Why the Sydney Roosters are Chasing NRLW Redemption Right Now

The Ultimate Quest for Redemption

The Sydney Roosters are on a mission to erase the painful memory of last year's grand final loss to the Broncos. After steamrolling through the 2026 NRLW regular season undefeated, the minor premiers entered Allianz Stadium with one clear goal: secure a spot in their sixth grand final in nine seasons.

Standing in their way is the "Green Machine"—a Canberra Raiders team making their historic first finals appearance in just their fourth season in the competition.

Wet Conditions and Early Dominance

A pre-game storm swept through Sydney, leaving the Allianz Stadium turf slick and placing a premium on ball security. Despite the wet conditions, the Roosters wasted no time asserting their dominance.

Winger Jayme Fressard made a dream return from a hand injury, crossing the line in just the third minute after an early penalty put the Roosters on the attack.

The Roosters' relentless pressure continued, leading to critical moments in the first half:

• The 70-Meter Break: In the 19th minute, Tarryn Aiken forced a crucial turnover, releasing captain Isabelle Kelly for a blistering 70-meter run. After a penalty for a hair pull on Kelly, substitute Rima Butler crashed over to make it 10-0.
• Defensive Resilience: Canberra didn't fold. Isabella Waterman pulled off a heroic try-saving tackle to hold up Jasmine Strange in the 23rd minute, keeping the Raiders within striking distance.
• Captain's Challenge Loss: The Roosters lost their challenge in the 28th minute after a kick deflection was ruled not played at by the Raiders, shifting momentum.

The Raiders Fight Back

Just when the Roosters seemed poised to run away with the contest, Canberra showed the grit that defined their regular season.

The standout moment of the first half belonged to Canberra's five-eighth, Krystal Blackwell. Forced off the field with blood pouring from her nose, Blackwell returned in a clean jersey (No. 25) and made an immediate impact. Running off a beautiful Zahara Temara pass, Blackwell sliced through a gap in the Roosters' defensive line to score, closing the gap to 10-4 at halftime.

What Lies Ahead

The Roosters hold a slim 10-4 lead at the break, but this preliminary final is far from decided.

With retiring club legends Corban Baxter and Millie Elliott fighting to extend their careers by one more game, the emotional stakes are incredibly high for the Tricolours. For the Roosters, discipline in the wet will be the key to keeping their undefeated streak alive. For the Raiders, capitalizing on the playmaking of Temara and Blackwell is their best shot at pulling off a historic upset.