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Rookies shine as Blues win Game I in front of record crowd
Sam Kosack • May 2nd, 2025 12:04 am
NSW Women have won the opening game of the 2025 Women's State of Origin series, running away 32-12 winners in front of a record crowd of 26,022.
Jess Sergis scored the opening try of the series in the fourth minute, with the Blues controlling the contest from there, ultimately winning 32-12.
The Blues four rookies - Abbi Church, Ellie Johnston, Jayme Fressard, and Jocelyn Kelleher - were dominant for the visitors, scoring four of NSW's six tries, with Church running for a game high 139 metres.
An official complaint has been made against Queensland second rower Romy Teitzel for an alleged eye gouge by NSW hooker Keeley Davis, with the issue to be handled by the Match Review Committee.
If Teitzel is found to be guilty, it would be a costly omission for the Maroons who need to win their next two games in NSW to retain the shield.
Queensland lost winger Jasmine Peters after halftime to a Category 1 HIA, while Blues five-eighth Tiana Penitani Gray was placed on report for a hair pull.
Queensland legend Jo Barrett said the Queensland defence struggled to contain the speed and strength of the Blues forward pack.
"The Blues were so solid," Barrett said during commentary.
"Their ability to shift under pressure in defence they have to tighten that up.
"The front rowers of the Blues, they're just a runaway train.
"If you can't slow down that ruck speed, you can't get your defence set and Queensland have quite a bit of work to do there."
On debut, Ellie Johnston scored a try, made 16 tackles for no misses and ran for 65 metres, setting the tone and platform for the Blues' halves and outside backs to capitalise in attacking opportunities.
The Blues and new coach John Strange will be hoping this win isn't reminiscent of 2024, where the Blues won Game I but lost the next two to concede the series.
The stage is set for Game II at Allianz Stadium on May 15.
