Jess Sergis, previously distraught by NSW’s game-two loss, has regained perspective and feels fully fit ahead of the women’s State of Origin decider. During the Sky Blues’ narrow 11-10 defeat in Newcastle, Sergis battled through significant injuries, playing with two separate quadriceps injuries and later experiencing severe calf cramps.

The injuries began in the first half when Sergis awkwardly fell following a high tackle from Keilee Joseph, resulting in a corked left quadriceps. Some onlookers mistakenly believed she was suffering from concussion symptoms due to her evident pain and slow recovery. Consequently, match officials sent her off for a head injury assessment. However, Sergis clarified, “I wasn’t concussed, so I knew I was going to get back on for my team. It was just a little knock to my knee. I’d push through anything; I’m not going to let a bung knee stop me from being out there.”

Sergis’s determination was tested again when she collided with teammate Jaime Chapman, injuring her other leg. Despite struggling to walk, let alone run, she persevered. “My quads were gone, and then my calves were cramping in the last 20,” she explained. “I was stiff-legged for the majority of that game.”

The emotional toll was evident as Sergis broke down in tears during post-match interviews after NSW, dominant for most of the game, was defeated by a late Queensland field goal. She was so devastated that she could not speak to the media, a rare occurrence for the typically lively player. Reflecting on the loss, Sergis attributed her reaction to physical exhaustion and the heartbreak of losing on home turf. “I knew we were going to Newcastle; it was a sell-out crowd. I really thought we were going to go there and get the job done. I think that’s why I felt so disappointed. We were on top for the majority of that game. To come away with a loss really hurt,” she said.

Concerned teammates closely monitored Sergis during the break between Origin games. Co-captain Kezie Apps noted, “I’ve been checking in with her for the last week and a half, just seeing how she’s traveling. She’s been really positive.”

As the decisive third game of the inaugural three-match series approaches, set to be played in Townsville on Thursday, Sergis has a more composed outlook on the NSW loss. She has also been performing well in pre-season training with the Sydney Roosters. “I know in parts of that game we were really good, we were on top; we just need the team to be on top for the whole 70 minutes,” Sergis said. Reflecting on her injuries, she added, “(The injuries) weren’t ideal, but I tried to still do the best for my team. I couldn’t do a lot on my two legs, but that’s in the past now. I feel quite good at the moment.”

Sergis’s resilience and recovery highlight her determination to contribute effectively to her team, keeping a positive mindset as she prepares for the crucial game ahead.