NYC players selected in revamped Qld Emerging Origin squads

[caption id="attachment_4773" align="aligncenter" width="650"] Valentine Holmes (Photo: Courier Mail)[/caption]

The Queensland Rugby League have announced their 2015 QAS Emerging Origin squads.

The system has undergone a slight revamp with the senior squad expanding to 18 players and the Junior Emerging Origin squad being replaced by a combined Emerging Maroons.

The new squad features current and recently graduated NYC players and players with both Intrust Super Cup and NRL experience.

The following 2015 NYC-eligible players were selected in the two squads:

Queensland State of Origin Emerging Squad 2015

• Valentine HOLMES (Cronulla Sharks)

Emerging Maroons Squad 2015

• Jai ARROW (Brisbane Broncos)


• Luke BATEMAN (Canberra Raiders)


• Lindsay COLLINS (Brisbane Broncos)


• Jordan DREW (Brisbane Broncos)


• Coen HESS (North Queensland Cowboys)


• Brenko LEE (Canberra Raiders)


• Jayden NIKORIMA (Brisbane Broncos)


• Joe OFAHENGAUE (Brisbane Broncos)


• Marion SEVE (Wests Tigers)


• Ashley TAYLOR (Brisbane Broncos)

You can view the full squads here: http://www.qrl.com.au/news/2014/12/16/qas_emerging_squads_.html

Junior Kiwis v Junior Kangaroos preview

[caption id="attachment_4664" align="aligncenter" width="500"] David Nofoaluma playing for the Junior Kangaroos in 2013 (Photo: Gregg Porteous)[/caption]


Junior Kiwis v Junior Kangaroos
Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland, New Zealand
Live in New Zealand on Sky Sport 2, 7:00pm
Live in Australia on Fox Sports 2 (Press red), 5:00pm (NSW)/4:00pm (Qld)

The Junior Kangaroos will be aiming for their third straight victory over the Junior Kiwis, as they venture to New Zealand for the first time since 2010.

When the sides last met in New Zealand, they played a two game series, with both teams grabbing a victory.

On Saturday night, the Kangaroos will head into the clash as favourites, with 9 of their 18 man squad playing first grade in 2014. On the other side, second rower Joseph Tapine is the only Junior Kiwi to play in the NRL.

Last year, the Junior Kangaroos fought back from 10 points down to defeat the Junior Kiwis 38-26 in Sydney. Patrick Mago and Willis Meehan are the only returning players for the Kangaroos, while Manaia Cherrington, Zach Dockar-Clay and Tapine.

Team lists
Junior Kiwis: (in alphabetical order) Josh Ailoai (Eels), Nelson Asofa-Solomona (Storm), Manaia Cherrington (captain) (Tigers), Zach Docker-Clay (Eels), Addin Fonua-Blake (Dragons), Watson Heleta (Tigers), Sione Katoa (Panthers), Danny Levi (Knights), Lamar Liolevave (Tigers), Sam Lisone (Warriors), Sam Manulelua (Rabbitohs), Te Maire Martin (Tigers), Taane Milne (Roosters), Kodi Nikorima (Broncos), Chance Peni (Knights), Joseph Tapine (Knights), Adam Tuimavave-Gerard (Warriors), Braden Uele (Roosters). Coach: Brent Gemmell.

Junior Kangaroos: Clint Gutherson (Sea Eagles), Valentine Holmes (Sharks), Jack Bird (Dragons), Euan Aitken (Dragons), Jake Mamo (Knights), Drew Hutchison (Dragons), Ryan Matterson (Eels), Matthew Lodge (Wests Tigers), Cameron McInnes (captain) (Rabbitohs), Joe Ofahengaue (Broncos), Patrick Mago (Raiders), Tevita Pangai (Raiders), Kelepi Tanginoa (Eels). Interchange: Brett Greinke (Broncos), Willis Meehan (Roosters), Cameron Munster (Storm), Andy Saunders (Panthers), Jackson Hastings (Roosters). Coach: Kelly Egan.

UPDATED: Junior Kangaroos side named

[caption id="attachment_4549" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Joe Ofahengaue (Photo: Daily Telegraph)[/caption]

Queensland Under 20's representatives Valentine Holmes and Brett Greinke have been called into the Junior Kangaroos side following the withdrawals of Nene Macdonald and Waqa Blake.

The match will be played on Saturday, October 18 at Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland.

1 Clint Gutherson (Sea Eagles)
2 Valentine Holmes (Sharks)
3 Brett Greinke (Broncos)
4 Euan Aitken (Dragons)
5 Jake Mamo (Knights)
6 Drew Hutchison (Dragons)
7 Ryan Matterson (Eels)
8 Matthew Lodge (Tigers)
9 Cameron McInnes (Rabbitohs)
10 Joe Ofahengaue (Broncos)
11 Patrick Mago (Raiders)
12 Tevita Pangai (Raiders)
13 Kelepi Tanginoa (Eels)

14 Jack Bird (Dragons)
15 Willis Meehan (Roosters)
16 Cameron Munster (Storm)
17 Andy Saunders (Panthers)
18 Jackson Hastings (Roosters)

Coach Kelly Egan (Bulldogs)

Junior Kiwis side named

[caption id="attachment_4466" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Sam Lisone (Photo: Photosport)[/caption]

The following players have been named to play for the Junior Kiwis in their match against the Junior Kangaroos this month.

The match will be played on Saturday, October 18 at Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland.

Junior Kiwis: Josh Ailoai (Parramatta Eels), Nelson Asofa-Solomona (Melbourne Storm), Manaia Cherrington (Wests Tigers), Zach Docker-Clay (Parramatta Eels), Addin Fonua-Blake (St George Illawarra Dragons), Watson Heleta (Wests Tigers), Sione Katoa (Penrith Panthers), Danny Levi (Newcastle Knights), Lamar Liolevave (Wests Tigers), Sam Lisone (Vodafone Warriors), Sam Manulelua (South Sydney Rabbitohs), Te Maire Martin (Wests Tigers), Taane Milne (Sydney Roosters), Kodi Nikorima (Brisbane Broncos), Chance Peni (Newcastle Knights), Joseph Tapine (Newcastle Knights), Adam Tuimavave-Gerard (Vodafone Warriors), Braden Uele (Sydney Roosters)

Coach: Brent Gemmell

Assistant coach: Kelvin Wright

Stacey Jones named Warriors NSW Cup coach

[caption id="attachment_4545" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Stacey Jones (middle), with Mason Lino and Sam Lisone (Photo: warriors.co.nz)[/caption]

Premiership winning coach Stacey Jones has been announced as the new Warriors NSW Cup head coach for 2015.

2014 coach Rohan Smith is headed to the Titans next season, opening up the spot for Jones.

In Jones first year coaching in the NYC, he took the Warriors from 8th place to the Grand Final, where they defeated Brisbane 34-32.

“We’ve always seen a big future for Stacey as a coach,” said Vodafone Warriors general manager football Dean Bell.

“He has done a brilliant job winning the premiership with our NYC side, coming from eighth to first in a season when he didn’t have the use of many of our best juniors for most of the season.

“Due to our philosophy of developing NRL players, many who were eligible to play in the NYC this year were used the next level up in the New South Wales Cup and also the NRL in the case of David Fusitu’a and Tuimoala Lolohea.

“This resulted in Stacey having a very young group of players for most of the year with a number of 17-year-olds making their debuts. Despite that he has taken us to success in the NYC. It’s a huge achievement.”

McFadden said he wanted Jones to not only move up to the NSW Cup level but to also have a heavier involvement with the club’s NRL players.

“He has been really impressive coaching our young players and coming through our pathway,” he said.

“I’m excited about having him involved around our NRL players and bringing the expertise and knowledge he has to help them.

“Stacey also has an unrivalled understanding of and attachment to the club. It has been such a big part of his life.”

Read more here: http://www.warriors.co.nz/news/2014/10/05/jones_confirmed_as_2015_nsw_cup_coach.html

Warriors win 3rd NYC premiership

[caption id="attachment_4541" align="aligncenter" width="500"] 2014 NYC Premiers (Photo: warriors.co.nz)[/caption]

The Warriors have held off a spirited come back by the Brisbane Broncos to win the 2014 Holden Cup.

A first half hat trick, the first in an NYC Grand Final, by centre Solomone Kata saw the Warriors take a commanding 22-6 lead into half time.

Two more tries after the break got the Junior Warriors out to a 34-6 lead with 30 minutes to play.

The Broncos fought back though thanks in part to a double to winger Paul Byrnes.

Jayden Nikorima scored near the sideline with three minutes to play and brought the Broncos within two points, with a conversion to take the game into golden point.

The 18-year old missed the kick and the Warriors captured their third NYC premiership, winning 34-32.

Kata was awarded the Jack Gibson Medal for man of the match thanks to his three try effort.

Full match details available HERE.

Kane Elgey - NYC Player of the Year

[caption id="attachment_4355" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Kane Elgey (Photo: Adam Heads)[/caption]

Gold Coast Titans halfback Kane Elgey has been named the 2014 Dally M NYC Player of the Year at this evening's Dally M Awards in Sydney, despite his side finishing in 15th place.

He wins the award just three weeks after being named on the bench in 2014 NYC Team of the Year, capping off a fantastic year for the half.

A co-captain of the club in 2014, Elgey finished the season as the Titans' top try scorer and top point scorer.

Elgey recently signed his first NRL contract with the club and will join the team's first grade squad for pre season training before Christmas.

Player Profile
Kane Elgey (pronounced El-gee)
Born: 14/1/1994 (Gold Coast, Qld)
Junior Club: Tugun Seahawks
Position: Halfback/Five-Eighth
Rep Honours: Australian Schoolboys (2011)
NYC Debut: v North Queensland, Dairy Farmers Stadium, Rd 1, 2012
NYC career stats: 59 games, 33 tries, 70 goals, 266 points
NYC 2014 stats: 21 games, 16 tries, 32 goals, 128 points

Finals Week 3 results

[caption id="attachment_4498" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Duncan Paia'aua (Photo: Mark Kolbe/Getty Images AsiaPac)[/caption]


Brisbane 24 def. St George Illawarra 16
The Broncos have qualified for their second NYC Grand Final after defeating the Dragons, 24-16. Down 12-0 early, the Broncos fought back to lead by two points at halftime. The Dragons got out to a two point lead themselves with 20 minutes to play, before late tries to Brett Greinke and Duncan Paia'aua sealed the victory for Brisbane. The Broncos' first Grand Final appearance was back in 2008, the NYC's inaugural season.

Warriors 29 def. Parramatta 26
The Warriors have secured their spot in a record fourth NYC Grand Final after beating the Eels by 3 points. The Warriors got off to a hot start, leading 19-6 at halftime. Parramatta got themselves back into the game in the second half, clawing back to lead by 7 points with 7 minutes to play. A try to Kurt Robinson got the Warriors back within one point, before Tuimoala Lolohea crossed in the 80th minute to seal the victory for the junior Warriors.

Trbojevic brothers re-sign with Manly

[caption id="attachment_4491" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Tom Tbojevic (Photo: Getty Images)[/caption]

The Manly Sea Eagles have today announced the re-signing of brothers Jake and Tom Trbojevic.

The deals will see the local juniors stay with the club until the end of 2016.

Tom Trbojevic, aged 17, was named Manly's NYC Player of the Year for 2014, after scoring a club record 20 tries in 17 games and also represented NSW Under 18's.

