MKR 2026 Episode 14 recap: Krysten and Lucy eliminated after two-point loss – Queensland mother-and-daughter team Krysten and Lucy have left My Kitchen Rules after Harrison and Oliver edged them out by just two points in the first Kitchen HQ elimination cook-off.
The two highest-scoring teams from the second Instant Restaurant round were asked to cook a main and a dessert for judges Manu Feildel and Colin Fassnidge, along with the five safe teams. Both pairs averaged eight out of 10 from the guest teams, leaving the judges’ dessert scores to decide the result.
Episode 14 changed the shape of the MKR competition. Krysten and Lucy had been regarded as serious grand-final threats, but Harrison and Oliver’s stronger dessert carried the NSW mates to a 38-36 victory.
Krysten and Lucy take on an ambitious Indian feast
Krysten and Lucy served chicken Madras curry with vegetable pakora, dahl, raita, garlic naan, rice and pineapple chutney. The size and ambition of the spread impressed the judges.
It looked amazing. I was like, I would eat in this restaurant.
Colin Fassnidge, MKR judge
However, the chicken was slightly overcooked and the naan lacked its expected puff. Manu and Colin each scored the main eight out of 10.
Harrison and Oliver survive a difficult main
Harrison and Oliver presented a steak feast with fries and beans. A salt mishap, inconsistent fries and plain beans threatened their place in the competition, although the judges praised the beef for being cooked perfectly.
Both Manu and Colin scored the main seven out of 10, putting Harrison and Oliver two points behind before dessert.
Dessert turns the elimination around
Krysten and Lucy made cardamom buns with orange cream, pistachio-stuffed dates and shortbread. The judges recognised the technique involved, but the buns were heavy and tight. Colin also found that his bun had no cream in its centre and said the team should have concentrated on perfecting the buns rather than adding extra elements.
Manu and Colin each awarded the dessert six out of 10.
Harrison and Oliver answered with nonno’s fritole and coffee cream. The doughnuts were rustic in appearance, but Manu praised their moist centres, crisp exteriors and flavour. Both judges scored the dessert eight out of 10, completing the comeback.
MKR Episode 14 elimination scoreboard
| Score | Harrison and Oliver | Krysten and Lucy |
|---|---|---|
| Guest team average | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Manu Feildel – Main | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Colin Fassnidge – Main | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Manu Feildel – Dessert | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Colin Fassnidge – Dessert | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Total | 38/50 | 36/50 |
Dishonest critique accusation divides the table
As the safe teams discussed the food, Angus suggested some contestants wanted Krysten and Lucy eliminated because they were strong competition.
I just have felt that there is dishonesty when it comes to some critiques, and that might be unfounded, but that’s just how I feel about some people’s critiques.
Angus, MKR contestant
Mary rejected the accusation, saying different opinions did not make her dishonest. Manu then challenged Angus to consider whether he would also call a judge a liar for disagreeing with his assessment. Angus said he would not.
Krysten and Lucy leave the competition
Harrison and Oliver admitted the result was bittersweet. Oliver told Krysten and Lucy that they had expected to see the Queensland team in the grand final and regarded them as a major threat.
Colin praised the departing pair for embracing the competition and cooking the kind of food he wanted to eat.
The best part’s spending this time with mum. I’m really proud of us, and I feel like we will remember this for the rest of our lives.
Lucy, MKR contestant
The next episode introduces a global cuisine challenge, gives Mary and Golden an advantage and brings further tension involving Angus and Simon.
For more TV Central MKR coverage, head here. Watch My Kitchen Rules on 7plus.