Bond University welcomes the University of Queensland to The Canal this weekend for the season’s second intervarsity clash.
Last time they met
It was a thriller in round 7 when Bond stole victory from the Red Heavies in the final moments. Hooker Moli Sooaemalelagi scored the try and sharpshooter Hamish Roberts kicked the conversion from the sideline to close out the game 22-21 and secure the Bull Sharks’ first win at UQ in five years.
Where will it be won
Rhian Stowers has been lighting up the field this season and understands the step-up required to confront UQ.
“UQ are known for their physicality so it will be on us to match that intensity as well ensuring we are playing in the right areas of the field to limit their counterattack options,” he said.
The university clashes have become highlights of the calendar and Bond is looking to make it two from two over UQ in 2023.
“There's definitely a bit more venom in the tackles when these teams battle it out. We want to keep the momentum flowing into the finals so it's important to perform well on the weekend,” Stowers said.
Bond currently sit on top of the ladder with three rounds remaining and are striving to achieve the minor premiership and head into the finals full of confidence.
“The messaging from the coaches has basically been the same all year - it's just about us not being complacent and never getting bored of the things you don’t get rewarded for and making sure we all know our role within the team,” Stowers said.
Around the club
Saturday is also Ladies Day at The Canal, celebrating the tremendous women that make up Bond University rugby and wider Gold Coast community.
The Premier Women take on UQ at 9:30am, with both sides having won 10 games this season and Bond pushing to cement their spot in the top two.
Colts 1 are playing for their future, currently sitting in fifth place and taking on fourth-placed UQ at 5pm.
Game day timings
Premier Women: 9:30am
Colts 2: 10:50am
Third grade: 12:10pm
Second grade: 1:30pm
First grade: 3:05pm
Colts 1: 5pm