Tag: rugby

Seagulls vs Dolphins: Old Gulls Day Rivalry Clash

The Wynnum Manly Seagulls are gearing up for a highly anticipated Hostplus Cup clash against the Redcliffe Dolphins this Sunday, March 24, at BMD Kougari Oval. Seagulls vs Dolphins promises to be a thrilling spectacle for local residents and dedicated fans alike.

Read: Manly West Restaurateur Fights Hefty Fine Over Outdoor Seating

Thrilling victory over Capras in the BMD Premiership

Heading into Old Gulls Day, the Seagulls are riding high on the momentum of a hard-fought 24-22 victory over the Central QLD Capras in Rockhampton last weekend. The BMD Premiership team showcased remarkable resilience, weathering an early storm to establish a commanding 18-0 lead, courtesy of tries from Lilly Green, Julia Robinson, Destiny Mino-Sinapati, and Karina Brown.

Despite the Capras’ spirited comeback, which narrowed the gap to just two points, the Seagulls held their nerve, with Destiny Mino-Sinapati scoring a crucial try and Brianna Clark converting to secure the 24-22 triumph.

In the Hostplus Cup, however, the Seagulls experienced a setback in their season opener, suffering a 36-22 loss away against the Hunters on March 9.

Old Gulls Day festivities

This Sunday’s clash against the Redcliffe Dolphins holds special significance as it marks both the QRL’s Rivalry Round and the Seagulls’ Old Gulls Day celebration. Fans can expect an electric atmosphere as the two teams renew their storied rivalry on the field.

Rugby league enthusiasts can catch all the action from the BMD Premiership and Hostplus Cup matches, which will be broadcast live and free on Kayo Freebies, Channel 9Now, and QPlus TV.

The BMD Premiership match against the Tigers kicks off at 1:35 PM, while the Seagulls vs Dolphins Hostplus Cup clash will round out the day’s proceedings at 3:40 PM.

WM Seagulls vs Dolphins: last year’s matchup

In a closely contested match, the Seagulls edged out their rivals by a mere two points, with a conversion from Josh Rogers separating the two sides in a 28-26 scoreline.

WM Seagulls vs Dolphins: last year's matchup
Photo Credit: QRL

Read: The Manly Hotel Celebrates Its Centennial with $7M Renovation

With the fervour of the Rivalry Round and Old Gulls Day festivities, fans can expect an unforgettable day of top-notch rugby league action at BMD Kougari Oval.

The Wynnum Manly Seagulls are proudly sponsored by

Published 21-March-2024

John McDonald, Rugby Legend and Inaugural Maroons Coach, Passes Away at 79

Former Manly captain and inaugural Queensland State of Origin coach John McDonald has passed away at the age of 79.

Read: Rugby Legend Shane McNally Remembered Ahead of 1983 BRL Grand Final Anniversary

John McDonald, a giant of the game

John McDonald
Photo Credit: Manly Warringah Sea Eagles

McDonald played 62 games for Manly between 1969 and 1971 after joining the club from Toowoomba. The imposing centre or winger scored 30 tries during his career with the Sea Eagles and captained the team that lost 23-12 to South Sydney in the 1970 Grand Final.

In addition to Manly, McDonald represented Queensland on 10 occasions between 1965 and 1968. Internationally, McDonald played 13 Tests for Australia and toured with the Kangaroos as vice-captain in 1969.

Coach, administrator, visionary

John McDonald
Photo Credit: Manly Warringah Sea Eagles

While Mcdonald’s on-field exploits were remarkable, his off-field contributions to the game were even greater. After coaching at Toowoomba, McDonald took charge of Queensland’s inaugural State of Origin team in 1980. Queensland won that historic match 20-10, laying the foundations for an Origin dynasty. According to current Australia coach Mal Meninga, who played under McDonald, the coach’s words still inspire Maroons camps today.

Besides coaching, McDonald’s contribution as an administrator was enormous. He served as QRL chairman for 20 years and was the first Queenslander to become ARL chairman. In the 1990s he was part of the partnership that reunited the game after the Super League war.

John McDonald grew up playing rugby league in Toowoomba alongside Ross Livermore, who went on to become a long-time QRL colleague. Queensland Sport inducted McDonald into its Hall of Fame in 2016.

Read: Manly Harbour Village to be Rebranded as ‘The Mall’ After Makeover

Tributes have poured in from across Australian rugby league following McDonald’s passing. He is remembered as a gentleman and a great leader who impacted the game at every stage of his career. McDonald leaves a legacy as one of the most influential figures in Manly and Queensland, both on and off the field.

Published 17 September 2023