Women’s 1st Grade Match Report Wagga Waratahs Home Ground, May 2025

The Waratahs Women demonstrated tremendous character and resilience, overcoming a red card to Janara-ali Powell to secure a convincing 40-7 home victory that showcased the squad’s depth and mental toughness.

Character Tested Early

The match took a dramatic turn when Janara-ali Powell received a red card for a dangerous lifting tackle, leaving the Waratahs to play the majority of the contest with 11 players. However, rather than allowing the setback to derail their performance, the team rallied magnificently to produce one of their most impressive displays of the season.

Bowley and Lonsdale Star in Victory

Sophie Bowley delivered a match-winning performance with two well-taken tries, showcasing her pace and finishing ability when the team needed it most. Megan Lonsdale matched her effort with a powerful double, demonstrating the attacking threats the Waratahs possess throughout their backline despite the numerical disadvantage.

Lucas Maintains Perfect Record

Milly Lucas once again proved her reliability with the boot, converting five of six attempts to maintain her exceptional goal-kicking form. Her 10-point contribution with the boot, combined with her game management under pressure, provided the foundation for the victory while playing a player short.

Fowler and Saxby Add to Tally

Amy Fowler opened the scoring with a well-executed try, setting the tone for what would become a dominant team performance. Brianne Saxby also crossed the line to contribute to the six-try haul, highlighting the multiple attacking options available to the coaching staff.

Squad Depth Crucial Under Pressure

With the team reduced to 11 players, the extensive use of the bench became crucial to maintaining intensity throughout the match. The tactical substitutions involving Mykayla Crisp, Molly Browne, Sophia Kelsey, Holly Stephens, Clare Harpley, Lily Hogan, Rhani Meriton, Suze Waia, Emily Harvey, Olivia Mckenna, Logann Phelps, Rebekah Holmes, Sophie Bowley, Claire Foley, Ulamila Kuboutawa, and Raijieli Koto demonstrated the impressive depth available.

Defensive Resilience Shines

Playing with 11 players for the majority of the contest, the Waratahs’ defensive effort deserves special recognition. Limiting the opposition to just one try while maintaining their attacking structure showed the mental toughness and tactical discipline that championship sides require.

Opposition Shows Fighting Spirit

Despite the comprehensive defeat, the visitors demonstrated character through Jess Burgess’ well-taken try. Tori Redman’s successful conversion showed the visitors weren’t prepared to simply make up the numbers, making the Waratahs’ performance all the more impressive.

Leadership Under Pressure

The manner in which the team responded to Powell’s early dismissal highlighted the leadership qualities throughout the squad. Rather than allowing heads to drop, the players maintained their structure and continued to execute their game plan with precision and determination.

Tactical Masterclass

The coaching staff deserve credit for the tactical adjustments made following the red card. The team’s ability to maintain their attacking potency while ensuring defensive solidity with a player disadvantage demonstrated excellent preparation and tactical flexibility.

Building Mental Toughness

This victory will prove invaluable for the squad’s confidence moving forward. The ability to overcome adversity and maintain performance standards when facing significant challenges shows the character that will be crucial in the business end of the season.

Final Score

Waratahs 40 – Opposition 7

Scoring Summary

Waratahs Tries: Sophie Bowley (2), Megan Lonsdale (2), Amy Fowler, Brianne Saxby Waratahs Conversions: Milly Lucas (5/6)

Opposition Tries: Jess Burgess Opposition Conversions: Tori Redman (1/1)