Phins fight back against PNG
By QRL Media
The Redcliffe Dolphins scored two tries in the last 10 minutes to overcome the PNG Hunters in Round 19.
In a hard-fought game – both coaches would have been unhappy with some of the errors and handling of their players – however, it kept things entertaining for the crowd who watched on from the new stand at the Redcliffe ground.
This was also the first time the Phins had posted a win over the Hunters in five previous attempts, but their games have always been close, contributing to a growing rivalry.
The home side started perfectly with Jonus Pearson crossing in the opening 10 minutes after his side had built up pressure by executing their play with 100% accuracy.
However, things soon settled into a back-and-forth arm wrestle, and errors started to creep into the game of both sides.
The Phins though crossed once more when experience forward Chris Gesch ran a good line to receive a short ball and dive in under the posts with four minutes to play in the half.
The Hunters however ended the first half on a high and were able to score their first points with two to go until the break with Edward Goma chasing through their kick-off; a ball that bounced awkwardly for the Phins fullback and rebounded from the goal post into the charging Goma's hands.
His try kept them well in the match only trailing 12-6 at the break.
A great run from Hunters winger Butler Morris was rewarded with him scoring the first try of the second half, while the conversion from Ase Boas saw them draw level.
Justin Olam's try which saw him streak down the field after the Dolphins dropped the ball in attack in the 53rd minute put them in front for the first time in the match.
A penalty goal extended their lead to 20-12; but then the Dolphins kicked into gear.
The referee was on the spot to award their next try when Daniel Bridge touched the ball over the line next to the goal posts to ensure a grand stand finish.
Energetic rake Christian Hazard stole the game for his side though with less than two minutes remaining, crossing over in almost the same area.
See the full scoring details and final team line-ups for this side via QRL Live
REDCLIFFE DOLPHINS 24 (Jonus Pearson, Chris Gesch, Daniel Bridge, Christian Hazard tries; Darren Nicholls 4 goals) def PNG HUNTERS 20 (Edward Goma, Butler Morris, Justin Olam tries; Ase Boas 4 goals) at Dolphin Oval.
