The Australian women’s rugby league team, known as the Jillaroos, showcased their dominance with a staggering 86-0 victory against England’s Lionesses in a match held at Allegiant Stadium, marking the first high-profile women’s sporting event since the venue opened in 2020. This resounding win not only highlighted the Jillaroos’ status as the top-ranked team globally but also exposed the substantial gap in skill between the two sides.
In a thrilling performance, the Jillaroos scored 17 tries in just 70 minutes. Star player Tamika Upton, the 2023 Dally M winner, was exceptional, netting five tries and drawing attention to her remarkable skillset. The Jillaroos wasted no time establishing their authority, scoring five tries within the first 20 minutes. Julia Robinson initiated the scoring, crossing the line unchallenged, and Tiana Penitani quickly followed, demonstrating impressive teamwork with a breakthrough run by Kezie Apps.
As the game progressed, Gold Coast Titans prop Shannon Mato added to the tally, followed by a quick-fire brace from Upton, who solidified her hat-trick before halftime with a third try. Despite the Jillaroos’ relentless offence, England held firm defensively but struggled to make any significant advances with the ball.
In the second half, the relentless pace continued, with Upton and Robinson contributing further tries. Jessica Sergis and Jakiya Whitfeld also got on the scoreboard, illustrating the Jillaroos’ depth and teamwork. Keilee Joseph capped off the scoring with the final try in the 65th minute.
England managed to salvage a small semblance of pride at the end, with Georgia Roche crossing for their only try just before full-time, preventing a more humiliating defeat. The match served as a testament to the power and skill of the Jillaroos, who not only thrilled their fans but also left an indelible mark on the history of women’s rugby league at the prestigious Las Vegas venue.