvious through the achievement of having the three Sunday grades all qualify for the finals, the launching of a women’s team that provided its first State of Origin player and the representative conquests of several players that have come through the Seagulls’ pathway aimed at the NRL.
At a time when the Gold Coast Titans’ NRL future has been questioned with the team finishing with the wooden spoon, the progress of the sport on the Gold Coast, Tweed and Northern Rivers in the past year is unquestionable, with the Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls playing a prominent role.
It is the first season that both the Titans’ feeder teams, the Seagulls and Burleigh Bears, have made the Intrust Super Cup semi-finals. Both clubs are represented in this weekend’s Hastings Deering Colts (under-20s) semi-finals as well. And the Seagulls’ under-18s Mal Meninga Cup team took all before them and won the grand final and national championships.
Of Tim Maccan’s under-18s squad, made up almost exclusively of players from Tweed, Northern Rivers or the southern Gold Coast, seven were chosen in the Queensland under-18s team – Xavier Coates, Reece Walsh, Juwan Compain, Brendan Piakura, Carsil Vaikai Coates is an incredible story. In the one season he went from the under-18s to play two ISC games, three in the NRL for the Broncos and a Test for Papua New Guinea.
Coates, Walsh and Piakura are contracted to the Broncos while Compain, Sexton, Vaikai, Caleb Hodges, Solomon Torrens, Ediq Ambrosyev, Ben Liyou, Noah Gafa, Jake Martin, Jaiden West and Jed Edwards are on the Titans’ books.
ISC hooker Christian Hazard played for Queensland Residents and Titans-contracted centre Treymain Spry for Queensland under-20s Origin. Jessika Elliston was the Queensland women’s Origin team member.
“The club really has progressed when you look overall at the team and individual achievements this year and we want to keep progressing,” said CEO Paul Stephenson who has been working hard this week in progress for the semi-final double-header at Piggabeen on Sunday. The ISC team takes on Redcliffe Dolphins and the Colts play Mackay Cutters.
“And it’s not just at ISC and rep level. We’re also proud that we have recruited quite a few players into our squad other areas and, with us deciding not to field a Gold Coast league side, they have filtered into the Gold Coast A-grade competition and provided a real benefit there.
“Guys who have played ISC like Stu Mason (Currumbin), Luke Jurd (Currumbin), Kody Parsons (Tugun), Rory Lillis (Tugun), Lee Turner (Southport), Bailey Faull (Bilambil), Jack Machin (Runaway Bay) have strengthened their clubs and the local competition and we hope to spread our players across more clubs next year.
“Then we look at the incredible feats of Xavier Coates who was in our 18s for two seasons – to go up to ISC level, then become an international for PNG then play in the NRL while still 18 is an incredible achievement.
“Two have all three senior teams in the finals is a great step forward for us and off the field we’ve welcomed a new board member in Matt Burgess and hope to have the first stage in the improvement of facilities at Piggabeen complete for next season too.”
A name familiar in Tweed district league and Titans history, Murwillumbah-raised Anthony Laffranchi who went onto win a premiership with Wests Tigers and become an inaugural Titan, this week paid tribute to the role the Seagulls have played in establishing a genuine pathway for elite players.
The Titans football operations manager says the NRL’s relationship with feeder clubs Tweed and Burleigh has become more important, as is its association with Northern Rivers rugby league, and the big improvement of the Seagulls in 2019 is a bonus for not just the Titans but the broader rugby league environment.
“With there no longer being a national youth competition means the Queensland Cup clubs have become more important in providing a pathway for us and it’s great to see the improvement of the Seagulls and the continued strength of the Burleigh Bears,” said Laffranchi.
“We’ve been fortunate this season to have the Seagulls under-18s Mal Meninga Cup team win the national championships and the Northern Rivers Andrew Johns Cup under-16s be successful.
“Tweed has, and will continue, to be a good pathway for a lot of goods kids in the Northern Rivers and around the border.
“This season we’ve had Seagulls players like Juwan Compain come from under-20s play Intrust Super Cup at age 18 and Ioane Seuili play a whole season of ISC with the Seagulls at 19 before he goes into an NRL contract with us. That experience will be invaluable for him, as is has been for Treymain Spry at the age of 19.
“It’s great to see a natural and strong attachment developing between local players and the Titans as their local NRL club.
“The Seagulls, plus the Bears, play a big role in that with the funnelling of players through the system hopefully into the NRL.
“We are working closely together, as we are with the Country Rugby League and Northern Rivers, with co-resourcing, co-recruiting and working together with pathways for the kids and the success will really bear fruit in the next couple of years.”
In 2007 the Seagulls were at their best, winning the Queensland Cup first grade title and the FOGS Colts under-20s.
Matthews key Seagulls man as he ponders future
Experienced NRL forward Will Matthews may be frustrated with his stop-start 2019 season because of injury and ponders his future past this year, but in the meantime he is a trump-card for the Seagulls in Sunday’s elimination semi-final against Redcliffe Dolphins.
The 31-year-old who has made 111-NRL appearances is not sure what his future is at the Titans but remains focussed on being a key leader of the Seagulls this week and beyond and has made a big impact in the seven Intrust Super Cup matches he has played this season.
Matthews told the Gold Coast Bulletin that if he isn’t re-signed by the Titans he would look at continuing with the Seagulls and the club would love to have the respected natural leader beyond this season.
“It’s been very frustrating because of a lot of little niggling injuries [this season]; one thing led to another and I haven’t been able to play much,” he said.
“But my body is all good now so hopefully I can finish the year strong.
“We have a good side so I feel like we could cause some upsets there in the finals.
“I like to be a leader there; I’m an old head now so I try and help the boys if I can.”
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Woolf will wait on injured players
Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls coach Ben Woolf is hoping several key players will return to strengthen his side for Sunday’s elimination semi-final against Redcliffe Dolphins at Piggabeen Sports Complex (11.40am kick-off).
It is the Seagulls’ first finals appearance since 2014 and Woolf hopes to welcome back at least three players who missed the final competition round, a 12-10 victory over Northern Pride.
While skipper Cheyne Whitelaw (ACL) and utility forward Jack Cook (broken leg suffered in a work accident) will not play against until next year, second-rower Kalani Going (hamstring), halfback Ash Taylor (ankle) and winger Rowland Jacobs (foot) are expected to be fit to return.
Winger Talor Walters (knee) left the field last Sunday after 20 minutes and he will be given until later in the week to prove he has recovered.
“It’s an exciting for club to have a home semi after five years out of the finals so we’ll give the injured players every chance to play,” said coach Ben Woolf.
“It’s going to be a tough game with Redcliffe one of the form teams of the second half of the season after a slow start.
“We’ll have to be at our best and be patient with the ball and really strong in defence to beat them but this is the sort of challenge we have been preparing for all season.
“Hopefully we can get a good vocal crowd there too so we can make the best of the home ground advantage.”
Taylor is the key man for the Seagulls. The 24-year-old Titans halfback who has played 80 NRL games has gradually become more dominant with his playmaking as he spends more time with his Seagulls teammates and has been responsible for eight try assists and eight line-break assists in his five games in black and white, which resulted in four victories.
Although the Seagulls finished one place ahead of the defending premiers, they are under no illusion of how tough the seventh-placed Dolphins will be.
Redcliffe have won nine of their last 10 matches, including five straight and have scored 40 points or more in their past four games against Easts Tigers (43-0), Central Queensland Capras (58-4), PNG Hunters (46-0) and Mackay Cutters (48-10).
Much of their improved form centred around the return of goalkicking five-eighth Tyson Gamble mid-season from Wests Tigers where he made his NRL debut in 2018 and was chosen in the NSW Residents side.
Rugby union convert Izaia Perese, who debuted for the Brisbane Broncos last month and has scored nine tries in his past six appearances for the Dolphins, is another danger man.
Yet the Seagulls also go into the semi-final in good form. The only match they dropped in the final six rounds was a 36-16 shock loss to Mackay Cutters after leading 12-0 after 30 minutes.
The switch of Lindon McGrady from five-eighth to fullback and Walters from fullback to the wing has worked well. Walters has scored 13 tries and McGrady stands third in the Intrust Super Cup points-scoring list with 166 points (five tries and 73 goals).
The teams have met once this season with Redcliffe winning 26-6 at Dolphin Stadium.
The Seagulls, who have all three senior grades qualify for the finals for the first time (the under-18s Mal Meninga Cup won their competition), will field their Hastings Deering under-20s Colts team in an elimination semi-final at Piggabeen on Sunday as well. They play Mackay Cutters at 1.40pm.
Home semi secured after gritty win
Neil Cadigan
A depleted Tweed Head Seagulls grinded out a tough 12-10 victory against Northern Pride at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Saturday in an historic day for the only NSW-based club in the Intrust Super Cup.
Not only have the border club secured a home semi-final against defending premiers Redcliffe Dolphins in Tweed’s first finals appearance since 2014 but the 36-10 victory Matt King’s Hastings Deering Colts means the Seagulls have teams in the finals in all three grades (ISC, Colts and Mal Meninga Cup) for the first time.
The Seagulls went into the match without halfback Ash Taylor (ankle), bench forward Jack Cook (broken leg), prop Leilani Latu (shoulder), winger Rowland Jacobs (foot) and second-rower Kalani Going (hamstring) and lost winger Talor Walters (leg injury) after 18 minutes but held off a determined Pride in a grinding match that featured four tries, all scored from kicks.
The Pride played like they had nothing to lose, creating second-phase attack from constant offloads and spreading the ball early in the tackle count as hooker Jordan Biondi-Odo and halves Jared Allen and Jack Campagnolo proved a constant threat.
However, while Tweed’s attack had its moments with some crucial errors made in possession on each side of halt-time, the resilience and consistency in defence showed the sort of character the Seagulls will need to take into the finals next week.
It was evident in the last attacking play of the game by the Pride.
After gaining a line-drop out with three minutes remaining after forcing Ione Seiuli, who was outstanding when forced from the forwards to the wing to cover for Walters, into the in-goal after he safely disposed yet another dangerous bomb, fullback Cephas Chinfat looked like he might score in the right corner only. But Seiuli and centre Treymain Spry scrambled brilliantly and force Chinfat to lose possession as he desperately tried to keep the ball in play before going over the touchline.
It was a second-half penalty goal from Lindon McGrady that separated the teams on the scoreboard after Pride hit back from 10-0 down to level at 10-all.
“It was a good win in that we showed a lot of resilience and defensive character,” said a relieved Tweed coach Ben Woolf.
“They threw a lot at us and were prepared to regularly throw the ball wide, and their kicking game was good, so I was proud of the way we grinded out a really important win.
“We’ll have a few players coming back next week and we can take some momentum into the semi-final from four straight wins. We got the job done.”
Five-eighth Luke Jurd became the major playmaker with Taylor a late withdrawal and hooker Brent Woolf playing the entire game in the halves, and he handled the role well despite constant kick-pressure from Pride forwards that saw him smashed to the ground several times after squeezing out kicks.
He created his side’s first try from a neat grubber on the final tackle that was pounced on by second-rower Lamar Liolevave. Lindon McGrady added the extras from in first of the posts to give Tweed a 6-0 lead after an evenly contested opening 16 minutes.
Just five minutes later a McGrady kick was on the mark, this time a chip-kick that was plucked out of the air by centre Treymain Spry on the right. McGrady was unable to convert, for the Seagulls to take a 10-0 lead after a quarter of the match.
However, winger Walters succumbed to a knee injury at that time and left the field and Tweed had to shuffle Seiuli to the flank.
Pride were on the scoreboard after the Seagulls knocked on from the kick-off, from a well-executed left side shift involving Allen and Chinfat who gave left winger Gideon Gela-Mosby a free 20-metre run to the line.
The Pride drew level 19 minutes into the second half when yet another offload set the Seagulls on their heels. Pride threw the ball outside, then in, on the last tackle in Tweed’s quarter and finally fullback Chinfat kicked to an unmarked Gela-Mosby who picked up the ball on the full and strolled over. Jack Campagnolo landed the conversion from wide out.
A McGrady penalty goal with 15 minutes remaining for Tweed to regain the lead 12-10 and they held Pride out despite several frantic attacking raids and a 40-20 by Biondi-Odo with 12 minutes remaining.
Tweed Heads Seagulls 12 (L Liolevave, T Spry tries; L McGrady 2 goals) def. Northern Pride 10 (G Gela-Mosby 2 tries; J Campagnolo goal) at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Play-offs come early for U20s Colts
The finals have come early for the Seagulls’ Hastings Deering Colts team with a virtual play-off for eighth spot against Northern Pride starting at 2.20pm at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Saturday.
Both teams are locked on 24 competition points with the Seagulls holding a points-differential advantage of 58 points, so the formula is simple for team coached by club stalwart Matt King.
If they win or draw they finished in the finals, if they lose they will repeat last year’s scenario of falling just two points short.
The Seagulls beat the Pride 30-14 in round 11 but King warns that both teams have had considerable line-up changes since then.
The Colts’ form has been similar to first grade’s in recent weeks, up and down: heavy defeats against second-placed Burleigh Bears and third-placed Wynnum Manly, a one-point loss to seventh-placed Easts Tigers and a draw against last-placed Ipswich Jets.
However the 40-12 victory against Souths Logan last Sunday may prove a turning point.
“We would have only nine or 10 players left in the 17 and they’ve had about seven changes but our core group is still there and we can take confidence from that result earlier in the season,” said King, who has his own team for the first time after spending a couple of seasons as Intrust Super Cup assistant coach under Aaron Zimmerle and Ben Woolf.
“We’ve been patchy the last month but we have slowly been getting better after losing a few games quite heavily.
“The win against Souths last week was the best we have played for a long while so we are hoping to continue that on Saturday.
“We just have to come up and play to our full potential this weekend and control our destiny I suppose.
“When we stick to our processes and our get through our sets, we look really good and score points but when we get lost at times and get frantic and push the passes our footy gets a bit ugly and we seem to suffer.
“We often have a 20-minute window and play ugly, so it’s about sticking to our processes for 70 minutes we’re okay.”
King is hoping halfback and skipper Tahne Robinson will be fit to return to the side after missing the last two games with injury, An assessment will be made at Friday night’s training session.
Queensland under-18s representatives Ben Liyou and Juwan Compain are two young players who have progressed from the champion Mal Meninga Cup side who will take their place on Saturday and will be key players.
An interesting team member is winger Nash Geyer, who is the son of former Melbourne Storm premiership-winger winger and NSW State of Origin rep Matt Geyer.
The Seagulls have had two draws this season – against the Jets in round 20 and Wynnum Manly in round 5 – games King thought his side should have won.
Ironically, a draw will land them a finals place on Sunday – but a victory will be sweeter and give them momentum going into a clash against Norths Devils or Mackay Cutters in an elimination semi-final.
They have a club-first in their hands too. Never before have Tweed’s three senior grades – Intrust Super Cup, Colts (under-20s) and Mal Meninga Cup (under-18s) played finals football in the same season. A draw or win on Saturday will achieve that.
Gulls playing for club first achievement
Treymain Spry in action against Souths Logan last Sunday. PHOTO: Max Ellis.
The Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls are playing for a rare piece of history when they take on Northern Pride on Saturday in the final round of Intrust Super Cup and Hastings Deering Colts matches at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
A fourth straight victory by the ISC side will cement sixth spot on the ladder and a home semi-final against the in-form defending premiers Redcliffe Dolphins the following weekend, the first time the Seagulls have played in the finals since 2014.
The Colts under-20s side, coached by Matt King who was in that 2014 finals line-up and the club’s only Queensland Cup premiership-winning team of 2007, also have a date with destiny in their hands.
The Seagulls and Pride are locked on 24 competition points with Tweed holding eighth place on points differential. The winner will take the final place in the finals, although a draw would also get the Seagulls home.
With Tweed’s under-18s Mal Meninga Cup side winning the competition from fourth place on the ladder then going on to win the national championships against NSW’s Illawarra, the Colts on Saturday could give the club the achievement of having all three grades in the finals in the same season for the first time.
This shows the significant improvement of the Seagulls this season, which is a tribute to the board of directors, the administration under CEO and former NRL player Paul Stephenson and the coaching staff headed by former Gold Coast Titans under-20s coach Ben Woolf.
The Seagulls also fielded a woman’s team for the first time, coached by former Kiwis women’s coach Kelvin Wright, and fielded its first Queensland State of Origin player in Jessika Elliston.
A key to Woolf’s team’s success in recent weeks has been the gradual return to form, and confidence, of Titans halfback gun Ash Taylor who will take his place as chief playmaker against Northern Pride on Saturday.
Taylor has struck a solid combination in the spine with fullback Lindon McGrady, hooker Christian Hazard and fellow halves Luke Jurd and Brent Woolf who interchanged in the position in last Sunday’s big win against Souths Logan and have been selected to do the same this Saturday.
Taylor has created eight try assists and nine line-break assists in his five appearances since returning from his spell out of the game, plus scored a try and is kicking for an average of 316 metres per game, which has seen a big improvement in the Seagulls’ ability to gain good field position.
McGrady, in his third season with the club, played 13 of the first 17 games this season in his regular position in the halves, but has settled in at fullback since Taylor’s entry into the line-up and they have formed a dynamic combination.
McGrady has scored 162 points this season from four tries and 64 goals, to be fourth on the ISC points-scoring list.
His switch has enabled the versatile Talor Walters, the former Melbourne Storm under-20s player, to move to the wing despite his tremendous form at the back. However, his classy finishing ability and penetrating running from the back has been a revelation and he has scored eight tries in the past five games, including successive hat-tricks against Easts and Souths.
“We know we’ll play Redcliffe in the (sixth v seventh) semi-final but it would be a big advantage to play them at home so we know what is at stake on Saturday,” Ben Woolf said.
“We’ve gathered a lot of confidence in the last month and have been playing with more consistency and controlling the ball better, so we want to go into the finals with momentum by beating the Pride.
“A lot of that has come from how well our spine is combining together but also our forwards, led by captain John Palavi, have really muscled up and given the halves something to play off.”
With second-rower Will Matthews chosen in the Titans side to play Newcastle Knights on Saturday and prop Leilani Latu injured, Taylor may be the only Titans’ NRL-experienced player in Saturday’s line-up.
Northern Pride are 12th on the ladder but have plenty of strike-power in Cowboys players Gideon Gela-Mosby, Javid Bowen, Enari Tuala and former NRL and Super League veteran Maurice Blair.
The day is a ‘family fun day’ with a bouncing castle and free face painting for children. Game times: Hastings Deering Colts 2.20pm, Intrust Super Cup 4pm.
From A-grade to ISC finals danger man
Neil Cadigan
Talor Walters says the fact he is injury-free and has had his first full pre-season since joining the club have been the key ingredients to his outstanding 2019 form for the Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls.
This time last year the 23-year-old Rotorua-born Kiwi, who did not play league until he was 16, was back playing A-grade while still regathering confidence after a serious ankle injury had badly hampered his career.
Now he is one of the Seagulls’ strike weapons heading into their first finals appearance since 2014 and without doubt has been one of the most impressive backs in the Intrust Super Cup this season.
