The Mackay Cutters’ Hostplus Cup season opener against the PNG Hunters was postponed over the weekend due to Cyclone Alfred, which disrupted travel plans and forced the QRL to reschedule affected matches. While the senior side was sidelined, the Cutters’ junior teams took to the field against the CQ Capras, securing wins in the Harvey Norman U19s, Mal Meninga Cup, and Cyril Connell Cup. The Harvey Norman U17s struggled against a dominant Capras outfit.
Harvey Norman U19s – Cutters 28 def. Capras 12
The Cutters U19 women controlled the match from the outset, running in multiple tries to secure a 28-12 victory. Mackay’s forwards created momentum up the middle, allowing their backs to break through the Capras’ defensive line and convert their chances into points.
Harvey Norman U17s – Capras 28 def. Cutters 0
The U17s were unable to recover from a tough first half, trailing 16-0 at the break before the Capras piled on more points to claim a 28-0 win. Mackay struggled to gain attacking traction against a well-organised Capras side that dominated field position and possession.
Mal Meninga Cup – Cutters 28 def. Capras 18
A strong second-half performance secured the Cutters a 28-18 win in the Mal Meninga Cup. Leading 18-12 at halftime, Mackay tightened up its defence and capitalised on key attacking opportunities to shut down the Capras' comeback attempt.
Cyril Connell Cup – Cutters 26 def. Capras 16
The Cutters' Cyril Connell Cup side staged an impressive second-half turnaround to overcome a 10-16 deficit at the break, keeping the Capras scoreless in the final 35 minutes to secure a 26-16 victory. Improved defensive pressure and disciplined set completions proved the difference as Mackay controlled the tempo in the second half.
Upcoming Round – Cutters vs. Townsville Blackhawks
Mackay will head to Jack Manski Oval in Townsville this Sunday, March 16, for Round 5 clashes across all grades.
Harvey Norman U17s: 11:00 AM
Harvey Norman U19s: 12:20 PM
Cyril Connell Cup: 1:40 PM
Mal Meninga Cup: 3:00 PM
Hostplus Cup: 4:30 PM
Hostplus Cup Team List – Round 2
Matua Brown
Jimmy Ngutlik
Brenton Baira
Mahe Fonua
Semi Valemei
Raydan Burns (VC)
Ryan Rivett
Thomas Mikaele
Temple Kalepo
Jeremiah Matautia
Hugh Arthur
Hiale Roycroft (C)
John Radel
Xavier Kerrisk
Jed Bignell
Ross Bella
Josh Honan
Mitch Fogarty
Baden Robinson
The Cutters’ Hostplus Cup side will be eager to get its 2025 campaign underway, with a tough contest expected against the Blackhawks in Townsville.
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