Hayley Maddick set a new NRLW record for the most try assists in a single game, leading Brisbane Broncos to a commanding 38-12 victory over North Queensland at Langlands Park. This intra-state clash saw the Broncos dominate their rivals, securing a much-needed win that solidified their position in the top four. The victory also leaves the Cowboys struggling in seventh place on the ladder, their for-and-against differential now worse than any other team with a 3-3 record.
The Broncos, who began the season with two losses, have since rebounded strongly. In this match, Maddick was instrumental, providing the final pass for three of Brisbane’s four tries in the first half, which ended 18-12. One of her standout moments came just before halftime, when she assisted Mele Hufanga in bulldozing through North Queensland’s defense to score. Despite a period of intense pressure from the Cowboys after the break, the Broncos’ defense, led by Maddick and the outside backs, held firm.
Maddick further etched her name in the record books by delivering her fifth try assist in the 55th minute, setting up Hufanga for another score. This play effectively sealed the Broncos’ victory, with Romy Teitzel’s conversion extending their lead to 32-12. Maddick capped off her extraordinary performance with a try of her own, running 40 meters after supporting Julia Robinson’s early shift. She finished the game with seven line break assists and 187 running meters, in addition to her five try assists.
Earlier in the day, Newcastle Knights maintained their spot in the top four with a dominant 34-6 win over Wests Tigers, handing the Tigers their 13th consecutive loss. The Knights exploited the Tigers’ defensive weaknesses, particularly on the right edge, with winger Sheridan Gallagher scoring twice and narrowly missing out on more. The Tigers’ woes were epitomized by their calamitous handling of a high ball early in the game, leading to Newcastle’s first try. From there, the Knights controlled the game, consistently breaking through the Tigers’ defense.
Despite the Tigers’ struggles, exacerbated by the absence of their captain Kezie Apps due to injury, Newcastle continued to build momentum. The Knights, who are chasing a third consecutive title, remain one of the main challengers to ladder leaders Cronulla. The only concern for Newcastle was an ankle injury to their captain, Hannah Southwell, but she later downplayed the seriousness of the injury, calling it “carry-on.”
Overall, Maddick’s record-breaking performance was the highlight of the day, as Brisbane continued their resurgence, and Newcastle asserted their championship credentials. Both teams now look forward to the final stages of the season, with the Broncos eyeing a top-four finish and the Knights aiming to secure another title. Meanwhile, the Cowboys and Tigers face significant challenges in the remaining rounds.
