The stage is set for Ngā Puna Wai to host the inaugural CRL Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Youth Grand Final Day this Sunday, July 7.
The title deciders for one girls grade and three boys grades will unfold from 10am, with members of the Bulldogs’ Pathways and Development staff in attendance to cast their eye over some of the region’s most promising emerging players.
The 14s Girls grand finalists will be Hornby Panthers and Linwood Keas, who defeated Addington Magpies (38-6) and Eastern Eagles (14-10), respectively, in Monday’s semi-finals.
The 14s Boys grand final features Hornby Panthers White and Sydenham Swans, while Sydenham Swans and Riccarton Knights will square off in the 15s Boys decider.
The 16s Boys grand final will be contested between the winners of Monday night’s semis, Hornby Panthers (who defeated Woolston Rams 44-0) and Celebration Lions (who drew 12-all with Linwood Keas but advanced due to their higher position on the points table).
Adding to the local rugby league extravaganza, two CRL Bartercard Women’s Premiership matches are also locked in for Ngā Puna Wai on Sunday afternoon. Eastern Eagles take on Hornby Panthers at 1pm and 2022-23 grand final opponents Sydenham Swans and Linwood Keas lock horns at 2.30pm.
“The Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs Youth Grand Final Day is a welcome addition to our calendar in 2024,” Canterbury Rugby League Director of Football Jamie Lester says.
“We already celebrate our juniors and seniors with similar experiences, so when our community asked if we could have our youth grades play their grand finals on the same day we were happy to accommodate.
“Most youth grades will feature on the day, showcasing our best Canterbury club teams.
“Canterbury Rugby League has a wonderful partnership with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs – it’s fantastic for them to be supporting the day and having staff keep a watchful eye over our talent.”
