Sunday Social: Folau scores on Dragons debut, Brown’s alleged headbutt, Cowboys shine at NRL 9s

James Messenger

It is time for Love Rugby League’s Sunday Social, your alternative recap of the serious and not so serious talking points from the past seven days. 

All eyes were on controversial Australian Israel Folau as he made his Catalans debut against Castleford on Saturday evening. It took just six minutes for him to make his mark as he rose highest to claim James Maloney’s high kick, paving the way for a 36-18 Dragons victory at the Stade Gilbert Brutus.

Jackson Hastings seems to have found his rhythm at Wigan judging by Thursday’s performance. The 2019 Man of Steel winner bagged four try assists as the Warriors turned on the style late on to beat Toronto 34-10.

They may have fallen short at the DW Stadium, but the Wolfpack’s Josh McCrone did produce a superb try-saving tackle on Jake Bibby in the second half. Brian McDermott’s may have lost their opening three games, but they are certainly showing an ability to compete at the highest level.

North Queensland Cowboys were crowned winners of the NRL 9s at Perth’s HBF Park. They beat St George Illawarra Dragons 23-14 in the final, with 18-year-old Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow securing the title with a spectacular solo try in the final two minutes.

Speaking of great tries, how about this for a team effort on day one from the Gold Coast Titans, finished by Anthony Don after the final hooter. The Titans made it all the way to the semi-finals before being toppled by the Cowboys.

And finally, Huddersfield’s tense 12-10 victory over Salford was not without its controversy. The big incident from the game came five minutes from time when Kevin Brown was sent to the sin-bin for an alleged headbutt on Giants centre Jordan Turner. See the incident for yourself below.

More on site

Gareth O’Brien glad to be back after being left out for Toronto’s first two games

Israel Folau considered quitting rugby, ahead of Catalans debut

Israel Folau scores debut try as Catalans beat Castleford

Castleford fan told not to wave rainbow flag during Israel Folau debut

It was a game to forget, says Daryl Powell

More RL Anthony Don