State championships rivalry the perfect Origin matinee

As anticipation builds for next Wednesday’s State of Origin, fans can enjoy a rugby league entrée when the three Queensland regions serve up the perfect matinee this weekend at Owen Park, Southport.

The annual QRL State Championships will feature the Northern Marlins, Central Crows and two SEQ Water Dragons teams battle it out for the prestigious state title and bragging rights in both the Men’s and Women’s divisions.

QRL Regional general manager Glenn Ottaway believed the healthy rivalry between teams stemmed from the pride of pulling on their local colours.

"There has always been a healthy rivalry between the regions and all players take great pride in representing their region," Ottaway said.

"It rewards players for their commitment to community rugby league and also exposes them to another entry point to higher level participation as part of QRL Major Competitions."

This year, the SEQ Region will feature two teams in both the Men and Women’s draw; the second Men’s side replacing last year’s champions, the Brisbane Rugby League Poinsettias and the second SEQ Women’s side giving an opportunity for more talent to be showcased from the ever-growing SEQ Women’s competition.

"The expansion of South East Queensland in the Women's division is a great result," Ottaway said. 

"The additional team provides great balance across the competition, but more importantly, highlights that the depth of female talent across the state continues to increase.

"This carnival is the pathway for players graduating to the Harvey Norman Women's National Championships and NRLW competitions."

Action kicks off at 10am this Saturday (June 1) with two SEQ junior girls selection trials before the competition matches start at 12noon.

The titles for both the Men and the Women will be resolved by their total points at the end of the two days with no finals played.

The Harvey Norman Women's National Championships will also be hosted on the Gold Coast this weekend, at Pizzey Park, Burleigh.

Keep an eye on QRL.com.au later in the week for team lists and livestream details.

QRL State Championships 2019 draw

Saturday, June 1 - Owen Park, Southport

Sunday, June 2 - Owen Park, Southport

Competition Format

Men's games will be played in 2 x 35 minute halves with no time off for injury.

Women's games will be played in 2 x 30 minute halves with no time off for injury.

Eight points will be awarded per match:

Win - 4 points
Draw - 2 points each team
Loss - 0 points
Moist points scored in each half - 2 points

Entry Fees

Adults $7
Students/Age Pensioners $3
Children aged under 16 free