Rugby League Coaching Manuals

The 2009 Universities Rugby League Queensland (URLQ) season kicked off in spectacular fashion last night, with plenty of tries and the arrival of a handful of new stars ushering in the competition’s 21st season.

Defending Premiers the Griffith Dragons commenced their title defence in style, posting six tries on their way to a convincing 32-14 victory over the tireless UQ Hounds.

In a replay of the nail-biting 2008 URLQ grand final, the Dragons dominated from the kick-off, turning a comfortable half-time lead into a resounding 18 point victory.

Rampaging Dragons forward Roger Afele took out the man of the match honours for the visitors, with the burly rookie pulling off some huge hits to inspire his teammates. Livewire fullback Pala Ah Sam also enjoyed a great night out, bagging three tries and 2 goals for a personal tally of 16 points.

The Dragons will now play host to the QUT Trouts next Wednesday night, whilst the UQ Hounds will be searching for their first victory against the USQ Ironbarks.

In last night’s other game, the UQ Gatton Bulls staged a stunning second half revival to claim a breathtaking 24-14 victory over a stunned USQ Ironbarks at Gatton.

The Bulls looked well in control early into the second half, before a rampant Bulls side piled on four unanswered tries to runaway surprise ten point victors.

UQ forwards Mark Law and Brad Wolens paved the way for the second half fight back, with centre Matt Adams and super-sub Daniel Marsh capitalising on the extra space created up front. The Bulls were also well directed by halfback Jamie Dodd, with the crafty number seven scoring a try and two goals in a classy display.

Tireless Ironbarks backrower Eugene Seddon again starred for USQ, with the representative lock rewarded with a converted try after another robust display. Ironbarks five-eighth Matt Schultz continued his innate try scoring form from 2008, finishing with a first round double.

The Bulls now enjoy the week off courtesy of their round two bye, while the Ironbarks now travel to St Lucia to meet the UQ Hounds.