In a historic moment for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, winger Asha Taumoepeau-Williams stole the spotlight with a sensational four-try performance, leading her team to a resounding 36-0 victory over the Wests Tigers in the inaugural Westpac Lisa Fiaola Cup Grand Final.
Throughout the season, Taumoepeau-Williams had showcased her attacking prowess for the Under 17s girls, tallying an impressive 11 tries prior to the championship showdown. However, she elevated her game to new heights on the grandest stage, adding four more tries to her season tally and solidifying her status as a rising star in the sport.
While Taumoepeau-Williams’s try-scoring heroics were undoubtedly a highlight of the match, it was hooker Mary-Jane Taito who earned the coveted Player of the Match honors for her instrumental contributions around the ruck and relentless defensive efforts.
Bulldogs coach Michael Stuart had cautioned his team against complacency ahead of the finals, despite their dominant performance throughout the season. The team’s focused preparation paid dividends, culminating in a commanding victory in the championship decider.
Reflecting on the team’s achievement, Stuart expressed pride in his players’ dedication and unity, emphasizing the strong bond forged among the squad over the course of the season.
As for Taumoepeau-Williams, the talented winger attributed her success to the unwavering support of her teammates and credited their collective effort for her standout performance on the day.
The Bulldogs’ comprehensive win showcased their dominance on both ends of the field, with their potent attack and stifling defense proving too much for the Wests Tigers to handle. Despite their valiant efforts, the Tigers were unable to match the Bulldogs’ intensity and were ultimately outclassed in the Grand Final showdown.
With their victory in the inaugural Lisa Fiaola Cup Grand Final, the Bulldogs extended their winning streak to an impressive 10 matches, further solidifying their status as a force to be reckoned with in women’s rugby league.
The triumph marked a historic moment for the Bulldogs and served as a fitting conclusion to a season characterized by hard work, determination, and teamwork.