Nail-biting finish to Women’s State of Origin in front of sell-out crowd sends the series to a decider
A Lauren Brown field goal has sealed Queensland’s 11-10 defeat by NSW in the second State of Origin match, leveling the inaugural three-match women’s series in tense circumstances.
The Sky Blues dominated most of Thursday night’s match at Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium, which was played in pouring rain in front of a record crowd of 25,782 fans.
But after five-eighth, Tarryn Aiken crossed with a try that helped level the scores in the final 10 minutes, with resource Brown stepping up to score a field goal from 25 yards out.
The Maroons’ Jessika Elliston and Shannon Mato celebrate winning game two of the Women’s State of Origin series
Ali Brigginshaw of the Maroons and Keilee Joseph of the Maroons embrace after winning game two of the Women’s State of Origin series
Kezie Apps of the Blues is tackled by Queensland Maroons ahead of the Maroons’ incredible win
The final goal means the women’s first Origin match in three games will end with a decider at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville on June 27.
The huge crowd turnout broke the sport’s previous spectator record, which stood at 25,492 in game one.
Channel Nine commentators were amazed by Queensland’s play.
“What a moment, with all the pressure of the world on her shoulders, she allows it,” said Allana Ferguson.
Phil Gould said: “Origin continues to work wonders.
‘Can you believe it? They haven’t looked like winners all evening. That’s not a field goal, that’s a miracle. They have gritted and gritted their teeth and never give up.
“Their Queensland spirit shines through.”
Sienna Lofipo of the Maroons is tackled during the match in front of a record crowd
The Blues’ Keeley Davis scores a try in the pouring rain during game two of the Women’s State of Origin
Julia Robinson of the Maroons celebrates the team’s victory during match two at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle