The PNG Hunters and Easts Tigers played out a thrilling 38-38 draw in front of a huge crowd at Aipus Oval to kick off Country Week round, while ladder leaders Sunshine Coast Falcons recorded another win over Norths Devils in Nanango.
PNG Hunters v Easts Tigers 38-38
It was a high-scoring match in PNG and the lead changed a number of times, with the Hunters scoring seven tries but struggling to convert.
Tigers took a 24-16 lead into the break and scored both the first and last try of the second half.
Both sides will have some time off next week due to the split round, with Easts to play the first game of week two against Wynnum Manly.
Sunshine Coast Falcons d Norths Devils 30-12
The Falcons and Devils met in rural Nanango - Queensland's fourth oldest town - and a healthy crowd showed up on a perfect winter's afternoon.
Norths looked in control early, enjoying the majority of possession and testing the Falcons' edges with expansive running and plenty of ball movement.
Despite this, Sunshine Coast were first to hit the scoreboard and crossed for four unanswered tries before halftime, taking a commanding 26-0 lead into the break.
The Devils were camped in the attacking zone 30 metres out for two consecutive sets, but were unable to crack the Falcons’ line.
Despite a less consistent second half, the Falcons ran away 30-12 winners.
Player of the match Harry Grant was equally outstanding in attack and defence, racking up 51 tackles and consistently taking the ball to the line.
