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Sports
Apr 30, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Blues Edge Maroons 11-6 to Lead Women’s State of Origin Series

AI Summary
Jesse Southwell’s last‑minute field goal gave New South Wales a 11‑6 win over Queensland at McDonald Jones Stadium, putting the Blues on top of the Women’s State of Origin series. The match highlighted the rapid growth of the women’s game and set the stage for a decisive showdown in Queensland.

Jesse Southwell’s Late Field Goal Secures NSW Victory

In front of 20,000 fans at McDonald Jones Stadium, halfback Jesse Southwell slotted a decisive field goal with seven minutes remaining, sealing a 11‑6 win for the NSW Blues over the Queensland Maroons. Southwell, who moved from Newcastle to Brisbane earlier this season, described the contest as “the fastest and definitely the toughest” she’s ever played.

Scoreline, Attendance and Key Stats

  • Final score: NSW Blues 11, Queensland Maroons 6
  • Attendance: 20,000 spectators
  • Field goals: Southwell (NSW) – 1; Lauren Brown (QLD) – 1 (missed)
  • Top tacklers: Keilee Joseph (QLD) – 32 tackles by half‑time
  • Debutants: Millie Elliott (NSW), Phoenix‑Raine Hippi (QLD), Otesa Pule (QLD)

What the Win Means for Women’s Rugby League

The narrow victory underscores the increasing competitiveness of the women’s game. After dominating the first two matches of last season (58‑18 aggregate), the Maroons were forced into a hard‑fought loss, signalling that the talent gap is closing. Coaching changes – with Nathan Cross taking the reins for Queensland – and the emergence of new stars like Southwell and Elliott suggest a deeper talent pool and heightened media interest.

Looking Ahead to Games Two and Three in Queensland

Queensland will host the next two fixtures, turning the series into a true home‑and‑away showdown. The Blues will aim to protect their lead, while the Maroons will look to leverage home‑field advantage and the momentum of their debutants. If the current trend continues, the series could be decided by a single field goal or a late defensive stand, echoing the drama of this opening match.