Inspired by the good work of two Brisbane Broncos young guns, the CQ Capras came back to snare a share of the competition points by recording a 16-16 draw with Redcliffe at Dolphin Oval yesterday.
Corey Oates was a late inclusion for the visiting side that already included half Duncan Paia’Aua – both of whom played junior football in central Queensland – and both scored tries in the thrilling round six draw.
Things did not start well for the CQ side however, with the Dolphins getting out to a fast start – scoring twice early in the half.
The first came through second row forward Sarafu Fatiaki, while the second was scored by Tom Rowles – who was making his Intrust Super Cup debut for the Dolphins in the No. 9 jersey.
However, this sparked the Capras, with winger Marlon Doak opening the account for the visitors. The try was converted to see the Dolphins lead 12-6.
With the halftime break in sight, the Dolphins crossed again, after a long cut-out pass from Zach Strasser found its mark to see Marty Hatfield go over to score; giving the home side a 16-6 lead at halftime.
That was to be their last points of the match, with the Capras rallying to hold their opposition scoreless in the second half.
Paia’Aua scored the first try for the Capras in the second half which was converted, before Oates crashed over to draw scores level with just under 15 minutes left in the match.
In a tense finale to the game – both sides attempted to break the deadlock with Capras five-eighth Mark Johnstone and Redcliffe fullback Stewart Mills both missing their field goals attempts.
Next weekend, Redcliffe will again play at home and will host the Souths Logan Magpies who will be looking to atone for their loss against Wynnum Manly.
The Capras too will play a home game, with the CQ side to welcome the Norths Devils to Browne Park.
REDCLIFFE DOLPHINS 16 (Marty Hatfield, Tom Rowles, Sarafu Fatiaki tries; Oliver Regan 2 goals) drew CQ CAPRAS 16 (Marlon Doak, Duncan Paia’Aua, Corey Oates tries; Mark Johnstone, Duncan Paia’Aua goals) at Dolphin Oval
