Following the postponement of Round 1 matches due to Cyclone Alfred, the Hostplus Cup made its playing return over the weekend to officially kickstart the 2025 season.
The Round 2 games displayed a mix of passion and determination, reflecting the true spirit of the game.
The Norths Devils showcased their strength with a decisive win, while the Wynnum Manly Seagulls fought back from a halftime deficit to secure a thrilling comeback.
Each team brought their all, reminding us of the excitement and unpredictability that makes the Hostplus Cup so special.
As the season unfolds, the competitive atmosphere is sure to promise an exciting season for both the players and fans alike.
Wynnum Manly Seagulls 36 def Burleigh Bears 24
The Seagulls displayed an impressive offensive performance at BMD Kougari Oval, with Jock Madden leading the scoring with six successful conversions.
Despite a valiant effort from Burleigh which included two tries from Lorenzo Mulitalo, it was not enough to overcome the Seagulls.
In an exciting twist, the home side entered halftime trailing 2-124, but they didn't let that discourage them.
Instead, they showed incredible grit and determination.
They tightened up their defence and refused to let the Bears find a way through in the second half.
With a burst of urgency, the Seagulls turned things around and took charge on offence.
They scored several tries early on, lighting up the crowd with their energy, and kept the momentum going right until the final whistle.
Their relentless efforts on both offense and defence paid off, leading to a fantastic 36-24 victory.
This game truly showed that the Seagulls have the heart and tenacity to win when it matters most.
Norths Devils 44 def Western Clydesdales 8
At Toowoomba Sports Ground, the reigning premiers, the Norths Devils showcased their dominance with a standout performance, highlighted by a hat-trick from LJ Nonu, turning on the gas to solidify the win in the final minutes of the game.
Sunshine Coast Falcons 28 def PNG Hunters 6
The Falcons secured a solid victory at Sunshine Coast Stadium, with Cody Hunter shining, contributing both as a try scorer and with his four successful conversions.
The Hunters struggled to keep pace, managing only one try from Elijah Roltinga throughout the game.
Tweed Seagulls 20 def Northern Pride 16
In a tightly contested game at Barlow Park, the Tweed Seagulls pulled off a narrow win, with Lindon McGrady converting all four of his attempts at goal, one of those being a decisive penalty goal.
The game was highlighted by a strong effort from the Northern Pride, who pushed hard but fell just short.
Brisbane Tigers 26 drew CQ Capras 26
At Totally Workwear Stadium, a thrilling draw saw both teams share the spoils after evenly matched performances.
Each side displayed impressive tries, with Keagan Russell-Smith and Blake Moore both contributing three conversions and two penalty goals for their teams.
Townsville Blackhawks 27 def Mackay Cutters 20
The Blackhawks triumphed at Jack Manski Oval, thanks to a late try from McKenzie Baker that sealed their victory.
They were supported by Lennix Tovo’s accurate kicking, successfully converting all five of his goal attempts.
Redcliffe Dolphins 36 def Souths Logan Magpies 22
At Davies Park, the Redcliffe Dolphins' Joshua James stood out with a single try and six goals, helping his team establish a strong lead.
The Magpies fought hard to the end with four tries as Coby Black crossed over the line in the 72nd minute but could not match the Dolphins' scoring efficiency.
