NSW Dominates Game 1 of Women’s State of Origin as Eels Stars Shine Bright
The 2025 Women’s State of Origin series kicked off in spectacular fashion, with the New South Wales Sky Blues overpowering the Queensland Maroons 32–12 at Suncorp Stadium in front of a record-breaking crowd of 26,022 fans.
Parramatta Eels talents Abbi Church and Rory Owen were among the standout performers, showcasing their class on the biggest stage of the women’s game.
Abbi Church Shines in Debut Win for NSW
Making her Origin debut, fullback Abbi Church played a pivotal role in the Sky Blues’ dominant display. She capped off her performance with a late try, following a powerful break by Ellie Johnston. Church also helped engineer several key plays down the left edge, using her pace and vision to exploit gaps in the Maroons’ defense.
Her composed presence at the back and confident runs added an extra spark to the NSW attack, proving that she belongs at the elite level.
Rory Owen Scores Queensland’s First Try
On the opposing side, Rory Owen, another Parramatta Eels debutant, made a strong impression for Queensland. Playing at centre, she scored the Maroons’ first try of the match in the 23rd minute with a classy finish that displayed her rugby union background and natural athleticism.
Despite Queensland’s loss, Owen’s try was a highlight and signals a bright Origin future for the dynamic outside back.
Dominant NSW Set the Tone
NSW led 14–6 at the break and piled on three unanswered tries in the second half to secure a commanding Game 1 win.
The Sky Blues’ forward pack laid the platform, while the backline executed with precision.
With Eels stars making key contributions on both sides, Game 1 not only belonged to NSW but also showcased the rising influence of Parramatta’s NRLW development pipeline.