Written by Nathan Williamson on Oct 08, 2024 09:35 AM, courtesy of rugby.com.au Source article.
Live from Forshaw Rugby Park
NSW have taken out the opening round of the Next Gen Sevens at Forshaw Park against Queensland on points difference after a thrilling day of action.
The two teams shared the wins across the four games but it was NSW’s 34-0 shutout in the third that proved critical as the tie was decider on points difference.
Watch every round of the Next Gen Sevens live on Rugby Xplorer
Mackenzie Davis played a starring role in the first half blitz as she sprinted away for the opener.
Logan Lemusu extended the lead two minutes later before Ella Carlisle raced clear for a 17-0 lead at the break.
Milla Elaro pushed their lead out further after powering her way over the line.
Tries to Piper Simons and Tess Orton capped off the impressive win that would prove the difference.
The NSW side were forced to rally after an opening 26-10 defeat to their Queensland counterparts.
A double to Rhani Hagan gave the Reds a 21-5 lead at the break as they started the day fast.
Damita Betham gave NSW hope late but teenager Faagase Tupuola-Palale sealed the win a minute later.
NSW levelled the series with a 12-10 win before their blowout win gave them a commanding 2-1 advantage and a +20 points difference buffer heading into the final game.
Carlisle scored the opener for the hosts before Amahli-Sieli Hala sparked the Queenslanders into life.
Fleur Ginn’s late try gave them a 12-5 lead, with the experience of Queensland shining through in the second half.
Wallaroos Carys Dallinger scored under the posts to start the half, before Ginn’s second try gave them hope of snatching the round in the final minutes.
Ahead by one on points difference, the NSW side rallied to score through Jacinta Windsor and Betham.
Whilst Queensland took out the 28-17 win, the late tries were enough to secure the round win for NSW ahead of next week’s second leg in Toowoomba.