Walters has moved into the top 10 Intrust Super Cup try-scorers by taking his season tally to 13 with trebles in the past two Seagulls’ victories, against Easts Tigers and Souths Logan Magpies.
He admits his preferred position is fullback where he is fine form saw him picked in QRL website’s team of the week several times in the early rounds. But he has played seven games (and four of the last five) on the wing which has allowed the versatile playmaker Lindon McGrady to slip back to fullback and have dominant playmaker Ash Taylor and the quickly improving Luke Jurd play in the halves.
That’s the combination coach Ben Woolf will take into the finals with Titans marquee player Taylor settling into the team combinations well since his return from time away from the game to address personal issues.
And it certainly gives the side extra strike, with Walters forming a dynamic combination with Titans-contracted Treymain Spry on the right.
Walters – who has played fullback, centre and wing regularly at senior level – joined the club in 2017 after being in the Melbourne Storm under-20s system and playing Colts (and five ISC games) for Burleigh Bears, winning the 2015 Colts grand final alongside current Seagulls teammate Jack Cook.
However, the shocking ankle injury cut his first season to just nine appearances and, after returning to the game late in 2018, he made only eight ISC appearances while a drop in confidence and niggling injuries saw him spend time in Kevin Campion’s A-grade team in the Gold Coast competition.
Having qualified with the required appearances, he dropped back to play in the finals and ran out in the grand final – a loss to Runaway Bay. He is now in career-best form and looking at playing state league finals for the first time.
“This is the first time I’ve had a full pre-season in three years and that has been a big difference,” said Walters who has played 19 of Tweed’s 22 games this season.
“Not getting injured has helped and the team has performed better than the previous two seasons, so I’ve just gained some momentum off that.
“I definitely prefer fullback but I’ve played plenty of wing and centre and I’ve adapted to the wing fine the past few weeks and starting to get a good combination there with Treymain.
“We’ve all been working on playing off each other’s strengths since Ash has come into the halves and Lindon at fullback and it will be good to go into the finals with a few games behind us with those combinations.
“I’m enjoying it and just trying to stay injury free and improve each week.
“The tries are a bonus. I can’t remember too many times I’ve scored three tries in a game and to do it two weeks in a row is a first at senior level.”
Walters was one of the competition’s most dynamic returners of kicks when at fullback due to his deceptive swerve, pace and strength to shake off a defender, and he made several busts through the middle of the field.
Yet on the wing, his ‘in-and-away’ has been lethal and he has become extremely hard to stop close to the line, although he has had a bit to do in many of his 13 tries.
Coach Ben Woolf admits it was the return of Taylor plus the emergence of Jurd that forced him to make the tough decision to switch Walters to the wing (he played there when Titans’ Ryley Jacks was in the side for three games mid-season).
“We thought Talor had been in great form at fullback but Lindon was playing well enough to remain in the team and we could use his ball playing skills at fullback,” Woolf said.
“This meant Talor moved to the wing where he has been able to focus more on his running game which is his strength. He is a dynamic ball runner who carries strongly in yardage and has the speed and strength to finish well.
“It gives us an extra attacking strength and it has worked well for us the past few weeks.”
Walters, like many who are performing well in the ISC competition, hasn’t given up hope of playing NRL saying it remains “an aspiration”.
In the meantime, he works as an advisor for people looking to enter the property market for local company No.1 Property Guide and loves spending time with his three-year-old daughter Mia who attends most of the Seagulls’ home games.
Walters’ trio among seven great tries
There was a touch of class to all of the Seagulls’ seven tries in their 42-20 win against Souths Logan Magpies last Sunday.
Watch the match highlights to see Talor Walters’ hat-trick and four other wonderful efforts with five-eighth Ash Taylor and fullback Lindon McGrady prominent.
http://www.qrl.com.au/news/2019/08/26/intrust-super-cup-round-22-highlights-magpies-v-tweed/
Possession starved Gulls in seven-try victory
Neil Cadigan
Winger Talor Walters pulled off his second successive hat-trick of tries as the Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls are just a victory this Sunday away from a home semi-final and securing sixth spot on the ladder after a convincing 42-20 victory against Souths Logan Magpies at Davies Park on Sunday.
The quality of the victory is obvious on the stats sheet that shows the Seagulls had little more than a third of possession throughout the match and all but one try was scored from movements that started in the Seagulls half.
The fact that Souths, who had won four of their previous four matches including victories over finals-bound Norths Devils and Redcliffe Dolphins, could score only two tries in the first 69 minutes despite their dominance of possession was also a tribute to the character of Tweed’s defence.
Yet coach Ben Woolf was most pleased with the ball control and the attacking combinations that are really coming together – especially five-eighth Ash Taylor and fullback Lindon McGrady pus Walters and centre Treymain Spry on the right side.
Walters, who was outstanding at fullback for the first half of the season but has been moved to the wing where he has displayed his finishing class, has scored eight tries in the past five matches to move to 13 for the season.
His three tries all came in the second half as the Seagulls stretched their half-time 18-6 lead to 42-8 before the Magpies scored two consolation tries in the last 10 minutes.
“Talor has been really good on the wing and Lindon at fullback too, so it has given us extra attacking edge with them both playing so well,” Woolf said.
“It’s not often you see a side score so many points with so little possession but we scored just about all of our tries coming out of our half which was a pretty good effort.
“They threw a lot at us too as they tossed the ball around, often in their yardage sets coming out of their end, so we did well to defend that.
“We controlled the ball really well; I think we only made two errors in the first half. And our attack is really coming together which is pleasing going into the finals.”
Will Matthews joined Taylor are the two most experienced NRL players in the Seagulls side (with Leilani Latu likely to miss the rest of the season with a shoulder injury) and both were impressive. The pair will add tremendous football-smarts and composure to the line-up in coming weeks if they are not recalled by the Titans.
John Palavi continues to be the leader of the pack with his strong, error-free efforts in attack and defence and, at 27, his form this season shows that he would still be an asset to any NRL club.
Lamar Liolevave was first to score for the Seagulls when he crossed off a Taylor pass in the 13th minute before McGrady, who scored 18 points from a try and seven goals, was next to cross six minutes later.
Five tries followed, with Walter finishing off three – his last an impressive effort when he was slipped a one-handed offload from Spry but had to get outside his wing and then beat the Magpies’ fullback to score.
Tweed finish the competition rounds with the clash with Northern Pride on Saturday (4pm) and a victory would keep them in front of the fast-finishing Redcliffe, who they will play the following week in the first week of the finals, irrespective of the result.
Tweed Heads Seagulls 42 (T Walters 3, L Liolevave, L McGrady, K Murphy, I Seiuli tries; L McGrady 7 goals) def. Souths Logan Magpies 20 (L Cooper, L Port, M Soper-Lawler, B Gibb tries; G Hamilton 2 goals) at Davies Park.
We have to keep up intensity against Magpies
We know we face a tough match against Souths Logan at Davies Park on Sunday even though they are not in the race for the finals. They’ve won four of their last five games including the scalps of top eight teams Norths and Redcliffe.
But the goal to have a home semi-final is without doubt driving us with two rounds to go and I feel the team has lifted a gear in the past few weeks.
Ash Taylor has been gaining confidence with each game he has played with us and gradually his teammates are getting more familiar with how he plays and improving their timing off his passes and that has been a key to our improvement.
But the effort of our forwards to get into the grind early in matches has been telling for us too and we have to continue that every match from here.
It’s likely we are going to have a semi-final against the Dolphins whether home or away. The defending premiers have struck some form, having won eight of their past 10 games, so getting them at home would certainly be a psychological advantage.
But we’ve got a job to do before then against the Magpies and Northern Pride and can’t afford to get ahead of ourselves.
We are going to be without Leilani Latu on Sunday, and maybe a while longer, because of a shoulder injury but we are lucky to have Will Matthews back so it’s pretty much a direct swap, Titan for Titan, and Will has been tremendous for us in his few games for us.
Kalani Going will miss Sunday’s game too. He missed three games with a hamstring injury and last Sunday was his second game back but his hammie tightened up and he played only 18 minutes and we thought it best to rest him against the Magpies and get it right.
Treymain Spry, who missed last week’s game because of a foot injury, is back. The good thing has been that our depth has really stood up for most of the season and we are able to cover injuries pretty well when they have happened.
Souths have always had a good side on paper with Broncos players like Shaun Fensom, Patrick Mago, Sam Tagataese and Fanitesi Niu and good established Q Cup players but were disappointing for the first half of the season.
They’ve shown what they can do in the last month though and we really have to be on our toes.
If we want to be a force in the finals these are the tests we have to be up for and the signs have been good in the wins against Ipswich and Easts that we can get into the grind and play the way we want to.
And that has given the team confidence. We just have to keep the momentum going.
Neil Cadigan
Walters scores hat-trick as Tigers tamed
Neil Cadigan
The Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls put in their best performance since their five-straight winning run in rounds 8-12, beating Easts Tigers 38-18 at Piggabeen Sports Complex and placing the bonus of a home semi-final squarely in their own hands.
The Seagulls leapt to a 16-0 lead after just 13 minutes with three tries and were 22-0 ahead before the Tigers struck back with two tries in the last five minutes of the first half to go into the break 22-12 behind.
At 28-18 the game was in the balance before Tweed again took control and ran away with the game to put their points differential back into the positive, with winger Talor Walters picking up three tries.
“That was a lot better performance than last week (an away victory at Ipswich), especially how we physically dominated early and created good scoring opportunities,” said Seagulls coach Ben Woolf.
“With props John Palavi and Leilani Latu, and hooker Christian Hazard, leading up front early, it was a very good opening 20 minutes.
“We got into the grind well and our kick and chase were effective and that set a good platform.
“We let them back into the match with a couple errors and penalties (five straight) that gave them a lot of possession but I was really happy with how we got back on top at 28-18.
“It’s up to us now to continue that form and win out last two games and set up a home semi-final, which is looking like it will be against the [Redcliffe] Dolphins would have struck some form.”
The Tweed victory, their third from their past four games and second against Easts this season, confirmed their first finals appearance since 2014 but they are determined not to finish below sixth.
It took just three minutes for the Seagulls to cross the tryline through lock Kalani Going when Latu fed him a good ball close to the line after Tweed ran the ball on the last tackle. Only four minutes later Walters picked up his first try after a long shift and it was the 11th minute when centre Kody Parsons crossed after receiving a good ball from fullback Lindon McGrady in a set play from a scrum.
Back-rower Ioane Seuili made it four Tweed tries in the first half-hour when five-eighth Ash Taylor, who again played with confidence, picked him up with a smart pass at the line inside the Seagulls’ half and Seuili beat Tigers fullback Matt Cooper one-on-one. McLindon’s easy conversion made it 22-0.
Easts put themselves back in the match when, after a run of possession from five successive sets with the ball, second-rower John Puna got through on an edge in the 35th minute. Soon after Tigers halfback Josh Fauid went down a short side, dummied and gave centre Isaac Lumelume a run to the line. Billy Walters converted both tries to have Easts just 10 points in arrears at the break.
McGrady ensured the momentum switched back to the home side early in the second half when he latched onto a Taylor bomb that was spilled by Cooper at the end of Tweed’s first set of the half. When former Warriors gun and Tongan international Solomone Kata crashed over from dummy half to make it 28-18, the healthy crowd was certainly nervous just a fortnight after the Seagulls surrendered a 12-6 lead against the Cutters at Piggabeen to go down 30-16.
However, Walters– making a good fist on the wing after McLindon was switched to the back from five-eighth in recent weeks – crossed twice more, both times showing his genuine class and evasive skills that saw him regarded as one of the most dangerous fullbacks in the competition earlier in the season.
Walters took his try-scoring tally to 10 this season, including five in the past four games, through his ability to do something with limited space because of his light feet, balance and strength.
The Seagulls head to Davies Park to take on Souths Logan, who pose as a danger team, next Sunday before finishing against Northern Pride at home.
Easts have certainly hit a lull, gaining only one competition point in their past five clashes – from a 38-all draw against the Hunters in PNG. Although they are assured of at least eighth spot, they need to find some confidence in their remaining two matches against Northern Pride (away) and Townsville Blackhawks (home).
Tweed Heads Seagulls 38 (T Walters 3, K Going, K Parsons, L McGrady, I Seiuli tries; McGrady 5 goals) def. Easts Tigers 18 (J Puna, I Lumelume, S Kata tries; B Walters 3 goals) at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Hazard lights up for run to finals
Christian Hazard is the type of player who was brought to the Seagulls for what is in store in the next month for Ben Woolf’s team, starting with what is a virtual play-off for sixth spot and a home semi-final against Easts Tigers at Piggabeen on Sunday.
The 24-year-old who was chosen for Queensland Residents this year for the second time, has settled in well in his switch from the halves to hooker and his combination with Ash Taylor could become a prime asset for the Seagulls as they head to the finals.
Hazard felt an intensity in the team’s winning performance against Ipswich Jets last Sunday that hadn’t quite been there is previous week, brought on by pressure of having to win to shake off the Jets as the one team who could knock them out of the finals.
Now that seems virtually secured, he feels the Seagulls are set to return to the form that saw them beat top five teams Townsville Blackhawks and Norths Devils earlier in the year – if they concentrate on the “little things” and curb their errors.
“I think the way we defended when they had quite a few shots at our line in the last 15 minutes, and got the win, will really build confidence,” Hazard said.
“But, individually, we still have to cut out silly errors or those little slip of concentration things.
“When we had that run of five wins straight we were completing at 80-85 percent and that’s what it needs to win the big games. We weren’t beaten by much when we hit a losing run and we can point to the difference was the drop in possession from our errors and not taking the big moments.
“Easts will be fired up after being touched up by Redcliffe (43-0) last weekend, so we have to be ready for that.
“But now we’ve pretty much cemented a finals spot, the first time since 2014 which is great for the club, we can just concentrate on just playing how Woolfy wants us to without that extra pressure and hopefully it will bring out the best in us.”
Hazard has been in NRL systems with South Sydney Rabbitohs, Gold Coast Titans and Newcastle Knights while yet debuting in the NRL and it was his Titans under-20s coach of two seasons, Woolf, who lured him to Piggabeen. At his best, he is one of the most dangerous and versatile players in the Intrust Super Cup, having scored 20 tries in 57 appearances.
He missed the first three games because of an elbow injury before playing in the halves and returned last week after missing three games with a hamstring injury after getting used to the extra physical demands of playing hooker after six games there.
He has the skill, explosive power and strength to be danger to opposition defences and says having Taylor, also 24 but with 80 NRL appearances to his credit, to fire dummy-half passes to has been a late season bonus for the Seagulls.
“You can see the boys admire him for what he has done and how he reads a game and leads us around; everyone knows how good he is and he’s really fitted in well too,” he said.
“But it is up to us forwards to give the halves something to come off the back of, everyone knows that, and we have to do that consistently. I thought we did a pretty good job against Ipswich.
“It would be great to have a home final and go into it confidence we can compete with anyone, but we just have to stick to what Woolfy wants from us and not get ahead of ourselves.
“And that starts with backing up our win in Ipswich with a good performance this Sunday.”
Victory over Easts could set up home semi-final
Neil Cadigan
Having virtually secured their first finals appearance since 2014, the Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls are playing for a home semi-final when they take on Easts Tigers at Piggabeen Sports complex on Sunday (2pm).
The Seagulls sit in sixth position, one competition point above the Tigers and two ahead of eighth-placed Redcliffe Dolphins. The Intrust Super Cup finals system is the same as the NRL’s with fifth (v eighth) and sixth (v seventh) earning home semi-finals in the first-week elimination games.
A victory against Easts, ahead of the last two rounds in which Tweed play the out-of-the-running Souths Logan Magpies and Northern Pride, would put the Seagulls in a great position to be hosting a finals game at Piggabeen on September 8.
Coach Ben Woolf stated that last Sunday’s clash with Ipswich Jets, who were desperate to stay in finals calculations, was a finals-like occasion and Sunday’s showdown will no different.
“We want to stay sixth and play a home semi-final, and to ensure that happens that we pretty much have to beat Easts,” Woolf says.
“So like last weekend against the Jets, the players know they have to rise to that occasion (they beat Ipswich 22-18 away) with the attitude that finals footy has come early.
“We beat Easts 16-4 in one of our best performances this season in round 10, and we will have to play to that quality again.
“Our desperation in defence against Ipswich 15-20 minutes when they had all the ball was tremendous and we have to build on that.”
A key man for Tweed Heads will be Gold Coast Titans marquee player Ash Taylor who showed signs that his confidence is returning after a stretch out of the game when some class touches played a major hand in three of the Seagulls’ four tries against the Jets. He took control of much of his team’s attack with authority in the best of his three performances (two for Tweed, one for the Titans) back from his spell.
Prop John Palavi, a former Warriors NRL player, has been outstanding with his up-front leadership and the Gulls’ pack, that has gained an edge with the switching of centres Kody Parsons and Ioane Seiuli to the back row, will have to be at their best.
Easts will field Tonga Test centre and former Warriors star Solomone Kata. The powerful runner made a mid-season switch to Melbourne Storm and the Tigers act as one of their feeder teams.
He will partner fellow Storm player Marion Seve (12 NRL games in 2019) in the centres, who will provide a big challenge for Seagulls’ pair Treymain Spry and last week’s two-try hero Lee Turner.
The Ladies in League round game kicks-off at 2pm, following the Hastings Deering Colts match at 12.30.
Gulls into sixth after gritty win over Jets
Neil Cadigan
Coach Ben Woolf said final footy had arrived early for the Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls such was the importance of the round 20 clash with the ninth-placed Ipswich Jets at North Ipswich Reserve yesterday.
That certainly proved the cash with the Seagulls having to desperately defend their line for the final 15 minutes to hold onto a 22-18 lead and all-but confirm a finals position with three rounds remaining.
And the finals intensity will continue this Sunday at Piggabeen Sports Complex with Tweed having the incentive of keeping sixth spot and earning a home semi-final if they can beat Easts Tigers, who are running seventh.
That would leave them needing to beat out-of-the-running Souths Logan and Northern Pride to have a sixth v seventh finals clash at home.
“The intensity was definitely finals-like at the end of the game and our defensive effort was really good,” said Woolf.
“In the last 15-20 minutes they had six or seven sets at our line but we scrambled and covered them. We showed some really good desperation to keep them out.
“It was ball control that got us home in the end; there were a few areas not so great but for most of the time we played well and to lift a gear in defence when the game was on the line was really pleasing to see.
“Our aim is to finish top six and get a home semi-final, so we’re playing for sixth spot against Easts this Sunday then we’d have to finish beating Souths and Northern Pride.
“Our fate is in our hands if we keep winning.”
The Gulls’ effort against the unpredictable Jets was led up front by props John Palavi and Jarrod Morfett and hooker Christian Hazard (pictured) who was returning after a month out with a hamstring injury.
And halfback Ash Taylor showed his class off the back of their efforts, creating three of Tweed’s four tries – two with smart passes and one with a kick.
The Seagulls had a bit glut of possession in the first 10 minutes with repeat sets and penalties. Centre Lee Turner opened the scoring when he charged through some space created by a long ball from Taylor, stepping inside a defender and crossing the line.
