Eye gouges, hair pulls, a classic duel, and a glorious night for the new kids on the block. The Women’s State of Origin series opener at Lang Park was filled with excitement and drama. Let’s dive into five quick hits from the game.
Playing in the doubles Ali Brigginshaw, a seasoned player in rugby league, made an uncharacteristic blunder in the opening set. She has been a force to be reckoned with in the sport, but even the best have their off days. This time, she kicked the ball out on the full, putting her team, the Maroons, at a disadvantage right from the start.
Keeley Davis had a complaint during the game as Isabelle Kelly celebrated NSW’s second try. She accused a Maroons player of an eye gouge in the previous set, leading to referee Belinda Sharpe putting the incident on report. Sienna Lofipo was believed to be the accused player in this heated moment.
Jaime Chapman, known for her athleticism and game-changing abilities, found herself outplayed by her counterpart, Julia Robinson, in Origin I. The two players, each possessing incredible skills, faced off in a thrilling showdown that showcased their talents. Robinson’s dominance in a ball-and-all tackle and a high ball catch left Chapman looking outmatched for perhaps the first time in her Origin career.
A player was reported for high contact during the match, but it wasn’t your typical foul. Tiana Penitani-Gray grabbed a lock of Tamika Upton’s hair in an attempt to stop the dynamic Queensland fullback. This unconventional move cost NSW a penalty but potentially prevented a try, proving that sometimes desperate measures are needed to gain an advantage on the field.
The game also saw a day for the debutants, with eight first-timers making their mark on the field. Players like Jayme Fressard, Ellie Johnston, Abbi Church, Rory Owen, and Tavarna Papali’i all left their mark on the game, showcasing their skills and contributing crucial points for their respective teams. Despite the impressive debut performances, injuries like Jasmine Peters’ head clash served as a reminder of the physical toll of the sport.
The Women’s State of Origin series opener was a night to remember, filled with intense moments and standout performances from both seasoned players and newcomers. As the competition heats up, fans can expect more thrilling matchups and unexpected twists in the games to come. So buckle up and get ready for the next chapter in this exciting rugby league series.