The Women's State of Origin series has once again captivated fans, with New South Wales (NSW) claiming their second consecutive victory over Queensland (Qld). The final game was a nail-biting affair, with the outcome hinging on a few crucial moments and a video review that kept viewers on the edge of their seats.
One of the standout moments came in the dying seconds of the match. Qld's Jasmine Peters appeared to have scored a match-winning try, sending the crowd into a frenzy. However, the video review revealed a twist: Peters' toe was swept over the line in a desperate tackle by NSW's Teagan Berry, who had initially seemed beaten. This heroic effort by Berry secured the win for NSW, lifting them to their second consecutive shield victory.
The Blues' determination to defend their lead in the final moments was a testament to their resilience. Halfback Jesse Southwell's try-saving tackle, just 10 minutes earlier, showcased her defensive prowess. She stopped Peters' momentum, swung around, and planted her body underneath as Peters reached for the ball, a moment that will go down in Origin history.
This nail-biting finish was a stark contrast to the one-sided opening period. NSW dominated the early stages, with a succession of Qld errors handing them an 8-0 lead and two-thirds possession. The Maroons' poor set completion rate of less than 50% in the first half contributed to their struggles.
However, Qld's resilience emerged in the second half. Five-eighth Chantay Kiria-Ratu's towering bomb forced an error from NSW's Abbi Church, setting up a try for Tamika Upton. This turned the tide, and the Maroons surged into the lead, with Hooker Jada Ferguson's try and halfback Lauren Brown's field goal changing the momentum.
The game's dramatic conclusion highlighted the fine margins between victory and defeat in the Women's State of Origin series. NSW's ability to hold firm in the final moments, despite Qld's resurgence, showcased their mental fortitude and determination. This victory cements their place as a dominant force in women's rugby league, leaving the pain of the 2024 series behind and setting them up for future success.
In my opinion, the video review system in rugby league is both a blessing and a curse. While it ensures fairness and accuracy, it also adds an element of drama and unpredictability to the game. The tension it creates keeps fans engaged and adds to the excitement of the sport. The Women's State of Origin series, with its high-stakes and dramatic finishes, is a testament to the skill and passion of the players and the growing popularity of women's rugby league.
