After last week's heartbreaker against the Falcons, the Magpies needed a response. Against the Mackay Cutters at Davies Park, they delivered one in style.
The Magpies were dominant from the opening whistle. Kienan Tempest broke the line in the 12th minute to open the scoring, before Aublix Tawha turned in a standout performance, crossing twice in quick succession in the 16th and 22nd minutes to have the Magpies out to a commanding 16-0 lead. Byron Johnson's boot doing the job with two conversions.
The Cutters hit back in the second half, Jimmy Ngutlik crossing twice to bring the score back to 16-14 and give the home side a brief scare. But the Magpies steadied when it mattered. Callum Eggerling broke through in the 66th minute to restore the buffer, before Max Banditt sealed it late going straight over, Byron Johnson converting both to run out 28-14 winners.
A complete and controlled performance, built on a fast start and a resilient response when the Cutters threatened a comeback. Tawha's double was the highlight of the afternoon, and the Magpies' ability to hold firm under pressure showed a maturity this side has been building toward all season.
It’s starting to build and it is coming along. The Magpies are hitting their stride at exactly the right time.