Brisbane Broncos reach NRLW Grand Final after defeating Gold Coast Titans
Quick Look
- Brisbane Broncos defeated Gold Coast Titans 20-8 in the NRLW preliminary final to secure a fifth consecutive grand final appearance, setting up a rematch with the Sydney Roosters.
- The win marks Ali Brigginshaw's final match before retirement.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Brisbane Broncos have won all four previous NRLW grand finals they have contested and are seeking a fifth title. They defeated the Sydney Roosters 22-18 in last year's grand final.
Defending premier Brisbane is through to another NRLW grand final showdown with the Sydney Roosters after ending the dream run of Gold Coast in the preliminary final.
The Broncos won 20-8 away at Robina to secure their fifth win in a row to qualify for their fifth grand final. They have won all four that they have contested.
The showdown next Sunday will be Broncos legend Ali Brigginshaw's final match before retiring.
Last year the Broncos beat the Roosters 22-18.
The Broncos romped to a 20-4 lead in a four-try opening half on Sunday where they dominated in every area.
Titans lock Sienna Lofipo was ruled out of the match with a suspected broken jaw late in the half in a huge blow.
The big game experience of in-form Broncos trio Tamika Upton, Jesse Southwell and Romy Teitzel came to the fore as the hosts wilted under the pressure.
Upton, from full-back, was too elusive and strong to score the opening try when she beat three Titans with a step and a surge.
The discipline of the hosts, who had won their previous 10 matches in a row, let them down early with three penalties and they paid the price.
Half-back Southwell turned second-rower Romy Teitzel back on the inside and she raced through a giant hole.
A stunning cutout pass by Titans second-rower and standout player Evania Isa'ako close to the line got the hosts on the board with winger Destiny Mino-Sinapati diving over in the corner.
Gold Coast's numbering in defence inside their quarter line was all at sea in the first half and it was too easy for Upton to put back-rower Lauren Dam over.
Teitzel turned creator and powerhouse winger Julia Robinson, who had a blinder, was on the end of it and the Titans were on the rack.
Isa'ako collected her own ricocheted grubber kick to give the Titans a sniff after the break but Brisbane's defence on its line was too good.
Titans full-back Lily Patston also had an early finish when she went off with a category one HIA in the second half.
The Titans had a great season under coach Karyn Murphy but will be disappointed after failing to hit their straps in the biggest game of the season.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Brisbane Broncos will face Sydney Roosters in the NRLW grand final next Sunday
Very likely · Within days
Ali Brigginshaw will retire after the NRLW grand final
Very likely · Within weeks
Open Questions
- Will Ali Brigginshaw's retirement mark the end of an era for the Brisbane Broncos?
- Can the Brisbane Broncos win their fifth NRLW grand final?
- What adjustments will the Gold Coast Titans make after their preliminary final loss?