The SP Hunters have booked the first spot in the 2017 Intrust Super Cup grand final, and in doing so have created history as the first team from outside Australia to achieve this feat.
But as the score line reflected, the major semi-final win didn’t come easy.
It took 62 minutes for the Hunters to find the try line and edge out the Redcliffe Dolphins 6-4 in front of 14, 104 screaming fans at the National Football Stadium this afternoon.
The Dolphins thoroughly dominated possession in the first half.
But the visitors couldn’t find the try line. Brick wall defence from the Hunters denied any chance of a four pointer.
Penalty goals were the only option available to the Dolphins, and they hurt the Hunters twice in the 15th minute off the boot of Jonus Pearson, and again two minutes from half time thanks to Hugh Pratt.
The second forty minutes of play was all the Hunters.
Building up pressure, the Hunters surged home hungry for points. They came close to crossing the line on several occasions but were stopped short.
It took over an hour but the Hunters finally broke through.
Metres out from the try line, Wartovo Puara Jr put captain and five-eighth Ase Boas into a gap to score.
Boas’ conversion put the Hunters in front at 6-4 with 17 minutes left on the clock.
Buoyed on the by the home crowd, the Hunters defended their lead to the final whistle.
Ase’s brother Watson Boas was awarded the man of the match.
Hunters will meet the winner of the Dolphins and Sunshine Coast Falcons preliminary final.
The 2017 Intrust Super Cup grand final will be played at Suncorp Stadium on September 24.