Indigenous women’s rugby league team achieved a thrilling comeback to win the All Stars match against the Maori side, showcasing resilience and skill. The victory came after a challenging first half, where the Indigenous team struggled to find their rhythm. However, they turned the tide in the second half, ultimately sealing their win with decisive plays.
In a pivotal moment with only two minutes remaining, Taylor made a crucial tackle on Payton Takimoana, thwarting what seemed to be the Maori side’s last opportunity to score. Following this, Taylor shifted from fullback to left wing and intercepted a pass from Krystal Blackwell. Demonstrating remarkable speed, she surged past both Shanice Parker and Gayle Broughton on an impressive 75-metre run, clinching the victory for her team.
The Indigenous squad faced difficulties in the first half, particularly with the strong breeze affecting their attacking strategies. They were caught off guard on two occasions during the fifth tackle while attempting to make inroads. Zahara Temara played a significant role for the Maori team, helping them build a 14-0 lead early in the match. She executed two successful plays that allowed winger Tenika Willison to score tries.
As the second half commenced, the Indigenous team returned with renewed determination. Phoenix-Raine Hippi broke through Parker’s defense to score the team’s first try. Following this, Kirra Dibb delivered a precise crossfield kick to winger Caitlin Turnbull, who crossed the line on the right side after a break initiated by Blackwell.
In a defining moment of the match, Blackwell, now stationed as fullback, gave the Indigenous side their first lead with just 15 minutes to go. She capitalized on a pass from Hippi, executing a 60-metre try that energized her teammates and supporters alike.
The Indigenous victory was particularly remarkable given the absence of key players. Talented fullback Tamika Upton missed her second consecutive All Stars match due to an injury sustained at the end of 2025. Additionally, other notable players such as Shannon Mato and Olivia Kernick were also unavailable for this crucial game.
The match was a testament to the skill and tenacity of the Indigenous women’s rugby league team, as they overcame early setbacks to emerge victorious in a high-stakes environment. Their performance not only highlights individual talents but also underscores the strength of teamwork and determination in sports.
