THE Wynnum Manly Seagulls will look to build off a super second half effort in the Hostplus Cup when they make a triumphant return to BMD Kougari Oval for this weekend’s Anzac Day showcase.
The Seagulls were dominant in their win over the Tigers at Langlands Park last weekend, blowing past the home team to register 20 unanswered points on the way to a 24-4 victory.
And continuing the strong efforts of the Wynnum youth pathways group, the Mal Meninga Cup squad finished as minor premiers with a 22-6 win over the Tigers to earn a week off ahead of the Finals on May 2 and 3.
In the Hostplus Cup, Wynnum-Manly were disciplined early and opened the scoring after 15 minutes when fullback Ben Parr slid through a gap three passes off the ruck from a nicely timed steer from Ryley Jacks.
The home side hit back shortly after with a try wide out after sustained attacking pressure following a penalty for an escort off a kick.
The two teams were locked 4-4 at the break, but Wynnum started the second half strongly as they chased a much-needed win.
Hard-running winger Garry Tuilekutu opened the account, when the former Warriors squad player darted back against the grain to dash over near the posts to make it 10-4.
A penalty to the reliable Alex Lobb in the 50th minute made it 12-4 before both teams locked into an intense 15-minute period as they strove for the upper hand.
Tireless captain Brendan Frei tipped the balance in his team’s favour, as he swooped on a Jacks pass close to the line to extend the lead to 20-4 with 13 minutes remaining.
The win was sealed with five minutes left when backrower Tieran Ross plunged over after a strong break from prop Josh Couric.
This weekend will see players, staff and coaches attend the 8am Anzac Day march and service held by the Manly Lota RSL Sub Branch at Richard Russell Park in Ferguson St.
On Sunday, BMD Kougari Oval will host four games, including the Hostplus Cup clash between the Seagulls and Toowoomba Clydesdales from 3pm.
The pre-game will feature a special ceremony featuring veterans, junior and senior players while Wynnum’s premiership-winning Cyril Connell squad will do a lap of honour at half-time.
BMD Wynnum Manly Seagulls CEO Wayne Weekes said the club was looking forward to hosting representatives from the Queensland RSL, Manly Lota RSL, Wandering Warriors, serving Armed Forces representatives from Enoggera Barracks, and veterans.
“We’re very privileged to join with our veterans and serving armed forces members to recognise and commemorate the men and women who have served, and continue to serve our county,’’ he said.
