The Illawarra Steelers remain the only undefeated team in the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership after four rounds, claiming a hard-fought 16–6 win over the Penrith Panthers on Sunday afternoon at the Blacktown Exercise Sports and Technology Hub.
With the game in the balance, back-to-back tries midway through the second half paved the way for the Steelers fourth win on the trot.
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The Steelers opened the scoring in the eighth minute through centre Jessica Patea, who burst onto a neat cut-out ball from halfback Maddie Studddon, sprinting 40 metres to score the lone try of the half for a 4-0 lead.
[Watch] Steelers centre Jessica Patea find space before racing 40 metres to score the first try
Scoreless in the first half, the Panthers hit back just after the break, five-eighth Claudia Bush carving her way through the Steelers defence before converting her own try to put the home side ahead 6–4.
The arm wrestle continued until the Steelers found the line through skipper Mackenzie Lear, who crossed from close range in the 51st minute to reclaim the lead.
Centre Brittany Constable (pictured) extended the visitors’ advantage from the ensuing kickoff after a towering kick from Studdon.
Fullback Tayleah Handcock nailed both conversions to seal the win for the defending premiers, who are set to face the St George Dragons in a local derby next Monday night at the NSWRL Centre of Excellence.
Words | Angelina Raula