The PNG Bintangs were too strong for the Country Kookaburras in the play-off for fifth spot in the Kooga AFL Queensland U14 State Championships at Maroochydore today.
Torrential rain on the Sunshine Coast all week saw the remainder of day 3 games postponed with the new date to be announced next week.
Both teams had to contend with a strong Southerly wind and heavy field but the bigger-bodied and pacier Binatangs seemed more at ease in the slippery conditions.
The Binatangs were quick to the ball and hard in contests overpowering the Kookaburras outfit across four quarters.
Hustling the ball forward with swarming packs, the Binatangs shared the load well with seven individual goal scorers.
“We are very proud of the boys and the improvement they have shown over the week and they all look to have a great future in football,” said PNG coaching staff.
The Kookaburras rallied in the final quarter and had plenty of ball in their forward fifty but the Binatangs held tight running out winners 7.8.50 to 3.6.24
Kookaburras team manager, David ‘Penguin’ Harding said he was pleased with the boys’ performance on the final day and across the championships.
“It was a great contest from both teams in very wet and slippery conditions,” said Harding.
Country Kookaburras Goal Kickers
Jack Bowles, Reiley Guest and Stautou Waiai.
Country Kookaburras Best Players
Angus O’Sughrue, Rene Lefeuvre, Riley Raven, Jack Bowles and Josh Redsell.
Papua New Guinea Goal Kickers
John Susuve, Bol Mark, Raymond Nukari, Theo Mark, Nathaniel Noke, Jackson Nawi and Gabby Wingomi.
Papua New Guinea Best Players
John Susuve, Gilmore Morehari, Gabby Wingomi and Ludwig Teine.
Matches yet to be played (date and venue TBA)
Seventh Playoff
Northern Raiders Vs Gold Coast North
Third Playoff
Suncoast Power Vs South Eastern Bushrangers
Grand Final
Gold Coast South Vs Western Taipans
