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Warriors prevail as Broncos, Roosters extend hot start
Sebastian Tan, AAP • July 26th, 2026 10:07 pm
Tysha Ikenasio was among the scorers as the Warriors fought back to beat Parramatta in the NRLW | Photo: PR
The Warriors have survived an almighty scare to defeat an inspired Parramatta 14-12 after a vital error denied a last-gasp game-winning try at Eric Tweedale Stadium.
Having started their NRLW season losing their first three games, the Eels transformed on Sunday as fullback Abbi Church scored two tries, including a classy chip and chase.
But after a slow start, the Warriors clicked into gear in the second half, evaporating Parramatta's well-earned 12-4 lead after interchange Patricia Maliepo and centre Tysha Ikenasio wrestled over in a matter of minutes.
Shakira Baker wrapped up: Competition was fierce as the Eels almost upset the Warriors | Photo: PR
Parramatta were given a golden opportunity for a first victory of their campaign when Warriors prop Metanoia Fetalaiga was sent to the sin bin in the 64th minute.
But on the final play of the game, a pass from Eels captain Mahalia Murphy to open winger Zali Fay travelled forward, and the Warriors claimed consecutive wins in the same season for just the second time.
"It was just unfortunate that in the last play, we didn't get the try and win the game because they deserved it," Parramatta coach Steve Georgallis said.
"I was so proud of the way the girls played today."
Tamika Upton turned in another masterclass as the Broncos beat Newcastle | Photo: AAP
At Totally Workwear Stadium, Brisbane edged closer to the Sydney Roosters' record 18-game winning streak by defeating a Yasmin Meakes-less Newcastle 30-12.
Reigning Dally M medallist Tamika Upton produced another masterclass to help the defending premiers bank their 14th consecutive victory, scoring a double, making a flurry of try-saving tackles and posting 217 run metres.
The Knights entered the match without captain Meakes after she ruptured an ACL against St George Illawarra last round, although Newcastle were courageous with halfback Georgia Roche and interchange Amelia Pasikala crossing in the first half.
Reegan Hicks is bundled up in this tackle, but Brisbane were too strong for Newcastle | Photo: AAP
With scores locked at 12-all at the break, both teams desperately searched for the breakthrough try and Upton went on a 70-metre tear to thrust the Broncos back into the lead before second-rower Lauren Dam and substitute Rhemy Hinckesman sealed the victory.
The Sydney Roosters also continued their unbeaten start by thumping Wests Tigers 48-10 despite missing inspirational halfback Tarryn Aiken (shoulder) at Leichhardt Oval.
But they may have to count the cost of the rousing victory, as captain Isabelle Kelly was sent to the sin bin for a dangerous tackle and will face a nervous wait to see if she is suspended.
The Tri-colours charged out of the gates and never looked back, as winger Jayme Fressard and second-rower Sariah Paki reaped the rewards of their dominance by bagging a hat-trick and a double respectively.
Victory for the Tigers would have made 2026 their greatest season in terms of wins, but poor discipline, underlined by interchange Brooke Talataina's sin binning in the 44th minute, cruelled the home team's chances of getting into the contest.