Older brother Jake spent the season in the NSW Cup, despite still being eligible for the NYC in 2014 and represented the NSW in the Under 20's Origin in May.

Jake made his NRL debut last year against the Panthers in Round 26.

“Jake and Tom are both fantastic young men from the local area who have come through the Club’s development system with flying colours. They’re outstanding prospects,” he said.

“It’s a testament to the what we’re continually building here at Manly. We’ve got some impressive young talent in the likes of Liam Knight, Jesse Ramien, Rhys Armstrong and John Hopoate (Jnr) at present. Our junior ranks are looking as good as ever.”

Read more: http://www.seaeagles.com.au/news/2014/09/26/sea_eagles_lock_in_future_of_stars.html

Wests Tigers coach joins the Warriors

[caption id="attachment_4478" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Andrew Webster (right) with Tigers assistant coach David Kidwell. (Photo: Wests Tigers)[/caption]

Wests Tigers NYC coach Andrew Webster will join the Warriors first grade coaching staff in 2015.

Webster, whose Tigers were eliminated from the NYC finals last weekend, will be an assistant coach under current Warriors head coach Andrew McFadden.

Before linking with the Tigers this season, Webster coached Parramatta's NYC side in 2013.

“Andrew is well regarded as a young coach on the way up,” he (Dean Bell) said.

“Cappy (Andrew McFadden) was keen to have a balance of an experienced voice and a younger coach as his assistants. Tony and Andrew will complement each other perfectly.”

Webster said the offer to join the Vodafone Warriors had come at the ideal time.

“I’m hugely excited about the opportunity to coach in the NRL and to have that chance with a club like the Vodafone Warriors,” he said.

“I’m really impressed with the club overall, with the system and the quality of the players they always have coming through.

“The 10 years I’ve had in coaching has given me experience in every role possible in my goal to coach in the NRL.

“The chance to work with Cappy and Tony (Iro) couldn’t have come at a better time.”

Read more: http://www.warriors.co.nz/news/2014/09/23/second_assistant_coach_named.html

Finals Week 3 preview

[caption id="attachment_4470" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Joe Ofahengaue (Photo: Matt Roberts/Getty Images)[/caption]


1st Preliminary Final
St George Illawarra Dragons v Brisbane Broncos
Friday, September 26, 5:15pm, ANZ Stadium - LIVE on Fox Sports 1


102. That's the number of points the Dragons put past the Broncos in their two encounters earlier this season. In Round 2, fullback Matt Dufty was the star, scoring a double in the Dragons 44-14 victory. While in Round 25, Jack Bird took over the fullback role and starred himself, with halfback Adam Clune bagging four tries in the Red V's 58-18 demolition job. Brisbane will need to forget about all that when the two sides clash on Friday. Last weekend, down by 10 at half time, the junior Broncos' showed outstanding maturity and resiliency to score 34 unanswered points and eliminate the Tigers. They will need to continue that second half form from the get go against the Dragons. An early lead for the Dragons could lead to elimination for the Broncos.

St George Illawarra Dragons
1. Matthew Dufty 2. Sitiveni Moceidreke 3. Euan Aitken 4. Brent Anderson 5. Izaac Thompson 6.Shannon Crook 7. Adam Clune 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Thomas Freebairn 10. Vincent Stowers 11.Wesley Lolo 12. Jack Bird 13. Jay Gallagher. Interchange: 14. Andrew McCarthy 15. Hayden McRae 16. Jack Kavanagh 17. George Lolo 18. Drew Hutchison19. Luciano Leilua 20. Jacob Host 22. Hame Sele. Coach: Dean Young & Ben Hornby.

Brisbane Broncos
1. Kodi Nikorima 2. Paul Byrnes 3. Tom Opacic 4. Jordan Drew 5. Jack Tuttle 6. Duncan Paia'Aua 7.Ashley Taylor 8. Aaron Rockley 9. Jayden Berrell 10. Jo Ofanhengaue 11. Brett Greinke 12. Brendon McBryde 13. Jai Arrow. Interchange: 14. Jayden Nikorima 15. George Fai 16. Ajuma Adams 17. Alex Barr 18. Kalolo Saitaua. Coach: Craig Hodges

How They Got There
St George Illawarra - Finals Week 1 - Won 30-22 v Knights
Brisbane - Finals Week 1 - Lost 26-32 v Eels, Finals Week 2 - Won 42-18 v Tigers.

Head to Head
Played 12, Dragons 7, Broncos 4, Draw 1

2014 Head to Head
Round 25 - St George Illawarra 58 - 18 Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium
Round 4 - St George Illawarra 44 - 14 Brisbane at WIN Stadium

Biggest Head to Head Wins
St George Illawarra d. Brisbane 58 - 18 at Suncorp Stadium, Round 25, 2014
Brisbane d. St George Illawarra 26 - 14 at WIN Stadium, Round 5, 2010

Keep An Eye On
Jack Bird (Dragons) - Bird was the difference in the Dragons' 8-point victory over the Knights two weeks ago. The second rower turned centre scored a double, made 19 hit-ups and broke an astonishing 15 tackles. The local Illawarra junior will be looking to end his time at the club on a high after signing a deal with Cronulla during the week.

Joe Ofahengaue (Broncos) - The nephew of former Wallaby Willie Ofahengaue, big Joe has been the forward leader for the Broncos in 2014. In the first week of the finals, Ofahengaue ran for 246 metres against Parramatta. He backed it up with another strong performance against the Tigers. Look out for him to lead from the front again.

