Sunshine Coast Falcons to meet PNG Hunters in Intrust Super Cup Grand Final
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| Justin Olam in action |
In a stunning performance, Craig Ingebrigtsen’s side ran riot in the second half to secure their first Intrust Super Cup grand final appearance since 2009.
The Falcons scored four tries to one in the second stanza, with star halfback Ryley Jacks bagging a double.
Former Hunter Justin Olam also claimed two tries for himself, after he scored the first four-pointer of the game in the sixth minute.
The final score from the Sunshine Coast was one that few could have predicted, given Redcliffe’s form this year.
But Ingebrigtsen said his side executed perfectly to leave the Dolphins heartbroken.
“It’s a bit surreal,” he said.
“You start in the middle of November and you think of this as your goal, that you want to play in the grand final. Obviously only two teams go there so I’m really happy and proud of our group.
“We made sure we were clinical about what we did. The boys were outstanding on their execution.
“I can’t wait for next Sunday. I wish it was here now ... we’re up for the challenge. Momentum is a wonderful thing.”
The Falcons have only won the competition once in the Queensland Cup-era, after they claimed the trophy in 2009.
It has taken a lot of work for the club to get back to this point, after they almost folded before they became a Melbourne Storm feeder club in 2015.
That hard work and determination was also on show as player captain Dane Hogan pushed through injury to help get the Falcons the win.
It was revealed on Sunday that Hogan fractured his cheekbone in the semi-final showdown against Easts last week while playmaker Jacks had also battled a minor groin injury before the Redcliffe clash.
Jacks played down his issue, saying it was much better now than it had been against Easts, but said that need to put the team first was crucial at this time of year.
“Last week I had a bit of a groin injury but everyone is playing with little injuries at the moment,” he said.
“There’s a lot of boys at every club at this time of year with injuries. I’m not the only one getting needles and stuff.
“It’s just what you have to do. You’re one game away from the grand final, so it’s all worth it.”
The Falcons will take on the Hunters next Sunday, September 24 at Suncorp Stadium in what is sure to be a thrilling end to the Intrust Super Cup season.
SUNSHINE COAST FALCONS 40 (Justin Olam 2, Joe Stimson 2, Ryley Jacks 2, Scott Drinkwater tries; Guy Hamilton 6 goals) d REDCLIFFE DOLPHINS 14 (Troy Giess, Jonus Pearson tries; Tyson Gamble 3 goals) at Dolphin Oval.
Source: The Courier Mail: Photo: Sunshine Coast Daily
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