The New South Wales Blues secured the 2026 Women’s State of Origin series with a thrilling 14-10 victory over the Queensland Maroons in an intense clash at Suncorp Stadium.
Decisive Try-Saving Tackles Seal the Win
The Blues produced standout defensive plays in the closing stages to hold off a determined Maroons comeback. Winger Jasmine Peters had two prime chances to tie the score in the final 15 minutes, but Blues players denied her both times.
In the 57th minute, halfback Jesse Southwell executed a remarkable tackle, preventing Peters from grounding the ball despite appearing to have a clear path. Commentator Phil Gould praised the effort, calling it “an incredible play.”
With under a minute remaining, fullback Teagan Berry made a desperate dive, forcing Peters’ foot onto the sideline just before she could score. These heroics preserved the Blues’ narrow lead.
Game Timeline and Key Scores
The Blues surged ahead early, racing to an 8-0 lead with tries from Jaime Chapman and Keeley Nizza. The Maroons struggled with execution despite creating opportunities.
Just before halftime, Queensland struck back through Rory Owen, who finished a precise pass from Tamika Upton. After the break, dummy-half Jada Ferguson powered over from close range to give the Maroons a brief lead.
The Blues hit back swiftly as Jess Sergis muscled through defenders for a crucial try. Southwell then nailed a testing sideline conversion, putting NSW ahead 14-10—a margin they defended until the final whistle.
This triumph marks the second consecutive series victory for the Blues, capping a hard-fought campaign.
