Bull Sharks out to tame the Tigers
Bond University takes on Easts Tigers in round two on Saturday when rugby returns to The Canal for the first time in 2023.
The Bull Sharks are full of confidence after knocking over reigning premiers Wests Bulldogs, whereas the Tigers were forced to grind out a tough 25-17 win over Sunnybank Dragons in their season opener.
Here’s the key things you need to know.
Our captains for 2023
The Bull Sharks have announced a new leadership structure with Lachie Connors and Angus Blyth named first grade co-captains. Former skipper Dan Boardman remains in a leadership group that also includes Jack Winchester, Tyler Campbell, Liam Dillon, Will Morrison and Jake Upfield.
The women’s side will continue to be led by Elisha Godsiff with Mel Wilkes vice-captain. Ebony Satala, Zoe Hanna and Jemma Bemrose round out the leadership group.
Harrison Usher is our Colts 1 captain and Max Dowd has been appointed club captain.
Last time they met
It was the final round of 2022 with Bond finishing the season on a high with a commanding 41-19 victory over the Tigers. It was a compete performance from the Bull Sharks as they reclaimed the Batty-Bremner-Thomas trophy.
On that day, winger Hamish Roberts continued his impressive rookie season, scoring a try while maintaining a flawless record off the tee including a booming 51m kick.
Where will it be won
After an impressive start in round one, assistant coach Andrew Fraser has made it clear that this is just the beginning for the Bull Sharks.
He sees Bond’s capacity to match Easts in the set piece as a key to success.
“We got the benchmark performance on the weekend but Easts this week are a finalist-calibre opponent and we need to build and take that next step,” he said.
“Easts use their set piece to show dominance so we want to be measured there and get some parity early.
“We showed we have a good set piece as well so this will be good test and a key part of the game on Saturday.”
One to watch
Captain and seasoned outside centre Dan Boardman returns to the squad this week after missing last week and will bring direction and enthusiasm to the group.
The key match-up will see Boardman line up against form Tigers outside centre and former rugby league player Pio Nakabuwai in a battle that will play a critical part in the result.
Premier Women’s
It’s a grand final rematch for the women with Bond battling fierce rivals Easts. The Bull Sharks will look to continue their strong form against the Tigers who they defeated 25-12 in the 2022 final at Suncorp Stadium to claim the premiership.
Game times
9:30am – Colts Two
10:50am – Third Grade
12:10pm – Colts One
1:30pm – Second Grade
3:05pm – First Grade
4:45pm – Premier Women