The Jillaroos have firmly grasped the initiative in this Women’s Rugby League World Cup semi-final, extending their lead to 24-8 against the Fiji Bulikula at Allianz Stadium. While Fiji opened the match with an 8-0 advantage, the home side has methodically dismantled their defense, scoring five consecutive tries to reverse the momentum entirely. The shift in possession is stark; Australia now controls 53% of the ball, outpacing Fiji with five line breaks to two and six offloads to two, effectively neutralizing the Bulikula’s early pressure.
Jillaroos seize control as fatigued Bulikula struggle to contain home side’s late surge
Fiji’s physical resistance is visibly waning as the 60th minute approaches, with the team running on heavy legs despite their earlier defensive grit. The penalty count stands at 6-2 against Fiji in the second half, highlighting their increasing difficulty in maintaining structure against the Australian speedsters. In a rare attacking passage, Fiji’s Paseka managed a bust for 25 staggered steps before being run down, setting up a final push in the red zone. However, the effort was in vain as the Jillaroos’ defensive line held firm, capping off a sequence that saw Fiji make another unforced error and hand back possession.
The psychological impact on the Bulikula is evident as they appear deflated, struggling to find a rhythm after leaking five tries in succession. Captain Sereana Naitokatoka is desperately urging her team for one last effort, but the gap in fatigue and tactical execution has widened significantly. With Australia’s Kelleher missing a conversion but the scoreline already decisive, the Jillaroos are now managing the game with clinical precision. The stage is set for Australia to secure their place in the final, having completely reversed the first-half narrative through superior conditioning and relentless pressure.
Source: The Guardian Sport
