The Bull Sharks demolished Norths Eagles 52-5 at The Canal on Saturday, reclaiming top spot on the Queensland Premier Rugby ladder heading into the final three rounds.
How it unfolded
It took just 60 seconds for Bond to cross the chalk when winger Kitione Taliga went over untouched after a beautiful long ball from Dan Lancaster.
The game settled in with both sides competing heavily around the breakdown and at scrum before Bond had their second try when halfback Spencer Jeans sniped his way through the defensive line in the 21st minute.
The momentum would continue when Bond got two more quick tries through Rusiate Nasove and Tyler Campbell to lead 28-0 at halftime.
The second 40 started much like the first when Fijian capped international and Bull Sharks hooker Masu Dolokoto got a try off the back of the rolling maul from close range.
In the 46th minute, the Bond backline produced one of the tries of the season with some exceptional passing that included a quick tap on, a wrap around and a flick pass, with Tyler Campbell finishing off the play for his second try of the match.
Jayden Ngamanu and Dan Boardman would add a try each to the scoresheet.
Norths would get a long-range consolation five pointer but it was all Bond University in the 52-5 win.
What they said
Queensland Red Angus Blyth made his return to the Bull Sharks and produced a stellar performance.
“We were really pleased to put in a very dominant performance. There were plenty of individuals showing great skills and natural talent out there today in front of our home supporters,” he said.
Bond showcased their massive forward pack with the reinforcements packing a punch at scrum time.
“The scrum went really well today, the front row in particular stood up and provided the back five with a clear plan with what we were aiming to achieve with every scrum.”
In recent seasons when Blyth has returned to the Bull Sharks from Reds duties it's been into a side on the cusp and fighting for a spot in the top four, but this year it's a bit different.
“It was so great to get back out there with the guys. The team has been really strong all year and it's great to be sitting in the top four as we look to continue building the momentum heading into the finals,” Blyth said.
What’s next
Bond host the University of Queensland at The Canal on Saturday, which also happens to be Ladies’ Day.
With Norths forfeiting in the Premier Women, our third-placed Bull Sharks will be eager for some minutes, and they will need to be ready to meet second-placed UQ in a crucially important match for Bond hunting for a top-two finish.