The Brisbane Broncos delivered a commanding performance on March 4, 2025, defeating the North Queensland Cowboys 50-4 in a decisive match that showcased the prowess of Tamika Upton. This victory positions the Broncos as strong contenders for the NRL Women’s Premiership, particularly with a potential grand final matchup against the undefeated Sydney Roosters looming.
In what was anticipated to be a competitive Queensland derby, the game quickly shifted in favor of the Broncos. Despite having already secured second place in the standings, the Broncos demonstrated their dominance on the field. Upton, the standout fullback, was instrumental, scoring three tries and assisting in several others, enhancing her season total to a record-breaking 18 tries.
Upton’s first try came after she evaded two tackles near the halfway line and outpaced the Cowboys’ fullback. She seamlessly transitioned from scorer to playmaker, assisting Mele Hufanga for another try shortly thereafter. The highlight of the match occurred when Upton caught a kick just five meters from her own line, initiated a quick series of passes, and ultimately finished the length-of-the-field effort herself.
Dominant Performance from Start to Finish
The Broncos continued their assault after halftime, with Julia Robinson scoring immediately. Upton then capitalized on a break created by Robinson, securing her third try of the game. With a substantial lead of 40-0, Upton was substituted out with 27 minutes still remaining, a testament to the team’s overwhelming control of the match.
This result capped off a remarkable regular season for the Broncos, who finished with the best attacking and defensive records in the league. Football fans are now eagerly anticipating a grand final that could see the Broncos take on the Roosters, a rematch from their earlier season encounter that saw the Roosters claim victory.
The Cowboys, on the other hand, will enter the finals for the first time but do so after a disappointing showing against one of the league’s powerhouses. Their defensive struggles were evident, with North Queensland missing an alarming 48 tackles, a statistic that raises concerns ahead of their postseason campaign. Should the Knights secure a win in their upcoming match, the Cowboys could drop to fourth place in the standings.
This match not only highlighted the skill and determination of the Broncos but also set the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the NRL Women’s Premiership season. As the teams prepare for the finals, all eyes will be on the potential showdown between the Broncos and the Roosters, promising an exciting clash that could define the future of women’s rugby league.
