THE Ipswich Jets survived a tense final few minutes to edge the Tweed Seagulls 22-20 in an entertaining Hostplus Cup clash at Richardson Park in Goodna on Sunday afternoon.
A hat-trick from winger Tony Francis laid the platform for the Jets, who led for most of the contest before the Seagulls mounted a late comeback that fell just short.
Francis opened the scoring in the 18th minute and crossed again just four minutes later as Ipswich raced to an 8-0 advantage. The Seagulls hit back through Malakhi Donovan just before halftime, with the Jets ahead 8-4 at the break.
Tweed continued their resurgence early in the second half when Jack Smith crossed in the 43rd minute and Lindon McGrady converted to level the scores at 8-all.
The Jets responded strongly as Max Feagai restored the lead in the 54th minute before Francis completed his hat-trick five minutes later. Corey Ross then powered over in the 63rd minute, and Brenton Baira’s successful conversion stretched the margin to 22-10 with just over 15 minutes remaining.
The visitors refused to go away as Smith grabbed his second try in the 72nd minute, before Conor Carey crossed with less than three minutes remaining to reduce the deficit to two points.
However, McGrady’s conversion attempt drifted wide, leaving the Seagulls unable to complete the comeback.
Ipswich also had a chance to extend the lead late when Lachlan Ilias attempted a field goal, but the kick missed. The Jets’ defence held firm through the closing stages to secure an important victory.
The Jets surge to third on the ladder as they head into a clash with Western Clydesdales at 2.10pm on Sunday.
