Feelings run high as Raiders grab first victory against Souths

PALMERSTON Raiders NRL NT women’s side have sealed their first victory over Souths for the season 30-20, generating a momentum shift before finals.

The physicality of the match boiled over after the final siren, a disagreement between front rowers from both sides eventuated into an all-in melee between the players.

Referees and officials had to step in to mediate before the tussle was broken up.

Both sides ended up reconciling and shaking hands shortly afterwards in what was a comical display of sporting emotion and camaraderie.

Palmerston five-eighth Jasmine Castro earned the lion’s share of points for Raiders, with two tries and two goals.

Powerful front rower Ruti Faatoafe also scored two tries for Palmerston.

Souths prop Shameka Petterson scored two tries for the Rabbitohs, and her secondhalf goal from the far right of field was exceptional.

Raiders coach Anthony Smith felt like this season’s first win over Souths would be a barometer for what’s to come in the finals in three weeks.

“We’ve got Souths no matter what in the finals,” he told the Sunday Territorian.

“So the expectation was to put them on the back foot and make them understand that we’re on the up and the other club is standing still.”

Souths coach Yo Morris was disappointed that a lack of training, organisation and effort from her players were contributing factors to the loss.

“We came unprepared,” she said.

“Finals are coming, we need to get to training and focus.”

Other women’s matches for the weekend saw Dragons trump Bears 24-0, while Sistaz forfeited to Sharks.