Queensland have prevailed in wet conditions to retain the Women’s State of Origin shield in a historic inaugural series decider, downing the NSW Sky Blues 22-6.
The hosts took control early in the game, while NSW failed to build any momentum in the rain-affected clash, making 11 errors and gifting the Maroons field position.
Tarryn Aiken starred for the home side, recording two try assists, one linebreak, and 88 run metres against an ominous NSW line.
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Evania Pelite was first over for the home side after a “nervous” error from NSW fullback Emma Tonegato, before Julia Robinson followed as visiting skipper Isabelle Kelly fumbled the play of the ball.
“This is fundamental stuff. When you are playing in the wet, you really need to concentrate,” Phil Gould said in commentary on Nine.
“The Blues have been their own worst enemy. They are in real trouble now … they just can’t get into the rhythm. They have lost this game between the ears.”
The errors continued to pile up for NSW, with Grace Kemp giving away a penalty for slamming Keilee Joseph’s head into the ground before numerous loose carries put Queensland back on the attack.
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Jess Sergis was dragged over the sideline by a poised Queensland defence before another error saw Tarryn Aiken engineer the Maroons’ next opportunity.
“NSW look shell-shocked,” Johnathon Thurston said.
Queensland gained an additional two points early in the second after a brilliant 40/30 kick by Ali Brigginshaw.
NSW pivoted control back into their hands after a Queensland onslaught, however, failed to find the line as Jaime Chapman was bundled over the sideline twice by a desperate Maroons defence.
“They have spilled their lollies,” Phil Gould said on Nine.
“Saving tries is just as important as scoring them and Queensland have done that twice.”
Two denied tries was not enough to dampen Chapman’s desire, as the Roosters winger collected a beautiful intercept before powering 90 metres to keep NSW hopes alive.
“As a Queenslander, that try scares me,” Thurston said.
The comeback dream was short-lived as Queensland’s Tazmin Rapana sealed the victory with a 67th-minute try as the crowd in Townsville erupted.