Queensland Maroons have claimed the Women's State of Origin series for 2026 with a dramatic 18-14 victory over New South Wales Blues in the deciding third game at Suncorp Stadium. The win gives the Maroons a 2-1 series triumph, marking their first series win since 2021.
Match Summary
The game was a tense affair, with both sides trading tries throughout the first half. NSW scored first through winger Jessica Sergis, who crossed in the corner after a clever offload from captain Kezie Apps. Queensland responded quickly, with fullback Tamika Upton showing her pace to score under the posts. The Blues regained the lead before halftime when halfback Maddie Studdon put a kick through for prop Simaima Taufa to ground.
Trailing 14-10 at the break, the Maroons came out firing in the second half. They dominated territory and possession but were repeatedly denied by a stubborn NSW defence. With just five minutes remaining, Queensland finally broke through when forward Tarryn Aiken crashed over from close range after sustained pressure. The conversion gave them a 16-14 lead, and a late penalty goal sealed the 18-14 victory.
Key Performances
- Tamika Upton (QLD): The fullback was a constant threat, scoring a try and setting up another with her elusive running.
- Kezie Apps (NSW): The Blues captain led from the front, making 25 tackles and providing the assist for the opening try.
- Tarryn Aiken (QLD): The forward's powerful try proved to be the match-winner in the dying stages.
Series Context
The Women's State of Origin has grown in stature in recent years, with this series being the first to feature three games after expansion from a single match. The Maroons' victory ends a period of NSW dominance, as the Blues had won the previous four series. Queensland coach Tahnee Norris praised her team's resilience: "We knew it would be a battle, but the girls showed incredible character to fight back and get the win."
The series also saw record crowds, with over 30,000 attending Game 1 in Sydney and a sell-out at Suncorp for the decider. The increased investment in women's rugby league is paying dividends, with the quality of play reaching new heights.
Looking Ahead
Both teams will now turn their attention to the Women's Rugby League World Cup later this year, where they will represent Australia and New Zealand respectively. The Maroons will be buoyed by this series win, while the Blues will look to regroup and build on what was still a competitive performance.
The 2026 Women's State of Origin will be remembered as a classic, with Queensland's last-gasp heroics ensuring the trophy returns north of the border.
