By Amanda Wright
History was made as the Mackay Cutters secured the title of the first-ever Harvey Norman Under 19 premiers. Hooker Paityne Johns emerged as the standout player of the match, steering her team to victory with sheer determination and skill.
Reflecting on the momentous win, Paityne expressed her exhaustion but overwhelming happiness at the team's triumph. She credited their success to a collective effort and a mindset focused on giving their best on the field.
"My mindset was to just play the best footy I can and the goal was to direct the girls and get us across the line," Paityne said.
Despite facing numerous challenges and injuries throughout the season, the Cutters rallied together, playing not just for themselves but for their absent teammates as well.
"With a number of injuries this season, we did it for the girls who couldn't be on the field," Paityne remarked.
The absence of their coach only fuelled their determination, as they dedicated their inaugural victory to him. Cutters U19 ladies captain Mersades Lawson beamed with pride as she praised her team's resilience and grit in clinching the Harvey Norman Under 19 grand final victory.
In the Hostplus Cup, the Mackay Cutters continued their winning streak with a commanding 52-14 triumph over the Western Clydesdales. Despite facing early challenges and a halftime deficit, the Cutters showcased their mettle, scoring an impressive eight tries to secure their highest points tally in a match.
Coach Michael Comerford commended his team's patience and composure, emphasising the importance of discipline in defence.
"Our attack in the first half was pretty good, it was just our discipline in defence costing us possession and field position," Comerford said, highlighting the team's areas for improvement.
Highlighting standout performances from halves Riley Dean and Kauri Aupouri-Puketapu, Comerford lauded their response after a disappointing showing in the previous week. "We challenged them during the week off the back of a performance we weren't happy with last week against the Blackhawks and they stood up and steered the ship," Comerford added.
The inclusion of Jaxon Purdue added to the team's success, with the 18-year-old halfback making a significant impact with his try-scoring prowess.
"We're very proud Jaxon has come through our junior pathways and had a really breakout couple of years," Comerford said.
In other games, the BMD Premiership squad ladies continued their dominance with a fifth consecutive win, overpowering the Western Clydesdales with a commanding 34-6 victory. Additionally, the U19 boys showcased their prowess in the Mal Meninga Cup, securing a convincing 34-16 win against the Western Clydesdales in Toowoomba.
The Mackay Cutters took the Harvey Norman Under 19 Grand Final win
Hostplus Cup Round 5. Western Clydesdales v Mackay Cutters. Photo: Benny Hassum/QRL
