NRLW heavyweights square off in blockbuster season opener

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Newcastle Knights (W) v Sydney Roosters (W) Thursday 7:45pm at McDonald Jones Stadium, New Lambton / Awabakal

These two sides were the best in 2023, however the chance to meet in the Grand Final never eventuated after the Roosters fell in the preliminary final against the Titans, who the Knights would then beat to claim a second straight premiership.

The Knights still boast star power in Yasmin Clydsdale, Olivia Higgins, Caitlan Johnston-Green, Shanice Parker, the Southwell sisters Hannah and Jesse and probably the biggest star in the game, reigning Dally M medalist Tamika Upton. They've added rugby union converts Grace Kukutai and Isabella Waterman to their bench and wing positions respectively, further strengthening their side.

The Roosters aren't short of star power either, featuring Tarryn Aiken, Keeley Davis, Millie Elliot, Olivia Kernick, Jessica Sergis and their inspirational captain Isabelle Kelly. They've been aggressive in recruitment as well, with recruits Taina Naividi, Jasmin Strange, Mia Wood, and returning Field Hockey convert Samantha Economos all named to play in Round 1.

Last meeting: Round 8 2023 - Knights 20 Roosters 4

Who to watch: Put simply this will be a battle of the fullbacks. For the Knights they have one of the women's games brightest stars in Tamika Upton. Last year she proved her standing in the game, with 7 tries and 10 try assists across the 11 game season. If she can continue that form or even find another level in 2024, the Knights become heavy favourites to claim a three peat of titles.

Meanwhile the Tricolours put the number one jersey on Isabelle Kelly. Last season continued her strong form with 5 tries and 6 assists. She'll be desperate to lead the Roosters back to the premiership for the second time, and making a statement against Newcastle would be a great way to do so.

The favourite: The Knights are the favourites in this one

My tip: If the Roosters were healthy this would be a different tip, but the breadth of their injuries is just too much. Knights by 10

1. Tamika Upton 2. Sheridan Gallagher 3. Shanice Parker 4. Abigail Roache 5. Isabella Waterman 6. Georgia Roche 7. Jesse Southwell 8. Tayla Predebon 9. Olivia Higgins 10. Caitlan Johnston 11. Laishon Albert-Jones 12. Yasmin Clydsdale 13. Hannah Southwell 14. Nita Maynard 15. Kayla Romaniuk 16. Rima Butler 17. Grace Kukutai 18. Jacinta Carter

1. Isabelle Kelly 2. Taina Naividi 3. Jessica Sergis 4. Jasmine Strange 5. Mia Wood 6. Jayme Fressard 7. Tarryn Aiken 8. Millie Elliott 9. Keeley Davis 10. Pani Hopoate 11. Otesa Pule 12. Olivia Kernick 13. Aliyah Nasio 14. Jocelyn Kelleher 15. Eliza Lopamaua 16. Samantha Economos 17. Mya Hill-Moana 18. Imogen Hei

Referees: Belinda Sharpe; Sideline Officials: Ziggy Przeklasa-Adamski, Luke Saldern; Video Referees: Matt Noyen;