The New South Wales Blues have claimed a hard-fought 11-6 victory over the Queensland Maroons in the opening match of the 2026 Women's State of Origin series, held at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle. The win gives the defending champions a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series, with the next two matches set to be played in Queensland.
Match Summary
The match was a fiercely contested affair from the opening whistle. Queensland struck first, with debutant Otesa Pule crossing the line in just the second minute after a handling error from Blues fullback Abbi Church. Lauren Brown added the conversion to give the Maroons an early 6-0 lead.
Despite sustained pressure from New South Wales, Queensland's defence held firm throughout the first half. The Maroons lost second-rower Makenzie Weale to a head injury assessment early in the match, but they maintained their lead until halftime.
The second half saw the Blues lift their intensity. Ellie Johnston scored a crucial try in the 45th minute, with Jesse Southwell converting to level the scores at 6-6. With the game entering its final stages, Southwell stepped up to slot a field goal in the 62nd minute, giving the Blues a 7-6 lead.
New South Wales sealed the victory in the 70th minute when Jessica Sergis pounced on a loose ball to score, extending the lead to 11-6. The conversion was missed, but the Blues held on for a memorable win.
Player of the Match: Yasmin Meakes
Blues back-rower Yasmin Meakes was named Player of the Match for her outstanding defensive performance. She made several crucial tackles, including a try-saving effort in the second half. Meakes expressed her shock at receiving the award, stating she was simply doing what was required for the team.
Key Moments
- 2nd minute: Queensland's Otesa Pule scores on debut after a Blues error.
- 45th minute: Ellie Johnston scores for NSW to level the match.
- 62nd minute: Jesse Southwell kicks a field goal to give NSW the lead.
- 70th minute: Jessica Sergis scores to extend NSW's lead to 11-6.
Team News
The Blues fielded an experienced side with 14 players from last year's series win. Debutant Teagan Berry came off the bench, while Millie Elliott made her return after giving birth. Queensland, missing key players due to injury and retirement, included New Zealand international Otesa Pule after eligibility rule changes.
The series continues in two weeks as part of Magic Round in Brisbane, where the Maroons will look to level the series in front of a home crowd.
