Sport
19 July, 2024
Invincible Pride
THE winning streak continues for a seemingly unstoppable Northern Pride which, for the second time, toppled the defending premiers the Brisbane Tigers 24-16 and secured their top spot in the ladder.
A very strong and determined Tigers were still no match for the resilience and grit of the Pride who have once again taken the match and defended their spot at the top of the ladder despite playing on the Tigers’ home ground.
The Pride retains their number one spot on the ladder with 28 points and 12 wins, followed closely by the Norths Devils with 26 points and 10 wins. The Burleigh Bears and Redcliffe Dolphins have 24 points and 10 wins each.
After a brief respite this weekend, the battle for the premiership continues with another away game against the Wynnum Manly Seagulls at the John Street Oval in Cooktown on Saturday, July 27 with kick off at 3.30pm.
Coach Eric Smith said it had been a remarkable game for the team, where, after being in absolute control for the first 25 minutes, had to fight tooth and nail against the Tigers to retake the match, which they succeeded in doing.
Only five more rounds remain before the finals and Northern Pride are vying to defend their spot at the top to crown themselves the new premiers.
Northern Pride chief executive Garreth Smith said that they were hoping to keep the momentum going.
“We saw a highly -anticipated clash against last year’s defending premiers, the Brisbane Tigers, our Kenfrost Homes Northern Pride showcased a performance brimming with grit and resilience, ultimately delivering a pleasing result. It was a game to remember,” he said.
“Coach Eric praised the lads for their performance, noting that for the first 25 minutes, we were in control, demonstrating our prowess and determination.
“However, true to their reputation, the Tigers fought back, displaying the class that saw them crowned premier’s last season. They managed to take the lead, setting the stage for a gripping contest.
“Despite the shift in momentum, our team’s resilience was evident, and we battled fiercely until the final whistle for the win.
“The upcoming bye weekend is timely after our biggest run of games this season, and this will prepare the lads for Country Round in Cooktown on July 27,” he said.
