Young talents to shine in Rivalry Round showcase

The Dolphins – who lost a close match against the Sunshine Coast Falcons 10-6 last weekend – are yet to find their first victory in season 2019, so will be aiming to take down the Seagulls who impressed in their Round 2 win over CQ Capras.

Jake Simpkins scored a double while centre Reece Hoffman scored an 11^th minute try and slotted six from seven conversions in the 40-12 result.

This weekend, the Capras will open the round of matches when they travel to Mackay to face the Cutters who were just pipped by the Souths Logan Magpies last weekend 30-26 in the home match.

The Magpies are the defending premiers in this Under 18 competition and have plenty of expectations on them this year, but will need the experience of members of their 2018 team including hooker Jett Trembath, lock Cruise Ten and Queensland junior representative Lance Bagon and to stand tall.

This weekend, they face their 2018 grand final rivals Norths Devils who are also undefeated this season with a Round 1 38-38 draw with Burleigh Bears and strong 34-22 Round 2 win over the Easts Tigers.

Two local derbies will light up the weekend, with the Burleigh Bears at home to the Tweed Heads Seagulls who came from behind last weekend to claim the win over the Townsville Blackhawks.

Going into the break 10-10 at a wet Piggabeen Sports Complex last Sunday, the Blackhawks came out of the blocks firing to start the half with an early try, before firstly a try to centre Caleb Hodges and an impressive four-pointer to winger Noah Gafa – who was the recipient of a great flick pass from centre Xavier Coates sealed the deal.

Townsville will be looking to bounce back this weekend when they travel to Cairns to face the Northern Pride in their NQ derby match.

Elsewhere, the Ipswich Jets will be at home to Easts Tigers on Saturday, while the Western Mustangs take on the Sunshine Coast Falcons.

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