Sports
Coby Black’s Record-Breaking Performance Propels Burleigh Bears to Historic Victory
Over the weekend, teenage sensation Coby Black showcased his prodigious talent by amassing a staggering 46 points, leading the Burleigh Bears to a historic 130-0 triumph over the Wide Bay Bulls in the Queensland Rugby League‘s Mal Meninga Cup competition. The match, held at UAA Park, witnessed an unprecedented display of dominance from the Gold Coast-based club, setting new benchmarks in rugby league records.
In a relentless offensive onslaught, the Burleigh Bears unleashed a torrent of 70 unanswered points in the first half alone, setting the tone for a lopsided contest. The onslaught continued in the second half, culminating in a mind-boggling 23 tries before the final whistle brought an end to the 70-minute spectacle.
Coby Black’s heroics included two tries and an impressive 19 successful conversions, falling just shy of a remarkable individual 50-point milestone. Complementing Black’s performance were standout showings from Sunny Kama and Disharne Tonihi, who both notched four tries each, while Phillip Coates secured a memorable hat-trick.
While this resounding victory has shattered previous state league records, rugby league history has witnessed more one-sided affairs in the past. Notable examples include the York City Knights’ 144-0 drubbing of the West Walsh Raiders in 2018 and Barrow‘s 138-0 demolition of Nottingham City in the 1994 Regal Trophy.
Among the annals of Australian rugby league history, St George‘s infamous 91-6 thrashing of the Canterbury Bulldogs in 1935 remains etched as the most lopsided triumph ever recorded in the premiership.
Black’s exceptional performance has earmarked him as a rising star at the Broncos, where he is being groomed as the eventual successor to seasoned halfback Adam Reynolds. Signed to a development contract last year, Black’s potential was further recognized by the Titans, highlighting his burgeoning reputation in the league.
Burleigh Bears CEO Damian Driscoll lauded Black’s stellar showing, noting, ‘Coby played really well and is obviously with the Broncos, same with Jett Bryce.’ Driscoll expressed optimism about the Bears’ position in the league standings, acknowledging the challenges posed by Redcliffe and Tweed while setting sights on a strong showing in the upcoming finals.
A recent graduate of Marsden State High School, Coby Black’s electrifying display has not only cemented his status as a future star in rugby league but also propelled the Burleigh Bears to new heights in their pursuit of success.