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[caption id="attachment_4466" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Sam Lisone (Photo: Photosport)[/caption]


2nd Preliminary Final
Parramatta Eels v Warriors
Saturday, September 27, 5:15pm, ANZ Stadium - LIVE on Fox Sports 1

Much like the other preliminary final, the Eels' have the wood over their opponents so far in 2o14. The Blue and Gold's blew the junior Warriors off the park in Round 1, winning by 36 points at Pirtek Stadium. In their second encounter in Round 18, the Warriors lead by 1 point before a late try to the Eels' gave them a 3 point victory. The 8th placed Warriors have turned the corner in the finals with upset victories of the Roosters and the Knights the last two weeks, now a fourth straight trip to Sydney beckons. Expect a lot of points when these two attacking juggernauts face off on Saturday afternoon. Of the remaining four sides, these two sides scored the most points in the regular season.

Parramatta Eels
1. Nathan Davis 2. Leva Li 3. Fabian Goodall 4. John Folau 5. Halauafu Lavaka 6. Ryan Matterson 7. Zach Docker-Clay 8. Kelepi Tanginoa 9. Joey Lussick 10. Tui Kamikamica 11. Josh Aloiai 12. Tyrell Fuimaono 13. Jeff Markus. Interchange: 14. Jordan Muna 15. Tepai Tepu-Smith 16. Alex Twal 17. Fred Junior Mauala. Coach: Justin Holbrook.

Warriors
1. Brad Abbey 2. Ngataua Hukatai 3. Nathaniel Roache 4. Solomone Kata 5. Metia Lisati 6.Tuimoala Lolohea 7. Mason Lino 8. Sam Lisone 9. Kurt Robinson 10. Kouma Samson 11. Marata Niukore 12. Adam Tuimavave-Gerrard 13. Jazz Tevaga. Interchange: 14. James Bell 15. Toafofoa Sipley 16. Ken Maumalo 17. Iulio Afoa 20. Ofahiki Ogden. Coach: Stacey Jones.

How They Got There
Parramatta - Finals Week 1 - Won 32-26 v Broncos
Warriors - Finals Week 1 - Won 44-30 v Roosters, Finals Week 2 - Won 23-16 v Knights

Head to Head
Played 11, Parramatta 5, Warriors 5, Draw 1

2014 Head to Head
Round 18 - Parramatta 22 - 19 Warriors at Mt Smart Stadium
Round 1 - Parramatta 54 - 20 Warriors at Pirtek Stadium

Biggest Head to Head Wins
Parramatta d. Warriors 46 - 8 at Parramatta Stadium, Round 1, 2013
Warriors d. Parramatta 52 - 6 at Parramatta Stadium, Round 26, 2010

Keep An Eye On
Kelepi Tanginoa (Eels) - The North Queensland-bound forward was at his destructive best against the Broncos two weeks ago. Running for 246 metres and making 2 line breaks, Tanginoa's go forward is key to the Eels' Premiership chances. With 13 NRL games under his belt, Tanginoa is Parra's most experienced forward.

Sam Lisone (Warriors) - Lisone has firmly established himself as the leader of the Warriors pack. The side's co-captain, Lisone followed up his double against the Roosters with another impressive performance against the Minor Premiers last weekend. The Warriors NYC Player of the Year, Lisone's battle with Tanginoa is shaping up to be a good one.

Finals Week 2 results

[caption id="attachment_4434" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Kodi Nikorima (Photo: Robb Cox)[/caption]

Brisbane 42 def. Wests Tigers 18
The Broncos have fought back from an 18-8 half time deficit to defeat the Tigers in Sydney. The charge was led by the returning Jayden Nikorima, who came off the bench, as the Broncos scored 34 unanswered points in the second half to book a preliminary finals meeting with the Dragons.

Warriors 23 def. Newcastle 16
The Knights have been knocked out in straight sets thanks to a spirited performance by the Warriors. The New Zealanders took an 13-0 lead into half time and never relinquished it as they ended the Minor Premiers' season. Warriors co-captain Sam Lisone was one of the stand outs for his side. The Warriors will face Parramatta next weekend.

Sharks sign Bird

[caption id="attachment_4421" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Jack Bird (right) with Rhys Kennedy (Photo: News Limited)[/caption]

The Cronulla Sharks have today announced the signing of Jack Bird from the St George Illawarra Dragons, on a two year deal.

Bird was a stand out for the Dragons in their victory over Newcastle in the first week of the NYC finals last weekend.

A NSW Under 20's representative this season, Bird will train the Sharks NRL squad in 2015 and will still be eligible for the NYC.

“He is an outstanding talent, which is shown by his extensive junior representative background,” Mooney said. “We are confident Jack can make the transition from the NYC into the NRL and we will give him every opportunity to make that step.

“We’re thrilled he has decided to join us next year, we think he can learn from the likes of Paul Gallen, Luke Lewis and our other senior players and are confident he can develop into a quality NRL player.”

Read more: http://www.sharks.com.au/news/2014/09/18/bird_lands_at_sharks_in_2015.html

 

Mata'utia named RLPA NYC Player of the Year

[caption id="attachment_4414" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Sione Mata'utia (Photo: News Limited)[/caption]

Newcastle Knights centre Sione Mata'utia has been awarded the RLPA NYC Player of the Year award at last night's RLPA Awards in Sydney.

Mata'utia beat out an impressive field, which included Knights' team mate Jake Mamo and Sydney Roosters' back Nene Macdonald, both who have played first grade this season.

The 18-year old started the year in the Holden Cup and finished the regular season with 15 tries in 15 games.

He made his NRL debut later in the year and continued to find the try line, finishing with 7 tries in 7 games.

Earlier this month, Mata'utia was named in the centres in the NYC Team of the Year.

