NSW has achieved an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the women’s State of Origin series, showcasing exceptional performances across the board on Thursday night.
Olivia Kernick shone with a brace of tries for the Blues, solidifying her reputation as one of the sport’s elite players, while Jesse Southwell orchestrated the game impressively from halfback.
On the other hand, the Maroons may face difficult selection dilemmas ahead, particularly with one player seemingly on the edge of being dropped.
The Mole reviews each player’s performance in game two below.
NSW BLUES
1. Abbi Church
Displayed excellent composure under the high ball in horrendous conditions, racking up over 120 metres. Rating: 8
2. Jaime Chapman
Wingers had a tough outing, but she seized her single chance, showcasing her speed and skill down the right wing with aplomb. Rating: 6
3. Jessica Sergis
Looked a threat in the first half but didn’t return after the break due to a neck injury. Rating: 4
4. Isabelle Kelly
A key leader for the Blues in securing their first-ever series victory, she delivered some punishing defence and tallied 160 run metres. Rating: 8
5. Jayme Fressard
Similar to Chapman, had just one opportunity on the rain-soaked field but converted it to help the Blues secure the win. Rating: 6
6. Tiana Penitani
Step up to the occasion, dominating Aiken, laying on a try, and facilitating her outside players effectively. Rating: 7
7. Jesse Southwell
On track to be the game’s next superstar, she expertly managed the Blues’ attack and made some astute kicking choices. Rating: 8
8. Simaima Taufa
After a star performance in game one, she continued her fine form, scoring the Blues’ opening try after an early deficit and contributing significantly throughout. Rating: 8
9. Keeley Davis
Played only 40 minutes at hooker and was among the quieter Blues players. Rating: 4
10. Ellie Johnston
The largest player on the field proved to be a handful for the Maroons’ defence, though she could improve on her mobility and fitness. Rating: 6
11. Kezie Apps
Her size and pace created significant problems for the defence, making life difficult for the smaller Maroons edge players. Rating: 7
12. Yasmin Clydsdale
Looked close to breaking through several times but couldn’t quite get there on the night. Rating: 5
13. Olivia Kernick
Denied a fair call by the bunker for Queensland’s first try, she bounced back brilliantly with two tries and assisting one, while also leading the tackle count with 236 metres run. Rating: A PERFECT 10
14. Jocelyn Kelleher
Failed to make an impact during her approximate 30 minutes on the field. Rating: 3
15. Kennedy Cherrington
Made a strong impression off the bench, bringing intensity and running for close to 100 metres. Rating: 6
16. Sarah Togatuki
Involved defensively when given the opportunity but contributed little to the attack. Rating: 4
17. Emma Verran
Maintained the Blues’ domination during her time on the paddock with a high-energy performance. Rating: 5
QUEENSLAND MAROONS
1. Tamika Upton
A challenging outing—initially awarded the contentious first try by the bunker, she then missed two crucial tackles which allowed for two tries before injuring her hip. Rating: 4
2. Julia Robinson
The only Maroon to cover over 100 metres, but most of her runs were spent trying to relieve pressure as the Blues dominated possession. Rating: 7
3. Shenae Ciesiolka
Had few opportunities in attack and struggled defensively against the physical Blues outside backs. Rating: 5
4. Rory Owen
Managed only six runs for a dismal 31 metres—not sufficient performance at this level. Rating: 3
5. Jasmine Peters
Barely saw the ball in any productive positions as the Maroons struggled for momentum. Rating: 4
6. Tarryn Aiken
A class act but was well-contained by the Blues, having little time or space to perform. Rating: 5
7. Ali Brigginshaw
As stated after game one, while she has been an exceptional player, she has now passed her peak—barely noticeable in this match. Rating: 3
Ali Brigginshaw Getty
8. Makenzie Weale
Had a minimal impact during her 27 minutes on the pitch and struggled to contribute to the Maroons’ forward momentum. Rating: 4
9. Lauren Brown
The standout for the Maroons, setting up their sole try and executing kicks well to relieve pressure on the Blues. Rating: 7
10. Jessika Elliston
A disappointing performance, unable to penetrate the well-organised Blues defence. Rating: 4
11. Sienna Lofipo
Queensland’s most effective forward, she topped the tackle count and worked hard to bring her team back into contention. Rating: 7
12. Romy Teitzel
Struggled defensively, missing six tackles, including some crucial ones, in a disappointing display from a key player. Rating: 4
Romy Teitzel with Tarryn Aiken after the game. Getty
13. Keilee Joseph
Put in a solid defensive effort but only managed seven runs and didn’t challenge the Blues’ defence. Rating: 5
14. Jada Ferguson
Only three runs for 17 metres—far from what the Maroons required from their bench. Rating: 3
15. Sophie Holyman
Had a brief moment of impact with one line break, but outside of that remained largely invisible during her 45 minutes on the field. Rating: 4
16. Chelsea Lenarduzzi
The most notable bench player for the Maroons, she tried valiantly to turn the tide for her team, albeit with minimal support. Rating: 5
17. Tavarna Papalii
Spent nearly an hour off the bench but struggled to contribute, completing just five runs with minimal impact. Rating: 3
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