Rubys, City and NT top pools as Ahi Kā Aotearoa post first win

NSW City were made to work hard, but were able to continue their winning run with a tough 10-6 win against Western Australia.

City scored both of their tries in the first half, including one just after the halftime buzzer to skipper Chloe Jackson, but were held scoreless in the second half as the team from the west attempted to mount a comeback, with Paihau Pomare crossing for a try.

However, City were able to hold on finish on top of Pool A. 

Queensland Sapphires v NSW Emerging Country

NSW Emerging Country captain Krystal Blackwell scored a double as her side claimed their second win of the tournament after defeating Queensland Sapphires 18-6 on day three.

The NSW side raced to a strong start, crossing twice in the first 10 minutes, before Ashlea Nolan put the Sapphires on the board five minutes out from halftime. 

However, Emerging Country extended their lead just after the break and despite a closely-contest last quarter of the match, they were able to add another win to their tournament tally.

Queensland Rubys v First Nations Gems

Queensland Rubys were able to overcome the First Nations Gems to remain unbeaten in this year's tournament, with Sienna Laing crossing for the match-winner. 

Their 12-6 win means the Rubys will finish on top of Pool B and will play off against NSW City in their final match of the tournament tomorrow at 11am.

The Gems started the game strongly, crossing for the game's first try through prop Vanique Malayta and scores were level at 6-6 at halftime.

However, the Rubys then applied the pressure in the second half before Laing's try in the 25th minute which was enough to earn their win.  

NSW Country v Ahi Kā Aotearoa

Second half tries to Sade Schaumkel and Amarnee Shepherd helped Ahi Ka Aotearoa to their first win of the tournament, downing NSW Country 16-12 in a seesawing match.

Country had the upper hand early and held a 10-4 lead at the break with Charlotte Eather crossing over in the opening minute of the match.

However, the visitors for New Zealand didn't put their heads down and were able to turn the tide in the second half with some good pressure in defence. 

Northern Territory v Victoria

Speedy back Abigayle Sekitoga crossed for two tries as the Northern Territory continued to enjoy a successful tournament, defeating Victoria 28-12.

The NT are one of three undefeated teams and have scored some impressive tries, showcasing power in their forwards and fast feet in their backs. 

Victoria tried hard and were able to score a try in each half, but found it hard to contain the NT side who were equally adept making metres through the middle and around the edges, thrilling their vocal band of supporters. 

Australian Defence Force v South Australia

The Australian Defence Force side closed out day three's action with a dominant showing against South Australia, running in six tries and holding their opposition scoreless in the 30-0 result.

Amber Baldwin scored a try and also kicked a conversion to give her six points from the match, as the ADF posted back-to-back win across day two and day three.

The scoreline doesn't reflect the effort of South Australia who struggled to score points this tournament after being forced doing plenty of defence across their three games.

Match Review: There were no charges from the match review committee following Round 2 of the Harvey Norman Women's National Championships.

The Harvey Norman Women’s National Championship is proudly supported by Major Events Gold Coast. NRL.com will live stream the event across all four days.