Jets winger Marmin Barba scored twice six minutes apart to give Ipswich a 12-6 lead after 21 minutes before Turner scored his second. Left winger Rowland Jacobs picked up a rebound from a Taylor kicked and stepped and offloaded in traffic to Turner who crossed.
Jack Cook crossed soon after off an inside ball from Taylor close to the line, beating two tackles from 10 metres out. Lindon McGrady converted two of the three first-half tries to give the Seagulls a 16-12 half-time lead.
However, it took only three minutes of the second half for the Jets to grab the lead when five-eighth Josh Cleeland showed good footwork and evasive skills to step through the Tweed defence and give the Jets an 18-16 lead.
Second-rower Ioane Seiuli put Tweed back in front when he ran onto a pass from dummy-half Brent Woolf close to the line and crashed over (our main photo), with McGrady’s conversion making it 22-18 with 26 minutes remaining.
The Jets were soon after pressing Tweed’s line again and kept coming at the Seagulls for much of the last quarter of the game. Second-rower Ben White was held up with 12 minutes to go and soon after Ipswich received a seven-tackle set and charged upfield and on the back of a Barba break but a desperate tackle by Lamar Liolevave saved a try for the Seagulls.
The Jets rolled the ball into the in-goal and their supporters left their seats but fullback McGrady covered and a Tweed penalty relieving the pressure.
Sunday’s clash with the Tigers is just as important for the Seagulls. They played well to beat the Tigers 16-4 at Langlands Park in round 10 and need to be on-song to repeat that effort and retain sixth place.
Tweed Heads Seagulls 22 (L Turner 2, J Cook, I Seiuli tries; L McGrady 3 goals) def. Ipswich Jets 18 (M Barba 2, J Cleeland tries; Barba 3 goals) at North Ipswich Reserve.
Seagulls could do with more McGrady magic
Michael Nunn, Ipswich Jets media
Tweed are the girl on the bus you like but she is never nice to you and makes fun of red hair, and they’re coming to Ipswich again to cause pain and end the Jets’ bus ride for 2019.
Leading that misery is Tweed fullback Lindon McGrady who has a habit of inflicting pain on Ipswich. Earlier this year he kicked 10 points over for the Seagulls in their win over the Jets.
Last season he kicked the goal after full-time that won the Seagulls the game and broke hearts. I asked McGrady why he just can’t like us.
“You guys don’t make it easy for me,” McGrady laughed.
“We are not dissimilar to the Jets we have to win and if we do that we are aiming for a home final.
“The Jets are a difficult road trip and I am glad it’s an afternoon game and not a cold night.”
Tweed will come to Ipswich on Sunday with the Jets needing to win four games in a row to play finals and this is act one in a four-part epic play.
The overall record between these two clubs sees the Tweed have won 21 while Ipswich have won 14.
The Jets have won eight of the last nine games against the Tweed in Ipswich. Overall, in Ipswich the Jets hold the advantage over the Tweed Seagulls 11 wins to five.
Tweed beat Ipswich 32-24 earlier this year. The last time the Jets played Tweed in Ipswich it was a day out for the Jets 52-16 in 2018.
Tweed had a win at Ipswich in 2016 when they up-ended the Jets 22-16 with Seagulls fullback Alex Grant scoring three tries before half-time.
Tweed are coming off a loss to the Cutters while the Jets are still thinking about what could have been against the Devils.
Tweed are ahead of the Jets in seventh place on 20 points while the Jets are in ninth on 16 points. The last time the Jets played Tweed, Jayden Connors scored under the posts the Jets will need some of that enterprise again this week.
Connors has scored four tries this year to take his career tally in the ISC to 14 from 45 games for the Jets. I spoke to Connors about how you approach this season on the line game.
“Last weekend was good for us to rest up and recover from a few little injuries.” Connors reflected.
“But we just have to come together and treat every game like our last because obviously our season is on the line.
“Personally I’m not nervous and don’t think any of the boys are either. We are a pretty relaxed team. We just have to regroup at training each week.
“If anything we are excited about the last four games to get the wins and make the finals.”
Key players return for must-win Jets clash
The Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls can almost certainly seal their first finals position since 2014 with a victory over the Ipswich Jets at North Ipswich Reserve this Sunday.
The Seagulls are in seventh position, four points clear of the ninth-placed Jets with just four rounds remaining. A win would give them a six point gap, making it almost impossible for the Jets to make it with eighth-placed Redcliffe, the defending premiers, having hit some form in recent weeks.
Ben Woolf’s Gulls team have won only one of their past seven games after a five-win run that started with a 32-24 victory over the Jets in round eight on April 28.
Yet, after being placed fourth at one stage, they can all-but cement a finals berth with a winning performance on Sunday.
“There is no hiding the importance of it, it’s like a finals match for us,” Woolf said.
“Ipswich are the team most likely to knock us out of the eight if we don’t find form soon.
“It’s an opportunity for us to get three wins clear of them but if they won they only two points behind and we are under pressure.
“The players know the importance of the game and it’s up to them to respond.”
Tweed have three key players returning to the after tearing hamstrings against Burleigh Bears a month ago – hooker Christian Hazard (pictured) and second-rowers Lamar Liolevave and Kalani Going.
However, Titans forward Will Matthews suffered a minor injury last week and will be missing although prop Leilani Latu returns after playing in the NRL in the past two rounds.
The Seagulls will have to overcome a poor record at Ipswich to secure the much-needed two points. They have one only once in their past nine visits.
The Intrust Super Cup game kicks off at 2.50pm with the Hastings Deering Colts clash starting at 1pm for what is also a must-win clash for Matt King’s ninth-placed side.
Just like a finals match we must win
Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls have a pivotal match-up with Ipswich Jets on Sunday and coach Ben Woolf didn’t hide how crucial the game is.
“It’s like a finals match for us,” he said.
“Ipswich are the team most likely to knock us out of the eight if we don’t find form soon.
“It’s an opportunity for us to get three wins clear of them but if they won they only two points behind and we are under pressure.”
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Seagulls cut down by Mackay’s control
Neil Cadigan
Mackay Cutters gave the Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls a lesson in basic fundamentals and patience in springing a 30-16 upset victory at Piggabeen Sports Complex today.
The Cutters had all the momentum and dominated possession and position in the last 50 minutes, coming from 12-0 down to score the next 30 points.
It was a costly loss for the Seagulls who could have skipped six points clear of ninth-placed Ipswich Jets, who went down to Norths Devils in the first week of the split round.
Now they have a crucial encounter with the Jets next round while the Cutters have put themselves into finals contention, particularly if eighth-placed Redcliffe (two competition points ahead of the Cutters) go down to second-placed Burleigh Bears next weekend.
The Cutters virtually starved the Seagulls out of the match after scoring their first try four minutes before half-time. Led by a smart kicking game by halfback Sam Cook, and aggressive second-half forward-control led by prop Alex Gerrard, the Cutters scored three tries in the space of 13 minutes either side of the break to turn the game on its head.
It took 30 minutes, when Broncos-contracted winger Xavier Coates (pictured above) regained possession from a short kick-off, before Tweed played the ball in the Cutters’ 20-metre zone in the second half. Until then penalties and errors ruined any chance of mounting pressure and swinging momentum.
“Lack of possession in the second half killed us really,” lamented Seagulls coach Ben Woolf.
“In the first 10 minutes of the second half we touched the ball twice and made errors both times. They went seven sets without an error which fatigued us and we couldn’t wrestle possession back.
“Our ruck became a bit loose defensively and they rolled through us and we couldn’t dig ourselves out of the hole unfortunately.
“They did a good job controlling the ball, their kicking game was really good and they had a plan around that and their kick-chase was really good.
“We only had three completed sets in the second half and that was a credit to the Cutters for playing well, doing the simple things right, being patient and being prepared to wear us down.”
Kody Parsons, who has impressed in his two games since moving from the centres to second row, initiated the scoring when he shook off two defenders from close range off a Luke Jurd pass. Lindon McGrady converted for a 6-0 lead after 13 minutes.
After the home side had stoically defended their line for an extended period, Ash Taylor inflicted his class into the clash in the 29th minute when he put Ioane Seiuli through the line with a clever no-look short pass and Seiuli found McGrady backing up with two others for a good try that started in Seagulls’ territory. McGrady added the extras for 12-0
The Cutters were on the board in the 36th minute, giving them confidence to take to half-time. Winger Sheldon Bobbert crossed after halves Cook and Lloyd White combined in a slick shift to the left. Marcus Jensen’s conversion made it 12-6.
The Cutters kept the momentum going after the break too. Just three minutes into the second half Gerrard pushed through the defence close to the line to level the scores, then centre Jensen latched onto a Cook grubber into the in-goal only six minutes later with Jensen’s conversion making it 18-12.
Cook set up a try for Jordan Kenworthy with a dummy outside and neat pass in from 10 metres after Mackay, with all the running since the break, gained possession from another Seagulls’ error. Jensen’s goal made it 24 points in just 25 minutes to the visitors.
With 12 minutes remaining hooker Reuben Cotter completed the dramatic Mackay fightback. After gaining possession from a scrum after a lucky bounce forced a Tweed knock-on from a last-tackle grubber, Cotter too easily got over the line when he squared up after throwing two dummies as he ran across in front of the tryline. Jensen made it five from five for a 30-12 lead.
Talor Walters crossed for a consolation Tweed Heads try in the 76th minute – 47 minutes after their previous try when they were dominating the match.
Mackay Cutters 30 (S Bobbert, A Gerrard, M Jensen J Kenworthy R Cotter tries; Jensen 5 goals) def. Tweed Heads Seagulls 16 (K Parsons, L McGrady, T Walter tries; McGrady 2 goals) at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Gulls boosted by Titans trio
Gold Coast Titans marquee halfback Ash Taylor will continue his transition towards an NRL return with his second appearance for the Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls against Mackay Cutters at Piggabeen Sports Complex this Saturday.
Taylor will be one of three Titans with plenty of NRL experience who will boost the seventh-placed Seagulls who are vying for their first Intrust Super Cup semi-finals appearance since 2014, with hooker Mitch Rein and back-rower Will Matthews also in the starting line-up.
The Seagulls will run out in front of several of the club’s most successful and respected former players as part of the club’s annual ‘old boys days’ with Adrian Vowles, a Queensland State of Origin representative selected from the Seagulls in 1994, and 2007 Queensland Cup premiership players Tim Maccan, Brad Davis and James Wood among those watching from the stand.
Taylor returned to playing, after a five week leave-of-absence, for Tweed against Central Queensland Capras on Sunday and was influential in the 28-12 victory. He scored a try, registered 300 kick-metres, had a try-assist, two line-break assists and one line-break as he gradually gained confidence and began to run the ball, a feature of his play when he is on-song.
Coach Ben Woolf has a riches of choices in the halves now with Luke Jurd performing well and regular No. 6 Lindon McGrady switched back to fullback and the in-form Talor Walters moved out to the wing.
Matthews has been impressive in his three games for the Tweed this season and Rein played twice earlier in the year before spending a long stretch as the Titans’ starting hooker. He was a late withdrawal last Sunday because of illness.
The Seagulls will also field skipper John Palavi and Lamar Liolevave, who have both played in the NRL, and Titans-contracted Queensland under-20s representative this season, Treymain Spry, which indicates the strength of the current side.
Woolf moved regular centre Kody Parsons and winger-centre Ioane Seiuli into the pack against the Capras with great success and will continue with the switch against the Cutters, although the final make-up of the 17 is yet to be confirmed.
The Intrust Super Cup match kicks off at 2pm with the Hastings Deering Colts side (ninth) taking on the Cutters (fifth) at 12.30pm.
Team switches work in vital bush victory
Neil Cadigan
The Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls broke their five-match losing run with an important Country Week victory in Ilfracombe, beating the Central Queensland Capras 28-12.
The Gulls had to withstand three changes to their normal ‘spine’ the loss of two players from their selected travelling 18 with sickness, which reduced them to a 16-man team.
Titans hooker Mitch Rein took ill the night before the match at the team’s Longreach hotel and despite medication was not right to play, although he sat on the bench in case injury forced him to fill in some minutes.
Queensland under-18s representative Juwan Compain was set to travel with the team as 18th man, but he also went down with a virus hours before departure for Brisbane on Thursday afternoon and it was decided at the 11th hour for him to stay behind.
Ben Woolf’s side suffered no injuries during the match and were able to cope with 16 players without bother.
While it took 35 minutes for the Gulls to score their first try and they were behind 8-6 at half-time, Woolf was pleased with the effort and there were several positive ‘firsts’ from the game.
His son Brent, 22, a former Broncos-contracted player who last season played 17 games with the Blackhawks, started at hooker in the absence of Christian Hazard with Jack Cook, the starting lock, playing some time at hooker. Woolf had had two games at Currumbin after returning from an ACL injury.
Titans halfback Ash Taylor, in his first match for six weeks, showed some positive signs and scored the team’s first try with his familiar show-and-go.
And Kody Parson, a regular centre, was outstanding in his first game in the second row, pulling off a couple of big hits and winning the players’ players award.
“I thought we were pretty dominant whole game but we had a couple of lapses in defence which let them in for tries and but with two new players in the spine we were a bit clunky in the first half,” Woolf said.
“Once we got in front we controlled the footy I felt we’d get over them but we could have been a bit ruthless once got ahead.
“We had a lot of new guys in new positions, with Ioane Seiuli coming off the bench in the back row and Kody Parson starting in the second row, Brent at hooker and Ash at half playing with the team for the first time.
“Kody was great with his physicality; he bent them back a couple of times with his tackles, and Ioane picked up two tries, so that was really pleasing.
“Ash Taylor obviously wasn’t going to be where he’d normally be with some footy under his belt but he was great the way he fitted in and scored one try and almost got another but was held up and stripped over the line. It was great to see him enjoying playing and contributing around the boys.”
The Seagulls scored five tries to three. Seiuli crossed for a double. His first was a barge over from close range and his other a good team try after Lindon McGrady, who played fullback found space for Talor Walters, who shifted to the wing, in the middle of the field and Seiuli backing up.
McGrady created Walters’ try too with a terrific offload to Luke Jurd whose catch-and-pass gave Walters room to slip between defenders and score. The other try was a barge-over by prop Jarrod Morfett from close range.
Tweed Heads Seagulls 28 (I Seiuli 2, A Taylor, J Morfett, T Walter tries; McGrady 3, Taylor goals) def. CQ Capras 12 (BJ Aufaga-Toomaga 2, R Sisifa tries)
Country trip has come at a good time
There’s always a bit of travel for us when it comes to Country Week and this trip will involve an early Friday morning plane out of Brisbane, after staying in the city for the night, and a late Sunday evening return. But the mood in the camp is really upbeat and the trip probably came at a good time for us after a tough five weeks.
And the three players who have dropped back from the Titans – Ash Taylor, Will Matthews and Mitch Rein – are really keen to give us a lift, which is great after losing three players through hamstring injuries from last weekend.
We are staying in Longreach, a town I visited quite a bit in my youth when growing up in Mt Isa, with our game against the Central Queensland Capras being played 20 minutes down the road at Ilfracombe (the hometown of Cowboys and Queensland prop Matt Scott) at 6pm Saturday.
There’s been a bit of publicity around Ash’s return to the field after sitting out the last few weeks but there’s going to be no pressure on him to do anything out of the ordinary.
He has fitted in really well and training with us on Wednesday and we will make his role pretty simple. He’s just glad to be back playing and been great around the boys and has been really positive, and we want to ensure he enjoys being back on the field.
With Ash coming into the side, Lindon McGrady will drop back to fullback and Talor Walters to the wing, with Luke Jurd staying in the halves with Ash.
Mitch Rein had a few games with us early in the season and he’s a great fella who has also keen to lift the team and Will Matthews has shown in his couple of appearances for us just how classy he is at this level.
We’re without Lamar Liolevave, who suffered a head knock and a knock to his shoulder against Burleigh, and Christian Hazard, Bailey Faull and Kalani Going are out with hamstring injuries.
It’s good that we’ve got Kody Parsons back and the Titans guys to fill the holes.
It’s an important game for us and we need to get back to winning. Our performances against the Blackhawks and Wynnum were pretty good even though we lost but we slipped back in our standard against the Bears.
It’s all about getting back to looking to do the little things well rather than looking for the big play; that’s what we have to get back to doing if we want to play – and compete – in the finals.
We haven’t spent too much time looking over last Sunday’s loss at home; it’s about looking forward now and concentrating on our run home.
The Capras may be at the foot of the ladder but they were unlucky against Mackay Cutters last round and playing in unfamiliar surroundings in the bush can be a real leveller in Country Week.
Having been brought up at Mt Isa and Cairns, it’s terrific to be back in the north-west of Queensland where I went around towns like Longreach, Cloncurry, Barcaldine and Blackall playing lots of different sports.
Vowles recalls great Seagulls memories
Neil Cadigan
Adrian Vowles is one of many who remember the Seagulls’ time in the premier Australian competition as one of the fondest times in their career – when mateship and a sense of that young players’ careers were forming outweighed on-field results.
In his second season of first grade, Vowles became the first player to come through the Seagulls’ ranks from local under-19s, under-21s, reserve grades and first grade to become a State of Origin player.
He played just the one match for Queensland, game two of the 1994 series under his former club coach Wally Lewis who was Maroons’ mentor, before moving to Townsville to be an inaugural North Queensland Cowboy.
Vowles will be one of many of that time – when Tweed Heads was the base for ‘Winfield Cup’ teams from 1988-95 – to get together and reminisce at ‘Old Boys Day’ at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Sunday, July 28 when the Seagulls take on Mackay Cutters.
After starting out as the privately owned Giants in 1988, the then thriving Seagulls leagues club took the licence from 1990-95 before surrendering control because of financial constraints, and the Gold Coast-based national team moved to Carrara under the banner of the Chargers.
The country kid who came to the Gold Coast from Charleville to start a cabinet-making apprenticeship straight out of school, still remembers training with Southport before his mother called her friend, Seagulls boss Vince Hage, to see if her son could get a run at Tweed Heads in their under-19s, under esteemed coach Tom Searle.
Vowles quickly moved through the 21s to reserve grade at age 18, under the coaching of Graham Eadie, then debuting in first grade in 1993 and winning the club’s player of the year award in a line-up that included Kevin Campion, Jamie Goddard, Jason Hetherington, Terry Cook and Scott Sattler who also went on to represent Queensland, and internationals Dale Shearer and Brent Todd.
“I still remember coming to Seagulls in 1989 and getting a polo shirt and thinking ‘how good is this’; we didn’t get that in the bush,” he laughed.
“In 1990 the 19s played Steve Rogers’ Group 18 rep side and their five-eighth didn’t turn up and they asked if they could have one of our players.
“I was reserve so Tommy sent me across. I was fortunate to score a couple of tries and set up a few more and two weeks later I signed my first contract with the Seagulls.
“We had a lot of good players then who kicked on pretty well elsewhere. And even though we didn’t have much success we were really close as a playing group and a lot of us look back on it as a great time in our lives.
“At one time there were 14 of us living at the Isle of Palms resort at Elanora, so we spent a lot of time together but trained hard and learned how to play football at a senior level.
“I’m really looking forward to catching up with some of them at old boys day.”
