NRLW's Roosters fly against Broncos amid controversy

The Sydney Roosters extended their perfect record in the NRL Women’s competition with a 34-20 victory over the Brisbane Broncos at Lang Park on Sunday. The win came in a highly anticipated rematch of last year’s grand final, where the Broncos had defeated the Roosters. This time, the Roosters showcased a dominant attacking display, with winger Brydie Parker scoring a hat-trick. The game, however, was marred by controversy following a disputed bunker decision that allowed Parker to score a try despite a clear infringement by her teammate Jess Sergis. Parker’s first try came in the 35th minute after Sergis pushed Broncos centre Deleni Paitai in the back. Despite the challenge, the bunker ruled in favor of the Roosters, sparking immediate debate among fans and officials. The decision was later upheld, though some players and analysts questioned its fairness. The Roosters capitalized on the momentum, adding three more unanswered tries to their tally. Prop Brianna Clark was sent to the sin bin for a dangerous tackle, further disrupting the Broncos’ rhythm. While the Broncos initially responded strongly, scoring two of the first three tries through speedster Tamika Upton and interchange player Chelsea Lenarduzzi, their efforts were hampered by a missed penalty try. On the stroke of halftime, winger Kerri Johnson was tackled just short of the line, yet the referee opted not to award the try. The Broncos struggled to recover, and the Roosters maintained control throughout the second half. Despite the controversy, the Roosters remained composed, with captain Ali Brigginshaw’s stand-in Georgia Bartlett reducing the deficit in the 56th minute. However, Parker completed her hat-trick, and Sergis added a fourth try to ensure the Roosters stayed undefeated at 7-0. The result keeps them firmly atop the ladder, maintaining their one-win advantage ahead of the final four rounds of the regular season. Meanwhile, Parramatta ended its winless run with a 30-18 victory over the Canterbury Bulldogs at Western Sydney Stadium. A pair of damaging sin-binnings played a crucial role in the Eels’ success. Hooker Taneka Todhunter and halfback Rachael Pearson scored early tries, setting the tone for a commanding performance. Even after Canterbury’s star player Latisha Smythe was sent to the sin bin, Parramatta continued to dominate, with second-rower Mahalia Murphy and five-eighth Cassey Tohi-Hiku crossing for additional scores. The Bulldogs fought back late in the game, with centre Monica Tagoai and substitutes Evelyn Roberts and Alexis Tauaneai scoring tries. However, a second sin-bin for back-rower Tamika Jones proved decisive, allowing fullback Abbi Church to launch a 95-meter touchdown and seal the win for the Eels. On the other side of the ledger, the Gold Coast Titans recorded their sixth consecutive victory, moving into second place with a 26-10 win over St George Illawarra at Robina Stadium. Celebrating their 50th NRLW match, the Titans opened the game with three unanswered tries, showcasing their depth and cohesion. Winger Maria Paseka narrowed the gap with a try in the first half, but the Titans regained control with a strong second-half display. Prop Ruby-Jean Kennard-Ellis briefly threatened the Titans’ dominance, but a slick kick-and-chase by sevens convert Teagan Levi set up a try for second-rower Evania Isa'ako, sealing the victory. The result continues the Titans’ impressive run and positions them as serious contenders in the race for the minor premiership.