Queensland Premier Rugby returns this weekend when the Bull Sharks head up the highway to take on Wests.
The Bulldogs are one of the strongest clubs in the competition across all grades and the guys and girls will have their work cut out for them on a tough opening day.
Our coaches Mick Heenan, Lawrence Faifua and Rico Gear preview the action.
Bull Sharks v Wests
Sci-Fleet Stadium
Premier Men
The Opposition
Wests have played in the past three grand finals and, alongside Brothers, have set the benchmark in the competition over recent years.
Last Time We Met
We had two tight battles against them last year, but they proved just a bit too good for us on both occasions.
The Challenge
Wests are a big, physical team that likes to dominate through the middle before unleashing their athletic backline.
The Focus
At this stage of the season, our priority is on building our own game. However, against a team like Wests, two key areas stand out—moving them around the park to negate their size and stepping up to the physical challenge.
Shuffling the Magnets
We have a strong mix of experienced campaigners like Hamish Roberts, Rhys Sherriff, Tyler Campbell, and Dan Boardman, alongside young talent from our Colts program, including Fergus Gillan, Rocco Gollings, and Charlie Macauley.
One to Watch
New No. 10 Luke Depiazzi is an excitement machine.
With Mick Heenan
Premier Women
The Opposition
Wests have been building a strong program over the past few years and are now attracting quality players. They’ve worked hard to reach this level, and they’ll be a real challenge.
Last Time We Met
They beat us convincingly. We play a similar style, but our defence was poor that day. This time, we’ll have a stronger presence in the middle with bigger, more physical bodies. They remind me of where we were a few years ago—plenty of 7s players transitioning to 15s, looking to play with width.
The Challenge
We have a young squad with limited experience. Depending on final selections, we could have six or seven players making their QPR debut, and for most, it will be their first game of 15s. Our challenge is to build their footy IQ quickly—without overwhelming them.
The Focus
We’ve been working hard around the ruck after struggling there in the trials. Maintaining possession and winning contested ball are key areas for improvement.
One to Watch
TJ Murray makes her Premier Rugby debut at just 15 after starring in the Australian Club Championships final. Also, keep an eye on Matilda Vial—a mini Dianne Waight. Her speed out wide will make her hard to stop.
With Lawrence Faifua
Colts 1
The Opposition
Wests are among the favourites this season. They were grand finalists last year and have a strong coaching team. Playing them early will give us a good marker of where we stand.
Last Time We Met
We didn’t beat them last season, but our last match was one we probably deserved to win—we couldn’t have played much better.
The Challenge
We’re heading into this match a little underdone. Our No. 9, Sam Howarth, has been sidelined with injury but returns this weekend. Without giving too much away, our focus will be on keeping things simple.
Shuffling the Magnets
Injuries to our back three have forced a reshuffle, with everyone shifting out one position. This change actually suits our game plan.
One to Watch
Heinrich Fourie, a South African recruit, has impressed with his strong character and passion for the game. His influence has really rubbed off on the other boys.
The Focus
Executing the simple things well—accuracy, controlling possession, and playing smart rugby. We won’t be overly expansive; we’ll just stick to a disciplined game plan.
Final Word
The day kicks off with Colts 2, who will set the tone. A strong result from them will set the mindset for Colts 1.
With Rico Gear