Sport
27 March, 2026
Pride smash southern rival
NORTHERN Pride overturned an early deficit to defeat Townsville Blackhawks 20-8 in their Hostplus Cup round three clash at Jack Manski Oval.
Trailing 8-0 at halftime, the Pride produced a dominant second-half performance to secure the North Queensland derby win on Saturday night.
The Blackhawks opened the scoring through a try to Paul Roache, with Jack Campagnolo converting to give the home side an eight-point lead at the break.
But the Pride responded after halftime, crossing for three unanswered tries to take control of the match. Jack Boyling (pictured above) got the visitors on the board in the 52nd minute before Campbell Duffy extended the lead nine minutes later.
Winger Ronald Philitoga sealed the result with a third try in the 66th minute, capping a strong attacking display from the Cairns-based side.
Zac Herdegen was perfect with the boot, converting all four attempts to finish with eight points and ensure the Pride capitalised on their second-half opportunities.
The turnaround came on the back of improved defence, with the Pride holding the Blackhawks scoreless after the break despite trailing early.
The result gives Northern Pride its second win of the season following its opening-round victory, while Townsville remains searching for consistency after another loss.
The Pride will now turn their attention to their next assignment as they look to build momentum, while the Blackhawks will aim to regroup after letting a halftime lead slip in front of their home crowd.