The Seagulls won just one match and were wooden spooners in 1993 but in Vowles’ second season they won five, including upsets against eventual premiers Canberra and defending premiers and finalists Brisbane – both at Seagulls Stadium next to the leagues club (which was turned into a residential development within three years). They are treasured memories.
Only one player was subsequently selected from the Seagulls to State of Origin arena, Ben Ikin in 1995. Like Vowles, he’d moved on by the next season, heading to North Sydney.
Vowles moved to England after two seasons with the Cowboys, staying for nine years and winning the Man of Steel award – Super League’s version of the Dally M Medal in 1999 while at Castleford. He played against the Seagulls for the Queensland Cup – for Toowoomba in 2003 and Burleigh Bears in 2004, later becoming the Bears’ CEO.
After two seasons coaching the Queensland women’s team, he is the current coach of the Fijian women’s team that boasted Seagulls players CJ Sims and Teaghan Hartigan and beat the PNG side last month.
After living for many years on the Gold Coast, he has moved to Victoria Point in Brisbane and works for a commercial cleaning company.
GOLD COAST SEAGULLS’ ORIGIN REPRESENTATIVES
(all Queensland players)
1995 – Ben Ikin
1994 – Adrian Vowles
1993 – Steve Jackson, Dale Shearer
1992 – Steve Jackson, Dale Shearer, Mike McLean
1991 – Wally Lewis
1990 – None
NOTE: Gold Coast team was called the Giants in 1988-89 and the Chargers 1995-98.
Ash Taylor to return with Seagulls
Gold Coast Titans media
Titans halfback Ash Taylor has been cleared to make his return to rugby league, and will turn out this weekend for the Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Seagulls in the Intrust Super Cup to continue his progression back to the NRL.
Taylor was granted time away from the game by the Titans to deal with some personal issues, but has been back at training with the Titans squad and been given the green light from specialists to return to playing with the Seagulls in the ISC clash with the Capras in Ilfracombe.
Titans executive chairman Dennis Watt said the Club was resolute in its support of Taylor, and commended the halfback for setting the example for young men struggling with mental health issues by asking for help when he needed it.
“We will maintain the level of support around Ash,” Watt said. “He is doing everything he can, but this is very much a team effort (to support him ) as an individual and as a player. He knows we are there in the fight with him.”
Watt said the Club was hopeful of seeing Ash back in Titans colours shortly.
“He would certainly be knocking on the door with a strong game this week – if he plays with confidence, which I expect,” he said.
“As you know, he has a full array of skills. At his best, there are few playmakers in the game who can actually match it with Ash.
“I wouldn’t expect anything too spectacular on Day 1. Just so long as he plays confidently and strongly, and is happy with his own performance.”
Watt said the Titans fans and the general public needed to share the Club’s patience with Taylor as he works his way back to the NRL.
“I see even in the AFL there have been a few people there taking time out of the game,” Watt said.
(Professional athletes) are subjected to enormous pressure these days. The eyes of the world are very much upon them.
“Sometimes when other things aren’t going right in your life, the weight of those expectations is magnified.
“I would just ask for patience. Just remember that he is a very decent young man who is giving his best for this club and for this game of ours.”
Bears continue dominance in local derby
Neil Cadigan
Burleigh Bears continued their dominance over the Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls, running out 42-6 winners in the Intrust Super Cup match at Piggabeen Sports Complex today.
The Seagulls were starved of possession and territory for the first half hour and defensively did well to be behind 14-0 at half-time. These key half-time stats emphasised how dominant the Bears were in those areas: Tweed had only 43 percent of possession, of that 69 percent was in their own half and they played the ball only three times in the Bears’ 20-metre zone.
Errors with the ball, a run of penalties and the Bears’ effectiveness in their completions soon took its toll though.
Yet had either one of two close calls had gone their way in the first half of the second half, the Seagulls could have been much more in the match after the break.
First, debutant winger Callum Boomer had the ball stripped from him over the line in the right corner but Tweed earned an offside penalty. In the next set fullback Talor Walters crossed on the left, only for the try to be called back because decoy runner Lamar Liolevave made contact with defender Hayden Schwass.
The Bears worked their way upfield soon afterwards and left centre Sami Sauiluma crossed for his second try from a Dylan Phythian grubber kick to make it 18-0.
Four more Bears’ tries followed as the Seagulls’ plight was made harder with three players having to be replaced because of hamstring injuries – hooker Christian Hazard, second-rower Kalani Going and bench forward Bayley Faull.
“I thought we did a good job defending them in the first half with the amount of possession they had; they were pretty clinical Burleigh,” Woolf said.
“But we went away from what we wanted to do and Burleigh took advantage of that.
“We just didn’t get in the grind to eventually wear a team down and wait until momentum turned. They just didn’t make an error to allow us to do that and we made too many errors at crucial times.”
The loss was the fifth straight for the Seagulls – four of them against the top four teams on the ladder – and they must regroup now before playing against the Capras at Ilfracombe in north-west Queensland as part of Country Week.
Burleigh’s first half tries came in the seventh minute to Sauiluma from a shift to the left near the line; their second came in the 11th through Jacob Hind on the left and the third when lock Sam Coster scored the first of his two tries after being put into a gap by halfback Jamal Fogarty and stepping past two defenders.
Of Burleigh’s five second-half tries, three came from short kicks, one came from a dummy half dive by Pat Politoni and the last from a drive by prop Luke Page from short range.
Leilani Latu scored Tweed’s only try, in the 67th minute, when he charged through from close range.
The victory was Burleigh’s eighth in succession over the Seagulls since 2015.
Burleigh Bears 42 (S Sauiluma 2, S Coster 2, J Hind, P Politoni, T Leo, L Page tries; J Fogarty 5 goals) def. Tweed Heads Seagulls 6 (L Latu try; L McGrady goal) at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Club should be proud of women’s team’s first season
With only one game remaining in our inaugural season, we may have had only three wins and a draw from our 11 games, however the players, the club and our supporters should be really proud of our progress during the Seagulls’ first foray into the women’s competition.
Last Sunday was one of our best team performances of the season, securing a draw against a tough Ipswich team. Leading 8-4 at the break we extended our lead to 12-4 early in the second half but to Ipswich’s credit they fought back and were on attack for the last 20 minutes. The game concluded in thrilling style at 12-all.
It was an entertaining, tough game. Josina Singapu and Ash Jaeger were both standout performers and were rewarded with spots in the women’s competition’s team of the week.
It was a much improved performance from our previous game against Burleigh where we went down 30-6. Burleigh came out strong and we didn’t go with them in the first half and they went to the break 30-0 up. But in true Seagulls fashion, we dug deep and came out with a lot more energy and made a good showing for ourselves scoring a try and keeping them scoreless in the second half.
We unfortunately suffered several injuries during this game with Serena Martin and Olivia Attenborough-Doyle leaving with knee injuries and Kahlia Walsh suffering a dislocated hip. Kahlia handled it very bravely and went to off to hospital.
Kahlia had been a standout since joining our team and she is a big loss. We wish her a speedy recovery.
A big thank you must go to our physio Carly Jenner who has had to deal with her fair share of injuries this season. All the players and staff are very thankful she is on hand to deal with them.
Despite a lack of experience compared to most teams this season, we have been really competitive in just about every match, had a few wins along the way and had some wonderful individual achievements with representative selections.
CJ Sims and Teaghan Hartigan were both selected in the Fiji team that beat the Papua New Guinea Orchids which was an excellent achievement, Jessika Elliston represented Queensland in State of Origin and both Jessika and Tarryn Aiken have been signed to the Brisbane Broncos NRLW team. I’m sure there is some more players who we’ll see at the next level in the near future with the likes of Zara Canfield and Abbie Beecher are knocking on the door.
We have the bye this weekend before heading up to play Souths Magpies in our final game. I know we will go up there and finish in true Seagulls style, playing entertaining footy and all the players playing for each other and enjoying themselves.
In the meantime we will be down supporting Woolfy and the boys when they take on Burleigh this weekend.
NOTE: The Seagulls’ women’s team results in the past few weeks have been – 4-18 v Easts, 42-10 v Toowoomba, 20-30 v Wests Brisbane, 6-30 v Burleigh Bears, 12-12 v Ipswich.
Kelvin Wright
Gold Coast Airport women’s team coach
Sunday’s derby clash presents big test for Gulls
Neil Cadigan
The Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls will be boosted by the return of three key players for their local derby clash with the in-form Burleigh Bears at Piggabeen Sports Complex on Sunday in the Channel 9 televised clash (1.10pm kick-off).
Fullback Talor Walters (back), hooker Christian Hazard (foot) are back from injury while Queensland under-20s representative, centre Treymain Spry, will hopefully return fit and well from his performance for the Maroons in tonight’s night’s State of Origin curtain-raiser in Sydney.
The clash is sure to be a willing, high class affair, with both teams well into finals contention for the first time in many years. Burleigh sit second on the ladder and Tweed seventh.
The Seagulls have lost their past three clashes by four points or less – to PNG Hunters (20-16), Townsville Blackhawks (24-22) and Wynnum Manly (20-16) – but have performed well in the face of injuries and Woolf is happy with the progress of his side as they prepare to take on their fourth top-four team in five weeks.
The Bears, who have dominated the derby clashes since 2015, have won 11 of their past 12 games this season so the Seagulls, who have won five from seven clashes at Piggabeen, know the task ahead of them this Sunday.
“These derby clashes always have a lot of feeling in them and we know we have to improve on the last few weeks to match Burleigh,” said Tweed Heads coach Ben Woolf.
“They’re in very good form but we went with them for 60 minutes earlier this season at Pizzey Park before they got away from us in the back end. So we have to be at our best against them.
“We have played really well in the past two weeks and it’s just been some crucial errors that we paid for that let us down. We know we have to be better but there have been plenty of positives in the past few weeks that we can build on.”
This clash will be the first time the two have met late in the season with both above the finals cut on the ladder since Tweed entered the Queensland Cup competition in 2003.
Burleigh won the round three clash in March 30-4 at Pizzey Park but led only 10-4 with 18 minutes remaining before a try against the run of play proved a big momentum-turner and they ran in a further three tries in the final nine minutes.
The Bears’ only loss in the past 12 weeks was a 32-16 defeat to runaway leaders Sunshine Coast Falcons. However, the Seagulls have shown what they are capable of this season with five successive wins before going down to the Falcons in round 11.
With the Titans away this weekend, a good crowd is expected with local fans encouraged to head down to Piggabeen with several Titan players likely to be on show including Will Matthews, Leilani Latu and Treymain Spry for the Seagulls, Brenko Lee and recent recruit from Newcastle Knights Sam Stone for the Bears. Titans newcomer Tanah Boyd (also in the Queensland under-20s) may also play for Burleigh.
Another narrow loss but positive performance
Neil Cadigan
The Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls have lost a third game in succession by four points or less and taking third-placed Wynnum Manly down to the wire, losing 20-16 at Kougari Oval on Sunday.
Without key players Talor Walters, Treymain Spry and Christian Hazard, the two Seagulls outfits scored three tries each but the result came down to a couple of crucial Tweed errors defending kicks and goals.
Tweed fought back from 20-6 down 12 minutes into the second half and almost snatched a confidence-boosting victory late in the game. However, it was an overall effort coach Ben Woolf was pleased with going into this Sunday’s local derby against second-placed Burleigh Bears.
“It was another strong performance without getting the result,” Woolf lamented.
“Some real positives came out of the game but we just didn’t quite get there.
“A couple of errors on kicks proved costly and in the end we were beaten by goals after scoring three tries each.
“We knew the past month was going to be tough with matches against the top three teams and PNG away. It’s frustrating to play well but not get the points but the positive is that we improved in the areas we wanted to concentrate on and it’s just been some mistakes that have cost us.
“We wanted to get our defensive line speed and aggression back to how it was earlier in the season and I felt we did that and we kicked really well, creating quite a few repeat sets.
“We need to lift further against Burleigh next Sunday and hopefully build some confidence and consistency going into the finals.”
Matthews was outstanding for the Seagulls and he will be a real asset in the back end of the season if he doesn’t get called into the Titans side. Skipper John Palavi was tremendous as usual with his faultless defence and high work rate and Cook, who started at hooker in place of the injured Hazard, showed signs of the team-lifting form he displayed in the first couple of months of the season.
Wynnum took only three minutes to score, on the back of a repeat set from a Will Matthews charge down, to lead 6-0 after four minutes.
A converted Luke Jurd try, with Matthews the instigator with a good took pass, took the score to 6-all after 12 minutes and the clash settled into a physical arm-wrestle until the only other first-half try was posted by Wynnum five-eighth Pat Templeton in the 28th minute.
Templeton put up a swirling bomb which Tweed winger Tevita Folau had trouble handling. Folau fumbled and Templeton swooped on the loose ball. Templeton’s conversion and a 34th minute penalty goal made the half-time score 14-6.
Wynnum Manly went further ahead with a second crucial Tweed error on a kick. A short Wynnum kick took a deflection and Tweed fullback John Macklin tried to bat the ball dead-in-goal but missed it and Jordan Drew forced the ball in-goal with his torso. Templeton’s conversion took Wynnum’s lead to 20-6 after 52 minutes but the Tweed Seagulls refused to surrender.
After some good kicking gave Tweed for repeat sets in a short period, a smart shift of the ball to the left saw Ryland Jacobs score in the left corner to bring the score back to 20-10 with 18 minutes remaining.
The momentum continued and hooker Jack Cook crossed in the 67th minute – after a 40-20 from Lindon McGrady put Tweed deep into Wynnum’s territory – and the game was certainly in the balance at 20-16.
Tweed had most of possession and run of play in the final 10 minutes but desperate Wynnum defence held them out.
Wynnum Manly 20 (Drew 2, Templeton tries; Templeton 4 goals) def. Tweed Heads 16 (Jacobs, Jurd, Cook tries; McGrady 2 goals) at BMD Kougari Oval.
John Palavi’s French connection
In the second part of our interview with Seagulls prop and skipper John Palavi he talks about a cultural experience in France alongside former Warriors teammate and now Intrust Super Cup opponent Mastt Robinson and how his dream to return to the NRL has not diminished yet.
Performance, not results, our focus in next fortnight
Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls coach Ben Woolf was happy with the improved performance in the narrow loss to fourth-placed Townsville Blackhawks last Saturday.
And he is focussed on consistent performance in the tough next fortnight as the Seagulls tale on Wynnum Manly (away) and Burleigh Bears (home) in the next two rounds.
Will Matthews will head back into the team after playing for the Titans in the NRL last weekend (the Titans have a bye).
Click below to watch a video version of this week’s Woolfy’s Week.
A chance to get to know: JOHN PALAVI
Former Warriors NRL player John Palavi has been an outstanding and consistent contributor in his first season in Ben Woolf’s Intrust Super Cup team.
The signing from Norths Devils, where he was captain, averaging 10 hit-up, 110-metres and 26 tackles a game, but it is the quality of his work, and his leadership, that has been impressive.
Yet fans know little about his background.
Now you can get an insight into his fascinating progress … from dominating high school academic and sports awards, earning a scholarship to study medicine or human sciences, a premiership-winning stint in French club football and being part of what many claim to be the most brilliant under-20s teams of all-time, the 2010-12 Warriors.
Enjoy the first part of our two-part interview.
Spry in Queensland under-20s to play Origin preliminary
Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls centre Treymain Spry will play in the curtain-raiser to the deciding State of Origin clash in Sydney next Wednesday after being chosen in the Queensland under-20s team.
The 20-year-old Titans-contracted player, who has appeared in all but one Seagulls’ Intrust Super Cup match this season, will do the Maroons jersey for a second time after scoring a try when on the Queensland winger in a 35-28 loss to the Blues in 2017.
In that Queensland side was fellow Titans recruit, halfback Tanah Boyd, who made his debut for Burleigh Bears last weekend.
Spry, who grew up in Ipswich and still travels from there daily to the Titans’ Parkwood and to Tweed for Seagulls training for each ‘captain’s run’ session, has been impressive in attack for Ben Woolf’s team this season.
He has scored eight tries in his 14 appearances and made 36 tackle breaks but will admit he has to continue working on his defence.
The young Maroons, who will be aiming to retain the Darren Lockyer Shield following last year’s impressive 30-10 victory, will enter camp in Brisbane on Thursday.
They will have two opposed sessions against the Queensland Origin team, with co-coaches Scott Prince and Paul Dyer to oversee the preparations ahead of the July 10 clash at ANZ Stadium.
Queensland Under 20s:
Elijah Anderson (Cowboys), Nathan Barrett (Cowboys), Logan Bayliss-Brow (Cowboys), Eddie Blacker (Dragons), Tanah Boyd (Titans), Ethan Bullemor (Broncos), Ben Condon (Cowboys), Tino Fa’asuamaleaui (Storm), Thomas Gilbert (Cowboys), Kobe Hetherington (Broncos), J’maine Hopgood (Panthers), Ronaldo Mulitalo (Sharks), Fanitesi Niu (Broncos), Cory Paix (Broncos), Brandon Russell (Knights), Treymain Spry (Titans), Murray Taulagi (Cowboys) and Braydon Trindall (Sharks).
Much improved effort just falls short in Townsville
Neil Cadigan
The Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls certainly turned their form around in Townsville on Saturday with their best performance for a month, however flew home with a narrow loss, 24-22, after paying dearly for a five-minute lapse just after half-time.
The Seagulls led 16-6 at half-time after posting three tries and having the better of the fist 40 minutes. But the Blackhawks posted two tries in the first four minutes of the break, on the back of a late tackle penalty and a second-phase offload near halfway, that gave them the momentum to snatch two tries and lead 18-16.
They were never headed again.
However, there was much to like about Tweed’s performance, none greater than the return from injury of half Luke Jurd who had the final touches on all three first-half tries and won the players’ player award in his first game for seven weeks because of a hamstring injury.
And the forwards worked has to overcome the loss of skipper Cheyne Whitelaw who tragically suffered his second season-ending knee injury the previous round.
“We were really good for most of the game; it was our best performance for a long while,” said coach Ben Woolf. “It’s just disappointing we didn’t get the points as a reward.
“It was just that five-minute period after halftime that proved the difference. Outside of that we played well, we completed well and defended well.
“Jurdy was great. He hadn’t played for long while but we had to throw him straight back in and he got the players’ player award ahead of John Palavi (pictured) who was strong again.
“We’ve got a tough couple of weeks ahead against Wynnum and Burleigh but that effort would have been a confidence boost.”
Leilani Latu gave the Seagulls the perfect pass when he crossed in the third minute. Jurd dummied inside and then fed Latu on the outside and he was too strong from 10 metres.
Former Titans and Seagulls winger Kalifa Faifai Loa crossed 10 minutes later for the Blackhawks from a big shift to the left.
Right winger Ioane Seiuli gave the Gulls their second try when he latched onto a Jurd cross-field bomb near the line to give Tweed a 10-4 lead.
Jurd had a hand in a try for the third time when he through an in-ball to teenager Juwon Compain who crossed under the posts from close range with Lindon McGrady’s conversion making it 16-6 after 30 minutes.
But the Blackhawks had all the momentum early in the second half, crossing for two tries in the first four minutes to snatch the lead 18-16.
