The NSW Blues have stuck with the same lineup for the second women’s State of Origin match after their impressive 32-12 victory over the Maroons in the first game held last Thursday. The team, coached by John Strange, has the opportunity to secure the series in front of a home crowd at Allianz Stadium next Thursday night.
In the first match, standout player Jayme Fressard scored twice, with contributions from Jessica Sergis, Isabelle Kelly, Ellie Johnston, and Abbi Church, each notching one try. The squad has generated excitement ahead of the upcoming match, with a hungry fanbase eager to see them clinch the title.
Halfback Jesse Southwell, controversially excluded from the entire 2024 series, shone in the initial clash, receiving accolades from Phil Gould for her impressive performance. Despite only converting four out of seven attempts, her composure and maturity in playmaking were evident, and she was instrumental in setting up two tries.
In a recent development, Sienna Lofipo was cleared of allegations of eye-gouging made against her by Keely Davis during the match, while Tiana Penitani-Gray faced scrutiny for a hair pull that interrupted an opportunity for Tamika Upton to score.
Fans can look forward to watching the 2025 Women’s State of Origin series live on Nine and 9Now.
The NSW Blues’ squad for the second game includes:
1. Abbi Church (Parramatta Eels)
2. Jaime Chapman (Gold Coast Titans)
3. Jessica Sergis (Sydney Roosters)
4. Isabelle Kelly (captain) (Sydney Roosters)
5. Jayme Fressard (Sydney Roosters)
6. Tiana Penitani Gray (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks)
7. Jesse Southwell (Newcastle Knights)
8. Simaima Taufa (Canberra Raiders)
9. Keeley Davis (Sydney Roosters)
10. Ellie Johnston (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks)
11. Kezie Apps (Wests Tigers)
12. Yasmin Clydsdale (Newcastle Knights)
13. Olivia Kernick (Sydney Roosters)
14. Jocelyn Kelleher (Sydney Roosters)
15. Kennedy Cherrington (Parramatta Eels)
16. Sarah Togatuki (Wests Tigers)
17. Emma Verran (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks)
18. Shaylee Bent (Gold Coast Titans)
19. Olivia Higgins (Newcastle Knights)
20. Brydie Parker (Sydney Roosters)
As they prepare for the crucial clash, the Blues aim to carry their momentum from the first game into the next showdown.