Devils’ relegation worry

It was dubbed the 'battle to avoid relegation' and it was exactly that.

Both North Queensland and Redlands needed the win to either ensure they wouldn't drop into the relegation area or pull themselves out of it. 

North Queensland were lucky not to be down to 10 players after 12 minutes when Jarrod Green went into the tackle with both feet. 

Redlands started to show dominance as they had the home team pegged back in their own half but weren't able to capitalise.

North Queensland opened the scoring in the 20th minute before adding another 10 minutes later.

Redlands did fight their way back scoring through Graham Fyfe and they headed into the sheds down 2-1. 

Redlands had the possession in the first half but the quick counter attacks from North Queensland were dangerous.

It was North Queensland who came out firing as they scored just after kick-off before Matthew Richards finished his hat-trick to put the lead out to 4-1. 

Redlands tried to get back in the game as they had their chances but North Queensland kept pushing their defenders which eventually paid off as they all be secured the three points. 

The night ended on a sour note as Liam O'Bryan was given his marching orders after receiving a second yellow card after a fight broke out between players after a heavy tackle North Queensland's Cade Colquhoun.

There was a late chance for Redlands to score a second but Uche Heruome bicycle kick in the dying minutes was denied. 

The result means Redlands will need to hope they can pick up two wins in their next three games while North Queensland would need to lose their remaining games, which are against teams in the top six positions. 

Redlands are back at the Cleveland Showgrounds this Saturday night for another important match against Magpies Crusaders from 7pm.  

Get down and show your support for the Red Devils.

More information about the club is available online at redlandsunited.com.a or phone 0410 097 405. 

The club is on Waterloo Street in Cleveland.