A Townsville try from a Crossfield bomb to the right in the 56th minute gave the Blackhawks an eight-point lead. Kirk Murphy crossed on the short side from a smart dummy-half pass from Christian Hazard with 13 minutes remaining to reduce the lead to two points, but – as valiantly as they tried – the Seagulls could not find the winning try and went down by two points.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH HIGHLIGHTS
TOWNSVILLE BLACKHAWKS 24 (Kalifa Faifai-Loa, Krys Freeman, Jaelen Feeney, Nathan Traill tries; Shaun Nona 4 goals) def TWEED SEAGULLS 22 (Leilani Latu, Ioane Seiuli, Juwon Compain, Kody Parsons tries; Lindon McGrady 3 goals) at Jack Manski Oval.
Elliston joins Aiken in Broncos NWRL squad
Jessika Elliston’s rise has continued with the Gold Coast Airport Seagulls women’s team second-rower having been added to the Brisbane Broncos side for the upcoming NRL women’s league.
In a wonderful vote of confidence in Tweed’s inaugural women’s campaign, Elliston joins teammate Tarryn Aiken in the Broncos’ side, coached by Seagulls mentor and former Kiwi Ferns coach Kelvin Wright, for the second NWRL season.
They will play alongside some of the greats of the Australian women’s game in captain and halfback Ali Brigginshaw, fullback Chelsea Baker, and props Heather Ballinger and Steph Hancock.
The Broncos, who won the inaugural NRL competition with a 34-12 win in the final against Sydney Roosters, have named 15 of their 22-player squad to go into the season which begins next month.
Elliston, in her first season of rugby league after concentrating her skills on rugby sevens, was chosen on the interchange bench for Queensland in last Friday night’s State of Origin clash with NSW, won by the Blues 14-4.
She and Aiken have been the stand-out players for the Tweed side who go up against Burleigh Bears in the local derby, to kick-off at 4pm at Piggabeen Sports Complex tomorrow (Saturday).
Brisbane Broncos 2019 NRLW signings: Tarryn Aiken, Chelsea Baker, Heather Ballinger, Annette Brander, Ali Brigginshaw, Jessika Elliston, Lavinia Gould, Amber Hall, Steph Hancock, Chelsea Lenarduzzi, Rona Peters, Amber Pilley, Julia Robinson, Rosemary Vaimili Toalepai and Meg Ward.
CLICK TO WATCH A BRONCOS’ VIDEO INTERVIEW OF JESSIKA AFTER HER SIGNING
Whitelaw weighs up future after second ACL tear
Connor O’Brien, Gold Coast Bulletin
Tweed Seagulls skipper Cheyne Whitelaw admits he is uncertain about his immediate playing future after suffering his second season-ending knee injury inside 13 months.
Whitelaw was confirmed to have ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during Tweed’s last start Intrust Super Cup loss to Papua New Guinea, just 372 days after doing the same damage in a match at Rockhampton.
“It sucks but it’s footy,” said the 24-year-old, who won’t undergo surgery until at least next month.
Whitelaw, a workhorse, has vowed to do whatever he can to help the Seagulls push on for a finals berth in his absence on the field.
“We’re lucky that we have got pretty good depth in our squad and I’ll definitely still be around the boys and will help wherever I can, whether it’s with drills or just encouraging them,” he said.
“Hopefully I can watch the boys win a few games and keep travelling the way we have been.”
We’re on target with telling three weeks ahead
It was a pity we went into the bye weekend with a disappointing performance in Port Moresby and the loss of co-captain Cheyne Whitelaw with another bad knee injury. Yet we ended what we had identified as an important five-game mid-season period by hitting our target of three wins.
It’s terrible news for Cheyne, who tore his ACL in the same round last year (round 14) and worked so hard to get himself back – and was in tremendous form – and we all feel for him. His enthusiasm, consistency and aggression are really valuable and it is a going to be a test for the other forwards to take up the void, especially in the next three weeks which could be really telling for our season.
We’d identified that the past five rounds were crucial for our finals hopes. There was a bit of excitement around our five straight wins which took us to fourth position leading into our game against the undefeated Sunshine Coast. They touched us up and we had quite a few players out for the trip to PNG (Talor Walters, Kirk Murphy, Max King, Will Matthews, Lee Turner, Xavier Coates, Tevita Falou, Kody Parsons, Luke Jurd and Stuart Mason) the following weekend and had to reshuffle the side pretty heavily.
But that’s no excuse. We just didn’t play well enough after rushing to a 14-0 early lead. We made a few costly errors in the rest of the first half and the errors became more frequent in the second half which gave the Hunters too much possession, which they were finally able to use to get them over the line.
Cheyne did his knee before half-time which didn’t help and we experimented with Treymain Spry moving from centre to five-eighth. While Treymain was good defensively, he didn’t quite grasp the adjustment in attack.
When we looked at that five-week period, we thought three wins was acceptable and anything better than that was a bonus. We ended up with three wins and while we’ve slipped to sixth position we’re equal fourth on competition points with nine wins. Twelve wins should certainly get a team into the finals (top eight) and eleven might even.
Our goal at the start of the season was to play finals football, so we probably need three wins from the last nine games to achieve that.
Not that we’d be happy with that, considering where we are now.
The next three games – against teams above us on the ladder – will go a long way to determining whether we are genuine top four contenders or more likely to end up in the bottom half of the top eight.
We start with the Blackhawks in Townsville (fourth) this Saturday, followed by another away game against Wynnum Manly (third) and then the local derby against Burleigh Bears (second) at Piggabeen.
It’s not the results that will define where we’re at; you expect you’re going to drop a game here and then against the highest ranked teams. We just need to perform better and get back to getting our processes to the level that we achieved in the games against Norths Devils and Easts Tigers during that run of five wins.
We finish with six games against teams currently below us on the ladder in the Capras, Cutters, Jets, Tigers, Magpies and Pride and we need to get some momentum during that period.
We were lucky to have a pretty good run with injuries in the first half of the season but last weekend we were tested more than we have all year, and now we’ve lost Cheyne. So our depth, which we know is the best its been for quite a few years, is going to be tested.
I still think we’re in a good position to be around the middle of the top eight, which is a reasonable goal now, but we have to show what character we’ve got if we’re going to make that happen.
Bit of history for incredible Sims family
Alicia Newton, nrl.com.au
Another lot of firsts will be chalked up by the Sims household this weekend with Fijian prop Korbin set to captain the men’s side and big sister CJ in line to make her international debut.
Korbin will go into Saturday afternoon’s Pacific Test match against Lebanon as the Bati’s second-most capped NRL player, with several stars missing through Origin and injury.
The 27-year-old’s main focus over the past 12 months has been chasing a State of Origin debut with Queensland but for now he’ll have to bide his time back in the Fiji setup.
The Bati will field only nine players in their squad with international experience.
“There’s a lot of pride and passion that go into these games,” Sims told NRL.com.
“Someone like Daniel Saifiti has really kicked on over the past 12 months playing well for the Newcastle Knights and it’s a credit to him.
“He’s stuck at it and has been rewarded with his first jersey. Any time you come back and be around these Bati boys they keep you grounded and give you a focus.”
“I’m still adjusting on the field coming off my career in gridiron and it’s really hard. The fitness is the hardest part, being a big girl it has never been my strongest point but something I work hard on.
“Everything is very different but I’m still learning.”
The women’s outfit features Fiji-based players with rugby sevens background and is coached by Adrian Vowles.
CJ Sims doesn’t have to look far for advice when it comes to rugby league.
The third of five children, CJ is openly the family’s least experienced sibling in rugby league but gets the chance to represent Fiji on Saturday in a first for the family.
Sister Ruan won’t play in the international against the Orchids but will be in attendance, ready to commentate on Korbin’s game a few hours later in the double-header men’s fixture.
The Sims clan are always around during representative commitments with Korbin, Ashton and Tariq all playing for the Bati side over the past decade.
“To be part of the first women’s team and play an established team like the PNG Orchids is an absolute honour,” CJ told NRL.com.
“And just to be able to spend the week with Korbin is special, it’s a long time between drinks sometime with my family. Korbin moved back home last year and I’m the only one in Brisbane now.
Korbin Sims believes having the women’s Fiji side play before the men’s fixtures were a huge boost for the nation.
“Anytime you represent your country you are grateful for family around you and it will be no different for her on Saturday. They’ll be able to experience the same passion,” Korbin said.
“CJ is going well, she’s taken her time in the game and it will be her first major jersey in the code and it will be good to be able to catch some of her game beforehand.
“Now the women’s game has taken off in the last couple of years, to have the national side it’s exciting.”
Hunters come from behind to beat Seagulls
Cameron Stallard, QRL media correspondent
The Papua New Guinea Hunters have snatched a come-from-behind victory at the death to pocket their third win of the season, upsetting the Tweed Seagulls 20-16 at Oil Search National Football Stadium.
Behind 14-0 at the break, an inspirational second half performance from the Hunters kept the Seagulls try-less and at bay in the second 40, coming back to steal the two points from the visitors in the final five minutes.
Hampered by a number of injuries, including to dynamic fullback Talor Walters, Tweed stunned the Hunters in the opening minutes with Cheyne Whitelaw scoring in the second minute.
The Seagulls were in again four minutes later when Treymain Spry crossed to make it 12-0.
A further two points were added to the tally when Lindon McGrady kicked a penalty goal to extend the lead to 14-0.
At halftime, the Hunters needed something special to comeback from the deficit, and Moses Meninga delivered in the 44th minute.
The home side followed with another four-pointer in the 52nd minute to Rau Junior Kobale, tightening the margin to just six points.
Another McGrady penalty goal widened the buffer to two scores with 20 minutes remaining, but the Hunters had the ascendancy.
With their passionate rugby league-loving fans behind them, they crossed again with recently-announced Kumuls debutant Terry Wapi bagging a four-pointer to get within two points of the Seagulls.
With five to play and the Seagulls bravely holding on, PNG’s Brandon Nima found the try line to complete the comeback, with Nick Hasu converting the final points of the game to make it 20-16 at fulltime.
Coates to debut for Kumuls against Samoa
Seagulls under-18s star Xavier Coates’ incredible rise to prominence in the past few weeks as gone to a new level with the exciting teenager chosen to make his international debut for Papua New Guinea in the Test match against Samoa during this weekend’s representative round.
The tall, speedy centre-winger has been selected in the Kumuls team to play at this Saturday night at Leichhardt Oval.
Coates, the former Marymount College student now studying at Griffith university, has had an extraordinary rise in just over a month. He played a prominent role in Tweed’s championship run from fourth on the Mal Meninga Cup ladder going into the finals to becoming national champions, to making his Intrust Super Cup debut for the Seagulls, to being man of the match in Queensland’s under-18s Origin victory over NSW to now getting a Test call-up for PNG.
Coates is among six debutants named on Monday for the first leg of the Oceania Cup Pacific Test series. The Kumuls side was announced on Monday. It is listed below in alphabetical order:
Edene GEBBIE (debut) – Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Edwin EPAPE (debut) – Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Enock MAKI – PNG Hunters
James SEGEYARO – Brisbane Broncos / Norths Devils
Junior RAU – PNG Hunters
Justin OLAM – Melbourne Storm / Sunshine Coast Falcons
Kurt BAPTISTE – North Queensland Cowboys
Kyle LAYBUTT (debut) – North Queensland Cowboys
Lachlan LAM – Sydney Roosters
Luke PAGE – Burleigh Bears
Moses Meninga – PNG Hunters
Nixon PUTT – Norths Devils
Rahdly BRAWA – Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Rhyse MARTIN – Canterbury Bulldogs
Stanton ALBERT – PNG Hunters
Terry WAPI (Debut) – PNG Hunters
Xavier COATES (debut) – Brisbane Broncos / Tweed Seagulls
Zev JOHN (debut) – Redcliffe Dolphins
Coach: Michael MARUM
Elliston amazed at quick path to Origin jersey
Neil Cadigan
For someone who just “rocked up at training” with “no idea whatsoever” about the intricacies of rugby league, Jessika Elliston is quite a success story for the Gold Coast Airport-sponsored Seagulls women’s team.
The 21-year-old who has been selected in the Queensland squad for the State of Origin clash against New South Wales on June 21 admits she only headed to training for the inaugural Tweed Heads women’s team in March because she thought it would improve her tackle technique for her role in rugby sevens in which she had already represented Queensland.
She’d had one season of league with the Nerang Roosters when she was 16 but the next year her father started a sevens team at Currumbin Alligators and she devoted all her attention to that.
Jessika lives just a good kick away from Piggabeen Sports Complex and can hear the voices during training sessions at the ground from her home.
A couple of teammates from her Bond University sevens team tempted her to join them at Seagulls training to check out rugby league, so she went along.
“I saw Tweed were starting a league team and thought I’d have a crack at league because it would help me with my contact (in tackling),” she said.
“A few of the sevens girls said they were going to have a go so eventually I sort of just rocked up to training and had no idea whatsoever what to do.
“Instead of playing the ball I was going into a ruck and standing over people, offside.
“I didn’t even know if I’d make the team for the first game. So, to be selected for South-East Queensland and now Queensland, it’s blown me away to be honest … I was in shock for a couple of minutes when I got the call to say I was in the Maroons squad.”
Elliston, a hairdresser at Tweed Heads who plays in the back row but can also handle centre because of her speed and skills, said she quickly took to what the Seagulls wanted to achieve with their first women’s team because of the great atmosphere and bond between the players that was quickly created.
While rugby sevens, which has an ‘Aon’ domestic competition run through universities (starting in August), has been her priority, her quick development into a league representative player after just six games for the Seagulls has given her a big decision to make.
“I’ve just really enjoyed playing league, and enjoy the contact of it,” she said.
“The atmosphere at Tweed is just awesome and everyone is enjoying it.
“We’ve got CJ (Sims), Jo (Josina Singapu) and Foxy (Shelley Fox) who are role models and our coach Kelvin Wright is really cool, knowledgeable and so encouraging; I just love it.
“I just want to work as hard as I can now and keep improving.”
Several U18s on pathway to their dreams
Neil Cadigan
The great success of the Seagulls’ Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup team this year has continued past their grand final victory over Wynnum Manly and National Junior National State Championship win against Illawarra.
For coach Tim Maccan, part of the club’s greatest Queensland Cup era as a player, developing the players’ characters and setting them on a possible pathway towards whatever NRL ambitions they have, is just as important as on-field success.
The selection of six Seagulls players in Queensland’s under-18s Origin side (and several should have been spotted by the NSW selectors!) was an outstanding feat. For Xavier Coates to be awarded man of the match too this a step further.
Coates scored two tries on debut for the Seagulls in the Intrust Super Cup just 10 days before his Origin appearance while Juwain Compain will debut this Sunday against PNG Hunters in Port Moresby.
For a Tweed squad that is made up almost entirely of locals from Northern Rivers, Tweed district and the Gold Coast it is a remarkable story. And its impact may be seen for many years to come with most of the Seagulls squad aligned with NRL clubs.
The Titans currently have Compain, Carsil Vaikai, Caleb Hodges, Solomon Torrens, Ediq Ambrosyev, Ben Liyou, Noah Gafa, Jake Martin, Jaiden West and Jed Edwards, who has missed much of this season with a broken arm, as part of their high-performance squads.
Coates and his fellow Queensland under-18s reps Reece Walsh and Brendan Piakura are on contract to the Broncos.
Kade Hill and Toby Sexton (who was the Maroons’ 18th man) are on the Canterbury Bulldogs’ books while Josh Bevan and Izzy Higgins have deals with Sydney Roosters.
That’s 17 players who have been noticed by NRL clubs.
“It’s so good that our players can now really see a natural pathway from under-18s to the under-20s Hastings Deering Colts (several have already progressed to this level) and the Queensland Cup or the NRL,” Maccan said.
“That’s what we try to impress on them. Now that the NRL under-20s competition has gone, there are still natural steps to follow where they get a good grounding and gradually progress.
“It might be to Intrust Super Cup through the Seagulls or it may be through an NRL development deal. Players can have a good experience if they do go to play elsewhere and hopefully come back and play Intrust Super Cup as better players if they don’t make it to the NRL and they can impart their experience with other young players coming through our ranks.
“It has been such a pleasure being involved with this group; they are very close and worked hard together and they have been rewarded.”
Click below to watch some of the 2019 season highlights of a team the Tweed Heads Seagulls are very, very proud of.
Aiken snapped up by Broncos WNRL team
Neil Cadigan
After just seven games with the Gold Coast Airport Tweed Heads Seagulls inaugural women’s team, halfback Tarryn Aiken has completed a remarkable first season in senior rugby league by being one of the first players signed to Brisbane Broncos’ WNRL squad for the second national club season starting in August.
The 20-year-old university student was one of five players this week added to the Broncos’ contract list to represent the defending premiers who will be coached by Aiken’s Tweed Heads coach Kelvin Wright.
The Australian touch football representative was impressive for the South East Queensland team in the recent national championships and her Broncos selection continues the incredible run of achievements for the Tweed side that this season entered the SE Queensland division one competition.
Jessika Elliston was last week chosen in the Queensland team to play in the State of Origin match against on June 21 while CJ Sims and Teaghan Hartigan have also been selected in Fiji’s team to take on the Papua New Guinea Orchids on Sunday June 22 at Leichhardt Oval in Sydney. If they play (CJ has been sidelined with a fractured cheekbone), they will be the club’s first women’s international representatives.
Aiken was one of five elite players the Broncos this week added to their NRLW squad for the 2019 season.
Centres Meg Ward and Amber Pilley as well as lock Rona Peters return after starring in the Broncos’ 2018 premiership victory while Aiken and Amber Hall will be given their first taste of NRLW. Hall is a blockbusting and creative front or back rower who has represented the Kiwi Ferns.
Ward, Pilley and Peters were last week named in the Queensland squad for the Women’s State Of Origin to be played at North Sydney Oval on June 21.
The Broncos have now announced nine of their 22-player squad for 2019, after last week’s news that captain and halfback Ali Brigginshaw, fullback Chelsea Baker, and props Heather Ballinger and Steph Hancock had all re-committed to the club.
Tweed outclassed by relentless Falcons
Neil Cadigan
The Sunshine Coast Falcons gained a piece of history with a 36-0 victory at Piggabeen Sports Complex today and gave the Tweed Heads Seagulls a telling lesson about what is needed to compete at the highest level in the Intrust Super Cup.
A six-try first-half blitz by an almost faultless Falcons set up their 13th straight victory as the Seagulls, coming off five successive victories, could not keep pace with defensive line speed, aggressive tackling and precision in their attack that earned Sunshine Coast a 30-0 at half-time lead.
After going head-to-toe with the competition leaders in the first few minutes, the Seagulls gave their rivals too much cheap possession through errors and penalties and were never able to recover from the momentum it gave the Falcons.
The Seagulls squandered attacking position through rushed or ill-directed passes in the first 20 minutes while the Falcons were slick in converting their opportunities. The result was that, within half an hour, the game had been taken away from the home side.
While Gulls coach Ben Woolf would have been happy with the much-improved defensive effort in the second half, his Falcons rival Eric Smith would have rued the change in efficiency of his side. They turned the ball over five times in the first 20 minutes of the second session but Tweed were not able to mount enough pressure to take advantage.