List of winners
2008 Shaun Fensom (Canberra)
2009 Beau Henry (St George Illawarra)
2010 Dylan Farrell (South Sydney)
2011 Jason Taumalolo (North Queensland)
2012 Edrick Lee (Canberra)
2013 Bryce Cartwright (Penrith)
2014 Sione Mata'utia (Newcastle)

Finals Week 1 results

[caption id="attachment_4363" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Mitchell Moses (Photo: Gregg Porteous)[/caption]


Wests Tigers 28 def. South Sydney 24
A returning Mitchell Moses has helped the Tigers to a 28-24 victory over South Sydney, ending the Rabbitohs season. Souths were down by 16 points at one stage but fought back to lead by 2 in the second half. The Tigers were too strong in the end, scoring 2 tries in the final 20 minutes to seal the victory and move on to week 2 of the NYC finals series.

St George Illawarra 30 def. Newcastle 22
The Dragons pulled off the first upset of the finals series, defeating the Knights by 8 points. The Knights were strengthened by the return of Jake Mamo and Sione Mata'utia but will now have to play an elimination game next weekend, while the Dragons get the bye. Jack Bird was the standout for the Dragons, playing in the centres in place of the injured Euan Aitken, scoring a double.

Warriors 44 def. Sydney Roosters 30
An offensive onslaught by the Warriors has seen them knock the Roosters out of the NYC finals. In a high scoring game, the Warriors took a 28-14 lead into half time and never looked back. The highlight of the game  was an incredible try to Warriors winger Metia Lisati, who somehow stayed in the field of play to score in the corner.

Parramatta 32 def. Brisbane 26
A double to halfback Zach Dockar-Clay has helped the Eels overcome the Broncos in Townsville. Parramatta took an early lead, but the contest soon became a close, back and forth contest. The Broncos lead by 6 points in the final 20 minutes, before tries to Ryan Matterson and Dockar-Clay sealed the game for the away side.

Titans re-sign Elgey

[caption id="attachment_4355" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Kane Elgey (Photo: Adam Heads)[/caption]

Gold Coast Titans halfback Kane Elgey been rewarded for his 2014 form by signing a first grade contract with the club.

While his future looked uncertain less than a week ago, the 2014 NYC Team of the Year member has signed a one-year deal with his home town club.

The Tugun Seahawks junior, who represented the Australian Schoolboys while attending Palm Beach Currumbin, had a fantastic year despite the Titans finishing 15th.

Elgey finished the year as the Titans' leading try scorer, with 16 tries, and leading point scorer, with 124 points.

Also re-signed for a further season is Titans NYC graduate Tom Kingston, who made his NRL debut this year.

Kingston is also a local junior, playing his junior football with the Tweed Heads Seagulls.

Read more: http://www.titans.com.au/news/2014/09/12/kingston_and_elgey_re_sign.html

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While Elgey remains on the Coast for another year, his Titans co-captain Jahrome Hughes is still without a club for 2015.

A Tugun junior himself, Hughes has been told he doesn't have a future at the Titans.

“Jahrome played first grade as an 18-year-old (but) they don’t think he’s up to it.”

Woolf said Hughes was a “specialist fullback” who needed a clearer pathway to the No. 1 jersey.

Read more: http://www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au/sport/nrl/gold-coast-titans-on-verge-of-losing-two-best-juniors-jahrome-hughes-and-kane-elgey/story-fnj9yd9w-1227048893405

Finals Week 1 preview

[caption id="attachment_4336" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Nene Macdonald (Photo: roosters.com.au)[/caption]


2nd Elimination Final
Wests Tigers v South Sydney Rabbitohs
Friday, September 12, 2014 - Allianz Stadium - 5:15pm (local time) - LIVE on Fox Sports 1
Referees: Chris Sutton, Peter Gough; Sideline Officials: Luke Potter, Belinda Sleeman; Video Referees: Adam Devcich, Steve Folkes

Wests Tigers (6th)
1. Mason Farrell 2. John Tohi 3. Watson Heleta 4. Delouise Hoeter 5. John Ogden 6. Te Maire Martin 7. Eli Levido 8. Dallas Graham 9. Jeremy Marshall-King 10. Jordan Grant 11. Salesi Funaki 12. Lamar Liolevave 13. Andrew Kazzi. Interchange: 14. Hala Masila 15. Tyler Cassell 16. Sione Alofi 19. Matthew Lodge 24. Daniel Ravkin. Coach: Andrew Webster

South Sydney Rabbitohs (7th)
1. Devon Makoare-Boyce 2. Tom Hughes 3. Tevita Cottrell 4. John Olive 5. Sam Manuleleua 6. Jordie Hedges 7. Brad Wall 8. Ofa Felila 9. Aaron Booth 10. Eden Syme 11. Tulsa Saumamao 12. Jack Gosiewski 13. Cheyne Whitelaw. Interchange: 14. Brock Gray 15. Wallace Tangiiti 16. Clayton Williams 17. PJ Los'e 18. Elliot Gorman. Coach: Ben Gardiner.

Head to Head
Played 14, Wests Tigers 9, South Sydney 5
2014 Form
Wests Tigers - LWWLWWLLWWWWWWWLWLWLDWLW (Steak - 1 win)
South Sydney - WWLLLLWLWWWLWLWLLWLWLWWW (Streak - 3 wins)
2014 Head to Head
Rd 14 - Wests Tigers 28 - 18 South Sydney at ANZ Stadium
Rd 3 - Wests Tigers 26 - 16 South Sydne at ANZ Stadium
Top Point Scorers
Wests Tigers - John Ogden (84 points, 21 tries)
South Sydney - Irae Simone (136 points, 9 tries, 50 goals)
Top Try Scorers
Wests Tigers - John Ogden (21 tries), Watson Heleta (20 tries)
South Sydney - Tom Hughes (14 tries), Irae Simone (9 tries)

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1st Qualifying Final
Newcastle Knights v St George Illawarra Dragons
Saturday, September 13, 2014 - Allianz Stadium - 1:00pm (local time) - LIVE on Fox Sports 1
Referees: Chris Butler, Kasey Badger; Sideline Officials: Anthony Elliott, Ziggy Przeklasa-Adamski; Video Referees: Adam Devcich, Steve Folkes

Newcastle Knights (1st)
1. Jake Mamo 2. Bryce Donovan 3. Sione Mata'utia 4. Chance Peni 5. Braden Robson 6. Brock Lamb 7. Jaelen Feeney 8. Jah Pakau 9. Danny Levi 10. Luke Yates 11. Lachlan Fitzgibbon 12. Joseph Tapine 13. Joe Boyce. Interchange: 14. James De Saxe 15. Pride Petterson-Robati 16. Tuiala Togitasi 17. James Taylor. Coach: Mick Crawley.

