NSW U18s came from behind to beat QLD U18s 33-26 in a fairly scrappy opening hit out of the 2024 season at Ballymore. 

In the first of two matches, QLD led 21-14 at half time but NSW finished the stronger of the two sides, then defended well in the final 10 minutes to claim a narrow victory. 

The two sides meet again this Saturday at Concord Oval in Sydney. 

Here are a few players who caught our eye in Brisbane. 

Toby Brial – NSW No.8 (Scots)

Back playing U18 academy matches after impressing as an underage player last year, Scots No.8 Toby Brial was bigger and stronger than most others on the field and used his advantage to get NSW over the advantage line all afternoon. 

Lehopo Leota – QLD No.3 (Brothers/Iona College)

Another returning player who was picked in the Australian U18s side last year, Leota and his forward dominated their NSW rivals at scrum time. The big, strong prop played 50 minutes, then returned to the field again in the closing stages, highlighting his big motor. 

Kingsley Uys – QLD No.1 (TSS)

Leota’s front row partner Kingsley Uys was equally impressive at scrum time and carried the ball well around the park, scoring from close range in the first half. Uys captained the QLD U16s last year and recently signed with the Reds. He’s an exciting prospect to watch. 

Angus Grover – NSW No.9 (Gordon/Riverview) 

In a scrappy match, NSW scrumhalf Angus Grover controlled the game the best of the playmakers. Grover kicked his side out of trouble throughout the first half, and showed good speed and footwork to spark some of NSW’s attack in the first half. 

Trayvon Pritchard – QLD No.15 (Churchie)

QLD fullback Trayvon Pritchard was brilliant and looks to have all the core skills nailed. He was dominant in the air, he used smith, quick hands to set up a try in the first half, he’s got a massive boot and he beat defenders with speed and footwork. 

Luca Cleverley – NSW No.6 (Randwick/Waverley)

In a tight, scrappy match, Cleverley got better and more dominant as the match went on. His strong ball carrying kept NSW in the match and led them to victory in the closing stages.