The only score of the second half came in the 66th minute when Siti Moceidreke crossed for a converted try from a brilliant kick-return counter-attack by fullback Nathan McGavin, a controversial try with the Seagulls officials on the bench remonstrating that Moceidreke’s boot had crossed the touchline.
The damage had been done in the first 40 minutes, however, as the Falcons were simply a class above the Seagulls in the execution in attack and pack-like defence. They spent most of the half in Tweed’s half and almost every time they pressed the tryline, they converted to points – with their first three tries coming from running the ball on their last play.
Halves Cooper and Johns and Todd Murphy brilliantly took advantage of the pack in front of them on the back of a dominance of possession. A flop-back pass that went to a Tweed hand from centre Justin Olam, who scored a hat-trick of first half tries, was their only error in the first session.
“We turned over too much ball and weren’t tough enough in defence and tried to score points without being willing to tough it out and earn the right to score,” said Woolf.
“Poor passing let us down and we were poor defensively in the first half when we were on our own line.
“Sure, the Falcons played with a lot of intensity and were relentless, and they gave us nothing with hardly making an error in the first half – that’s what they’re good at.
“But we just weren’t good enough and it was a good wake-up call for us after a couple of easy wins.
“If we want to be a top four side, we have to really step up.”
The Falcons’ first try came in the seventh minute when a sharp pass from Murphy put Chris Lewis over the line from short range. Only seven minutes later it was Olam’s turn when he showed much more determination and anticipation than Tweed’s right edge when he squeezed between defenders to pounce on a Johns’ grubber to the in-goal.
Murphy stepped too easily between Tweed’s Christian Hazard and Lamar Liolevave from short range on the right, again on the last tackle, in the 19th minutes to take the score to 16-0 with Murphy’s second conversion.
Although they aggressively hunted up defensively further downfield, the Seagulls were shell-shocked by the Falcons’ relentless intensity by this time and looked powerless to slow down the ruck while making too many errors with the ball to stem the tide.
It was a lesson in what life is like at the top of the Intrust Super Cup.
The Falcons’ scoring continued when winger Sandor Earl scored in the left corner after a show-and-go from Johns and a good ball from Olam gave him a clear 10m run to the line.
Olam scored his second on the half-hour from a quick-hands shift to the left and great no-look pass from McGavin. He brought up his hat-trick two minutes before the break after the Falcons forwards again rolled downfield and hooker Harry Grant dummied right but went left to Johns whose great catch and pass put Olam over.
Sunshine Coast’s 13 straight wins to start the season equals the Intrust Super Cup record held by, ironically, Tweed Heads in 2011.
The Seagulls, with skipper Cheyne Whitelaw leading the way by refusing to surrender with his aggressive defence and willingness to push forward with the ball, deserve credit for refusing to capitulate in the second half.
However, they will walk away from the game knowing there is too big a gap between their best and worse performances this year – and they must offer more in successive games against Wynnum Manly (second on the ladder) and Burleigh Bears (third) after taking on PNG Hunters in Port Moresby and Townsville Blackhawks at home in the next two rounds.
Sunshine Coast Falcons 36 (J Olam 3, C Lewis, T Murphy, S Earl, S Moceidreke tries; Murphy 4 goals) def. Tweed Heads Seagulls 0.
Couple of errors with ball early by Tweed costly.
7 min – smart pass on last to right to Lewis from short range after Faasuamaleaui held up three tackles earlier on the left. 4-0
14 min – Johns good grubber on the left and Olam showed most urgency to get through and first to the ball. Murphy goal. 10-0
Kicked out on the full.
19 min – Murphy try. Ran the ball on the last instead of kicking and stepped too easily between Hazard and Liolevave. Murphy goal. 16-0
Despite getting couple of repeat sets Seagulls too many errors while Falcons great shape and composure on Seagulls’ line.
27 min – Earl try, Johns show and go on left edge to Olam, good ball to Earl with overlap, started 12m out. 20-0
31 – Faasuamaleaui broke through from halfway, Taylor brought down when went to right and bombed try, Taylor 10 mins. Loose Olam pass gave up possession.
34 – Olam try, after penalty for hands in ruck.
Ruthless first half with just one error with ball (Olam pass) but gave up possession four times in first 16 minutes of second half. 5 times in 20 mins.
66 – Moceidreke try – counter-attack after Seiuli kick, good ball Taylor to Olam to Moceidreke but foot on touchline, but touch judge ruled play on to the protests of Seagulls coaching staff on sideline. Murphy goal. 36-0
Ready for tough test against leaders
We know what a tough test we face against unbeaten Sunshine Coast on Sunday and we’ve prepared all week for that.
They are on top of the ladder for a reason – they are a side that are very aggressive defensively and work on putting their opposition under pressure and forcing errors.
They have a good hooker in Harry Grant who is a danger out of dummy half and plenty of talent in their backs to take advantage of any possession and momentum they get.
We have to be prepared for that and play with patience and sweat it out for long periods.
For us, it goes back to how we played against Norths Brisbane in round nine. That’s our best performance of the season so far when we got through out sets well, had a good kick and chase and kept the pressure on with aggressive defence.
We’ve had a couple of good wins on the scoreboard against Northern Pride and Souths Logan since but there hasn’t been the intensity in those games that we will face this Sunday.
The team is excited about the challenge and know it’s a real test of where we are at.
If we want to stay a top four team we know we have to aim up in the next month when we play the Falcons, head to Port Moresby to take on the Hunters who are improving, and then face Wynnum Manly and Burleigh Bears who are above us on the ladder.
So that’s a month that includes playing the top three teams.
It looks like our halfback Ryles Jacks will be called up to the Titans with Ash Taylor taking time out from footy but we’re fortunate that we can put Christian Hazard back there from hooker at start with Jack Cook at dummy half.
That’s the combination that we used against Norths so we know they work well together although Lindon McGrady will take on more kicking.
Will Matthews, who has been great for us in the last two games, is also out with a rib cartilage injury but we’re fortunate that Jarrod Morfett has plenty of experience in the team and is a handy replacement on the bench.
We know we have to lift a level and get back to sticking to our processes better, play tough, get to the end of our sets and make our opposition start from their end of the field as much as we can. And we have to be prepared to do that for 80 minutes.
Hopefully we can get a good crowd at Piggabeen on Sunday to get behind the boys. We’ll definitely be having a real dig.
Jessika makes history with Qld Origin selection
Neil Cadigan
Gold Coast Airport Tweed Heads Seagulls’ Jessika Elliston has made history by becoming the first Seagulls women’s player to be chosen to play at State of Origin level with her selection in the Queensland team to take on New South Wales during representative weekend.
The 21-year-old, who only moved to rugby league this season in the inaugural Tweed side after a background in rugby sevens, is a fast and skilful back-rower who will represent the state she has played Sevens for during the clash at North Sydney Oval on Friday, June 21.
Elliston also becomes the first Tweed Heads Seagulls player to enter the Origin arena since Ben Ikin was a shock selection in the depleted, yet history-making, Maroons side in 1995 that won the series 3-0 despite being massive underdogs while Super League-aligned players were banned from selection.
Women’s team coach Kelvin Wright, who will back up as the Brisbane Broncos coach in the Women’s NRL competition in August, says Elliston’s quick rise to prominence is a reward not just for her obvious talent but her relentless hard work.
Elliston and Seagulls halfback Tarryn Aiken were impressive performers for South East Queensland in last week’s national championships at Pizzey Park on the Gold Coast.
“Jessika’s Origin selection is not fluke; she trains hard, is extremely fit and super competitive,” Wright said.
“It’s a great reward for her, the team and the whole club. We’re very proud of her; Jessika’s teammates, the staff and everyone here who support her could not be happier for her.
“To have Tarryn and Jessika in the SEQ team was a big achievement for a first-season team and to now have an Origin player is the next level.
“Jessika is a great fun person to have around the team and is someone who supplies plenty of laughter but, when it’d down to business, no one puts in more.”
Unfortunately, Elliston will be missing from the Seagulls side that takes on Easts at Piggabeen Sports Complex tomorrow (12.15pm kick-off) in the South-East Queensland division one competition.
Tweed have hit a tough stretch with injuries with seven players out with long-term problems including CJ Sims, Chantelle Schofield, Shelley Fox, Chene Clydesdale, Brittany Faulkner, Jessica Vannucci and Alison Trevaskis. Easts have won three of their six games, and the Seagulls two.
“We’re missing a fair chunk of our team but we still field plenty of good players and one thing I know is that the effort will always be there and, the way they play, they won’t die wondering,” Wright said.
Fellow Seagulls teammates CJ Sims and Teaghan Hartigan have also been selected in Fiji’s team to take on the Papua New Guinea Orchids the same weekend, on Sunday June 22 at Leichhardt Oval in Sydney. If they play (CJ has been sidelined with a fractured cheekbone), they will be the club’s first women’s international representatives.
PHOTO courtesy SMP Images.
In-form Gulls ready for toughest test
Local rugby league fans have the chance to see some of the best state level, and NRL players, on show at Piggabeen Sports Complex this Sunday when the Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls face the biggest test of their impressive season.
The fourth-placed Seagulls take on unbeaten leaders after 12 rounds, the Sunshine Coast Falcons, in what is inarguably their toughest task so far in 2019. Between them, the two sides have won 17 games straight.
The Falcons, who boast young guns from Melbourne Storm in halfback Cooper Johns (son of Kangaroos player Matthew), hooker Harry Grant and back-rower Tino Faasuamaleaui, knocked over third placed Burleigh Bears last Sunday by 32-16 and have a points differential of 478 to 146.
“It’s our toughest test, without question,” said Seagulls coach Ben Woolf.
“The Falcons just stick at it for 80 minutes; they give you nothing and a well-organised team with plenty of talent.
“We’ve gained confidence from five straight wins but we know we have to play a lot better than we did last Sunday (a 42-8 win against Souths Logan) to be in the contest.”
The Seagulls have plenty of NRL experience in their team in Titans-contracted front-rowers Leilani Latu and Max King plus halfback Ryley Jacks even though they will be missing second-rower Will Matthews, who has been impressive in the past two rounds.
Tweed’s Talor Walters has been close to the in-form fullback in the Intrust Super Cup, five-eighth Lindon McGrady has been in fine form and stands fourth on the ISC points-scoring lists with 90, while young centres Treymain Spry, a 19-year-old in the Titans full-tine squad, and Ioane Seiuli, have hit their straps.
But it is the Tweed pack that has been the cornerstone of their good form, with Latu, former Norths Brisbane skipper John Palavi, skipper Cheyne Whitelaw, tackle-machine Kirk Murphy, hooker Christian Hazard and bench utility Jack Cook (pictured) consistent high performers in the first 12 rounds.
The match kicks off at 2pm, preceded by a crucial Hastings Deering Colts clash between the Seagulls (7th) and Falcons (5th) at 12.30pm.
Seagulls’ Coates Maroons U18s man of match
Tweed Heads’ under-18s star Xavier Coates was last night chosen as the man of the match in the interstate under-18s clash won 34-12 by Queensland at Suncorp Stadium.
Coates, who debuted for the Seagulls’ Intrust Super Cup team last month, scored a try and made constant inroads through the New South Wales defence in an impressive performance.
Another member of Tweed’s Mal Meninga Cup winning side, Reece Walsh, was also a try-scorer in the curtain-raiser to the first State of Origin clash which featured five Seagulls players.
CLICK HERE for the match report.
Three Seagulls in round 11 ISC team of week
Three members of the Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls’ team that thrashed Souths Logan 42-8 at Piggabeen last Sunday have been included in the 17-man Queensland Rugby League team of the week.
Fullback Talor Walters, who has been in brilliant form all season, has been chosen out of position just to ensure he was in the seventeen.
To find out the other two Seagulls and the whole squad, CLICK HERE.
Biggest winning margin of ’19 and fifth straight victory
Neil Cadigan
The Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Head Seagulls had a much-needed boost to their for-and-against average and retained fourth position on the ladder with their 42-8 win against Souths Logan Magpies.
It was their fifth straight victory, and biggest winning margin of 2019, yet coach Ben Woolf felt that – in many areas of the game – his team was not as impressive as they had been in the previous month.
Going into next Sunday’s biggest test of their progress, against ruthless unbeaten leaders Sunshine Coast, Woolf knows the small but important aspects of attack especially must improve, but the confidence and points-differential impetus was certainly valuable from the big win.
Tweed’s plus-24 differential was 31 points behind the next team in the top six – Norths Devils who had a 36-point victory over the Capras – and were well behind the Falcons, Bears, Wynnum Manly and Blackhawks, so the 34-point adjustment could come in handy. As does the four-point margin on seventh-placed Townsville.
“It was good to score some points but we have a bit of work to do, to be honest, coming into a tough run ahead of us – against Sunshine Coast, PNG away and then Townsville, Wynnum Many and Burleigh,” Woolf said. “We have to be better than we were today to beat those sort of teams.
“The pleasing things though were that we carried the ball strongly and got out of our own end easily and if we can convert that into a good kick and good kick-chase and put teams under pressure, I think we can get to where we want to be.
“It was good to score some tries too from set plays which came off the good go-forward we generated.”
Fullback Talor Walters was again brilliant from the back, often breaking several tackles when returning the ball and it was a 50-metre burst after fielding a kick that led to a second-half try.
In his 50th Intrust Super Cup game, five-eighth Lindon McGrady impressed again while Titans props Max King and Leilani Latu were aggressive and hungry for work.
One downside from the victory was the loss of another Titan, the experienced and clever Will Matthews, with a rib cartilage injury but the Gulls have good depth in the pack with Bayley Faull, Rory Lillis, Jarrod Morfett and Shane Gillham in the wings.
The Seagulls led 16-8 at half-time after running out to a 10-0 lead after just nine minutes. The Magpies, off the back of a glut of possession in Tweed’s half, scored the next two tries before the Gulls recovered with a neat try to Matthews just before the break after Jack Cook searched for space from dummy half.
Five-eighth McGrady had been prominent early, scoring the first try in just the fourth minute and playing a hand in the second only six minutes later scored by second-rower Kalani Going.
Tweed outscored their opponents, who were disappointing considering how much talent they fielded, 26-0 in the second half – with their defensive intent obvious from the first tackle in which Lamar Liolevave forced the ball loose in a bell-ringer.
Debutant right winger Lee Turner, a former NZ Warriors under-20s player, picked up a Ryley Jacks grubber that rebounded from a Magpies boot in the ensuing set to start the second-half scoring.
Tries followed to right centre Ioane Seiuli, who was a strong performer for the Gulls, left winger Ryland Jacobs who picked up a double, the first from a shift to the left after Walters’ 50m kick-return and the other when he had much to do after doubling back then beating two defenders at the try-line.
Lock Cheyne Whitelaw picked up just his first try for the Seagulls from 17 appearances four minutes from the end.
Tweed Heads Seagulls 42 (R Jacobs 2, L McGrady, K Going, W Matthews, I Seiuli, C Whitelaw tries; McGrady 5 goals) def. Souths Logan 8 (G Hamilton, M Soper-Lawler tries) at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
Coates inspired to follow in Deardon’s footsteps
Joel Gould, nrl.com.au
Queensland under-18 winger Xavier Coates – who debuted for the Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Heads Seagulls last weekend – grew up playing club footy with Brisbane Broncos half Tom Dearden at the Currumbin Eagles and is now inspired to follow in the teenager’s footsteps.
Coates, contracted to the Broncos, has watched Dearden ascend from Palm Beach Currumbin High star last year to become the first choice half at the Broncos.
It is a remarkable rise and even more poignant for Coates considering he is also 18 years of age, like his good mate Dearden.
Six Seagulls chosen in Qld under-18s
Six players from Tweed Heads Seagulls’ national championship winning under-18s side have been chosen in the Queensland under-18s to take on New South Wales as a curtain-raiser to the first State of Origin clash of 2019 at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday-week (June 5).
It has been a massive month for Tim Maccan’s side. After coming from fourth on the ladder to win the Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup grand final against Wynnum Manly 28-24, then beating Illawarra 48-14 in the national junior championships, they have now dominated the 18-man Maroons squad.
Centre-winger Xavier Coates, who debuted for the Seagulls in the Intrust Super Cup last Saturday, fullback Reece Walsh, second-rowers Juwan Compain and Brendan Piakura and lock Carsil Vaikai are in the selected 17 with goalkicking halfback Toby Sexton 18th man.
Coach Kurt Richards and his players will assemble in Brisbane this Thursday to begin preparations for the June 5 clash, which will be played before the opening match of the Holden State of Origin series.
Queensland’s next generation of emerging talent will run against the Maroons’ Origin team’s training session on Friday.
Seagulls CEO Paul Stephenson said the club should be proud of the under-18s’ achievements and the talent in the side that won six of eight matches with an impressive for-and-against tally of 270 points to 122.
“It’s tremendous reward for the players and their families, plus Tim Maccan and his coaching staff, to see these boys rewarded with the privilege of playing on Suncorp Stadium on Origin night,” he said.
“It will be a big thrill for them to train against, and meet, the Queensland Origin team as well.
“It’s such a great achievement in what has been an outstanding season so far for the club, with our ISC team running fourth, the Hastings Deering Colts in the top eight and the women’s team performing probably above expectations in their first season together.
“The challenge now is the keep improving throughout the rest of the season.”
Queensland under-18s
Xavier Coates – Tweed Seagulls
Juwan Compain – Tweed Seagulls
Harrison Graham – Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Reece Hoffman – Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Jack Howarth – Easts Tigers
Joshua James – Norths Devils
Alofiana Khan-Pereira – Burleigh Bears
Trent Loiero – Sunshine Coast Falcons
Jack Martin – Ipswich Jets
Fanitesi Niu – Souths Logan Magpies
Brendan Piakura – Tweed Seagulls
Tristan Powell – Burleigh Bears
Jake Simpkin – Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Hamiso Tabuai–Fidow – Townsville Blackhawks
Carsil Vaikai – Tweed Seagulls
Sam Walker – Ipswich Jets
Reece Walsh – Tweed Seagulls
18th man: Toby Sexton – Tweed Seagulls
Coach: Kurt Richards
Injuries take toll in courageous women’s team effort
The 18-0 scoreline defied the courageous effort of Tweed’s Gold Coast Airport women’s team in Saturday’s match against Souths Logan Magpies in the South East Queensland division one clash at Piggabeen Sports Complex.
There was no score in the first 65 minutes of the match while the Seagulls defence bravely held strong against a much bigger Magpies side.
It wasn’t until injuries took their toll and the Gulls were down to just 12 players that Souths Logan were able to cross Tweed’s line, going over for three converted tries late in the game.
The determined Seagulls deserved better than to go down in that fashion and the bad news is they suffered three serious injuries, on top of already having prop CJ Sims sidelined with a fractured jaw from the previous match, and Shelley Fox also missing.
Jessica Vannucci has a dislocated patella, Britney Faulkner a broken collarbone and Chantelle Schofield will have scans on Monday to determine to extent of a knee injury.
Added to those major injuries, Teeghan Hartigan did not return to the field after copping a head knock.
