A second half masterclass from Sharks Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership half back Maddie Studdon has helped guide NSW to a 14-4 victory over Queensland in the Women’s Origin clash at North Sydney Oval.
Behind 4-0 at the break, NSW mounted a strong second half recovery, scoring three tries and keeping their opponents scoreless, with Studdon crossing for one and having a hand in another.
And it could have been even better, with a perfectly weighted Studdon grubber fumbled over the line when a try seemed a certainty.
Studdon, who virtually wrapped up the result for her team with her try after a dummy and a right foot step 10 minutes from time, was later named the Nellie Doherty Medalist as player of the match.
Of the other Sharks playing for the Blues, both Tiana Penitani and Corban McGergor were outstanding for the NSW.
In her debut match for the Blues, Penitani had limited opportunities with the ball at left centre but was rock solid in defence, while McGregor at full back was safe retrieving and returning Queensland kicks and was a constant threat in attack.
The win was the second in succession for NSW after a long run of Queensland dominance.
Earlier in the night the NSW Under 18’s scored a 24-4 win over the Maroons, with two Tarsha Gale Sharks in Jaime Chapman and Zali Fay representing the Blues.
NSW 14
Shakiah Tungai, Jess Sergis, Maddie Studdon tries, Kirra Dibb goal
beat
Queensland 4
Tazmin Gray try
