The Burleigh Bears have secured the John “Cracker” McDonald Shield following a commanding 38-14 victory over the Sunshine Coast Falcons.
Burleigh’s final round victory ensured the Bears (37 points) pipped the Norths Devils (36 points) in the battle for the prestigious Hostplus Cup minor premiership.
Norths momentarily had one hand on the trophy after beating the Central Queensland Capras 36-16 on Saturday.
But all is not lost for the Devils, who are still well placed to challenge for a fourth premiership in five years after securing a home qualifying final against the Townsville Blackhawks this Saturday.
Burleigh’s qualifying final match up will be against fourth-placed Wynnum Manly Seagulls, who ended the season of fierce rivals Brisbane Tigers with a plucky 22-14 win at BMD Kougari Oval.
That result saved the day for the Ipswich Jets, who were able to lock down eighth spot on the ladder despite a final-round loss to the Souths Logan Magpies.
The Jets will now walk the finals tight rope, needing to upset the Falcons (fifth) at Sunshine Coast Stadium in their sudden-death encounter.
The other elimination final will see the Redcliffe Dolphins (sixth) at home against the PNG Hunters (seventh), who warmed up for the opening week of the finals with a comprehensive 40-10 win over the Northern Pride.
With the top eight confirmed, finalists are now preparing to make a charge for the on September 27 at Kayo Stadium.
Week 1 finals
Saturday, September 6
Qualifying Final 1: Burleigh Bears v Wynnum Manly at UAA Park, 2pm* Live and free on Qplus.tv
Qualifying Final 2: Norths Devils v Townsville Blackhawks at Bishop Park, 4pm* Live and free on Qplus.tv
Elimination Final 2: Redcliffe Dolphins v PNG Hunters at Kayo Stadium, 6pm* Live and free on Qplus.tv
Sunday, September 7
Elimination Final 1: Sunshine Coast Falcons v Ipswich Jets at Sunshine Coast Stadium, 2.10pm* Live and free on Qplus.tv, Kayo Freebies and 9Now
· Queensland Rugby League Grand Final Day
- Saturday, September 27 at Kayo Stadium
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- Four games! Local rivalries, future stars, and finals footy with heart
- Reserved and family options across multiple price points
- Premium experiences available in the Shell V-Power Civoniceva Lounge or XXXX Ultra Terrace
