Sydney Roosters Women vs. Brisbane Broncos Women Prediction, Odds & Betting Tips

Posted on October 2, 2025 by author in Betting

The 2025 NRLW Grand Final presents a compelling clash between the Sydney Roosters Women and the Brisbane Broncos Women, scheduled for October 5, 2025, at Accor Stadium in Sydney. This matchup signifies the pinnacle of the Telstra Women’s Premiership season, where two formidable teams vie for supremacy in Australian women’s rugby league. The Roosters, as defending champions from 2024, aim to secure consecutive titles, while the Broncos seek to reclaim their dominance after a strong campaign that saw them advance through the finals with authority. This article provides a comprehensive analysis, including team overviews, key player performances, historical context, injury updates, expert predictions, current betting odds, and strategic betting tips to inform enthusiasts and bettors alike.

Season Overview: Paths to the Grand Final

The 2025 NRLW season has been marked by intense competition among 12 teams, culminating in 70 games and featuring 327 players across the league. The Sydney Roosters Women entered the finals as minor premiers, showcasing a blend of defensive resilience and attacking flair. Their journey included dominant victories, such as a 30-0 shutout against the North Queensland Cowboys in Round 10, highlighting their ability to control games from start to finish. Under the guidance of coach John Strange, the Roosters averaged an impressive 33.27 points per game, the highest in the competition, underscoring their offensive prowess.

In contrast, the Brisbane Broncos Women, coached by Scott Prince, demonstrated remarkable consistency and depth. They secured their grand final berth with a commanding preliminary final win over the Newcastle Knights, scoring multiple tries through players like Jada Ferguson and Kerri Johnson. The Broncos’ season featured standout performances in high-stakes matches, including a convincing victory against the Cowboys in Round 9, where they displayed superior ball control and defensive structures. Their path reflects a team that has evolved, integrating new signings effectively to challenge for their first title since 2020.

Both teams have navigated the expanded 12-team format adeptly, with the Roosters benefiting from home advantage in the decider. The grand final’s timing, kicking off at 4:00 PM local time, adds to the anticipation, as Accor Stadium is expected to host a capacity crowd eager to witness this elite contest.

Sydney Roosters Women: Team Analysis and Key Players

The Sydney Roosters Women have built their success on a balanced squad featuring experienced internationals and emerging talents. Their lineup for the grand final includes:

Fullback: Brydie Parker – A reliable custodian with strong positional play.
Wingers: Taina Naividi and Mia Wood – Known for their speed and finishing ability.
Centres: Jessica Sergis and Isabelle Kelly (Captain) – Kelly, a two-time premiership winner, leads in metres gained and tackle breaks, contributing significantly to the team’s attacking metrics.
Halves: Tarryn Aiken and Jocelyn Kelleher – Kelleher, a key figure since her 2020 debut, has orchestrated numerous scoring opportunities, boasting high assist numbers.
Forwards: Millie Elliott, Mya Hill-Moana, Olivia Kernick, Otesa Pule, and Keeley Davis – Kernick stands out with 20 tackles per game on average, providing a solid foundation.
Interchange: Panic Chaplyn, Shannon Rose, Eliza Lopamaua, and Tavarna Papalii – Offering depth and impact off the bench.

Statistically, the Roosters excelled in try-scoring efficiency, converting opportunities at a league-leading rate. Isabelle Kelly’s leadership extends beyond statistics; her experience in representative matches for New South Wales and Australia positions her as a pivotal player in high-pressure scenarios. Amber Hall, a Kiwi Ferns representative, adds physicality but her participation is in doubt due to a calf strain, potentially impacting the team’s edge in the forwards. The Roosters’ defensive record, allowing fewer points than most competitors, will be crucial against the Broncos’ potent attack.

Brisbane Broncos Women: Team Analysis and Key Players

The Brisbane Broncos Women counter with a squad renowned for its speed and tactical acumen. Their confirmed 1-17 lineup features:

Fullback: Hayley Maddick – Provides stability at the back.
Wingers: Julia Robinson and Kerri Johnson – Johnson has been prolific, scoring multiple tries in finals, including two against the Knights.
Centres: Mele Hufanga and Lauren Dam – Hufanga’s 2023 form carried over, with strong running metres.
Halves: Gayle Broughton and Ali Brigginshaw (Captain) – Brigginshaw, a veteran with exceptional vision, leads in assists and tactical kicking.
Forwards: Annetta-Claudia Nu’uausala, Keilee Joseph, Chelsea Lenarduzzi, Romy Teitzel, and Jada Ferguson – Teitzel tops the league in points with 112, combining tries and goals effectively.
Interchange: Lavinia Gould, Mariah Denman, Brianna Clark, and Skyla Adams – Adding versatility and endurance.

