WYNNUM-Manly Seagulls have fallen short against Burleigh Bears despite a spirited second-half fightback in their Round 20 Queensland Cup clash.
Burleigh made the stronger start, crossing twice inside the opening 20 minutes before adding two more tries later in the first half to take control of the contest.
Wynnum-Manly finally found their breakthrough in the 35th minute, with Garry Tuilekutu crossing to give the Seagulls some momentum heading into the sheds.
The Seagulls returned from half-time with renewed energy, mounting pressure on the Bears and beginning to find rhythm in their attack.
Prop Beni Allen added a try in the 60th minute with Alex Lobb converting to bring the Seagulls closer.
Just six minutes later, Bayley Sironen crossed for the Seagulls with Lobb again successful from the tee.
Continuing the Seagulls’ surge, Antonio Verhoeven scored in the 69th minute, threatening a remarkable second-half comeback.
Despite their four tries in the second half, Wynnum-Manly could not overcome Burleigh’s early advantage, with the Bears holding on for the victory.
The result leaves Wynnum-Manly sitting seventh on the Queensland Cup ladder after Round 20 with the Seagulls now preparing to return home for a Round 21 clash against the Falcons this Sunday.
Wynnum will be out to avenge their earlier-season defeat and get their campaign back on track with a crucial win on home soil.
In other weekend results, the BMD Premiership Women suffered a 44-6 defeat to Burleigh Bears.
The Seagulls will have the opportunity to respond next weekend when they take on the Falcons.
