We’re halfway through the 2024 Hospital Cup regular season and while defending premiers Brothers have jumped out to a lead at the top of the competition ladder, things are pretty tight below that.

As the second round begins, we spoke to the Hospital Cup coaches to get the inside word on how things are looking in their camp and what each club is expecting in the months ahead. Next, Bond and UQ.

Bond with Mick Heenan – 6th (4 wins, 5 losses)

How would you describe your first half of the season? 

“Our results have been up and down so far this year,” Heenan told Rugby News.

“In every loss we’ve had, we have been in position to win late in the game which has been frustrating but it at least shows that we can mix it with the better teams in the competition.

“To the players credit they haven’t let it get them down too much.

“We have simply focussed in on the next game every week and we finally got some reward in a tight one v UQ.”

What do you need to improve on in the weeks ahead? 

“We have an interesting period coming up with game, bye, game, bye so we will get some time to refresh which will be important in the run home,” Heenan explained.

“Obviously we need to convert some of those tight losses into wins so that we can put ourselves in a position to challenge at the back end of the season.”

Who is the most influential player in the competition and why? 

Which four teams will play finals this year and why? 

“Brothers have been very consistent and I can’t see that changing,” Heenan said.

“Wests and Souths are both strong and then it will come down to a shoot out for the final spot – I’d like to think we will be in the mix.”

UQ with Elton Berrange – 4th (5 wins, 4 losses)

How would you describe your first half of the season?

“Our performances have been inconsistent. It’s frustrating when you’re not nailing your consistency each week,” Berrange said. 

What do you need to improve on in the weeks ahead? 

“Fixing up those inconsistencies. We’ve implemented a few changes at training and in our preparation. Inconsistency in selection through injury and form is unavoidable in the game but we can get our preparation right regardless of who’s starting each week.”

Who is the most influential player in the competition and why? 

“There are some outstanding candidates. Brad Hemopo, Conor Andersen, Matt Giquel & Kohan Herbert all have the ability to win games of their own back but I think the most influential player is Rhian Stowers. He can turn a game in a moment.”

Which four teams will play finals and why? 

“Brothers, Wests, Souths and UQ. I think all four teams have a good combination of depth and experience.”