Wests have broken their 16-year title drought, defeating University 44-27 to win the 2022 StoreLocal Hospital Cup premiership.
The Bulldogs trailed at half-time, before a commanding second-half display saw the minor premiers lift the trophy in front of a raucous crowd at Suncorp Stadium.
Wests have broken their 16-year title drought, defeating University of Queensland 44-27 to win the 2022 StoreLocal Hospital Cup premiership.
The Bulldogs trailed at half-time, before a commanding second-half display saw the minor premiers lift the trophy in front of a raucous crowd at Suncorp Stadium.
In his return game from a hand injury, number-eight Seru Uru won the Tony Shaw Medal as man of the match.
The Red Heavies struck first through prolific fullback Jock Campbell, and then again through hooker Cam Flavell, his sixth try in three weeks.
The Bulldogs hit back as lock Angelo Smith crossed under the posts to make it 10-all, with neither team being able to get a foothold in the match.
Flyhalf Brad Twidale was able to recapture the lead for the Students via a charge down try in the 35th minute.
However, UQ’s joy was short-lived as star scrumhalf Kalani Thomas was sent from the field minutes later for repeated infringements.
A late penalty goal from Cooper Whiteside saw the teams enter the sheds 17-13, with UQ holding onto the lead in a tight first-half.
The second-half started rough for the men from Sylvan Road, as Reds winger Filipo Daugunu was sent from the field within the first five minutes, and a UQ penalty goal saw Uni extend their lead to 20-13.
However, consecutive tries from Jacobus Eloff and Ben Navosailagi put the Bulldogs back the driver’s seat, as they captured the lead for the first time in the match.
A try from UQ flanker Sam Wallis gave University a glimmer of hope, as they brought the deficit down to a converted try.
Ultimately, a penalty goal and a try from man of the match Uru put the lead beyond reach, before a 79th minute try from Jordan Uelese put the final nail in the coffin for UQ, as the Bulldogs won their first Premier Grade title in 16 years.
