Raiders Rugby 2024 Finals Fever!

Moranbah was alive with excitement on Saturday, August 10, as the Proserpine-Whitsunday Raiders charged into the 2024 Limitless Mackay Rugby Union Semi-Finals. The day began early, with three Raiders teams ready for action, all safely transported by sponsors Whitsunday Transit. The Raiders' quest for victory was marked by a full day of thrilling rugby.
Men’s Reserves: Dominant Display
The Raiders Men's Reserves kicked off the day against Slade Point Reserves. Although they secured a commanding 52-19 victory on the field, a technicality led to the game being recorded as a forfeit. Despite this, the team’s performance was impressive. James Burrell led with a hat-trick, while Hone Casey-Bloomer and Shakane Costello each scored twice. Jackson Green added to the tally, and Jacob Rota was flawless with the boot, converting seven tries and adding a penalty.
The official outcome may have been disappointing, but the Raiders Men's Reserves demonstrated their strength and depth, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day.
Women’s Team: Gutsy Win
The Raiders Women's team faced the Bowen RUC Jennies in a highly anticipated match. Down a player and with no reserves, the Raiders Women showed remarkable determination, securing a 19-5 victory. Shirley Luke was pivotal, scoring two tries, while Kyahne Smail added another. Conversions by Lily Sainsbury and Deakoda Costello sealed the win, earning the Raiders Women a spot in the 2024 Limitless MRU Grand Final.
This victory was a testament to the Raiders Women's resilience and teamwork. After an incredible season, they now look ahead to a Grand Final showdown against Slade Point RUC Women at BB Print Stadium in Mackay on Saturday, August 24.
Men’s A-Grade: Nail-Biting Finish
The Raiders Men's A-Grade team faced a tough challenge against Minor Premiers Moranbah Bulls. The Raiders took an early lead with a penalty by Connor Spence and a try by Captain Waikato Nepia-Katipa, converted by Landry Bezombes. At halftime, the Raiders were ahead 10-0.
In the second half, hooker Simone Nasavuilagi extended the lead to 15-0, but the game took a dramatic turn when a Bulls player was injured, causing a lengthy delay. After the restart, the Bulls mounted a fierce comeback, scoring two quick tries and converting both. The Raiders' defense was tested as the clock ticked down, but they held firm, securing a nail-biting one-point victory and a place in the 2024 Grand Final.
The Road to Glory
With both the Raiders Women and Men's squads securing their spots in the 2024 Limitless Mackay Rugby Union Grand Finals, all eyes now turn to the big showdown at Mackay’s BB Print Stadium on Saturday, August 24. The Raiders are poised to make history with a shot at double premierships.
Raiders Finals Schedule:
   • Raiders Women vs Slade Point RUC Women – Kick-off at 2:30 p.m.
   • Raiders Men vs Mackay Brothers – Kick-off at 3:30 p.m.
Finals Fever is here, and the Raiders are charging full steam ahead. Fans, get ready to support your local heroes as they fight for glory!

Contributed with thanks to Karla Houston

Photos supplied

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