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FWC on Sport Nation guideMaliepo steps up as Warriors unleash elite halves pairing
Regan Harrison • July 9th, 2026 11:12 am
Patricia Maliepo | Photo: Photosport
Wahine Warriors halfback and rugby convert Patricia Maliepo is eager to take more control over her side after transitioning to the No. 7 jersey in her second NRLW season.
The 23-year-old has shifted from the five-eighth role to partner former Black Ferns Sevens star Gayle Broughton in the halves following her premiership win with the Brisbane Broncos in 2025.
“Personally, I don't think it's any different. It's just being more in control now and being confident in what I say and backing what I say,” Maliepo told Sport Nation Breakfast.
She said her first season with the Warriors was more focused on her learning the game, and the momentum on how a game flows.
Gayle Broughton made her first appearance in Warriors colours in round one | Photo: Photosport
Maliepo emphasised her excitement to play alongside Broughton this season.
“It's definitely been a lot of just grinding, but it was really exciting to get out there last weekend and put on a show with my other half, so it's been an honour to actually play alongside her.”
She also expressed her excitement to play alongside another sevens star Stacey Waaka - who will embark on playing her second NRLW season, and a first with the Warriors after a one year stint with the Broncos in 2024.
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“Give her five metres from the sideline, she can do something, and she'll be at the score line pulling out a smile.
“Giving the ball to her early and letting her have a crack early in the game will be really good, not only for our team, but for herself,” Maliepo explained.
It will be Waaka’s first match in the No. 2 Warriors jersey on Sunday against the Raiders following a head knock in the final round of the Sevens World Championship in June.
Listen to the full interview below:
