The Burpengary Jets have capped off an undefeated season, defeating the Wests Arana Hills Panthers 24-18 in a thrilling Rugby League Brisbane Open 1 grand final at Emerson Park on Tuesday, September 3. The victory marks the end of a perfect campaign for the Jets, who had already secured the minor premiership earlier in the season.
Led by former NRL talent Luke Capewell, who was named man of the match, the Jets overcame a star-studded Panthers lineup that included ex-Broncos players Sam Thaiday, Josh Hoffman, and Korbin Sims. Capewell’s brilliance was on full display, orchestrating several key plays that proved decisive in the outcome.
The match began with an auspicious sign for Burpengary, as jets soared overhead during the players’ entrance, coinciding with Brisbane’s Riverfire event. Despite this, it was the Panthers who struck first, with Hoffman crossing the line in the tenth minute.
Burpengary’s response came through winger Nathan Tunufai, who finished off a slick backline move. The Jets then took control, with Capewell setting up tries for Jonathon Fatamai and Liam Georgetown, the latter coming from a clever chip and chase.
Chris Aiton, another former NRL player in the Jets’ ranks, combined well with Capewell to extend their lead to 18-6 at halftime. However, the Panthers fought back after the break, with tries to Callum Stewart and Connor Claridge levelling the scores at 18-18.
In a dramatic finish, Jets fullback Inga Limoni intercepted a pass and raced 70 meters to score the winning try with just a minute remaining on the clock. The touchdown sent the Burpengary supporters into a frenzy and sealed a memorable victory for the local side.
The win not only secures the Open 1 premiership for Burpengary but also cements their status as the dominant force in the competition this season. The Jets’ blend of experienced former NRL and Hostplus Cup players, combined with local talent, proved too strong for their opponents throughout the year.
This triumph marks a significant achievement for the Burpengary community, with the Jets showcasing the depth of rugby league talent in the area. The team’s success is likely to inspire the next generation of players in the region and further strengthen the club’s position within the Rugby League Brisbane competition.
Published 3-September-2024
