2020 NRLW Round 1 Report

Two teams have made powerful statements in the opening round of the NRLW, with the Roosters toppling the Dragons 18-4 and the Broncos smashing the Warriors 28-0.

Caslick proves she’s worth the hype in shock upset

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With a game-high 154 metres from 12 runs, Charlotte Caslick has proved a crucial addition to the Roosters squad as she helped them to an 18-4 upset over the Dragons.

The scoring opened early when a quick play-the-ball close to the line helped Roosters hooker Nita Maynard get the first points. But subsequent errors helped the Dragons gain enough field position for returning fullback Sam Bremner to set up a try for Tiana Penitani in the corner.

Fullback Botille Vette-Welsh left the field with a hamstring complaint in the 13th minute, though her replacement Quincy Dodd helped the tricolours to an eight-point lead heading into half time.

Injuries to Kezie Apps (concussion), Jess Sergis (ankle) and Shakiah Tungai (shoulder) only made matters worse for the Red V, who were held scoreless in the second half.

A successful Captains Challenge gave the Roosters the field advantage to cross the line, before a late offload from Caslick helped Corban McGregor score and seal the game.

Broncos defy slow start to ignite three-peat ambitions 

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The Broncos proved they’re still the team to beat in the NRLW with a 28-14 win over the Warriors.

The first nine minutes looked to be the start of a major upset, as the Warriors led 8-0 through tries to Simone Smith and Ellia Green.

Despite a low completion rate, the Broncos bounced back in style with a first-half hat-trick to fullback Tamika Upton, who also reached an incredible 117 metres in the first half alone.

The on-fire Broncos scored again not even two minutes into the second half when centre Julia Robinson sliced through the defensive line.

A barging try to Chelsea Lenarduzzi pushed the lead out of reach, despite being following by a consolation try to Evania Pelite.

An injury to Broncos playmaker Raecene McGregor put a downpour on what was otherwise a strong start to the season, but she is believed to be cleared of any serious injury.