St George Illawarra Dragons (4th)
1. Matthew Dufty 2. Sitiveni Moceidreke 3. Euan Aitken 4. Brent Anderson 5. Izaac Thompson 6.Shannon Crook 7. Adam Clune 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Hayden McRae 10. Jay Gallagher 11.Wesley Lolo 12. Jack Bird 13. Vincent Stowers. Interchange: 14. Andrew McCarthy 15. Thomas Freebairn 16. Jack Kavanagh 17. Luciano Leilua 18. Jacob Host 20. Hame Sele 22. George Lolo. Coach: Dean Young & Ben Hornby.

Head to Head
Played 10, St George Illawarra 5, Newcastle 4, drawn 1
2014 Form
Newcastle - WWWWWWDWWLLLWWWDWLWWWLWW (Streak - 2 wins)
St George Illawarra - WWWWWLLWWLWWLWLWLWWLWWWL (Streak - 1 loss)
2014 Head to Head
Rd 26 - Newcastle 36 - 26 St George Illawarra at Hunter Stadium
Top Point Scorers
Newcastle - Bryce Donovan (228 points, 8 tries, 98 goals)
St George Illawarra - Sitiveni Moceidreke (110 points, 15 tries, 25 goals)
Top Try Scorers
Newcastle - Sione Mata'utia (15 tries), Danny Levi, Chance Peni (13 tries)
St George Illawarra - Matthew Dufty (20 tries), Euan Aitken (16 tries)

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1st Elimination Final
Sydney Roosters v Warriors
Saturday, September 13, 2014 - Allianz Stadium - 3:15pm (local time) - LIVE on Fox Sports 1
Referees: Jon Stone, Lawrence McDonnell; Sideline Officials: Adam Reid, David Ryan; Video Referees: Shayne Hayne, Steve Folkes

Sydney Roosters (5th)
1. Joseph Manu 2. Paul Momirovski 3. Brendan Elliott 4. Taane Milne 5. Jack Goodsell 6. Nene Macdonald 7. Tyler Cornish 8. Braeden Uele 9. Alex Thomas 10. Jokatama Dokonivalu 11. Vincent Leuluai 12. Willis Meehan 13. Jake Lewis. Interchange: 14. Grant Garvey 15. Mitchell Mamary 16. Piki Rogers 17. Alex Lyons 18. Harry Vanderhart. Coach: Adam Hartigan.

Warriors (8th)
1. Brad Abbey 2. Ngataua Hukatai 3. Ken Maumalo 4. Solomone Kata 5. Metia Lisati 6 Tuimoala Lolohea 7. Mason Lino (c) 8. Sam Lisone (c) 9. Kurt Robinson 10. Kouma Samson 11. Marata Niukore 12. Adam Tuimavave-Gerrard 13. Jazz Tevaga. Interchange: 14. Ofahiki Ogden 15. Toafofoa Sipley 16. Nathaniel Roache 17. Bunty Afoa 18. James Bell. Coach: Stacey Jones.

Head to Head
Played 11, Warriors 6, Sydney Roosters 4, drawn 1
2014 Form
Sydney Roosters - LWLWWWWLLWWWWLLWWWLWDWWL (Streak - 1 loss)
Warriors - LLWWLWWLWLWWLWWLWLWWLLWD (Streak - 1 draw)
2014 Head to Head
Rd 23 - Sydney Roosters 20 - 18 Warriors at Mt Smart Stadium
Top Point Scorers
Sydney Roosters - Jackson Hastings (138 points, 2 tries, 65 goals)
Warriors - Mason Lino (170 points, 10 tries, 65 goals)
Top Try Scorers
Sydney Roosters - Jack Goodsell (26 tries), Brendan Elliot (22 tries)
Warriors - Brad Abbey (14 tries), Mason Lino (10 tries)

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2nd Qualifying Final
Brisbane Broncos v Parramatta Eels
Saturday, September 13, 2014 - 1300SMILES Stadium - 5:15pm (local time)
Referees: Matt Noyen, Phil Henderson; Sideline Officials: Ricky MacFarlane, Tim Rutherford; Video Referees: Alan Shortall, Luke Phillips

Brisbane Broncos (2nd)
1. Kodi Nikorima 2. Paul Byrnes 3. Tom Opacic 4. Alex Barr 5. Jack Tuttle 6. Duncan Paia'Aua 7.Ashley Taylor 8. Aaron Rockley 9. Jayden Berrell 10. Joe Ofanhengaue 11. Brett Greinke 12. Brendon McBryde 13. Jai Arrow. Interchange: 14. Elijah Alick 15. George Fai 16. Ajuma Adams 17. Brandon Lee. Coach: Craig Hodges.

