Illawarra Rugby League’s Harrigan Cup pace-setters Thirroul have further stamped their premiership credentials with a dominant Round 4 victory, while Sutherland Loftus pushed defending premiers Wests all the way in one of the games of the season on Sunday afternoon.
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At Sutherland Oval, the Pirates produced a spirited second-half comeback before falling just short in a thrilling 28-24 loss to Wests. The Devils looked set for a comfortable afternoon after racing to a 26-10 halftime lead, but the home side refused to go away, storming back into the contest with five tries to four overall.
Ultimately, the difference came down to the boot of experienced playmaker Dane Chisholm, who kicked three conversions from four attempts along with a crucial penalty goal to steer the reigning premiers home.
The result keeps Wests firmly in the top four, while the Pirates showed plenty of signs they will trouble sides throughout the season despite the narrow defeat.
Elsewhere on Sunday, Collegians bounced back to the winners’ list with a strong 32-18 victory over Corrimal at Ziems Park. After suffering their first loss of the season against Thirroul in Round 3, the Collie Dogs responded in style to move into outright second place on the ladder. Corrimal remained competitive throughout the contest, but Collegians controlled the key moments to secure an important road win.
On Saturday afternoon, Thirroul cemented their place at the top of the competition with a comprehensive 44-4 win over Dapto at Dapto Showground. The undefeated Butchers again showcased their attacking firepower and defensive discipline, overwhelming the Canaries to maintain their perfect start to the season.
Four rounds into the 2026 Harrigan Cup campaign, Thirroul remain the benchmark of the competition, while the chasing pack continues to tighten behind them heading into Round 5.
Lower Grades
The Butchers ensured the club remain undefeated in first and reserve grade, showing no mercy to their hosts with a 62-0 win on Saturday afternoon. Defending premiers Wests defeated Helensburgh 28-18. Corrimal scored four tries to two in their 22-8 win over Collies.
In Saturday’s Harrigan Shield action, Northern Suburbs is the only remaining undefeated team in Harrigan Shield. They earned a hard-fought 12-6 win over Corrimal after trailing 6-0 at the break.
Berkeley defeated Avondale Wombats 20-14, and Figtree outpointed Mt Kembla 22-10. Corrimal forfeited to Avondale Greyhounds.