Hipgrave’s a hit in Queensland loss
KEEGAN Hipgrave has not yet turned out for the Titans but showed why he is regarded as such as classy pick-up with an outstanding showing for the young Maroons.
Hipgrave was among Queensland’s best but it was little consolation as NSW clinched their sixth consecu- tive under-20 title with a 30-16 win, leaving the Maroons still searching for a maiden interstate title.
The home side looked as though they would be able to turn the tables early and Hipgrave was in everything.
After missing last month’s Junior Kangaroos Test through injury, Hipgrave was desperate to put his best foot forward for the Maroons and made an almost immediate impact, playing a part in Corey Horsburgh’s opening try.
Hipgrave created a try from almost nothing when he burst through the line and found Titans clubmate AJ Brimson on his inside.
Brimson offloaded to Melbourne halfback Brodie Croft for a try that gave the Maroons a 16-6 lead in the shadows of half-time. Hipgrave, playing lock, was involved again minutes later when he pulled off a try-saving tackle on Ray Stone.
Five Titans lined up for the Maroons, with Hipgrave joined by five-eighth Brimson, centre Daniel Brownbill, winger Phillip Sami and interchange forward Apiata Noema.