Roosters stay unbeaten, edge Canberra to reach NRLW grand final
In a dramatic preliminary final at Allianz Stadium, the Roosters defeated Canberra 20‑10, maintaining an unbeaten record and securing a place in the NRLW grand final. Key moments included early Roosters tries, a fierce battle, and a late try from Tarryn Aiken that sealed the win.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The Sydney Roosters’ NRL Women’s side finished the 2026 season undefeated, defeating the Canberra Raiders 20‑10 in a gripping preliminary final at Allianz Stadium on Saturday night. The win not only kept the Roosters’ perfect record intact but also booked them a place in the grand final on October 4, where they will face the winner of the Gold Coast vs. Brisbane clash.
Early dominance and a fierce start
The Roosters began the match with the same fire that had carried them to the top of the ladder. Within the first two minutes, a swift attack saw Jayme Fressard cross the line for a try, giving the team an early 6‑0 advantage. The score was extended in the 19th minute when Rima Butler broke through Canberra’s defence, making it 12‑0.
Canberra responded with a counter‑attack that saw five‑eight Krystal Blackwell score the Raiders’ first try. Blackwell’s effort was remarkable, especially after a head clash with Butler left her bloodied and forced to change jerseys mid‑half. The Raiders’ resilience kept the game within reach, and the score was 12‑6 at half‑time.
Physical battle and controversial moments
The second half was a test of grit. Canberra’s Chante Temara made a powerful run, putting Hollie‑Mae Dodd across and threatening to close the gap. With ten minutes remaining, the Raiders were only one converted try away from tying the match. However, the Roosters’ defence held firm, and a series of missed opportunities from Canberra kept the lead intact.
The match was not without controversy. Canberra fullback Sheridan Gallagher was involved in a hair‑pulling incident that saw her brought to ground, but she avoided a sin bin. Later, a contentious decision denied Canberra an equaliser when Roosters winger Brydie Parker’s foot was under the ball. The Roosters’ ability to stay composed under pressure was a key factor in their victory.
Decisive moments and the final try
With the game hanging in the balance, the Roosters’ halves partner Jocelyn Kelleher orchestrated a clever kick chase that set up a try for Jess Sergis. The try gave the Roosters a 20‑10 lead that they would not relinquish.
The final blow came in the dying minutes. Halfback Tarryn Aiken, who had been quiet for most of the game, burst through Canberra’s defence to score a try with just two minutes left. Aiken’s effort sealed the win and ensured the Roosters remained unbeaten for the season.
Injury concerns and the road ahead
Injuries were a concern for the Roosters after Fressard suffered a shoulder injury in the first half and did not return for the second. The winger, a New South Wales representative, had only recently recovered from a hand injury and will need to be at full fitness for the grand final.
Despite these setbacks, the Roosters’ depth and experience have seen them through a tough season. Their third consecutive NRLW grand final appearance underscores their dominance in the competition. The upcoming match against the Gold Coast or Brisbane side will decide whether the Roosters can add a third straight premiership to their record.
As the Roosters prepare for the grand final, the focus will be on maintaining their defensive solidity and capitalising on key attacking opportunities. The team’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure will be crucial in the final showdown.
What’s next for the Roosters?
The Roosters will now shift their attention to the grand final, scheduled for Sunday, October 4. They will face the winner of the Gold Coast vs. Brisbane preliminary final, a match that promises to be as intense as the game against Canberra. The team’s coaching staff will likely fine‑tune strategies to counter the strengths of their upcoming opponents, while the players will aim to stay injury‑free and maintain the momentum that has defined their season.
For fans, the Roosters’ journey to the grand final is a testament to their consistency and determination. The team’s unbeaten record, coupled with the dramatic nature of their preliminary final win, has set the stage for a memorable conclusion to the 2026 NRL Women’s season.
Key facts
- Roosters remain undefeated after 20‑10 win over Canberra
- Early tries by Fressard and Butler set the tone
- Canberra’s Blackwell scored after a head clash
- Controversial incidents included a hair‑pulling and a denied try
- Tarryn Aiken’s late try sealed the victory
- Injury concerns for Fressard ahead of the grand final
Why it matters
The Roosters’ unbeaten run and dramatic win highlight the intensity of the NRL Women’s competition, showcasing the sport’s growth and the high stakes of the grand final showdown.
Frequently asked questions
What was the final score?
The Roosters won 20‑10.
Who scored the decisive try?
Tarryn Aiken scored the late try.
Did any injuries affect the Roosters?
Jayme Fressard suffered a shoulder injury and did not return.
Who will the Roosters face in the grand final?
The winner of the Gold Coast vs. Brisbane preliminary final.
How many grand finals has the Roosters reached?
Three consecutive finals (2024, 2025, 2026).
Sources
- [1] smh.com.au — originally reported as “NRLW finals: Roosters remain undefeated as they survive physical battle against Canberra to reach grand final”