“The girls were amazingly courageous against a bigger team with a lot of experience,” said coach Kelvin Wright.
“It was a tough game and we played the last quarter with 12 players.
“I’m very proud of them.”
The big aggressive Souths Logan team have lost only two of their seven games and for our girls to compete so well against them, after a narrow loss to second-placed Brothers Ipswich, shows how much they have progressed. However, injuries are unfortunately taking their toll.
Gulls make it four straight with win in Cairns
Neil Cadigan
Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls coach Ben Woolf would not have been happy with his side conceding three soft tries in eight minutes late in the match but the Gulls will leave Cairns with their fourth straight Intrust Super Cup victory after beating Northern Pride 30-14.
Woolf cited the match as a danger game and it proved that way, with Tweed having to tough it out after a 6am flight and hanging around before playing on a suburban field on the edge of Cairns.
A little down on intensity and taking a while to gain momentum, the Gulls defended strongly and controlled the ball well enough to get into stride late in the half and go to the break 12-0 ahead.
With Titans forwards Will Matthews and Max King in the side, King playing his first game in black and white this season with Leilani Latu elevated to 18th man for the Titans on Friday night, the Seagulls did enough to control the middle of the game, heading to a 24-0 lead after 50 minutes.
A feature of the match was the two-try debut of 18-year-old Xavier Coates on the right wing. A star of Tweeds’ national championship winning Mal Meninga Cup (under-18s side), Coates was quietly fitted into Woolf’s squad and, although he made one error fielding a kick, handled the elevation well, confirming the potential of the Brisbane Broncos signing.
“I thought we hung in really well, as it was a pretty tough day, having to get a 6am flight and then play on a field which had a big slope and no dressing rooms,” Woolf said.
“We made a few silly errors at key times but controlled the ball pretty well. They had a string of possession late in the second half and we had Lamar in the bin, but other than that period I thought we controlled the game pretty well for 65 minutes and defended well.
“It’s good to come away from a trip like that with a win. It leaves us in fourth or fifth position depending on the result of the Norths-Wynnum game on Sunday, so it was a crucial win.”
Fullback Talor Walters was superb for the Seagulls, scoring two tries, constantly being on the ball and causing trouble for the Pride defence.
It took nearly half an hour for Tweed to score after squandering a good field possession a couple of times in the early stages. The ball was shifted to the left and Walters showed good feet at the line and shook off two tackles to cross. Lindon McGrady’s conversion made it 6-0.
Two minutes before half-time Coates scored the first of his two tries. He was given the ball just 10 metres out after a long pass from McGrady but still had some work to do to get over after beating opposing winger Shaun Bowen. After a 32-minute penalty goal by McGrady, that gave the Seagulls their 12-point half-time lead.
Halfback Ryley Jacks, who again played strongly, scored a tremendous try early in the second half. Fed a good ball by Titans clubmate Matthews, who was superb off the bench, Jacks ran 50 metres and pushed off two defenders on the way to the line.
Coates was over for his second in the set straight after the kick-off. Jacks kicked to centre field on the last tackle and Walters came up with the ball after pressuring the Pride fullback and threw a good long ball to Coates who strolled over. McGrady’s conversion made it 24-0 after 50 minutes.
Tweed were down to 12 men with Lamar Liolevave in the sin bin for a professional foul when the Pride scored their first two tries, in the 67th and 73rd minutes. The first came after Cowboys-contracted Jack Clifford offloaded a good pass to Ewan Moore for a soft try on the left edge.
Woolf would have been disappointed with a second softish try when Pride halfback Jack Campagnolo took the ball to the line 10 metres out and gave Peter Hola too easy a path to the tryline (with Tweed still down to 12 men). Clifford’s conversion made it 24-10 with seven minutes remaining.
Clifford scored two minutes later when fellow Cowboys squad member Javed Bowen stepped and propped and held off Spry and McLindon only to give Clifford a clear run to the line from short range with no cover coming across to fill the hole. Clifford missed the conversion for the Seagulls to keep a 10-point margin going into the final five minutes.
Walters sealed the result with a neat individual try down the short side 90 seconds from the end. Christian Hazard head left at dummy half and fed Walters who went through four defenders from 20 metres.
McLindon made it five from six for the afternoon to give the Seagulls their fourth straight win by 30-14.
Tweed Heads Seagulls 30 (Walters 2, Coates 2, Jacks tries; McGrady 5 goals) def. Northern Pride 14 (Moore, Hola, Clifford tries; Clifford goal) at Vico Oval, Cairns.
HASTINGS DEERING COLTS
TWEED SEAGULLS 35 (Callum Boomer 2, Harley Wood, Blake Campbell, Josh Sexton, Codey McLaughlin tries; Callum Boomer 4, Jaman Rio goals; Tahne Robinson field goal) def NORTHERN PRIDE 16 (Connor Rothery 2, Marcus Nona tries; Benn Campagnolo 2 goals) at Vico Oval, Mooroobool.
Proud of a group that enjoy learning and improving
After six rounds of the South East Queensland division one women’s competition, I can say I’m really proud of the efforts of our girls.
We go into Saturday’s game against Souths Logan at Piggabeen (3pm kick-off) with an outstanding win against the current premiers Burleigh Bears then a 14-10 loss to second-placed Brothers Ipswich under our belts, wanting to continue that form after having a bye last weekend.
We took a more experienced Ipswich right down to the wire despite losing prop CJ Sims early in the game with what unfortunately is quite a serious injury.
She suffered several cheekbone fractures after clashing heads with a teammate while making a tackle and she’s going to be out for some time.
We’ll also be missing Shelley Fox up front against Souths Logan, and life will be tougher in that we don’t have a lot of size compared to most other teams and both have been playing well.
But someone will come in and do the job and that’s one thing that has been so pleasing about our team this season – everyone is willing to step up.
Souths and us are sitting equal on 12 points on the ladder but that’s not something we focus too much on. Our aim was to just enjoy our football, improve each week and be competitive enough to give us a chance of winning each match.
And I think we’ve done that.
We’ve been really consistent in the last couple of games and the defensive effort against Ipswich was our best of the season.
They had the likes established Australian players Ali Brigginshaw and Brittany Breayley and their game management was probably the difference as they had a tonne of possession in our half.
There are some areas we want to improve on, putting more polish on the end of our sets and seeing more movement with the footy because we’re not a big combative team, so we need to push up in support and use the ball.
It’s been wonderful for the confidence of the team too to see six of our girls selected in the SE Queensland representative teams.
Tarryn Aiken and Jessika Elliston are in the team that will play in the national championships at Pizzey Park from Thursday to Sunday next week while Abbie Beecher, Serena Martin, Zara Canfield and CJ made the team that will play in the women’s championship carnival at Southport. CJ has had to withdraw unfortunately.
It’s a great reward for their hard work (and talent) and also a good incentive for all the girls to see a first-season team able to get that recognition.
Hopefully we can get a few people to Piggabeen tomorrow to cheer on the girls. They certainly give their all, enjoy competing together, are entertaining to watch and, as I said, I’m really proud of how far they have progressed.
Speed, flair and footwork is encouraged
Michael Doyle, Tweed Daily News
Speed, flair and footwork is what the coaching staff of the Tweed Seagulls are encouraging more of from their team.
The Seagulls are coming off a tough loss to Brothers Ipswich last time out, but coach Kelvin Wright said there was a lot about the performance which gave him confidence.
The Seagulls are back at home this week for their round seven clash in the SEQ Division One competition against the Souths Logan Magpies.
Wright said his side is small than most other teams in the competition, and he wants them to use that to their advantage this weekend.
Danger game for us in Cairns
We head off to Cairns early on Saturday morning (6am flight) knowing the clash with Northern Pride is the first of two danger games against teams well below us on the ladder but with talent that is capable of performing a lot better than their results suggest.
Coming off good wins against Ipswich, Norths and Easts, our challenge is to not drop in intensity and keep building on those efforts, particularly with our ball control and game management.
Our five-eighth Luke Jurd will be out for a few weeks with a grade 1 hamstring tear but that just means Lindon McGrady switches back from fullback to No. 6 and Talor Walters goes from the wing to fullback. They’re both played most of their football in those positions so it won’t upset our flow too much.
We’re looking like definitely having Titans forward Will Matthews with us for the trip to Cairns, even with Jai Arrow dropping out of the Titans side with injury, and he will be a major asset with his experience and football smarts.
Jack Cook will miss the trip because of a quad strain but that’s another area where we have tremendous depth. Liam Hampson goes onto the bench where he’ll play hooker in tandem with Christian Hazard and Liam has performed really well in his couple of games for us this season.
Although the Pride have only won two from 10 you only have to look at their team list to see the talent that is there.
Five-eighth Jake Clifford has played five NRL games this season and is a real danger and inside him Jack Campagnolo is capable half with a good kicking game. Both are only 21.
Javid Bowen has played plenty of NRL, his centre partner Brayden Torpy is a clever, strong player who I coached in the Titans under-20s while Will Bugden is a seasons Intrust Super Cup player who leads from the front.
The Pride are always hard to beat at Barlow Park so it’s a big challenge for us.
And so too will be Souths Logan the week after. Like the Pride, they’ve won two from 10 but also they have players in NRL squads and if we’re not up for the challenge, they can pile on points.
We’ve progressed really well over the past month and our combinations are starting to gel better, so it’s important we keep the momentum going.
We hung in really well against Easts last weekend and we’ve been more controlled with the ball too in the past two games, but we want to pride ourselves on consistency in what we do.
That’s three in a row for the Woolf Pack
Neil Cadigan
The Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls took another step towards proving they are genuine top four candidates when they beat Easts Tigers at Langlands Park in Brisbane yesterday, their third straight victory.
Ben Woolf’s team claimed another scalp of a team above them on the ladder with the 16-4 victory, coming off the bye and the previous round’s 36-8 thumping of Norths Devils. Both top three teams only scored three tries between them.
While coach Woolf felt the Seagulls attack could have been sharper, it is the fifth time in 10 games this season that the team’s defence has restricted their opponents to two tries or less and this defensive attitude has been the cornerstone of the results.
The tough attitude of the pack, led by the experienced John Palavi, extends to the bench where the side losing nothing through the interchange – another strong feature of this year’s improved performances.
The win will most likely put the Gulls in sixth position on for-and-against but equal third on competition points, four behind unbeaten leaders Sunshine Coast and two behind second-placed Burleigh Bears.
The long-intended switch of Christian Hazard to hooker, where he worked in tandem with Jack Cook, worked well and he constantly troubled the Tigers’ defence.
Hazard’s strong role emphasised the versatility Woolf has in the ‘spine’. He was dynamic early in the game out of dummy half and had the Tigers constantly on the back foot, and the Gulls were good enough to take advantage.
Luke Jurd started at five-eighth but, after playing a major role with his communication and game management, went off injured in the 42nd minute with what might be a serious hamstring tear. Lindon McGrady reverted from fullback to his former No. 6 position and Talor Walters went to fullback where he has impressed most of this season, and Lamare Liolevave in the centres.
With Ryley Jacks controlling play at halfback, the Gulls continued to function well even though it was Jacks’ first time with the team since round seven.
“Christian really took it to Easts and gave us the momentum to dominate them early,” said Woolf.
“We probably could have scored more points with the amount of possession and opportunities we generated in the first half but, to their credit, Easts scrambled well.
“We concentrated on getting through our sets in the second half and aiming up defensively and we did that pretty well, really restricting our errors, so overall it was a pretty good performance.”
“‘Jacksy’ (Ryley Jacks) hadn’t played for a month so we’ve had a few different halves combinations but as he gets more time with the team, and the fact we can use Lindon or Christian in the halves if Jurdy is out for a while, gives us plenty of options and that has been a really plus for us this season.
“When we had to switch the backs around when Jurdy went off, the players had spent plenty of time in those positions.
“It was a great effort by the boys again, right across the park.”
A feature of the match was Jacks going up against his older brother Rhys in the halves.
Ryley put on the first try of the match, for left winger Ryland Jacobs, with a smart flat ball.
Just three minutes later, centre Treymain Spry crossed for the first of his two tries, a tremendous 70-metre effort created by Kalani Going. Going squeezed between two defenders and offloaded to Spry who came to fullback Matt Cooper and beat him before running away.
McGrady’s conversion taking the score to 10-0 after 14 minutes, an impressive start for the Gulls who were decidedly on top of their opponents.
The game became a physical arm-wrestle until the Tigers, after bending the Seagulls’ line several times, struck back with a try to lock Tyrone Amey in the 32nd minute. The score remained 10-4 at half-time.
With 17 minutes remaining, Easts failed to find touch with a penalty kick and the Seagulls took advantage to seal the game.
Jacks put up a perfect ‘bomb’ inside the Tigers’ half, kicking across-field from the left, and Ioane Seiuli tapped the ball back to Leilani Latu who gave Spry a clear run to the line. McGrady missed the conversion but a penalty in the final minute took the score to 16-4.
Tweed Heads Seagulls 16 (Spry 2, Jacobs tries; McGrady 2 goals) def. Easts Tigers 4 (Amy try) at Suzuki Stadium (Langlands Park).
Seagulls welcome new board member
Michael Doyle, Tweed Daily News
Tweed Seagulls have made an investment in the future with their latest signing, but he won’t be taking the field.
Matt Burgess has been appointed to the Seagulls board, as the club aims to position itself for prosperity in the future.
Burgess has a long history in the administration and business side of sport, having recently come from the World Surf League.
The Tweed-based businessman said he saw a lot of opportunity for the Seagulls, with participation a main focal point.
“I think they have laid the ground work with a new direction for management and the building of pretty strong assets,” Burgess said.
“They have had the challenges that supporting clubs do, but they have a good framework with the playing group and there is a lot of opportunity.
“I see the Seagulls as an Australian rugby league club which can lead the way in participation and what it can do for its community.”
Burgess said there were plenty of opportunities for the club to expand commercially, while also believing in expanding the relationships that have already been fostered.
“A strong relationship that I see only getting stronger is the Gold Coast Airport partnership,” he said.
“It has provided life to women playing rugby league in this region, and displayed genuine intent from GCA to engage with the Northern NSW community.
“We are very excited to continue its momentum.”
Burgess said the long-term goal for any club like the Seagulls was to continue to grow its numbers.
He said the more people who wanted to participate in the club would build more commercial opportunities.
Expanding the women’s program and becoming a leader in female sport was one of the key areas Burgess believes can make the Seagulls a successful club going forward.
“In the women’s side I think there is a lot of opportunity for the club to be a leader in how clubs should not only respect women but also allow them to complete,” Burgess said.
“If we create more participation, that leads to more commercial opportunities.”
IMAGE courtesy 0f SMP Images.
Tigers test starts important period
We start a testing five-week period on Saturday against third-placed Easts Tigers away which will go a long way towards determining where we might finish on the ladder but also whether we are going to be regarded as a serious challenge for the premiership.
Last weekend’s bye round was the chance for all teams to take a breather and sort of assess the first nine rounds, rest niggling injuries and get ready to go into phase two of the season this weekend.
You never know how each team is going to come off the bye. While it’s good to get some injuries right and have a physical and mental break, you can also lose momentum after nine hard weeks of competition and some teams can look underdone while others can come straight back out with a second wind. And, as a coach, often you can’t quite sense which it will be.
For us, the break came after our best performance of the season against Norths Devils and a game when we came closest to where we need to be with controlling possession and curtailing our errors. To now go up against Easts who have been travelling well and will have some dominant Melbourne Storm players will be a real test.
One stat to come from the first nine rounds was that we have made more tackles than any other team, even though our completion rates aren’t too bad compared to other teams.
Firstly, that reflects the possession we have given away is too often early in the tackle count and the penalties we are conceding are too often late in the tackle count.
But to be where we are on the ladder with six wins from nine shows how good our effort has been in defence and our willingness, most of the time at least, to defend our errors.
The challenge for us, after the win against Norths, is to use that as a benchmark of how we want to play and also to gain confidence from it about what we can do when we control the football.
When we control the ball at the right times, we can compete with anyone and our last game showed we can put away good quality teams put away a good team comfortably. We have to learn to do that consistently.
We’ll field probably out strongest side against Easts with Cheyne Whitelaw, Talor Walters, Ryley Jacks and Jarrod Morfett back, although we lose Will Matthews who was good for us against Norths (he will be the Titans’ 18th man).
That left us with some tough selection decisions but the good thing is that we had plenty of options.
We’ve kept Luke Jurd at five-eighth after he played well in his debut against Norths, which means Lindon McGrady stays at fullback and Talor comes back on the wing. ‘Jurdy’ did well, and provided good control in the halves, and Lindon did well at the back, while Talor has performed well at ‘one’ and ‘five’ this season, so we thought we’d go that way.
It means we can start Christian Hazard at hooker, which we had been looking at doing for a few weeks, and also have Jack Cook come off the bench where he can play dummy half or back row. It’s a bit about finding the best space for ‘Critter’, who played in the Queensland Residents team, and I think that’s hooker for now.
Cheyne has been carrying a foot injury as well as having to be rested with concussion, so we thought we’d have him come off the bench as it will be four weeks since he’s played and Kirk Murphy has been in really good form for us at lock.
To have two leaders of our team in Cheyne and Cooky coming off the bench shows the strength and depth of our squad, and Jarrod Morfett and Bayley Faull add size and energy as well.
After facing Easts, we go to Cairns to take on Northern Pride and then Souths Logan at home. While the Pride and Magpies haven’t been winning games, they have teams that can perform a lot better.
Then we have this season’s benchmark team, Sunshine Coast, at home before we go to Port Moresby to take on the Hunters which is always a danger game even though they haven’t been going great this season.
We have to win three from five as a minimum to keep our position in the top eight and keep up our momentum going into the next phase of the season.
Coach Tim Maccan: ‘So proud of this group’
Winning Seagulls under-18s coach Tim Maccan spoke about the incredible journey of his team, particularly the improvement in the past month, which saw them go from fourth on the final Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup ladder to national champions with three outstanding performances from the semi-final through to last Sunday’s lopsided victory over NSW’s best Illawarra.
Click below to watch the post-match interview.
https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2019/05/13/tim-maccan—they-really-did-save-the-best-til-last/
National U18s victory highlights
Here are the video highlights of Sunday’s match at Dolphin Stadium in Brisbane that saw the Tweed Seagulls crowned the national under-18s champions with a 48-14 win against Illawarra Steelers.
Click link below.
https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2019/05/13/national-under-18-championship-highlights-tweed-v-illawarra/
Under-18s are national champions
Colleen Edwards, QRL media
The Tweed Seagulls put in an attacking masterclass in the National Under 18 Championship match against the Illawarra Steelers, running in eight tries in total to claim a 48-14 win.
While they sealed the victory with some flashy displays across both halves; it was set up by a gritty showing in the first half where they had to earn the ball and pressured the Steelers into errors and frustration.
While the NSW SG Ball winners were obviously down on their usual high standard; the Seagulls were on song and hardly put a foot wrong through the entire 70-minute performance.
Things started well for the black-and-white team, with towering centre Xavier Coates getting the scoring started in the 28th minute with a nice looking try. A pinpoint kick from halfback Toby Sexton found his man in space who just had to reach up and pluck the ball from the air and ran in untouched.
