The Queensland Reds have continued their unbeaten start to the 2023 Buildcorp Super W season, defeating the Western Force 29-14 at Suncorp Stadium.
The Reds led 14-nil at half-time, before a more evenly contested second-half saw the hosts secure a 15-point victory.
New Zealand imports Carys Dallinger, Dianne Hiini and Cristo Tofa made their Queensland and Super W debuts in the win, with Ivania Wong (2), Deni Ross, Sam Curtis and Shannon Parry crossing for tries.
Queensland had the first try early, reigning Super W player of the year Wong opening her account for 2023 courtesy of a Curtis break and Cecilia Smith cut-out ball. Smith made no mistake with the conversion to give the Reds a 7-nil lead.
Ross had Queensland’s second, the Australian Defence Forces representative forcing her way over from close range to score her first Super W try. Smith again converted to give the Reds a 14-nil lead in the 23rd minute.
Queensland kept their two-try advantage to the break, heading into the sheds with a healthy lead.
Theresa Soloai was yellow-carded early in the second stanza and the Force capitalised, Rachel Laqeretabua finding the line.
Queensland responded with their third try in the 54th minute, Curtis flying on to a superb Dallinger crossfield kick to score her first try of the season and put Queensland into a 19-5 lead.
The Force again surged, this time through Angel Schwencke who scored to cut the deficit to 19-14 with 20-minutes to play.
Parry stretched Queensland’s lead to 10-points with 10-minutes remaining, Madi Schuck sending her skipper over out wide with a superb long ball.
Wong put the result beyond doubt and completed her double with a scintillating solo effort, beating a number of defenders to race close to 40-metres and put the final score out to 29-14.
Queensland are back at home next Friday 7 April against the ACT Brumbies. Buy tickets now via https://bit.ly/3ZtxQzk.
