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The Brisbane Broncos overcame a valiant Sydney Roosters comeback to secure their 4th NRLW championship with a narrow triumph in a tightly contested and intense grand final defined by hard hits and a confrontation at the end.

Controversial Game-Changing Try Seals Victory

The Brisbane side were fortunate in having the critical, match-winning try awarded by the review official, after Mele Hufanga seemed to be stopped by Jasmin Strange and another defender. With just a few minutes left, the Brisbane player – who was awarded Karyn Murphy Medallist – touched down the ball to push her side into the lead. Even though the try was awarded, the slow motion replay was not definitive.

“Gee, the team really gave all campaign for that,” she stated. “We eased up at midway. The Roosters responded like the premiership side they are, but [I’m] so proud of the team, especially our newcomers rising to the occasion.”

Sydney Winning Spree Broken

The victory ended an lengthy winning streak from the opposition, who had also won their last five encounters against the Brisbane. After a clunky first half, the league leaders faced a significant gap. But they responded early the later stages, when fullback Brydie Parker broke the Broncos defence to score a length-of-the-field try immediately after a restart.

Thrilling Momentum Shift

Moments earlier, Maddick Hayley Maddick was a hair's breadth away from an turnover that would have put Brisbane up 18-0. But she fumbled of it, and the midfield scrum flipped the momentum in an instant. Within five minutes, the Roosters were level after a Roosters player resisted tackles at bay to put the ball down.

Closing Excitement

The opposition then went ahead by a well-executed unexpected attack set up by a playmaker and Sergis, and finished by the winger in the sideline. They weathered a close call soon after later, when Brisbane attacker Robinson capitalized on a fumble from the Roosters. But the review system overturned the decision, much to the disappointment of many of followers.

The crowd were satisfied later though a Broncos player scored with limited time to go. A unsuccessful attempt left the Sydney clinging to a two point lead, until the centre crossed to confirm the win for the Broncos.

Proud Roosters Captain

“When you consider our team and the adversity and the fortitude that we’ve developed this year with so many injuries to key players, I’m full of pride that the score line was competitive because we just fought hard and we did everything we could for each other.”

Availability Setbacks

They were without key attacker Tarryn Aiken to a long-term issue three weeks ago, and faced a problem before the game had even begun. Outside back Taina Naividi ruptured her ACL at the final training session, necessitating a last-minute adjustment. the substitute moved from the bench onto the wing.

Coaching Brilliance

But that was not the only late change. Head coach Prince decided to field Destiny Brill at number 9 and a substitute from the bench. The decision looked a smart play 29 minutes in when Jada Ferguson forced her way over from a quick play for her team’s additional points.

Significant Success

Since taking over in the previous season, Scott Prince has steered the Broncos back towards the pinnacle of the league. The clash also had individual importance, celebrating a long time since his best on ground performance in the NRL grand final for the another team. But his contribution to the Broncos could be more impactful. The Broncos’ win on game day was their first premiership since four years ago, and confirmed their reputation as the country’s leading NRLW side.