Parramatta Eels (3rd)
1. Nathan Davis 2. Leva Li 3. Fabian Goodall 4. John Folau 5. Halauafu Lavaka 6. Ryan Matterson 7.Zach Docker-Clay 8. Kelepi Tanginoa 9. Kaysa Pritchard 10. Tui Kamikamica 11. Josh Aloiai 12.Tyrell Fuimaono 13. Jeff Markus. Interchange: 14. Joey Lussick 15. Jordan Muna 16. Alex Twal 17. Fred Junior Mauala. Coach: Justin Holbrook.

Head to Head
Played 11, Brisbane 7, Parramatta 4
2014 Form
Brisbane - WWWLLWDWWWLWWWWLLLWWWWLW (Streak - 1 win)
Parramatta- WLWWWLWWWWLWWLLWWLWWWLLW (Streak - 1 win)
2014 Head to Head
Rd 5 - Parramatta 28 - 24 Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium
Top Point Scorers
Brisbane - Jayden Nikorima (152 points, 15 tries, 46 goals)
Parramatta- Nathan Davis (220 points, 14 tries, 82 goals)
Top Try Scorers
Brisbane - Kodi Nikorima (17 tries), Tom Opacic (16 tries)
Parramatta - Halauafu Lavaka (26 tries), Fabian Goodall (17 tries)

Dragons re-sign duo

A week after securing young gun Drew Hutchison for a further three seasons, the St George Illawarra Dragons have today announced the re-signing of NYC duo Izaac Thompson and Jack Kavanagh.

The pair are the 7th and 8th NYC players re-signed long term by the Dragons in 2014.

Local Kingsgrove Colts junior Izaac Thompson can play in the centre or on the wing and has been signed for a further three seasons until at least the end of 2017.

Thompson was first identified by the Dragons High Performance Unit before subsequently going on to play junior representative football and Under 20’s for the Club.

Furthermore, Jack Kavanagh, who can play throughout the forward-pack or in the second-row, has additionally been signed for a further two seasons until at least the end of 2016.

The Dubbo Eastridge Cobras junior was originally identified by the Dragons external High Performance Unit’s and is in the midst of his first season with the Under 20’s team.

Read more: http://www.dragons.com.au/news/2014/09/10/dragons_re_sign_nyc_hpu_graduates.html

Junior Kiwis train-on squad announced

[caption id="attachment_4317" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Jahrome Hughes (Photo: Matt Roberts/Getty Images AsiaPac)[/caption]

The following players have been added to the Junior Kiwis train-on squad for their match against the Junior Kangaroos next month. Each week, players will be added to the squad as teams are eliminated from the Holden Cup finals series, with a final squad to be announced following the Holden Cup Grand Final on October 5. Players from the Parramatta Eels and St George Illawarra Dragons (*)  have been added to the squad following their elimination from the finals.

The match will be played on Saturday, October 18 at Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland.

Herman ESE'ESE (Canterbury Bulldogs)
Renouf TO'OMAGA (Canterbury Bulldogs)
Jahrome HUGHES (Gold Coast Titans)
Nelson ASOFA-SOLOMONA (Melbourne Storm)
Niua FINAU PUAKA (Melbourne Storm)
Richard KENNAR (Melbourne Storm)*
Una MOHI (Melbourne Storm)
Danny LEVI (Newcastle Knights)
Chance PENI  (Newcastle Knights)
Pride PETTERSON-ROBATI (Newcastle Knights)
Joseph TAPINE (Newcastle Knights)
James TAYLOR (Newcastle Knights)
Josh ALOIAI (Parramatta Eels)*
Zach DOCKAR-CLAY (Parramatta Eels)*
Fabian GOODALL (Parramatta Eels)*
Sione KATOA (Penrith Panthers)
Sam MANULELEUA (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
Tulsa SAUMAMAO (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
Addin FONUA-BLAKE (St George Illawarra Dragons)*
Joseph MANU (Sydney Roosters)
Taane MILNE (Sydney Roosters)
Braden UELE (Sydney Roosters)
Manaia CHERRINGTON (Wests Tigers)
Dallas GRAHAM (Wests Tigers)
Watson HELETA (Wests Tigers)
Delouise HOETER (Wests Tigers)
Lamar LIOLEVAVE (Wests Tigers)
Te Maire MARTIN (Wests Tigers)

Knights announce new NYC coach for 2015

[caption id="attachment_4249" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Photo: Paul Barkley/Melba Studios[/caption]

Former South Queensland and Parramatta halfback Troy Pezet has been named as the Newcastle Knights NYC head coach for the 2015 season, replacing current coach Mick Crawley.

Pezet, who played 28 first grade games over three seasons in the late 90's, has spent the last three years as the High Performance coach of Knights’ junior program.

Read more here: http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/news/2014/09/08/knights_announce_2015_coaches.html

Junior Kangaroos train-on squad announced

[caption id="attachment_4244" align="aligncenter" width="551"] Patrick Kaufusi (Photo: Wesley Monts)[/caption]

The following players have been added to the Junior Kangaroos train-on squad for their match against the Junior Kiwis next month. Each week, players will be added to the squad as teams are eliminated from the Holden Cup finals series, with a final squad to be announced following the Holden Cup Grand Final on October 5. Players from the Parramatta Eels and St George Illawarra Dragons (*)  have been added to the squad following their elimination from the finals.

The match will be played on Saturday, October 18 at Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland.

