Sunday's clash against the Sunshine Coast Falcons was a game of two very different stories a promising start that slowly unravelled, leaving the Magpies with plenty to reflect on.
The Magpies drew first blood inside six minutes, Mitchell Owen breaking the line to set up Phranklyn Mano-Le-Mamea to finish. But the Falcons hit back quickly. A Thomas Duffy penalty goal gave the Magpies some life. Duffy spending time in the sin bin to compound the harshness of the first half.
The second half started with intent. Max Banditt crossed to make it 10-22, converted by Kingstimer Paraia, and for a moment the Magpies looked ready to mount another comeback in true Magpie style. But the Falcons had other ideas, reeling off three tries in quick succession to stretch the lead to an imposing 12-38.
To their credit, the Magpies refused to lie down. Harry Walters, Kienan Tempest, Mitchell Owen and Byron Johnson all crossed the line. Four tries in the last fifteen minutes but it was too little, too late. The final score read 32-38 to the away team.
A fighting finish that will offer some encouragement, but letting unanswered points in early continues to cost this side. Though it remains promising, get on top early and this Magpies team is dangerous. The second half performances week after week prove that.