Warriors triumph to stay in final hunt

Wow — who saw this coming?

The Warriors women yesterday produced the best effort of their short history to beat the Brisbane Broncos 10-8 in a thrilling contest.

The Auckland team led the reigning premiers 10-0 at the break and defended bravely in the second half to hang on for a memorable win.

That means the Warriors retain a chance of reaching next Sunday’s grand final but must hope the winless Roosters beat the Dragons today.

On the surface, this was a massive upset. Brisbane have set the standard in the first two seasons of the NRLW, winning all six of their games, including the 2018 grand final, scoring 27 tries to seven.

No team had really come close to the Queensland side, with their gigantic pack and experienced spine. But the Warriors were up for the challenge at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Their performance was even more remarkable given the emotional week they have endured. Coach Luisa Avaiki farewelled her father Motu on Tuesday, and didn’t travel for the game, while centre Honey Hireme’s mother Caryn lost her brave battle with cancer last Wednesday.

The first half was impressive against the formidable Broncos. The Warriors forwards matched their opposites, with strong work around the ruck and some heavy contact.

They showed their intent early, with Georgia Hale setting up Madison Bartlett in the fourth minute. The Broncos had chances but were denied by resolute defence.

Captain Hale went close to scoring — with the touchdown ruled out for obstruction — before Annetta Nuuausala scored one of the tries of the season. Her run was reminiscent of Canberra powerhouse Josh Papalii, as she showed great footwork and strength to barrel through five defenders from 15 metres out.

Some of that hard work was undone early in the second half. A poor opening set, followed by a penalty, opened the door for Ali Brigginshaw to set up Tamika Upton to cross in the left corner.

The Warriors stayed in the match, with a couple of huge hits on defence, but lost their composure for a period, as they struggled to get their fifthtackle kicks away. That pressure told, with the Broncos crossing through Amy Turner in the 41st minute. At that stage, Brisbane had the momentum but the Warriors found extra resolve on defence and finished strongly to secure a famous win.

Broncos 8 (T. Upton, A. Turner tries) Warriors 10 (M. Bartlett, A. Nuuausala tries; A. Nicholls goal). Halftime: 0-10.