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The Herbert River Under-13s proudly flew the flag for their district at the Nate Myles Cup in Gordonvale over the weekend. Hosted by Southern Suburbs Rugby League Club, the two-day carnival drew teams from across North Queensland, and Herbert River impressed all with their grit, teamwork and sportsmanship.
Game 1: Statement Start
Herbert River 16 – Norths Devils Mackay Black 12
The team hit the ground running, edging out the Devils in a polished performance. Josh Gurnick-Stagnitta scored a quick-fire double, while Cooper Bligh capitalised on a classy kick from Adam Mammino. Cody Astorquia bulldozed over for a try of his own, with Josh earning Man of the Match honours.
Game 2: Rolling On
Herbert River 16 – Magpies Mackay 4
Confidence grew in Game 2 as Josh crossed twice again. Corbin Bartolini darted over from dummy half, and Adam finished a strong team effort to score. Cody, Cooper, Logan Butler, Laikyn Walsh and Hunter Gilmore all played key roles in both attack and defence, with Cooper named Man of the Match.
Game 3: Lights, Pressure and Poise
Herbert River 8 – Southern Suburbs 12
In a thrilling Saturday night clash under lights, and with Nate Myles watching, Herbert River pushed the host team all the way. Josh added two more tries, bringing his tally to six. Odin Marsh was outstanding in the middle, earning Man of the Match, while Brad Dilena, Charlie Reid and Sam Giuffrida helped guide the team through a tense, physical battle.
Game 4: A Tough Morning
Herbert River 4 – Edmonton Storm 24
The team faced a slick Edmonton outfit and, despite the scoreline, never stopped trying. Benny Blanket crashed over for a try full of grit and earned Man of the Match. Laikyn, Corbin, Noah Copley, Lawson Hennessey and Luke Anthony all stood tall in the face of adversity and showed great versatility.
Game 5: Heart to the End
Herbert River 0 – Brothers Mackay White 8
Determined to finish on a high, the boys dug deep in their final match. Josh again earned praise this time for his defence, and was named Man of the Match. Charlie stepped into dummy half with maturity, and Harry Holland impressed with sharp wing defence.
The squad can now look to the semi-finals with real confidence. Across five games, the boys showed they can match it with the best. It was a weekend filled with growth, memories, and pride for players, coaches, and families alike.
A special thank you goes to the team’s generous sponsors—keep an eye out for their branded shirts at the next Herbert River U13s game!
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