It wasn’t the result they were looking for but Port Douglas can take away some key positives despite being hammered 46-0 in their grand final rematch against JCU Mariners.

Contested on a picture-perfect test match rugby quality surface at West Barlow Oval the first 25 minutes was played at a frenetic pace with dynamic end to end play from both teams.

In front of a sizeable crowd back-to-back tries from Mariners number eight Jack De Guingand, one to teammate Brad Holland and a stunning 37 metre penalty goal gave JCU a 19-0 lead at halftime. 

From there, they were never headed to eventually run away with the match in the second half.

“I was very impressed with that first 20 minutes, I thought we stuck to the game plan really well and the players did everything I asked for during that period,” Raiders coach Stan Afeaki told Newsport.

“However after that, we went away from the gameplan and started to make too many mistakes.

“Our appetite for the contest was good, but we hurt ourselves with too much dropped ball and not being able to convert our opportunities.”

Bradley Manoi was strong for Mariners while Luke Edwards tried hard for the visitors.

In other round one results FNQ Rugby premier results Barron Bulls beat Southside 29-17 and Wanderers beat Mudcrabs 33-5.

The Raiders face the Mudcrabs this Saturday afternoon in round two action in Port Douglas.