Bundaberg Rugby League - Round Two: Across The Waves Tigers vs Pasts Brothers Bundaberg

Game 1 of Round 2 saw Past Brothers Bundaberg take on reigning premiers Across the Waves Tigers Bundaberg. This game had it all - ups and downs, plus a thrilling comeback win.

With both sides coming off Round 1 losses, they were eager to get points on the ladder. Brothers came to play, and although they didn’t come away with the win, they’ll take plenty of positives out of the match.

The young halves pairing of Zander Evans and Dawson Hess showed they can match it with the best, setting up some silky set-piece tries for outside backs Mitchell Sly and Chris Robinson. Sly was at his best this game, breaking multiple tackles and finishing off attacking plays with a double.

Brothers’ forwards started strongly, with tough carries from front-rowers Royce Blair and Thomas Akers helping them gain early momentum. It looked like this caught the Waves outfit off guard, as they appeared a bit out of rhythm early on.

Late in the second half, when the game tightened up, Marcus Tanner took over. He showed exactly why Waves signed him, breaking tackles, making electric runs, and scoring a double of his own.

It wasn’t just Tanner though, Tameli Naco was also outstanding, taking tough carries and using his footwork to get Waves on the front foot. These efforts were crucial, helping the Waves pack fight their way back into the contest.

Showing why they are the defending premiers, Waves finished strongly. Players like Lachlan Patterson and Kiya Schnable lifted the intensity late, putting Brothers under pressure. In the end, Brothers couldn’t hold on, with Waves scoring in the final five minutes to seal the win.

Conversions proved critical. Brothers managed just 1 from 5 attempts, while Waves converted 3 from 5. In a dramatic and entertaining clash, Waves move to 1-1 after two rounds, while Brothers fall to 0-2. Despite the result, Brothers will take confidence from this performance.

Tries

Waves – Josh Eagleton, Parkka Perrotta-Dowling, Zander Kerr, Marcus Tanner (2)

Brothers – Chris Robinson, Corey Findlay, Blake Powter, Mitchell Sly (2)

Conversions

Waves – Tameli Naco 3/5

Brothers – Chris Robinson