The Magpies returned home in high spirits after a successful Country Week campaign, securing a strong victory over the top of the table Blackhawks. Their journey took them north to Townsville before continuing on the short two-hour trip to Charters Towers, home of the Miners RLFC.
In the lead-up to the highly anticipated clash, Souths embraced the opportunity to connect with the Charters Towers community through school visits, on-field sessions, and female clinics for local primary and secondary schools, as well as junior rugby league clubs.
Queensland Rugby League Country Week, proudly supported by Ford, continues to provide an incredible platform for players and staff to immerse themselves in rural communities, bringing the Hostplus Cup action to regions far beyond the coastline.
Heading into Round 19, the Magpies were seen as underdogs - sitting 11th on the ladder but carried renewed confidence after a narrow Round 18 victory over the Dolphins at Kayo Stadium.
In front of a passionate Charters Towers crowd, the Magpies struck early. VJ Semu opened the scoring with a line break and try, setting the tone for the afternoon. Shortly after, Mitchell Owen crossed in the corner following sustained pressure and a repeat set on the Blackhawks’ line, giving Souths a 10-0 lead inside the opening ten minutes.
The first half remained a tough, hard fought battle, with Townsville opening their account after a scrappy contest for the ball. Both sides then dug in for a gritty 10 minutes before Souths broke through once again to add another four points.
Winger Israel Leota had an action-packed performance at Bill Lewis Oval securing himself two tries and an impressive 166 run meters for the afternoon. Leota’s second try of the evening came from an aerial contest following a perfect kick from Anthony Milford. This try was a key moment in the game setting the Magpies four points ahead and breaking the 20-20 stale mate. From there, the Magpies surged home, extending their advantage to a commanding 38-20 victory.
This win marks the second strong performance in a row for Souths following a challenging run of results. With finals on the horizon, the Magpies will look to build on this momentum ahead of their next home game at Davies Park against the Mackay Cutters on Sunday, August 10.