The girls did it! Finals footy is here.
If you read the Sportress and live in Sydney, I’m going to assume you have your tickets to Friday’s game in Campbelltown. Tickets are only $15! $15 to be a part of Raiders history is the bargain of 2026.
Congratulations to the Raiders playing this week who have been there from game one – Sophie Holyman, Mackenzie Wiki, Zahara Temara, Hollie-Mae Dodd, Chante Temara, Grace Kemp and Emma Barnes. While not playing due to suspension, Simaima Taufa’s contribution to getting the Raiders here must be acknowledged.
The week has started with the Raiders’ award night – Leianne Tufuga has won the NRLW Meninga Medal. The first women’s player to win the award not named Simaima Taufa. This year Lei played all 11 games – 4 tries, 5 line breaks, an average of 121 metres per game. Her partnership with Mackenzie Wiki is shaping up to be spoken of in the same breath as Leipana.
With a week’s rest, the Tigers have two big ins: Kezie Apps and Caitlin Turnbull returning from injury. Kezie’s return moves Shaniece Monschau to the front row. Kezie is a giant of the game and her presence will lift those around her. This season, where she has been able to make a bigger contribution, the Tigers have gone on to win. Caitlin Turnbull will bring experience at fullback in runs and defensive organisation.
The Tigers were lucky last week in that Zahara Temara had some failed execution in getting the ball out on that left wing. If the Raiders can get the ball out to Law and Waterman, more points could be coming.
Defensively, the Raiders need to focus on their goal line defence. Salma Nour has been successful close to the line. Last week she had two attempts and was successful in one. The Raiders showed they can muscle up against bigger players close to the line, but brief lapses in focus can let in easier tries.
The Raiders’ bench is more cohesive, having played together most of the season. Borthwick used last week as an opportunity to give Lili Boyle more minutes (41 compared to the 16 minutes she played against the Titans). She rewarded the faith with 10 runs for 115 metres. Boyle and Kemp will give Emma Barnes opportunities to run from dummy half and gain metres.
These two teams are evenly matched and in their first-ever finals game. The game will come down to who can hold their nerve and trust their processes and training.
Raiders by 6!
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