FEBRUARY 1982
Norths Devils’ skipper, Shane Bernardin was sent off by referee, Harry Dearness just five minutes into a Woolies pre-season match against Easts at Bishop Park, after the Tigers’ flamboyant winger, Steve Stacey was felled in a high tackle.
Ironically Stacey, who bounced up quickly from the tackle, was also sent off for a high shot, seven minutes from fulltime, after he left Norths’ centre, Frank Phillips on the deck. Easts hung on for a courageous 17-10 win, qualifying them for the semi-finals of the competition.
Barry Dick covered the match for ‘The Courier-Mail’ and had this to say about the referee: “Dearness did not have one of his better games. Many of his decisions left players on both sides baffled, and the game was marred by 40 penalties.”
Souths Magpies’ Queensland State of Origin centre, Mal Meninga was sent off for the first time in his career in the Magpies’ 29-5 loss to Valleys at Lang Park, with referee, Eddie Ward charging Meninga with striking. ‘Big Mal’ was sent off after he came into a fight, which erupted from a scrum. After one skirmish, Valleys’ prop, Greg ‘Hammer’ Walker staggered backwards, apparently from a blow by Meninga.
Valleys’ coach, Ross Strudwick surprised by moving Test five eighth, Wally Lewis to his old position of lock, with Mark Murray starting at five eighth. Valleys’ winger, Mick Neill kicked seven goals from seven shots.
Thirroul (Wollongong) import, Brian Battese shone for Wynnum-Manly in their 17-11 loss to Brothers at Corbett Park. The son of former South Lismore forward, ‘Nobby’ Battese, Brian had been rated one of the best forwards in New South Wales Country. A physical education teacher, he had come to Brisbane for work opportunities. Five eighth, Peter Lehman and second rower, Gary Walker were outstanding for Brothers.
Fullback, Tony Currie starred for Redcliffe in their 9-5 win over Wests in the early match of the Lang Park double header.
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