The Kinetic School League Grand Finals provided a thrilling day of rugby league action, showcasing intense matchups and standout performances across all divisions.
Take a look at the match summary from each game below:
Southport SHS v Marsden SHS: 9/10 DEV Boys
In a closely contested match, Southport SHS and Marsden SHS engaged in a hard-fought battle that saw Southport emerging victorious in the closing minutes.
Both teams displayed worthy effort and skill, keeping the game competitive until the very end.
Southport took control in the second half however, capitalising on opportunities with tries in the 6th, 15th, 19th, and 25th minutes.
Josiah Muarri-Walker’s hat-trick and Elijah Penai’s contribution underscored Southport’s strong attacking play.
Marsden showed resilience with a well-executed try off a line break in the 13th minute, converted by Penzelle McGee and, despite facing challenges, including a sin bin in the 24th minute, Marsden fought hard throughout the game.
Final Score: Southport 22 - Marsden 10
Player of the Match: Southport #11 Elijah Penai
Keebra Park SHS v Marsden SHS: 9/10 ADV Boys
Marsden SHS demonstrated their dominance from the outset, showcasing solid defensive tactics and effective ball control that set the tone for the match.
Despite the scoreline, Keebra Park displayed resilience and determination throughout.
In the first half, Marsden’s structured gameplay led to tries in the first, fifth, 10th, and 23rd minutes, highlighting their offensive prowess.
Players #19 (Antwon Stowers), #6 (Nathan Phelps), #1 (Boston Barnard), and #2 (Lucas Mann) contributed to the scores, with Phelps converting three tries.
Keebra Park’s defense held firm under pressure, showcasing their resolve in difficult situations.
The second half saw Marsden maintain their momentum, adding to their lead with tries in the 11th, 16th, 17th, and 25th minutes.
Players #7 (Shaye Pousini), #9 (Ryder Tyson), and #4 (League Tua) extended Marsden’s advantage, demonstrating their depth and skill.
Keebra Park continued to compete fiercely, defending stoutly and pushing forward in attack despite the tough challenge.
Final Score: Marsden 42 - Keebra Park 0
Player of the Match: Marsden #13 Mahe Latu
Tweed River v Keebra Park SHS: Opens DEV Boys
The match between Tweed River and Keebra Park SHS was a closely contested affair, characterised by balanced possession and spirited play from both sides.
Both teams showcased their skills and determination throughout the game.
In the first half, Keebra Park capitalised on early opportunities, scoring tries in the seventh and 24th minutes, with conversions by player #7 (Denzel McBride).
Tweed River responded with a try by Riley Weaver (#5) in the 13th minute, displaying their attacking intent.
The first half also saw a brief injury timeout in the 17th minute, underscoring the physical intensity of the match.
The second half saw Keebra Park extend their lead with a try and conversion in the 12th minute by player #7 (Denzel McBride).
Tweed River fought back with tries in the 15th and 22nd minutes by Jayden Zutt (#2) and Asha Swaney (#11), highlighting their resilience and determination to stay competitive.
Despite a sin bin for Tweed’s #14, both teams continued to play with intensity and commitment until the final whistle.
Final Score: Tweed River 12 - Keebra Park 18
Player of the Match: Keebra Park #11 Asha Swaney
Keebra Park v Marsden SHS: 9/10 ADV Girls
The match started with a flurry of activity as both teams engaged in competitive play, showcasing their skills and determination.
Marsden SHS demonstrated strong execution in the first half, while Keebra Park mounted a spirited comeback in the second half.
In the first half, Marsden SHS scored tries in the 14th and 17th minutes by Lizzy Mikaio (#2) and Indy Faaaonga-Andrews (#16), with Carayanidis Ta’Akimoeaka-Pulu (#20) converting one.
Keebra Park faced challenges but showed resilience in defense and determination in attack, keeping the game competitive.
The second half saw Marsden continue to build on their momentum with tries in the 2nd and 6th minutes by Shyloh Tofae (#6) and Carayanidis Ta’Akimoeaka-Pulu (#20), both converted successfully.
Keebra Park fought back valiantly with tries in the 12th, 17th, and 21st minutes by Ivy O’Brien (#6), Zihade Laterre (#3), and Aaliyah Te Mete (#13), showcasing their grit and refusal to give up.
Shakaye Saletele (#2)’s conversion added to Keebra Park’s score, highlighting their resilience throughout the match.
Final Score: Marsden 22 – Keebra 18
Player of the Match: Marsden #6 Shyloh Tofae
Marymount v PBC: Open ADV Boys
Marymount displayed superior control and execution in a dominant performance against Palm Beach Currumbin (PBC), showcasing their skill and determination throughout the match.
Despite the result, PBC showed resilience and grit in their efforts.
In the first half, Marymount capitalised on opportunities, scoring tries in the 7th, 15th, and 25th minutes.
Players #9 (Hadley Smith), #14 (Hayden Riddell), and #2 (Jordan Ryan) were instrumental in Marymount’s offensive efforts, with Ryder Abell (#6) converting one try.
Hadley Smith's performance was particularly outstanding, scoring four tries and earning the Player of the Match award for the second year in a row.
Despite a sin bin early in the second half, Marymount continued to control the game, adding tries in the eighth, 14th, and 21st minutes.
Hadley Smith’s outstanding performance, scoring four tries and converting two, highlighted Marymount’s dominance.
PBC’s defense remained resolute, showcasing their commitment and determination throughout the match.
Final Score: Marymount 28 - PBC 0
Player of the Match: Marymount #9 (Hadley Smith)
The Kinetic School League Grand Finals celebrated the talent and sportsmanship of young players, with each match highlighting the dedication and competitive spirit of all teams involved.
The day concluded with a thank you to major sponsors Kinetic, and the invaluable support from the NRL, Gold Coast and Brisbane Referee Associations, First Aid Officers, GC City Council, host venues, teachers, and parents.
Owner Darryl Kelly, chairman Dennis Watt, and players Keano Kini and Josiah Pahulu, along with development players Arama Hau, Seth Nikotemo and Ryder Williams were present to watch the finals and hand out trophies, adding to the significance of the event.
Their participation made the Kinetic School League Grand Finals a special occasion for all involved.