The Illawarra Steelers Tarsha Gale Cup U19s are ready for their semi-final clash against the Sydney Roosters on Saturday, with eyes firmly set on a second consecutive grand final appearance.
However, they must first overcome a determined Roosters team that has made an impressive run to the prelim final after qualifying from seventh on the ladder.
Team captain Trinity Tauaneai says confidence is high following a dominant 60-minute performance against the Penrith Panthers in week one of the finals.
“I think that was the first time we actually played a full 60 minutes,” Tauaneai said.
“Usually, we go hard for 30 or 40 and then drop off, but this time we held it the whole way. Everyone bought in, stuck to the system, and it really showed.”
Close Contest
The Steelers previously edged out the Roosters in Round 9 with a narrow 26–24 win. Tauaneai admits it wasn’t their strongest outing but says it served as a valuable lesson.
“It wasn’t our best performance, but anything can happen in a game like that. I think it reminded us we need to focus on playing a full 60 minutes and sticking to our systems—how we play, how the Steelers play. That’s what we need to get back to.”
Making the grand final two years in a row would be a major milestone for the team—and especially meaningful for some of the younger players.
“It means a lot. For some of these girls, this is the highest level of footy they’ve ever played or might ever play,” Tauaneai said.
“It’s exciting just to be in this position, but we know there’s more to do. We want to go further.”
Better Prepared
With key players returning from injury, Tauaneai says the team is better prepared this time around.
“We’ve got a few players back now that we didn’t have the first time we played the Roosters. Back then, we were a bit weak on the edges, but those girls have really improved—you could see that in the Penrith game.”
“We know what we’re capable of now, and I’m sure we’ll show it this time.”
[Watch] Steelers Tarsha Gale Cup Captain Trinity Tauaneai on the Steelers Prelim Final against the Sydney Roosters
From Wellington to Wollongong: Billie Va’a’s Rise
Centre Billie Va’a, originally from Wellington in New Zealand, has played a key role in the Steelers’ campaign and is determined to help the team go all the way.
“It means starting strong and finishing strong. Not just going in half-hearted or playing only half the game,” she said.
“We need to be all in.”
Despite the high stakes, Va’a says the squad remains calm and focused.
“Everyone’s pretty relaxed. We know what’s at stake, but we also know what our jobs are. We’re ready to fight for the win.”
“I’d like to think of it like any other game because that takes the pressure off me. But in reality, it’s not—it’s one we really have to fight for.”
With experience, unity, and belief on their side, the Steelers are heading into Saturday’s semi-final with one goal: to earn their shot at back-to-back titles.
Week 3 Finals Series | Saturday, 26 April | Dudley Chesham Sports Ground, The Oaks
- 2:30pm | Prelim Final| TGC Steelers (1) v Sydney Roosters Indigenous Academy (7)
Words: Angelina Raula