CQU’s representative rugby league side showed its potential in the opening game of the season despite a 56-8 loss to James Cook University .

The match was a tale of two very different halves. CQU started with a strong, solid defensive effort but a lack of cohesiveness enabled JCU to score a series of quick tries.

The match was almost a \"meet and greet\" for many members of the CQU team, who had not previously played as a side.

At the break JCU was leading 40-0 but CQU players regrouped and plotted a strategy that resulted in them scoring early in the second half.

The effort was upheld throughout the second half as CQU players made strong tackles and scored again while holding JCU to one try until the dying minutes of the match.

The CQU side showed it had potential to perform with better preparation with Ryan Boswood held up over the line on two occasions. After the match, CQU players Ben Bourke, Nathan McGuire, Rowan Graham and Ryan Boswood were selected to play in the North v South match to determine the Queensland State Student Side .

CQU coach Justin Gardiner was pleased with the team\'s effort.

\"Once the team has a few training sessions and match fitness under its belt, better results are a given,\" Gardiner said.

More information about participation in the team or upcoming matches is available from the Sports, Clubs and Events Office of the CQU Student Association or by phoning 4930 6941.