A Grand Final for the Ages
The NRLW Grand Final delivered another chapter in the league’s growing history, with the Brisbane Broncos snatching a 22-18 victory over the Sydney Roosters at Accor Stadium. A late sprint to the try-line by Mele Hufanga proved decisive, capping a match that will be remembered for its relentless intensity, skill, and an ending that saw players from both sides collide in a heated melee as the final siren sounded.
Late Moment, Lasting Impact
With the Roosters clinging to a narrow lead in the final minutes, Hufanga crashed over to flip the script and crown the Broncos premiers. The result ended a pristine, undefeated season for the Roosters, while adding another glittering trophy to the Broncos’ NRLW history. Hufanga’s performance was a standout, earning the Karen Murphy Medal after rushing for 199 metres, producing 18 tackle busts, two linebreaks, a linebreak assist, and the match-winning try. Her all-action display encapsulated the highs and heart-stopping moments that defined a grand final worth replaying.
Key Moments That Shaped the Night
From the opening whistle, the clash crackled with edge. Roosters centre Jessica Sergis produced a crucial goal-line tackle to deny Broncos second-rower Lauren Dam early on. Brisbane attacker Ali Brigginshaw had a rough start with a mis-hit clearance that rolled dead, but she redeemed herself with a long-range bomb that Brydie Parker mishandled, allowing Hayley Maddick to pounce before a controversial double knock-on was confirmed on replay.
Broncos struck first on the ensuing set, as Tamika Upton’s show-and-go sprinted through untouched for a 1-0 lead. The Roosters hit back through a sequence that included Jada Ferguson’s diving efforts and a strategic play from Parker returning from a HIA to help set up a spectacular solo try at midfield. Darline defense from the Broncos then shaved the visitors’ advantage as the clock wound down, setting the stage for a frenetic final 15 minutes.
Finale and Aftermath
Shalom Sauaso barged over to edge Brisbane closer, and Eliza Lopoamaua sealed a Roosters advantage moments later before the sides traded late scores. The drama peaked as Mele Hufanga crossed, with the ground-level check by the Bunker ultimately confirming the grounding and sending the Broncos into celebration. A post-siren melee briefly marred the moment, but both teams were lauded for delivering what many called the greatest NRLW grand final ever.
Teams and Look Ahead
The Roosters entered the decider as favourites, aiming to become back-to-back premiers, but Brisbane’s resilience—led by Tamika Upton, Ali Brigginshaw, and Julia Robinson—carried them to the title. Hufanga’s performance capped a season where the Broncos cemented themselves among the competition’s most storied clubs, while the Roosters’ young stars showed enough promise to keep expectations sky-high for 2026.
Relive the Action
Fans can relive the drama in our match blog and full highlights, with detailed play-by-play and post-match analysis. For a deeper dive, follow our ongoing coverage of the NRLW Finals Series as teams prepare for another enthralling campaign.
