Queensland denies NSW women’s Origin whitewash with late victory

Queensland secured a dramatic 18-14 victory over New South Wales in the third game of the 2025 Women's State of Origin series, preventing the Blues from achieving a historic 3-0 whitewash. Despite leading by eight points in the second half, NSW was unable to hold off a late Queensland comeback, capped by a crucial try from Chelsea Lenarduzzi, who was later sin-binned for a professional foul as the game ended. The match featured multiple disallowed tries for NSW due to technicalities, including a notable moment when Isabelle Kelly failed to ground the ball properly. Queensland overcame injuries and a strong NSW start, with key contributions from players like Makenzie Weale and captain Ali Brigginshaw, who assisted the winning try. While NSW had already secured the series with earlier wins, the loss ended their hopes of a clean sweep, though player Olivia Kernick was awarded the Nellie Doherty medal for player of the series. The result eased pressure on Queensland coach Tahnee Norris after two previous defeats and highlighted the competitive intensity of the women's Origin rivalry.