UPDATE: The NRLW has recorded its first-ever draw in a historic match that took place during the inaugural Magic Round in Newcastle on May 6, 2025. Heavy rainfall, accumulating nearly 30mm, severely impacted attendance and gameplay, dampening what was expected to be a landmark occasion for women’s rugby league.
Despite an anticipated crowd of 13,000 fans, relentless storms forced most spectators to stay home, leaving only a few thousand die-hard supporters to brave the elements at McDonald Jones Stadium. The match between the Bulldogs and Titans ended in a tense 14-14 standoff, making it the first NRLW game to go to golden point in 2025, and just the fourth since the league’s inception in 2018.
The game was marred by injuries, with four players exiting the field within the first seven minutes due to the treacherous conditions. Bulldogs captain Tayla Preston played a pivotal role in leveling the score after her team trailed by ten points at halftime. Her skillful kick set up winger Elizabeth MacGregor for a crucial try, tying the game at 14-all as dark clouds loomed overhead.
As the match progressed, the intensity mirrored the extreme weather. With just minutes to go, Titans forward Jasmine Solia was sent to the sin bin after a shoulder charge on Bulldogs player Monica Tagoai, who later left the field for a head injury assessment. Yet, the Titans held strong, forcing the game into extra time.
In a dramatic climax, neither team was able to capitalize on multiple field-goal attempts, as visibility became dangerously low due to the downpour. Preston’s solitary field goal attempt in the first period of extra time went astray, while Titans halfback Lauren Brown couldn’t get her team into a position to replicate her prior heroics from the 2023 Origin series.
As the final whistle blew, the crowd erupted in mixed emotions—relief for the draw, yet frustration at missed opportunities in such challenging conditions. This unprecedented draw not only highlights the resilience of the players but also sets a new benchmark for the competition.
What’s Next: Fans and analysts alike are left eager for the next fixtures, wondering how the teams will adjust to both the competitive pressure and unpredictable weather. The NRLW’s growing popularity continues to shine through these historic moments, promising more thrilling encounters ahead.
Stay tuned for further updates as the NRLW season unfolds!
