Last Saturday, March 7th, the Magpies kicked off the Hostplus Cup season in style, claiming a 24-16 victory at BMD Kougari Oval against the WM Seagulls. But this opening round meant far more than just three competition points.
The fixture doubles as the first Mitch Cronin Memorial Cup, one of the most cherished dates on the Hostplus Cup calendar for Souths Logan Magpies. Mitch was a natural leader, a loyal teammate, and a genuinely loved figure across both clubs. His spirit and dedication left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to share a dressing room with him. Following his sudden passing in 2020, this Cup was established to celebrate his life and keep his memory alive in the communities he cared so deeply about.
The Magpies got on the board early when Phranklyn Mano-Le-Mamea finished off a slick line break to open the scoring. A second try before the break with Preston Riki splitting the defence to put Callum Eggerling over, had the side heading into the sheds with a 12-10 lead and plenty of momentum.
Coming out of half-time, Kienan Tempest extended the advantage with another four-pointer, duly converted by Thomas Duffy. In a competitive, back-and-forth contest, it was Duffy's kicking game and the team's resolute defence that proved the difference. Captain Rory Ferguson was a standout throughout, delivering one of the more commanding performances on the park.
The game was put to bed when Eggerling capped off a strong personal display, finishing a late line break with a try of his own. Duffy's conversion extended the lead and sealed a well-earned win as the clock wound down.
With the first home game of the season on the horizon, a blockbuster against Burleigh, coach Hunt has emphasised the importance of consistency and building on the foundations laid in Round 1.