By LIZ MOORE  

After a rollercoaster ride of semi-final performances, Easts are steadying themselves for their biggest game of the year – the grand final against UQ at Ballymore this Sunday.

Flyhalf Jack Frampton said the Tigers were happy to return to their defensive best with some “lethal footwork” from their wingers against Bond on the weekend, winning 28-3 after the disappointing 13-27 loss to UQ the weekend before. 

“I think we made a point this weekend to really fix our defence against them and not let them run the ball back like we know they’re good at,” he said of the game against Bond. 

“I think our training through the week was really good, our coaching staff had a good game plan, and I think our boys really stuck to it and took everything on board.

“It was a step up from the Uni game because I think we just got a bit flustered in that one,” the 23-year-old playmaker said. 

“They got off to a fast start and we just couldn’t catch them. They’re a talented footy side, well-schooled.”

The major semi-final was only the second loss of the season for the strong Tigers side. The first was against Bond at the Canal. Still, nerves are a consideration as this will be Easts’ first grand final appearance since 2015. 

Keeping them in check will be former Wallaby captain, Ben Mowen, in what will be his last Premier-grade season for his beloved club.

“It’s going to be massive. Talking to Benny Mowen, he said to the boys, ‘enjoy it, it’s a good week, listen to your emotions, don’t be scared of them, just let it happen’.

“Obviously it’s nerve-wracking going into a final, but it’s also exciting at the same time,” Frampton said. 

“For me personally, I’ve only been in one grand final before and that was back in Colts, so I’m definitely excited to get involved this year.”

Frampton has had numerous sought-after rugby opportunities, including with the Australian Sevens squad and NRC invitations, but injuries have prevented these coming to long-term fruition. Even this year, the young carpenter has missed a three games with head-knocks and concussion. 

But it’s hasn’t stopped him, Frampton’s passion for the game and the Easts club continuing to grow from his time playing Colts II with his great mates.

“It’s like a little family down there. I was really welcomed in to Colts II. You got to meet a lot of the grades boys after the game and what not, cos we used to sit down there. We played at 8am or 9am and we’d sit down there all afternoon and watch Prem grade. 

“I think it’s like a really family-orientated club and playing in front of that crowd is definitely something special. Even talking about it now gives me goosebumps – listening to the boys cheering in their Tigers corner.

“It’s really something special, especially out on the Hill at Ballymore. All finals, even in the rain, they’ll stand out there and cheer for you.

“It was pretty special to go out and celebrate with them after the win on the weekend.”

As for keeping the winning momentum going, Frampton said it’s all about leadership for the young side. 

“We listen to our leaders, listen to our coaches, and Benny’s always got words for us to keep our heads level. Aidan Touia, too, he talks to us out back and guides us through which really helps. Everyone’s in it together.”

IMAGE: BRENDAN HERTEL / QRU