Hills Sports High School are the NRL National Schoolgirls champions after securing a spirited 22-10 victory over Keebra Park in the final at Kayo Stadium.
While they had to withstand an inevitable fightback in the second half by the Queensland side, they visitors did the damage in the first half and were able to hold on for the win.
Hills Sports High had the better of the first half, withstanding early pressure from Keebra Park, who looked to be on top early.
While they were able to make their way in to their attacking 10 metres, they could not get over the line, thanks to committed Hills Sports High School defence.
Instead, when they got their opportunity, the visitors struck with some enterprising play.
Winger Havana Cook was the first to score after collecting a perfectly-placed chip over the top, running the ball in on their right edge from the opener. Lillyarna Suitupe was successful with the conversion.
While their first came against the run of play, they worked their way to their second, with some quick play-the-balls and effective running in and around the ruck helping to get them on the front foot.
Halfback Liannah Amete put her side further in front with a stepping run at the line, finding her way in under the posts. Suitupe was successful again and it was 12-0 to the New South Wales champions.
A penalty goal just before the half-time break game them a 14-0 lead going into the sheds.
In the second half, Keebra scored the opening two tries to narrow the scores - but could not sustain their momentum, allowing the visitors to get back into the game.
They posted two late tries seal the deal to Quiana Savesi and Silia Tuitufu right before the full-time siren.
More to come.
