Women’s 1st Grade Match Report Away Ground, May 2025

The Waratahs Women produced their most dominant performance of the season, recording a comprehensive 44-0 away victory that showcased the depth, attacking prowess, and defensive excellence throughout the squad.

Kelsey Stars with Hat-Trick

Sophia Kelsey delivered the performance of her career with a stunning hat-trick that spearheaded the Waratahs’ attacking assault. Her three tries demonstrated her pace, footwork, and clinical finishing ability, establishing herself as one of the most dangerous attacking threats in the competition.

Lonsdale’s Double Caps Excellent Display

Megan Lonsdale continued her exceptional try-scoring form with two well-taken tries, showcasing the power and determination that has made her such a key player. Her ability to break through defensive lines and finish clinically proved crucial in building the comprehensive victory margin.

Lucas Leads with Try and Boot

Milly Lucas produced another complete performance, contributing a try while also handling the goal-kicking duties. Despite challenging conditions, she successfully converted two of her six attempts, demonstrating her versatility and leadership on the field.

Harpley and Meriton Add to Haul

Clare Harpley opened the scoring with a well-executed try that set the tone for the dominant display, while Rhani Meriton also crossed the line to contribute to the eight-try feast. The variety of scorers highlighted the multiple attacking threats the Waratahs can call upon.

Extensive Squad Rotation Pays Dividends

The coaching staff made excellent use of the extended squad depth, with multiple tactical substitutions allowing players to showcase their abilities while maintaining intensity throughout the contest. The rotation involving Rebekah Holmes, Lily Hogan, Olivia Mckenna, Logann Phelps, Holly Stephens, Suze Waia, Molly Browne, Raijieli Koto, and Sophia Kelsey demonstrated the impressive depth available.

Defensive Masterclass

The Waratahs’ defensive performance deserves equal recognition alongside their attacking display. Recording a clean sheet away from home against determined opposition highlighted the defensive structure, communication, and commitment that has become a hallmark of this side.

Perfect Game Management

The team’s ability to maintain intensity and structure throughout the full contest, while managing the extensive substitutions, showed excellent game management from both players and coaching staff. The tactical flexibility demonstrated will serve them well in future challenges.

Clinical Finishing in Tough Conditions

While Lucas found the goal-kicking challenging with only two successful conversions from six attempts, the team’s clinical finishing in terms of try-scoring proved the difference. Converting eight scoring opportunities into tries demonstrated the ruthless efficiency that championship sides require.

Building Championship Momentum

This comprehensive away victory provides tremendous confidence as the Waratahs continue their championship campaign. The ability to dominate in all facets of the game while using the full squad effectively suggests this side has the depth and quality required for sustained success.

Statement Performance

Recording a 44-point victory away from home while keeping the opposition scoreless sends a clear message to the rest of the competition. This performance showcased the Waratahs at their clinical best in both attack and defence.

Squad Depth on Display

The extensive use of tactical substitutions without any drop in performance standards highlighted the exceptional depth available to the coaching staff. This squad rotation capability will prove invaluable as the season reaches its crucial stages.

Final Score

Opposition 0 – Waratahs 44

Scoring Summary

Waratahs Tries: Sophia Kelsey (3), Megan Lonsdale (2), Clare Harpley, Rhani Meriton, Milly Lucas Waratahs Conversions: Milly Lucas (2/6)

Opposition: No Scores

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