QLD Premier Rugby Round 3 Wrap: Last-Gasp Drama and Tight Margins

Edward Lane

Round 3 of the StoreLocal Hospital Cup dished up late drama, missed opportunities, and a tightening race for the all-important top four, as Queensland Premier Rugby continues to heat up.

Brothers Flex Muscle Over GPS

In the most commanding win of the weekend, Brothers showed their premiership credentials with a 33–8 victory over GPS. The reigning Premiers were clinical, producing their second win of the campaign while still holding a game in hand. The result sees them third on the ladder and keeps them unbeaten as very much a team to watch as the season unfolds.

Rees the Hero in Thriller

The match of the round was undoubtedly in Toowong, where UQ snatched a dramatic 18–17 win over Wests thanks to a clutch 80th-minute penalty from Morgan Rees. In a game dominated by gritty forward work and tactical kicking, it was Rees’ nerves of steel that separated the two sides. The Students pick up their first win of the season, while the Bulldogs will be left wondering how they let this one slip after leading late.

Bond Let It Slip as Easts Stay Perfect

Easts kept their perfect record intact with a gutsy 22–20 win over Bond University, but they were made to work for it. Both sides scored three tries and slotted two penalties apiece, but it was the Bullsharks' two missed conversions that ultimately proved costly. Despite another brave showing, the Gold Coast outfit remains winless, though with a game in hand, they’ll take heart from matching one of the competition’s benchmark teams blow for blow.

Norths Edge Souths in Seesaw Battle

In a high-scoring affair in Caboolture, Norths emerged 34–31 winners over Souths in a game that swung wildly from end to end. The Eagles’ victory sees them level on points with Brothers but having played an extra game. The Magpies, meanwhile, sit second overall and continue to collect valuable bonus points, but this will feel like one that got away.

League Table Snapshot

Easts lead the pack with a perfect 3–0 record and 14 points, but they’re not the only unbeaten team. Brothers sit in third with two wins from two and a game in hand. Souths hold second, helped by a league-leading four bonus points. Norths round out the top four, edging out Wests and GPS, who remain within striking distance. UQ finally registered their first win, while Bond and Sunnybank, both 0–2 with a game in hand, will need to start turning performances into points to stay in the playoff conversation.