And with the Sydney Roosters supporting the cause, women’s rugby league in Australia is only getting stronger.
In a thrilling display of grit and talent, the **Jillaroos** emerged victorious in the **Pacific Cup final**, securing a
dominant **24-4 win** over the **Kiwi Ferns**. This triumph not only marked another milestone in Australian
women’s rugby league but also highlighted the crucial contributions of key players, especially **Tarryn Aiken**,
whose brilliance on both ends of the field was instrumental in the win. The **Sydney Roosters** are celebrating this
success as Aiken, a Roosters star, delivered a performance that exemplified leadership and skill, helping guide the
team to a well-deserved victory.
Aiken’s Star Performance: Leadership and Impact on Both Ends.
From the very first whistle, Aiken was at the heart of everything the Jillaroos did well. Her vision and decision-
making on attack were unmatched, consistently putting her teammates in space and ensuring the Australian side
maintained pressure on the Kiwi Ferns’ defense. Whether it was creating key line breaks, orchestrating attacking
plays, or delivering pinpoint kicks, Aiken proved why she’s considered one of the top players in women’s rugby
league.
But Aiken’s influence wasn’t confined to the attacking third. Her defensive work was equally exceptional. Time and
again, she put herself in the right position to make crucial tackles, including some important last-ditch efforts to
prevent the Kiwi Ferns from gaining momentum. Her composure under pressure, especially in a fast-paced final, was
a testament to her maturity and leadership on the field.
Defensive Masterclass: The Roosters’ Influence on the Jillaroos’ Success.
While Aiken’s brilliance in attack stole the headlines, it was the **Jillaroos’ defense** that set the foundation for
their success in the final. The team’s defensive effort was nothing short of a masterclass, with all players committing
to the defensive schemes and working as a cohesive unit. The Kiwi Ferns, despite their attacking prowess, struggled
to break through the solid defensive line the Jillaroos set up.
A strong defensive performance from players like **Destiny Brill**, **Sophie Holyman**, and **Hannah
Southwell** kept the Kiwi Ferns at bay. Their communication and discipline were key, particularly when defending
against the Ferns’ powerful forwards. The Jillaroos’ ability to hold the Kiwi Ferns to just one try throughout the
match demonstrated their commitment to the basics: solid line speed, effective tackling, and great positional play.
The Scoreline: Clinical Performance Across All Areas.
The final score of **24-4** was a reflection of a well-rounded performance from the Jillaroos, who were dominant in
every phase of play. The team capitalized on their set-piece opportunities, making the most of turnovers and keeping
the pressure high on the Kiwi Ferns’ defense. Aiken, alongside **Emma Tonegato** and **Kezie Apps**, provided
the attacking flair that saw the Australian side cross the line multiple times.
The Kiwi Ferns, who have always been fierce competitors, were able to produce a solid opening in the first half but
ultimately couldn’t keep pace with the Jillaroos’ clinical execution in the second half. While they managed to score
one try, their attacking options were consistently shut down by the Jillaroos’ defensive structure.
A Team Effort: Roosters and Jillaroos Connection.
As the victory sank in, Sydney Roosters fans had even more reason to celebrate. With a core group of Roosters
players in the Jillaroos squad, the club’s influence on the national team was evident. Aiken, alongside teammates
such as **Sammy Bremner** and **Isabelle Kelly**, helped ensure that the Roosters’ winning culture translated
seamlessly into the international stage. The connections and chemistry these players share in the NRLW with the
Roosters were clearly visible during the Pacific Cup final, where their cohesion translated into a flawless team
performance.
The Roosters’ pride in their players’ success is undeniable, and their contribution to the Jillaroos’ win is a reminder
of the strength of the club’s development pathways and its support for women’s rugby league. The achievement of
the Jillaroos serves as further proof that the future of Australian women’s rugby league is bright, with the Roosters
continuing to be at the forefront of this growth.
Looking Forward: A Bright Future for the Jillaroos and Women’s Rugby League.
As the Jillaroos celebrate their Pacific Cup triumph, the focus now turns to the future. This victory is a massive
confidence boost for the team ahead of upcoming international fixtures, including the **2025 Women’s Rugby
League World Cup**, where the Jillaroos will look to defend their title. With players like Tarryn Aiken leading the
way, the future of Australian women’s rugby league is incredibly promising, and the Sydney Roosters are likely to
continue playing a pivotal role in the team’s success.
This win also highlights the growing popularity and recognition of women’s rugby league on the global stage. With
more attention being paid to the sport and increasing investment, the Jillaroos are poised to continue setting the
standard for excellence in women’s rugby league for years to come.
For now, the Jillaroos can bask in the glory of their **24-4 victory**, knowing that their hard work, resilience, and
leadership on the field have earned them a well-deserved victory over the Kiwi Ferns.
