The Sydney Roosters celebrated a 30-14 victory over the Newcastle Knights at Gosford’s Polytec Stadium, though the triumph was marred by a significant injury to fullback Corban Baxter. Baxter, who had previously missed the 2024 season due to an ACL rupture in the same knee, sustained a new injury during the match. The incident occurred when she was tackled, resulting in her foot becoming trapped beneath her, and she immediately grasped her knee in distress. Commentary from Ruan Sims suggested that the injury looked serious, prompting concern among fans and players alike.
Following on-field treatment, Baxter was ruled out for the remainder of the game. Roosters coach John Strange indicated that she would undergo scans later that evening. On a more positive note for the Roosters, Jasmin Strange kicked off the scoring in the ninth minute with an impressive try, showcasing her skill by eluding the Knights’ defenders. Brydie Parker swiftly followed up with another try for the Roosters, extending their lead.
The Knights managed to respond, with Jules Kirkpatrick scoring for them in the 31st minute to narrow the deficit before half-time. However, as Baxter limped off the field, the Roosters held a 12-6 advantage at the break. The second half saw Tarryn Aiken capitalise on a defensive gap to put points on the board for the Roosters again. Despite trading tries with the Knights, Aiken secured a second try, solidifying the Roosters’ lead.
The highlight of the match came when reigning Dally M Medallist Olivia Kernick scored in the 63rd minute, ensuring the Roosters maintained their unbeaten streak this season with a notable 7-0 record. Additionally, Roosters players Isabelle Kelly and Keeley Davis reached the milestone of 50 NRLW premiership games, joining Broncos captain Ali Brigginshaw in this achievement.
In a procedural note, just before the match kicked off, Knights fullback Botille Vette-Welsh was replaced by Lilly-Ann White due to a knee injury sustained in warm-up. Overall, while the game ended on a high for the Roosters, the fate of Baxter’s injury remains a major concern for the team moving forward.