The Purga Wagtails have claimed back-to-back Murri Carnival titles with a thumping 50-8 win over Gulf Warriors on Saturday.
The Wagtails fielded a strong line up which included current NRL stars James Roberts and Brian Kelly and 2012 Dally M medallist and Cronulla premiership winner Ben Barba, who crossed for a double in the final.
The Gulf Warriors made a strong start and led 8-6 a quarter into the match but were unable to keep up with the slick Wagtails side.
Purga captain Wes Conlon, who also scored a brace of tries in the match, said it was a special victory.
“We are wearing my nephew’s colours he’s a Gold Coast Titans supporter. Our coach Chooky’s [Raymond Thompson] son passed away sadly just recently, so this carnival was for him,” he said.
“He was with us here this carnival, he was there we could feel him, his spirit, but just to do it for Chook and their family and to bring up their happiness and spirits, but not only that, for anyone out there.
Anyone going through any grief or loss and sorry business, my heart goes out to you and yeah this one’s for everyone.”
Former Panthers and Titans hooker Kierran Moseley received the Uncle Lionel Morgan medal for player of the carnival while powerful Purga back Glen McGrady was named player of the final.
Purga Wagtails players console Gulf Warriors player Clay George after the final Source: Deadly Choices
Brisbane Natives defend the title
In the women’s tournament, the Brisbane Natives defeated Mona Kielly memorial 12-4 to also claim back-to-back trophies.
In a tight affair, captain Patrice Chambers opened the scoring by diving over from short range in the opening minutes before Mona Kielly fullback Courtney Robinson sliced through in response to level the scores.
Tarni Smith crossed just before the break to get the Natives back into the lead before centre Tanika Marshall scored the match sealing try.
Patrice Chambers, who also took out player of the final and player of the carnival, said the team had been planning to defend their 2019 title.
“We had a goal to go back-to-back and the girls really dug deep and gave it our all there,” she said.
“They didn’t get through the middle so our big girls really stood up today."
The Brisbane Natives claimed back-to-back Murri Carnivals defeating Mona Kielly Memorial 12-4. Source: Deadly Choices
