THE XXXX Queensland Residents withstood a spirited comeback from the VB NSW Cup side to post a 24-16 win at Suncorp Stadium this evening.
It was a strong team performance from the home side who went out to a 12-0 lead early – but there were a number of stand-out performances that helped turn the game in their favour.
Fullback was one of the more hotly contested positions going into the match with a number of candidates putting their hands up for selection. However, Henare Wells put on arguably the performance of the night – coming up with two try-saving tackles at crucial times.
However, the Burleigh custodian's final effort - although warranted - saw him sent to the sin bin for the remaining eight minutes of the game - but his team-mates were able to maintain their defensive wall in his absence.
Another stand out performance from the side came this time in attack – with Pride winger Javid Bowen scoring a great individual try. After allowing a kick to bounce – he collected the ball and went on a jagged run, evading defenders in his own half before sprinting away down the field to score.
Despite Queensland enjoying a strong start to the match – the NSW Cup side did not allow the maroon side to have it all their own way – putting in a strong second half showing to set up an exciting finish to the match.
NSW were down 18-6 at halftime and Bowen’s try put Queensland out to a 24-6 lead. However, they didn’t give up – with tries to Isaah Yeo and a second to winger Chanel Mata’utia giving them the momentum going into the final 10 minutes.
Although they were made to work hard, the Queensland line was able to hold on despite the prolonged pressure at their line from the young NSW representative selection.
Earlier in the night, NSW Police 38 def Queensland Police 12 at Suncorp Stadium.
XXXX Queensland Residents 24 (Aaron Whitchurch 2, Javid Bowen, Blake Leary tries; Shaun Nona 4 goals) def VB NSW Cup Representative 16 (Chanel Mata’utia 2, Isaah Yeo tries; Nathan Stapleton 2 goals) at Suncorp Stadium
Halftime: Queensland Residents 18 – NSW Cup 6
XXXX Residents Players' Player: Blake Leary
Coach's Award: Kalifa Faifai Loa
