Magpies started with a strong foot forward in the first instalment of Rivalry Round over the weekend against the reigning Premiers the Norths Devils. With a slow start to the game, the Magpies picked up momentum to see Coby Black cross the line in the 16th minute. Successfully converted by Broncos’ trial and train Latrell Siegwalt.
Cracks in the Magpies defence showed as Norths answered back shortly after, pushing through three Magpies to score. Unconverted, Magpies held onto their lead at 6-4. A two-point lead wasn’t enough for Souths, with Broncos’ affiliate Ben Te Kura barging through the Devils defence to score under the posts successfully converted bringing the score to 12-4.
The game continued back and forth to bring the score to 18-18 where the Magpies performance slipped to give Devils the upper hand and secure the win with a final score of 22-30 to the reigning Premiers.
The Magpies displayed a more cohesive performance on Saturday compared to the previous week, but it still fell short of Head Coach Karmichael Hunt's expectations.
When asked about the game, Hunt said “It was a much-improved effort from the team this week however, close enough is not good enough. We showed commitment to our game plan for the majority of the contest but went away from it at crucial times, and Norths made us pay.”
Souths take on the Sunshine Coast Falcons in this weekend's clash at Davies Park. Falcons sit 5th on ladder and will be hungry for a win after coming off a loss to the Western Clydesdales in Round 3.
Sunday’s game will be broadcast on Qplus Tv, Kayo and 9Now kicking off at 2:10PM AEST. Be sure to tune in or get down to Davies Park to support the Magpies.