The stage is set for a thrilling Hostplus Cup qualifying final this Sunday at Bishop Park, where the Norths Devils will face the resurgent PNG Hunters in a battle for a spot in the grand final. Both teams have everything to play for, with Norths coming off a well-earned week of rest while the Hunters secured their place after a gritty 24-10 semi-final victory over the Sunshine Coast Falcons.
The Hunters’ Grit and Determination
The PNG Hunters proved their mettle last weekend, holding firm under relentless pressure from the Falcons to claim a well-deserved win. The Falcons threw everything at them in the early stages, but the Hunters’ defence, led by their tenacious forwards and dynamic hooker Judah Rimbu, stood tall, turning the tide after an intense opening 20 minutes.
Rimbu, who was one of the standout players, emphasized the team’s resilience. “One to 17 stood up to get the win,” he said after the match. The Hunters took advantage of some defensive lapses from the Falcons to score five tries to two, with Brandon Nima and Elijah Roltinga leading the charge. It was a complete team performance, and now they have their sights firmly set on Norths this Sunday.
The Devils’ Path to the Preliminary Final
The Norths Devils, meanwhile, head into the game fresh off a dominant 46-18 win over Redcliffe in the qualifying final, a performance that saw eight different try-scorers and showcased the team’s depth and strength across the park. With their finals record of seven consecutive wins, the Devils are more than ready for the challenge that awaits them this weekend.
After a strong regular season that included a string of mid-season victories, the Devils are eager to continue their push for a third grand final appearance in four years. Players like Jack Ahearn, who led from the front in the win over Redcliffe, and Kierran Moseley, who continues to guide the team from hooker, will be pivotal in Sunday’s contest.
A Battle of Wills
The clash between Judah Rimbu and Kierran Moseley will be one to watch. Both hookers are key to their sides’ attacking play and will have a big say in controlling the tempo of the game. While Rimbu has been a standout for PNG, Moseley’s leadership and direction in the middle of the park have been instrumental to Norths’ success this season.
On the edges, the Devils’ Manase Kaho and Jacob Gagan will look to continue their fine form, aiming to exploit any opportunities against PNG’s defence. But Norths know they will need to be at their best to contain the explosive pace and power of PNG’s outside backs, including Solo Wane and Brandon Nima.
The Focus Remains on Norths
For the Devils, the message from coach Dave Elliott has been clear – the focus remains on sticking to the processes that have brought them success all season. “We’ve got belief and trust in each other, and we need to stick to our game plan and play the footy we know we can play,” said Ahearn after the Redcliffe victory.
With a spot in the grand final on the line, the Devils will look to build on their defensive resilience and continue their powerful forward play, led by Mason Teague and Tuki Simpkins. The Devils’ pack will have to match the physicality of PNG’s forwards, who showed last week that they can grind out wins under pressure.
Be There to Support Your Devils
This Sunday’s match at Bishop Park is set to be a classic finals encounter, with the Norths Devils looking to secure a place in their third grand final in four years. With the Hunters determined to spoil the party, the Devils will need the support of their loyal fans to get across the line.
Kickoff is at 2:10 PM this Sunday at Bishop Park. Get your tickets, wear your Devils colours, and join us for what promises to be an epic contest in the Hostplus Cup. Don’t miss your chance to witness the action as the Devils fight for a grand final berth! With the Hostplus Cup down to the final four, the NRL Dolphins’ affiliates – Norths Devils and Redcliffe Dolphins – are still alive as the race to the September 22 grand final heats up.
