There were plenty of tight scores in the northern derby clashes between the Townsville Blackhawks and Mackay Cutters.
The Mackay campaign started on a strong note with the Harvey Norman U17s coming away with a convincing 20-10 win over the Blackhawks. It was a day of impressive footy at Jack Manski Oval on Saturday, with the Harvey Norman Under 17s holding the biggest score difference, with just 10 points.
Unfortunately for Mackay, that was the first and last win for the sides against a tough northern rival.
In the Harvey Norman Under 19s, it was the home team who triumphed with another tight, low-scoring match.
Blackhawks winger Zaleah Mosby-Nona was the only player to cross in the opening stanza, scoring in the 14th minute to give her side a 4-0 lead at the break.
Mackay finally responded in the 46th minute, with halfback Mersades Lawson equalling the scores.
But the Blackhawks were not going to settle with a draw.
Backrower Hannah De Daunton stepped up with a big final 10 minutes, scoring in the 50th minute, before adding the two points and then converting a penalty goal on the buzzer to seal the deal.
The Blackhawks finished with a 12-4 victory and three out of four wins over Mackay.
In the Cyril Connell Cup, the Blackhawks finished 12-6 at full time, Mackay were unlucky in the Mal Meninga Cup, finishing 12-8 in a game that had looked at times to go either way, and it was also a close tussle in the Hostplus Cup trial, with the Blackhawks taking the win, 18-12.
Shaniah Power Joins QCCS Mackay Cutters
The QCCS Mackay Cutters proudly unveiled their latest signing last week, Shaniah Power, recipient of the prestigious 2023 BMD Player of the Year award.
With an impressive track record, Shaniah adds invaluable experience to the Mackay squad, boasting four appearances for Queensland and contributing to multiple NRLW teams. Currently under contract with the Cowboys, Shaniah's arrival promises to bolster the team's strength and competitiveness.
The Cutters Care program made a meaningful visit to St Brendans Catholic Primary School last week, made possible by the generous support of Porters Mitre 10 Mackay and Mackay Regional Council.
During the session, students engaged in activities aimed at fostering both physical and mental well-being, learning valuable lessons on building strong brains and bodies. Following the educational component, the students enjoyed a series of entertaining and footy-related games.
To book your School in for a Cutters Care session, visit the Cutters’ website.