Luke BATEMAN (Canberra Raiders)
Patrick MAGO (Canberra Raiders)
Tevita PANGAI (Canberra Raiders)
Valentine HOLMES (Cronulla Sharks)
Clinton GUTHERSON (Manly Sea Eagles)
Cameron MUNSTER (Melbourne Storm)
Jake MAMO (Newcastle Knights)
Sione MATA'UTIA (Newcastle Knights)
Josh CHUDLEIGH (North Queensland Cowboys)
Patrick KAUFUSI (North Queensland Cowboys)
Ryan MATTERSON (Parramatta Eels)*
Tepai MOEROA (Parramatta Eels)*
Pauli PAULI (Parramatta Eels)*
Kasya PRITCHARD (Parramatta Eels)*
Kelepi TANGINOA (Parramatta Eels)*
Waqa BLAKE (Penrith Panthers)*
Kieran MOSELEY (Penrith Panthers)
Andy SAUNDERS (Penrith Panthers)
Chris SMITH (Penrith Panthers)
Isaah YEO (Penrith Panthers)
Euan AITKEN (St George Illawarra Dragons)*
Jack BIRD (St George Illawarra Dragons)*
Drew HUTCHISON (St George Illawarra Dragons)*
Cameron McINNES (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
Jackson HASTINGS (Sydney Roosters)*
Nene MACDONALD (Sydney Roosters)
Willis MEEHAN (Sydney Roosters)
Matthew LODGE (Wests Tigers)

Hutchison commits to Dragons

[caption id="attachment_4141" align="aligncenter" width="551"] Drew Hutchison (Photo: dragons.com.au)[/caption]

It was an exciting day for St George Illawarra Dragons' half Drew Hutchison, who was not only named in the 2014 NYC Team of the Year but also signed a new contract with the club.

The deal will see the local Illawarra junior stay with the Dragons until the end of the 2017 season.

Hutchison made his NYC debut for the Dragons last year, playing in 16 games. After starting off the 2014 season in the Holden Cup, Hutchison progressed to the NSW Cup where he played for the Illawarra Cutters.

“I am really pleased to have re-signed with my childhood Club who I have represented since junior levels,” said Hutchison.

“My main focus now is to continue my development and I’m fortunate to be able to do that under the guidance of both Paul McGregor and the advice from the other senior players around me.

“I have learnt a lot since being invited to train alongside the first-grade squad and hope to someday follow suit by wearing the Red V jersey at NRL level.”

A NSW Under 20s representative this year, Hutchison is still eligible for the Holden Cup in 2015.

2014 NYC Team of the Year

[caption id="attachment_4121" align="aligncenter" width="551"] Valentine Holmes (Photo: Grant Trouville, NRL Photos)[/caption]

The 2014 Holden Cup Team of the Year was announced this morning at Rugby League Central in Sydney. The side features 8 players who have played first grade this season. Congratulations to all selected.

1 Jake MAMO (Newcastle Knights)
2 Valentine HOLMES (Cronulla Sharks)
3 Sione MATA'UTIA (Newcastle Knights)
4 Brendan ELLIOT (Sydney Roosters)
5 Nene MACDONALD (Sydney Roosters)
6 Te Maire MARTIN (Wests Tigers)
7 Drew HUTCHISON (St George Illawarra Dragons)
8 Andy SAUNDERS (Penrith Panthers)
9 Manaia CHERRINGTON (Wests Tigers)
10 Sam LISONE (Warriors)
11 Nelson ASOFA-SOLOMONA (Melbourne Storm)
12 Tepai MOEROA (Parramatta Eels)
13 Willis MEEHAN (Sydney Roosters)

14 Danny LEVI (Newcastle Knights)
15 Joseph TAPINE (Newcastle Knights)
16 Addin FONUA-BLAKE (St George Illawarra Dragons)
17 Kane ELGEY (Gold Coast Titans)

Coach: Mick CRAWLEY (Newcastle Knights)

Paia'aua switches codes

[caption id="attachment_4113" align="aligncenter" width="551"] Duncan Paia'aua (Photo: Hugh Morris, nrlphotos.com)[/caption]

Brisbane Broncos five-eighth Duncan Paia'aua will join the Queensland Reds Super Rugby team for the 2015 season.

A Queensland under 16 and under 18 representative, Paia'aua was announced last week as one of four new signings for the rugby union franchise.

Paia'aua, who joined the Broncos NYC side in 2013, grew up in Rockhampton where he played his junior rugby league for Rockhampton Brothers and attended Emmaus College.

Paia'aua will finish his NYC career having played over 30 games, scoring over 150 points.

Player Profile
Name: Duncan Paia'aua
Born: 20/01/1995 (Wellington, NZ)
Junior Club: Rockhampton Brothers
Position: Five-Eighth/Halfback
Height: 180cm Weight: 91kg
Rep Honours: Queensland U18s (2013), Queensland U16s (2011)

Cowboys sign Tanginoa

[caption id="attachment_4106" align="aligncenter" width="400"] Kelepi Tanginoa (Photo: Mark Nolan/Getty Images AsiaPac)[/caption]

Last week the North Queensland Cowboys announced the signing of Parramatta Eels NRL and NYC forward Kelepi Tanginoa on a two-year contract, starting in 2015.

A Cabramatta junior, Tanginoa played all the way through the Eels' junior system, making his NRL debut with club last season, at just 19 years of age. Injury limited to the forward to just 9 games in his rookie season.

After playing for the Eels' Auckland Nines side in the pre-season, Tanginoa returned to first grade in 2014, before again succumbing to injury. He has spent most this season with Parramatta's Holden Cup team and in the NSW Cup with Wentworthville. The 20-year old will likely feature for the Eels' NYC side in their finals campaign.

Tanginoa will join the Cowboys first grade squad for pre-season training in November.

Player Profile
Name: Kelepi Tanginoa (pronounced Kel-eh-pee Toungue-ee-noor)
Born: 01/03/1994 in Auburn, NSW
Junior Club: Cabramatta Two Blues
Position: Second Row
Height: 180cm Weight: 102kg
Rep Honours: Australian Schoolboys (2012), NSW Under 20s (2013), NSW Under 18s (2012), NSW Under 16s (2010)
First Grade Debut: Parramatta v Canterbury, ANZ Stadium, Rd 2, 2013
NRL games: 13 NYC games: 23 (6 tries, 24 points)