A Grand Final That Lived Up to the Hype
The 2025 NRLW Grand Final delivered a performance for the ages, with the Brisbane Broncos edging the Sydney Roosters 22-18 at Accor Stadium thanks to a late sealer from Mele Hufanga. It was an all-time classic that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final play, and it capped a season that had the sport buzzing from kickoff to final siren.
Key Moments that Shaped the Result
From the opening minutes, the match crackled with intensity. The Roosters forged ahead with a brilliant defensive stand and an early try-saver from Jessica Sergis denied Broncos second-rower Lauren Dam a flawless start. The Broncos answered through Tamika Upton, whose show-and-go slice through untouched to give Brisbane the lead after a tense start.
Brigginshaw and Maddick were involved in a tense sequence that ended with a double knock-on replay, underscoring how fine margins would decide the championship. The Roosters, fuelled by a high-tempo attack, forced pressure with long-range plays and clever ball movement, while the Broncos defended with grit and discipline.
Measuring the Hero: Mele Hufanga
In a performance that will be talked about for years, Mele Hufanga racked up 199 metres, 18 tackle busts, two linebreaks, and a linebreak assist, all while crossing for the match-winning try. Her scoring surge in the late stages gave Brisbane the edge in a match that swung back and forth, making her the deserved recipient of the Karen Murphy Medal as the game’s standout player.
Other Notable Contributions
Jada Ferguson’s impact off the bench helped extend Brisbane’s advantage, while Tamika Upton’s leadership and attacking incursions remained a constant threat. On the Roosters’ side, Mia Wood’s shift to the wing and the tactical kicks from Ali Brigginshaw and Gayle Broughton created opportunities, even as the Roosters found themselves chasing late in the contest.
Drama After the Final Whistle
As the siren neared, the competition’s temperature rose, culminating in a fiery melee that wasn’t a blemish on a grand day but rather a testament to the passion on display. Both teams can take immense pride: they played a Grand Final that reinforced the NRLW’s reputation for quality, resilience, and thrilling finishes.
Team Lineups at a Glance
<strongRoosters: Brydie Parker, Mia Wood, Jess Sergis, Isabelle Kelly, Jayme Fressard, Corban Baxter, Jocelyn Kelleher, Otesa Pule, Keely Davis, Rima Butler, Aliyah Nasio, Jasmin Strange, Olivia Kernick, Shawden Burton, Macie Carlile, Eliza Lopoamaua, Jayde Hedergen.
<strongBroncos: Tamika Upton, Kerri Johnson, Mele Hufanga, Julia Robinson, Hayley Maddick, Gayle Broughton, Ali Brigginshaw, Annetta Claudia-Nu’uausala, Destiny Brill, Brianna Clark, Lauren Dam, Romy Teitzel, Keilee Joseph, Jada Ferguson, Chelsea Lenarduzzi, Shenae Ciesiolka, Shalom Sauaso.
Looking Ahead
The Roosters entered the final undefeated, aiming for back-to-back premierships, while Brisbane claimed their place among the NRLW’s elite by sealing the title in a dramatic finish. The 2025 season will be remembered for its competitive balance, standout individual performances, and a sense of history that the Broncos now share with the competition’s most successful clubs.
