New South Wales halfback Jesse Southwell broke Queensland's hearts with a decisive try in the 65th minute of the State of Origin series opener, leading her team to a 14-12 victory. The match, played on April 30, 2026, at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, saw Southwell score the only try of the second half after a tense back-and-forth battle.
Southwell, who will join the Brisbane Broncos in the NRLW for the 2026 season, was instrumental in the win. Her try came after a clever dummy and step, leaving Queensland defenders in her wake. The conversion by goalkeeper Emma Tonegato extended NSW's lead to 14-6, but Queensland fought back with a late try to make it 14-12, though they couldn't complete the comeback.
The victory gives NSW a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, with the next game scheduled for May 14 at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle. Southwell's performance has been praised by teammates and coaches, with NSW coach Kylie Hilder calling it a 'match-winning moment' from a player who thrives under pressure.
Queensland captain Ali Brigginshaw acknowledged the disappointment but vowed to bounce back. 'We had our chances, but credit to NSW. Jesse was outstanding tonight,' she said. The series remains wide open, with both teams eyeing the next clash.
