Mackay Cutters have thrown down the gauntlet to BMD Womens Rugby League premiership pacesetters Souths Logan Magpies after a classic top-of-the-table clash in Townsville last weekend.
A last gasp try by centre Sera Koroi helped the undefeated Magpies snatch a 28-26 victory and open up a four point cushion on the competition ladder.
It was a cruel twist for the spirited Cutters who led 26-24 after talented winger Alicia Martin had crossed for a vital try with nine minutes remaining.
Just as Mackay looked set to inflict the first loss on Souths Logan this season, the strong running Koroi broke their hearts by bursting through to nab her second four pointer inside the final 60 seconds of play.
Led by enforcer prop Frieda Sue and Jillaroo forwards Brittany Breayley-Nati and Stephanie Hancock, the competition leaders justified their number one ranking.
Earlier the elusive Martin opened the scoring when she dashed over for her first try after six minutes with back rower Romy Teitzel potting the extras.
Strong running second rower Tyesha Mikaio responded for the Magpies with a 13th minute try before Teitzel extended the Cutters lead to eight points after grabbing her team’s second try with a powerful surge.
Souths Logan winger Kalisi Longopoa crossed nine minutes later as Mackay went to the break with a 12-8 advantage.
Three quick tries after the interval by talented fullback Evania Pelite, second rower Jasmine Fogavini and match winner Koroi turned the match for the Magpies.
They jumped to a 24-12 lead before the Cutters hit back in style with five eighth Alisha Foord, winger Lauren Moss and Martin all notching crucial tries to set up a thrilling finale.
Meanwhile, the Hunters recorded a hard fought 18-10 victory over Mackay Cutters in their Hostplus Cup fixture last Saturday at PNG Stadium in Port Moresby.
Hunters fullback Morea Morea and centre Benji Kot nabbed early tries to set up a 10-0 lead before quick stepping number four Josh Smith posted Mackay’s lone first half try after 27 minutes with Brandon Finnegan adding the conversion.
Back rower Julius Yakopa crashed over for the Hunters third try soon after to give the home side a 14-6 lead at the interval.
Dashing winger Flynn Camilleri kept the visitors in the hunt when he sliced through to score after 53 minutes before centre Rodrick Tai sealed victory for the Hunters with a determined late try.
Michael Comerford’s winless Cutters meet ninth placed Northern Pride this Saturday at Barlow Park Cairns at 5.30pm.
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