The Queensland Cup premiers have defeated the New South Wales Cup premiers both times the NRL State Championship Match has been played as the NRL grand final curtain-raiser.
In 2014, the Cairns-based Northern Pride defeated Penrith 32-28, and in 2015 the Ipswich Jets beat Newcastle 26-12.
Who will be the Queensland Cup premiers in 2016?
Before the season gets underway, you’ll get close to the following odds with the various betting agencies:
• Townsville Blackhawks $3.25
• Papua New Guinea Hunters $6.50
• Redcliffe Dolphins $9
• Easts Tigers $11
• Northern Pride $11
• Sunshine Coast Falcons $11
• Ipswich Jets $12
• Mackay Cutters $12
• Wynnum Manly $15
• Norths Devils $17
• Tweed Heads $17
• Burleigh Bears $21
• Central Queensland Capras $34
• Souths Magpies $34
The Queensland Cup has a top-six finals system. In 2015, the top six in finishing order were Townsville, Papua New Guinea, Ipswich, Wynnum Manly, Easts and the Northern Pride.
Ipswich ultimately won their first ever premiership by defeating minor premiers and favourites Townsville in the grand final. It was the Blackhawks’ debut season in the competition, but the Jets’ unconventional attacking style of play – encouraged by coaches Ben and Shane Walker – ultimately triumphed.
NRL clubs have raided the Jets’ ranks for 2016, with livewire hooker Matt Parcell (Manly) being the highest profile departure.
The Blackhawks are once again the competition favourites with the bookmakers, with sentimental favourites the Papua New Guinea Hunters also right up there. It will be the Hunters’ third year in the competition, and they will be better for their experience of finishing sixth in 2014 and as preliminary finalists in 2015.
Redcliffe finished seventh in 2015 but are traditionally strong performers. They will be looking for an improved performance under new coach Adam Mogg, the former Canberra Raiders and Queensland State of Origin representative. Last year’s semi-finalists Wynnum Manly have drifted in the betting, but are also traditionally strong performers.
The Queensland Cup is a strong second-tier competition and an important breeding ground for future NRL players.
For those who follow it, what are your predictions for 2016?
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