Southern Suburbs has iced their unbeaten regular season in style, running out 36-10 victors over a brave Woodville outfit to defend their 2022 title.
Souths’ vaunted backline inflicted the damage early with Te uira Wirihana-Hawea, Tamikha McNab & Frances Afeaki joining boom number 8 Teanu Karpani on the try-scorers list.
Set piece struggles continued to plague Woodville with Souths' scrum tying the Wasps in knots, though Nabilah Ismail’s fighting effort gave Woodville hope at 26-5.
But further tries to Karpani and McNab put Souths well beyond doubt, even with the late consolation try to Zahn Anthony.
Souths skipper Frances Afeaki said it was a special win for their tight-knit group.
"We're like a family - we've been so close all season and winning back to back titles tops it off for us," Afeaki said.
Southern Suburbs Women showing why they are the undefeated minor premiers, defeating Woodville 36-10
Posted by Rugby Union South Australia on Friday, September 15, 2023
"It was definitely a tough game, Wasps are a club that's building well and we knew we'd need an 80 minute performance.
"They should be really proud of how they played."
Souths goalkicker Ella Christie was judged Best on Ground for an excellent all-round performance, including six points from the tee.
During post-match presentations, Woodville skipper Ana Ikahifo predicted a grand final return for her side.
"Today wasn't our day … but I think this will be the first of many grand finals to come."
