Fresh off a two-week break, the Bull Sharks will be hoping to clip the Norths Eagles’ wings at The Canal on Saturday.
Last time they met
The Eagles pushed Bond all the way when they last met in round 6 but the Bull Sharks secured a narrow 31-24 win thanks to the class and experience of Jake Upfield and X-factor player Jayden Ngamanu.
Upfield scored two tries, his second sealing the win. Fullback Ngamanu was at his blistering best, cutting through the Norths defence on several occasions.
What they said
Playmaker Dan Lancaster said the team was refreshed and motivated to face the unpredictable Eagles who can dominate when they are on form.
“It's been good to get the few weeks off to reset the mind and body after the recent block of games but we got back into training last week and we are ready for the home stretch of the season,” Lancaster said.
“Norths will be another tough game. They often compete for the full 80 minutes which means we need to be switched on at all times and expect the unexpected from them, especially off set-piece attack.
“The key for us will be maintaining our discipline in our systems and not giving them an early look into the match.”
Lancaster slides straight into the number 10 jersey, returning to Bond at the midpoint of the season.
“I’m loving being back. The challenge of this competition with the different style of rugby, that unstructured attack, is great to be a part of,” he said.
One to watch
Since returning from Queensland Reds duties, scrumhalf Spencer Jeans has stepped back into the Bull Shark number 9 jersey.
His growing partnership with Lancaster is sure to set the field alight at Saturday’s match.
Catch the Bull Sharks at 3:05pm at The Canal or live on Stan Sport.
Game day timings
Colts two: 9:30am at Bond Pirates
Third grade: 9:30am
Premier Women: 10:50am
Colts one: 12:10pm
Second grade: 1:30pm
First grade: 3:05pm