The current NRLW season has been rather barren for the Parramatta Eels in 2023 but despite several big losses, their spirit was on show in a loss to the Brisbane Broncos.
The game threatened to start out as another long day for the Eels when the Broncos went over early, only for the pass to be called back for a forward pass.
The Broncos would not have to wait long, however, as a shift down the left saw Hayley Maddick deliver a perfect cut-out pass for the returning Ash Werner to score in the left corner.
Showing their fighting spirit despite the losses of Kennedy Cherrington (suspension) and Elsie Albert (calf), the Eels hit back as Reuben Cherrington burrowed over from dummy half.
The Eels inopportune errors would then rear an ugly head for the Eels as the Broncos then scored two further tries.
First, Jada Ferguson was able to but Chelsea Lenarduzzi over with a simple crash play.
This was soon followed by a try to the in-form Mele Hufanga who simply bustled over defenders to make scoring a try seem like child’s play.
The Eels had a chance to then claw their way back after the Broncos had two players sin-binned.
Brianna Clark (shoulder charge) and Jasmine Fogavini (hip drop) both spent time in the bin.
The Eels were able to pull back one try as they shifted right for Monique Donovan to score.
But that was all they could muster as yet again, errors let them down before the Broncos sealed the game.
They composed themselves, held their line and eventually marched up the field for Mariah Denman to score.
Eels coach Dean Widders noticed his side’s heart and character and praised the improved team performance.
“I think they played with a lot of heart. They were very courageous, an improved performance with some of our game management,” Widders said.
Broncos coach Scott Prince praised his side’s resiliency to win under trying circumstances.
“It was a hard-fought win and very proud of the girls for their efforts,” Prince said.
Brisbane Broncos 22 (Werner, Lenarduzzi, Hufanga, Denman; Goals: Brigginshaw 3) def. Parramatta Eels 12 (R. Cherrington, Donovan; Goals: Pearson 2).
NRL News NRLW Player of the Game
3. Mariah Denman (BRI)
2. Mahalia Murphy (PAR)
1. Brianna Clark (BRI)