The Canberra Raiders came out on top in a historical game defeating the Sydney Roosters 24 – 14 for the Green Machine’s first NRLW win.
In what was a team effort, the afternoon was highlighted by a tremendous effort by Grace Kemp who made an immediate impact coming off the interchange.
The Roosters dominated field position early on the back of Raiders’ penalties, but the Green Machine defense proved too strong for the Tricolors, repelling them at every turn.
Both teams were unrelenting in their defense, refusing to be the first to concede points.
The Raiders got their first opportunity in the 25th minute on the back of a chip chase to force a line drop out, swinging momentum Canberra’s way.
The Green Machine finally cracked the Roosters defense as Grace Kemp crashed over in the 27th minute to open the scoring. Zahara Temara converted the try to extend the lead to 6 – 0.
The Raiders came out of the sheds firing, scoring in the opening set of the second half. Fullback Apii Nicholls broke through the defense before passing to Cheyelle Robins-Reti to score.
Temara’s kick was successful making her the first NRLW player to score 100 points and giving the Raiders a 12 – 0 lead.
The Roosters looked to strike back through Brydie Parker on a set play, but Mackenzie Wiki made a try-saving tackle to put her into touch.
Some slick footwork and great ball movement saw the Raiders’ co-captain Simaima Taufa cross over between the posts in the 46th minute. Temara converted from in front, pushing their lead to 18 – 0.
The Roosters responded however, taking advantage of an overlap to score in the corner through Brydie Parker in the 50th minute. Jocelyn Kelleher was unsuccessful from the sideline, leaving the score at 18 – 4.
The Roosters got their second try of the game just three minutes later when Tarryn Aiken ran the length of the field after recovering a Raiders’ kick to narrow the score to 18 – 8.
Sydney continued their comeback attempt with hooker Keeley Davis scoring from dummy-half in the 60th minute. Temera converted the try, cutting the Raiders’ lead to 18 – 14.
Errors again proved costly for the Roosters, setting the stage for Raiders’ second rower Monalisa Soliola to cross over in the 63rd minute.
Temara was again successful with the boot, giving the Raiders a 24 – 14 lead with five minutes remaining.
Full Time: Canberra Raiders 24 d Sydney Roosters 14