Tamika Upton, the league’s top try-scorer with 19 in 2025, is a game-changer, her elusive running and support play making her a constant threat. The Broncos’ recruitment, including Upton from the Knights, has bolstered their backline, contributing to their semi-final dominance. Their forward pack, led by Nu’uausala’s powerful carries, averages high metres per game, setting platforms for the halves to exploit.

Head-to-Head History

Historically, encounters between the Sydney Roosters Women and Brisbane Broncos Women have been tightly contested. In the last 10 years, the Broncos hold a slight edge with three wins to the Roosters’ two, and no draws. Overall, across all NRLW matches since 2018, the Broncos have won 34 of 62 games against various opponents, but specific to this rivalry, key fixtures include the 2018 Grand Final where Brisbane triumphed 34-12 over Sydney, establishing early dominance.

Recent matchs favor the Broncos, with victories in 2023 and 2024 regular-season clashes. However, the Roosters’ 2021 premiership win demonstrates their capacity to perform in finals. These games often feature low-scoring affairs, with defenses prevailing, averaging under 40 total points. This history suggests a strategic battle where possession and field position will be paramount.

Injury Updates and Team News

For the Roosters, Amber Hall’s calf injury poses a significant concern; she is named in the extended squad but must prove fitness by game day. If unavailable, the team may rely more on Olivia Kernick’s versatility. The Broncos, conversely, are at full strength, with Bree Spreadborough recovering from an ankle injury but unlikely to displace the starting wingers. No major absences are reported for Brisbane, allowing coach Prince to field his preferred lineup.

Match Prediction

Analyzing form, the Broncos enter as favorites, buoyed by their preliminary final performance and Upton’s scoring prowess. Their ability to score early, as seen in finals, could pressure the Roosters’ defense. However, Sydney’s home advantage and championship experience make them resilient contenders. Expect a close contest, with the Broncos edging out a victory by 4-8 points, leveraging their backline speed against a potentially depleted Roosters forward pack. Prediction: Brisbane Broncos Women to win.

Current Betting Odds

Betting markets reflect the Broncos’ favoritism. As of October 2, 2025:

Moneyline: Brisbane Broncos Women -148 (1.68), Sydney Roosters Women +120 (2.20).
Spread: Broncos -2.5 (-110), Roosters +2.5 (-110).
Handicap (1st Half): Broncos +4.5 (30/100), Roosters -7.5 (7/20).
Total Points: Over/Under 43.5, with over favored in recent high-scoring finals.

Odds vary by bookmaker; Sportsbet lists Roosters at 2.21 and Broncos implied as shorter. Always consult licensed operators for the latest figures.

Betting Tips

For informed wagering:

Match Winner: Brisbane Broncos Women – At -148, this offers value given their form and key player advantages.
Winning Margin: Broncos by 1-12 Points – Historical trends suggest tight games; odds around 2.50 provide solid returns.
First Try-Scorer: Tamika Upton – The top try-scorer’s propensity for early involvement makes this a strong prop bet at approximately 5.00.
Anytime Try-Scorer: Kerri Johnson – With 12 tries in 2025, her wing position favors scoring opportunities at 2.00 odds.
Total Points Under 40.5 – Defenses dominate in grand finals; this line aligns with past encounters.
Same Game Multi: Broncos Win + Upton Try + Under 43.5 Points – Combining these for enhanced odds around 4.50.

Bet responsibly, considering factors like weather and last-minute changes. Multi-leg bets amplify potential payouts but increase risk.

Conclusion

The 2025 NRLW Grand Final between the Sydney Roosters Women and Brisbane Broncos Women promises an enthralling spectacle, blending skill, strategy, and intensity. While the Roosters’ experience cannot be discounted, the Broncos’ momentum positions them favorably. Bettors should leverage the provided odds and tips for strategic engagement. As the season concludes, this match exemplifies the growth of women’s rugby league, inspiring future generations.