The Steelers were next to score after some back-and-forth from the two teams, but it was winger Tyrell Sloan who was over for the visitors after they had mounted some pressure on Tweed who had made some errors and given up a penalty.
But the half belonged to the Seagulls with Caleb Hodges running in just before halftime to put his side out to an important 18-4 lead.
In the second half, the Seagulls began as they ended the first, with another try.
Coates had his second – this time though, he to work hard for it, getting the ball within the Gulls’ 10m area and running a zigzag path through defenders to go the length of the field to score.
While the Steelers were able to score two more times (a second to Sloan and one to winger Max Feagai) – they were merely interruptions in the steady stream of scores that came for the on-fire Tweed.
Impressive fullback Reece Walsh was over for a double, while Josh Bevan also got in on the action with a four pointer.
Fittingly, the final try of the game came via halfback and eventual player of the match Sexton, who ran in under the goal points to put an exclamation mark on a dominant performance for his side.
Sexton was instrumental for his side, setting up key plays with his vision and great kicking game.
After the match, coach Tim Maccan praised his side’s performance.
“It was fantastic, definitely their best win of the season – they stuck to the game plan for the whole game and got the job done,” Maccan said.
“We knew we had to stick with them in that first half there and the rewards would come if we were patient and persistent with it and that’s showed in the back end of the second half.
“We have been building and we have some very good individual players and it was about us trying to work out the best way to turn them into a very good team and how to use those strengths across the team.
“Our starting front rowers Ben Liyou and Solomon Torrens, kids that some people haven’t heard of, they are great kids and showed that they are quality front rowers.
“We have guys on the bench like James Torrens and Issy Higgins – he’s only 17 – but they have been doing a really good job, so of those lesser known players have really stepped up.”
The Seagulls are the first QRL winner to go on and win the Under 18 national final since in 2014 when Townsville beat the Roosters.
Player of the Match: Toby Sexton (Tweed Seagulls)
We’re ahead of where we planned
Coach of the Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls, Ben Woolf, takes stock going into the bye weekend after nine rounds of the Intrust Super Cup.
Six wins from nine games is probably one victory better than what he had probably expected after great victories against Ipswich Jets and Norths Devils.
And the overall success at the Gullies this season – with the Mal Meninga Cup team winning the final and the women’s side knocking over undisputed No. 1 team Burleigh Bears, has certainly buoyed the mood in the camp.
Watch the video interview.
We have to build from very special victory
Our Gold Coast Airport women’s team’s against-all-odds victory against four times premiers Burleigh Bears, before last weekend’s bye weekend, was certainly one of the most satisfying victories I have been associated with.
I am so proud of how the girls stuck to their task for the whole period of the game and hopefully the 22-18 win will give them the self-belief that they can beat anyone in the South-East Queensland division one competition.
As I’ve said previously, we’ve played some really good football in patches in our first three games but this time we added a whole new level of consistency to what we were doing. And, individually, the players stepped up as well.
We led 16-4 not long before half-time before the Bears scored a try to make it 16-8 going into the break. The Bears as expected came out strong in the second half and clawed their way back to lead 18-16 with five minutes remaining. Some great composure was shown when Tarryn Aiken forced a line drop out, and in the following set Shelley Fox managed to dot down between the posts.
Former Burleigh players Josina Singapu and Shelley Fox led from the front along with CJ Sims.
That gave Tarryn Aiken and Jessika Elliston plenty of opportunity to show their class and they had fine games.
Across the park everyone did their job against a team that was a lot bigger and play a hard, physical game.
Hopefully this will really build some self-belief in the girls. I believe in them and really admire their closeness and their work ethic, so I have always been confident they would improve as the season progresses.
Expectations will rise now but we are not going to change how we approach our footy.
It is all about small improvements each week and being consistent at training and in our matches. Results will take care of themselves if we focus on those two things.
I’ve been around footy for a while now and that win is right is right up there with the great moments I’ve had as a coach.
It was a local derby, against such a highly-celebrated team that had been unbeaten in their three games and few people gave us a chance. The win was one thing, but to see the look on the faces of the girls after they worked so hard and being almost surprised at what they had achieved was very special.
But what would be more pleasing is keeping it up from here. Continuing to build and improve, that’s the expectation our team has to have.
This week will prove another big test against a quality team in the Ipswich Brothers who have quality players across the park but we will prepare well and turn up ready to go.
Congratulations to Abbie Beecher, CJ Sims, Jessika Elliston, Serena Martin, Tarryn Aiken and Zara Canfield for being selected to attend the SEQ camp during the weekend and good luck in the selections.
Coach Maccan proud of Cup winning effort
Tweed’s Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup championship winning coach Tim Maccan was a proud man post-fulltime on Sunday after his team’s thrilling victory over Wynnum Manly in the final.
The Palm Beach Currumbin teacher, himself a winner for the back and whites in the 2007 Queensland Cup, spoke with QRL media straight after Sunday’s victory.
Click link below to watch video interview.
https://www.qrl.com.au/news/2019/05/06/mccann-trust-our-game-plan/
Tweed claim Qld under-18s champions tag
Colleen Edwards, QRL media
There was end-to-end action at BMD Kougari Oval as the Wynnum Manly Seagulls and Tweed Seagulls went head-to-head to see who be the state champions in the Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup.
In an entertaining game with plenty of highlights, in the end it was Tweed Seagulls who claimed the under-18 state title with their 28-24 win.
The Tweed Seagulls got the game off to a fast start with a try to fullback Reece Walsh in the fourth minute. The try came off the back of some individual brilliance from centre Xavier Coates who broke away from within his own side of the field, running almost the length before passing back inside for his fullback.
They were in again only three minutes after when player of the match Ediq Ambrosyev dived over after he picked up the scraps off a Walsh high kick that proved too hard to handle for Wynnum.
However, Wynnum worked their way back into the game and in the later stages of the half, they had their reward when Zane Edmonds scored. It came from some good work for his backline, with Reece Hoffman – who proved a handful for the Tweed defence all afternoon – drawing in defenders before passing to his outside.
Max Plath got their next try moments later with some quick work at the Tweed tryline.
However, the half overall belonged to the southern Gulls when in the shadows of the break, some great play for the forwards was rewarded with a try to five-eighth Kade Hill.
After receiving a clever offload, Juwain Compain raced through middle of the field before passing to the quicker man to score and close out the half for an 18-8 lead.
In the second half, the home side came out firing with a renewed intensity in their defence. They were up in the face of the opposing Gulls and were quick off the mark.
Tweed then responded in kind with some big hits, and it was the black-and-white Gulls who scored first when Coates reached up higher than everybody else to bring down the ball and score.
But Wynnum Manly refused to go away, with firstly Hoffman and then Braden Whittaker scoring in quick succession to bring the growing green and red crowd to their feet.
The tension was palatable and the action was intense.
It seemed that a big run from forward Solomon Torrens had sealed the match for the Tweed when put his head down, tucked the ball under his arm and ran in to score in the 62nd minute.
Wynnum Manly however never gave up and we had a grand stand finish when Ethan Malt was over in the final minute of play.
The pressed again when went flying down their right-hand sideline in the final seconds of play but desperate Tweed defence saw them push the threat out into touch before celebrating the win.
The Tweed Seagulls will have to refocus this week before they take on Illawarra in the National under-18 final next Sunday at Dolphin Stadium.
Gulls make statement with best win of 2019
Neil Cadigan
The Ben Campbell Building Group Seagulls made a statement on Saturday with a decisive 36-8 victory against fifth-placed Norths Devils who had won four games straight.
It their most comprehensive performance of 2019, the Gullies put in an 80-minute effort they seemed to be building towards and outplayed the Devils in just about every aspect after conceding the first try 10 minutes into the game.
Norths coach Rohan Smith gave full credit to the Tweed performance, conceding it was the best performance against his strong team this season by any opponent this season despite it coming in pouring rain during the second half.
And it was certainly the exhibition coach Ben Woolf had been searching for – and knew was in his team.
Here is the context of victory.
Firstly, it came with the Seagulls missing five experienced campaigners in skipper Cheyne Whitelaw, fullback Talor Walters, Titans-contracted halfback Ryley Jacks who was a late withdrawal through injury and bench forwards Shane Gilham and Rory Lillis. The improved depth this season is a real feature of the Gulls’ standing on the ladder.
Secondly, it enhanced the credibility of a team that some still questioned were genuine contenders – their first victory against a side above them on the table this season.
And, impressively, it came off the back of an almost faultless physical defensive effort.
Norths scored their first try from an uncustomary fumble of a grubber kick by Gulls winger Ryland Jacobs, who was outstanding for the rest of the game, and their only other try came from a one-on-one miss (from a strong fend) by centre Ioane Seuili, who was also otherwise strong.
In between, the Devils were well contained and twice Tweed had to defend four successive sets of possession after Norths retained possession from a short kick-off and received successive penalties – yet forced a turnover of possession with relentless defensive pressure both times.
“It was definitely our most complete performance this year, we a lot better than we had been,” said coach Woolf.
“We made very few errors; the only errors were from their short kick-offs and a couple of late in the tackle count errors. We controlled the ball really well which makes a big difference.
“They played plenty of footy, Norths, and kept trying to test us even in the wet but we did a really good job.
“You consider that we ruled Cheyne Whitelaw out on Thursday night and Ryley Jacks on Friday night and had to shuffle the team, yet we still played our best game of the season.
“It showed the depth we have and the ability for different players to come into the side and do their job well.
“It was a very satisfying win against a top five side going into the bye.”
Every one of the Seagulls 17 did their job but there were also some stand-out performances. Halfback Christian Hazard, who’d trained most of the week to play hooker, put in his best performance of the season, scoring a try and setting up two more while being strong in defence.
Prop John Palavi, Norths skipper last season, picked up a try against his former club and was typically tireless and purposeful in all he did. Jack Cook, now an integral part of Woolf’s line-up no matter where he plays, did so much important defensive work and was an influence with his enthusiasm while Lindon McGrady, back at fullback in place of the injured Walters, handled some pressure moment brilliantly, scored a try, played a big role in another and kicked six goals from six attempts.
Jacobs, a prized-metre eater in ‘yardage’, scored two tries and gifted another for Lindon McGrady, while Titan Will Matthews was handy with some decisive things defensively in his first run-out for the season.
After being 4-0 behind after 11 minutes, Jacobs stepped his opposing winger after a shift to the left to open up Tweed’s scoring in the 20th minutes. McGrady converted from touch.
Hazard was next to score four minutes. He bombed to the left and Jacobs fought to get the rebound and three passes later, the last a desperate offload from the ground by Lamar Liolevave, put Hazard over for 12-0 with McGrady’s conversion.
A minute before half-time came the try of the game. The ball was shifted to the left and Jacobs was put into the clear by a cut-out ball from McGrady. Jacobs bumped off two defenders then put a perfectly placed kick towards the tryline with McGrady winning the race for the ball.
That gave the Gulls an 18-4 half-time lead and eight minutes into the second half Hazard effectively broke the Devils’ spirit.
He burst through from dummy half and held up the ball when he came to fullback Jack Ahearn for Jacobs who’d reacted quickly and raced away.
Palavi was rewarded for his wholehearted effort with a try in the 58th minute when he ran into a gap created by Hazard at dummy half after a quick play-the-ball to see the score run out to 30-4.
Norths winger Herbie Farnworth scored in the 65th minute before Tevita Folau rounded off the impressive Tweed performance when he scored from a neat grubber kick by debutant five-eighth Luke Jurd 10 minutes from full-time.
Tweed Seagulls 36 (Jacobs 2, Hazard, McGrady, Palavi, Folau tries; McGrady 6 goals) def. Norths Devils 8 (Penn, Farnworth tries) at Piggabeen Sports Centre.
Devil of a test of our finals credibility
This Saturday is another important game for us as far as our position on the ladder but also in proving we can consistently compete with teams above us on the ladder.
While we’ve beaten some good sides around where we are or below on the ladder, we have been beaten by big margins by Wynnum Manly and Burleigh Bears. So we know we have to prove we can match it with the more consistent teams who are placed above us.
Norths will be a real test. Coached by Rohan Smith, who I used to work with at the Titans, they throw the ball around quite a bit and our defence has to be on the ball for the entire 80 minutes.
We need to get our attack right, with a bit more consistency too. It was better in our win against Ipswich Jets last Sunday and we have Ryley Jacks back who missed that match because of a foot injury.
The more Ryley plays with us, the more fluent our attack will be, and Christian Hazard is getting more comfortable after five games under his belt.
Fullback Talor Walters, who has been excellent for us this season, is carrying a few niggling injuries and we’ll see how he is as late as possible before we confirm the side. So there might be a late reshuffle.
We have good cover there with Ryley back, Lindon McGrady able to cover fullback which he did well a couple of weeks back.
Experienced Titans player Will Matthews will play off the bench. He was planning to play last week but with Keegan Hipgrave dropping out of the Titans-Wests Tigers game in Tamworth, Will had to travel as 18th man.
A win would be important for us. With there being an eight-team final series this season, we’re six points ahead of ninth place currently (we’re on 10 and there are four teams on four points), so if we can maintain or increase that gap going into the bye, it puts us in a good position as we head towards the halfway point of the season.
But looking above us on the ladder is a focus too. To prove our credibility as a team capable of making the top four and seriously challenging for the premiership, we have to compete in games like this. And we have to do it consistently.
Sunday is a chance for us to show where we stand. With Wynnum Manly (4th) playing Easts Tigers (2nd) and premiers Redcliffe (10th) capable of upsetting Burleigh Bears (3rd), there is a chance for us to go equal third (on competition points).
Good luck to our Mal Meninga Cup team in the final against Wynnum Manly on Sunday. They played really well in the semi-final and Tim Maccan has some exciting young players and good workers in his team. Let’s hope they bring home the trophy.
McCann knows Gulls have to apply pressure
Tayla Whalley, QRL media
It’s been a tough few weeks of competition to get to this point – but this weekend will see Wynnum Manly Seagulls and Tweed Seagulls go head-to-head in the grand final of the under-18 Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup competition.
When Wynnum Manly and Tweed met earlier this season in Round 5, Wynnum Manly proved to be the stronger of the Seagulls on the day, winning 20-16.
Both teams played exceptionally well in Finals Week 1 last weekend with both coaches proud of their on-field performance of their players.
Tweed Seagulls coach Tim McCann commended his team on their impressive performance against Magpies.
“Last week’s match was very competitive and high quality with very few errors,” McCann said.
“We made the most of the opportunities and supported each other, which paid off scoring three tries back to back and having possession of the ball for 6 minutes at one point of the match.
“In the second half, we came out really well as a team with Reece Walsh having the best game he has played to date and Juwan Compain also being a stand out for our squad.
“This week we will be looking at applying pressure and focusing on our game.”
Wynnum Manly coach Jody Barlow was pleased with his team’s performance against the Falcons that secured a spot in the final and was also happy with how his team has not only learnt but grown over the season.
“The first half was exceptional, and the boys closed the game out,” Barlow said.
“Our completion rate was over the 90 per cent and our ball control was good.
“Defensively, this is what will win the game on the weekend, so we have been focusing on our defensive shape and patterns and all the players knowing their roles and working on executing them to the best of their ability.
“From day one, I knew Tweed would be up there in the top four as they are very gifted across the park and have some fire power which will keep us on our toes.”
This Sunday’s match will be a big day for both clubs with it being the first time an under-18 Wynnum Manly squad has been in the finals and the first time Tweed has been in a state final as a senior club since 2011.
“For a lot of the guys, this is their second year with me and are excited for a high quality this weekend,” Barlow said.
“We had a pretty tough year last year; things didn’t go our way and we didn’t quite have the quality of play we do this year, so it will be really rewarding for the team and staff, who have helped put the guys on the paddock.
“The club is really excited about the prospects of our playing group moving forward to Colts and even higher.”
Walsh brilliant as Meninga Cup team into final
Mike Simpson, QRL media correspondent
The brilliance of Tweed Seagulls fullback Reece Walsh was the catalyst for the Seagulls’ 24-16 win over a spirited Souths Logan Magpies in the second Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup semi-final.
The metre-eating fullback was phenomenal in this game at Wynnum’s BMD Kougari Oval, scoring two tries and setting up another.
Playing in a howling wind, this game was being played up the middle by both forward packs seemingly trying to out-muscle each other in the opening exchanges.
With a bumper crowd on hand, the Magpies drew first blood in the 10th minute of play; lock Adonai Faagutu opened the scoring, steaming onto a Jett Trembath pass to crash in out wide.
A fantastic conversion in the gale force wind by halfback Konrad Tu’ua saw the Magpies skip out to an early 6-0 lead.
A dropped ball by the Magpies minutes later saw the Seagulls score a textbook try, seeing the ball sweep right across the backline to finally see Caleb Hodges brush off his opposite number and score in the corner.
The physicality of the game went into overdrive in the later stages of the first half which saw the intensity shift up a gear.
With 30 seconds left on the clock, Magpies could have increased the scoreline with a dash down the sideline by winger Tyrone Sa’u, but he was bundled into touch, leaving the halftime score at 6-4 to the Magpies.
Seagulls came out with serious intent in the second half.
You could smell the new found vigour after the break and with only one minute of play under way, fullback Walsh’s incredible turn of pace had the Magpies clutching at thin air as he weaved his way to score out wide.
Walsh’s cunning burst from dummy half had the Seagulls increase the lead to 14-6, as the custodian palmed off two would-be defenders to make a mockery of the defence and go into score one of best tries of the afternoon.
With the howling wind still playing havoc with both sides, a towering Walsh bomb was dropped by the Magpies 10 metres out and Seagulls centre Xavier Coates was on hand to claim the loose ball and score an opportunist try.
The Magpies again would be at the mercy of Seagulls’ Walsh, as he delivered a superb pass to second rower Brendan Piakura who made no mistake in crossing to further the lead to 24-6.
Late Magpies tries to winger Su’a and a brilliant chip and chase to halfback Tu’ua proved not enough, with the Seagulls sneaking home 24-16.
TWEED SEAGULLS 24 (Reece Walsh 2, Caleb Hodges, Xavier Coates, Brendan Piakura tries; Toby Sexton 2 goals) def SOUTHS LOGAN MAGPIES 16 (Adonai Faagutu, Tyrone Sa’u, Konrad Tu’ua tries; Konrad Tu’ua 2 goals) at BMD Kougari Oval.
Our girls in upset of season, beating champion Bears
Connor O’Brien, Gold Coast Bulletin
THAT Tweed needed a second shot at getting their victory song right says it all about their spectacular David and Goliath upset at Pizzey Park on Saturday.
Playing at the home of four-time SEQ women’s division one defending premiers Burleigh, the visitors were given next to no chance.
The all-conquering Bears entered unbeaten through three starts; the Seagulls women meanwhile had one win in their history and were coming off a 40-point loss.
But the match did not follow the script come Sunday afternoon. Tweed burst out of the blocks, leading 16-4 at one stage before Burleigh showed the fight of a champion team to go up 18-16.
FULL STORY IN THE GOLD COAST BULLETIN
Crucial home win keeps Tweed in touch
The Ben Campbell Building Group Tweed Seagulls h