Brisbane Broncos put down a statement as they thrash St George Illawarra Dragons 30-4 to complete the first round of fixtures in the NRL Womens Premiership at Suncorp Stadium.
Led by a double from superstar fullback, Chelsea Baker, the Broncos looked much slicker and comfortable in their ball movement. Baker found the line twice, while Maitua Feterikaslammed down for a 20-4 half-time score, Ngatokotoru Arakua and Ali Brigginshaw added to the damage in the second half, as the Broncos sit top of the nascent NRL Womens Premiership ladder.
Played in picturesque conditions, the game was played at a breakneck pace. Broncos hooker Brittany Breayley combined well with energetic fullback Chelsea Baker, as she cut through the Dragons defense for the opening score.
Dragons responded quickly through their own star fullback. Sam Bremner took advantage of the first attacking chance for the Saints, took the ball to the line, ducking under the attentions of the defenders to make it 4-4.
From there, it was all Broncos. Baker completed her double from a superb exchange of passes before the break, after Maitua Feterika powered to the line to restore the Broncos lead in the 24 minute. Baker added an after the siren penalty goal to stretch their advantage to 16 points.
There were some positive signs for the Saints in the second half, they were across the line through Shakiah Tungai and had good signs headed into next week. They need to add some polish to their attack, as they were outclassed by the home side.
Broncos rammed home their advantage in the second half, Ali Briggenshaw takes it herself, charging over, while Ngatokotoru Arakua showed strength to power across the line for a four-pointer. The home side looked like the much more complete side, as they put together some slick moves to outclass the Saints.