OPINION: Jets secure final hit-out at Raceview after launch

THE Ipswich Jets have secured a final trial match for their Reserve Grade outfit.

Facing a month-long wait until their first BRL game, Jets CEO Jason Cubit confirmed Brothers Ipswich will host a final hit-out between Ipswich and Redcliffe from 2pm on March 4.

With the Ipswich Jets season launch on Saturday night, things are already heating up at North Ipswich Reserve.

Super challenge

ENGLISH clubs Wigan and Warrington have made history in the World Cup Challenge after overcoming their Australian counterparts on the weekend.

Brisbane and Cronulla were sent packing after fiery affairs with the Super League giants. It was NRL reject Joe Burgess who put the reigning premiers to the sword, scoring a hat-trick of tries against the Sharks on Monday morning.

Back in the UK after just one season Down Under, Burgess showed the form he had struggled to bring to Sydney and South Sydney during brief stints with both clubs last year.

It was the first time both English clubs have prevailed in the WCC, and Monday's loss to the Wolves was a disappointing start to the year for Shane Flanagan's reigning premiers.

Despite the results, it was pleasing to see former Ipswich players Kurt Capewell and Joe Ofahengaue make the starting squads for the Sharks and Broncos.

Capewell's versatility on the wing or back row has been much talked about, while the departure of Corey Parker has left some big shoes to fill in Brisbane's forward pack which could see Ofahengaue promoted from the bench to the run-on side this season.

Lionesses on hunt

THE Brisbane Lions have continued their amazing start to the AFL Women's competition with three straight wins from the opening rounds.

Playing their first home game at South Pine Sports Complex on Saturday, more than 5000 spectators braved the 34 degree heat.

Another one of Ipswich's multi-talented athletes, Kate Lutkins has brought her futsal talents to the inaugural women's competition.

The former Ipswich Girls' Grammar student has represented Australia in two World Cups.

She is relishing the opportunity to pull on the Brisbane jersey.

With thousands of fans tuning in or attending the games in person, Lutkins' Lions are paving the way for an expanded competition in the future.

Only seven rounds long in its current form, it would be amazing to see the women play alongside their male counterparts in a full season.

With the return of the Brothers women's rugby league team and the Ipswich Hornets women set to play in this weekends Jodie Fields Shield grand final, Ipswich is making positive steps to help increase female participation in local sport.