UQ defied a persistent Souths side on Saturday afternoon, running out 35-28 winners in a tense affair at Chipsy Wood Oval.

Locked at 28-all in the final minutes after a seesawing opening half, a late try to Scott Gale sealed victory for the Heavies as they posted their second win of the season.

Queensland Reds hooker Josh Nasser scored a double for the Students, with Uni’s set-piece continuing to improve after last season, with Pat Morrey and Lachlan Stewart also finding the line.

Despite the loss, Souths will arguably be the side who take more from the clash, the young Magpies demonstrating their ability to go all the way with the competition heavyweights.