Phil Gould has expressed optimism that the first match of the Women’s State of Origin series will attract a record crowd and viewership when it starts the Magic Round at Suncorp Stadium. Speaking on Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles with Gus podcast, he noted the success of last year’s three-game series, which generated considerable excitement. The four-day ticket package for Magic Round has seen strong interest, leading many to believe that the existing attendance record for a Women’s State of Origin match could be surpassed.
In the previous year, Game One at Suncorp set an impressive attendance record of 25,492, which was later eclipsed by Game Two at McDonald Jones Stadium, drawing 25,782 spectators. The growing popularity of women’s rugby league and the high television ratings from last year’s events suggest that tonight’s opener could become the most-watched match of its kind ever.
Last year’s series saw Queensland emerge victorious, clinching the shield with a 2-1 record. The Maroons’ journey included a dramatic game two where they staged a stunning comeback from a 10-0 deficit, ultimately winning with a last-minute field goal by Lauren Brown, securing an 11-10 finish. This thrilling conclusion exemplified Queensland’s resilience, a trait that has been a hallmark of both the men’s and women’s teams.
Gould highlighted the "Never Say Die" spirit exhibited by Queensland, drawing parallels to the men’s team, which has long relied on this mentality to triumph in challenging situations. He noted that even when the New South Wales team dominated the game, Queensland managed to persist and find a way to win in the final moments, defying expectations.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming match, both fans and players are excited about the potential for history to be made, with hopes of new records in attendance and viewership galvanising the atmosphere around women’s rugby league.