Norths’ testing start to the Hostplus Cup season continues tonight but at least the Devils are back on home soil for the first time in 2024.
The Devils host Souths Logan in a match that shapes as one of the best of Round 3.
That follows the Devils’ difficult start to the season with road matches against minor premiers Burleigh and last year’s finalists Redcliffe.
The Devils split those games 1-1 but gave up a combined 28 points across the matches to share the best defensive record after two rounds.
The likes of Broncos NRL squad members Blake Mozer, Ben Te Kura and possibly Tristan Sailor will challenge that record tonight night in a Magpies team coached by Karmichael Hunt.
“Souths Logan were excellent last season and they became one of the toughest teams to beat in the competition,” Devils coach Dave Elliott said.
“We know they will provide a real test for us but our players are looking forward to being back at home.
“We’ve enjoyed the challenge of starting on the road but it’s the right time to come home now.”
This is the Hostplus Cup’s Rivalry Round, pitting some of the competition’s oldest foes against each other.
The Devils and Magpies were foundation teams of the Brisbane District Rugby League in 1933 yet their paths didn’t cross in big games as much as expected.
That changed in 1980 when the Devils sprung one of the biggest upsets in Brisbane grand final history, claiming the last place in the finals before going on to stun Mal Meninga’s Magpies in the decider.
In their 53 Queensland Cup matches, the Devils share a 31-20 lead with two drawn matches.
The rivalry went back and forth before the Devils went unbeaten in the last 10 matches between the teams.
The Hostplus Cup match kicks off at 6pm tonight night.
