LAS VEGAS (AP) — Rugby league made a triumphant return to Las Vegas on Sunday, captivating a crowd of 50,000 at Allegiant Stadium with its unique blend of Australian grit and Vegas glamour. Local enthusiasts mingled with fans from Australia, New Zealand, and England for a day filled with four thrilling matches: two from Australia’s National Rugby League (NRL), one from England’s Super League, and a women’s international showdown between powerhouse teams Australia and England. The action-packed day featured a plethora of tries, bone-crunching tackles, and a nail-biting finale.
The NRL has committed to hosting regular season games in Las Vegas until 2028 as part of its strategy to expand the global appeal of the sport. Australia has been eyeing the US market since 1987 when it brought the State of Origin match between New South Wales and Queensland to Long Beach. This year’s attendance marked an improvement over the previous season, showcasing the growing popularity of rugby league in the region.
Raiders Dominate:
The Canberra Raiders kicked off the 2025 season in style, securing a commanding 30-8 victory over the New Zealand Warriors. Seb Kris and Xavier Savage starred for the Raiders with impressive tries, while the Warriors struggled to mount a consistent attack due to handling errors and defensive lapses.
Panthers Edge Sharks in Thriller:
Defending champions Penrith Panthers delivered a heart-stopping finish, with Daine Laurie’s late try sealing a hard-fought 28-22 win over the Cronulla Sharks. The Panthers showcased their resilience, holding off a late surge from the Sharks to secure the victory and celebrate coach Ivan Cleary’s birthday in style.
English Showdown:
In an English Super League matchup, the Wigan Warriors outclassed the Warrington Wolves with a resounding 38-24 victory. Wigan dominated the first half with a flurry of tries, setting the stage for a memorable clash that highlighted the international appeal of the sport.
Jillaroos Shine:
In the women’s international match, the Australian Jillaroos dazzled with a dominant 90-4 win over England. Halfback Tarryn Aiken orchestrated a masterful performance, propelling her team to a lopsided victory with a display of skill and precision.
Off-Field Antics:
Amidst the on-field excitement, some off-field drama unfolded as Raiders players Hudson Young and Morgan Smithies found themselves in hot water for a hotel incident involving an inflatable baseball bat. Despite the minor hiccup, the electrifying action on the field stole the show in NRL’s Las Vegas extravaganza.*****
“It got a little bit out of hand on Thursday night,” Young said. “I’m embarrassed for myself, my teammates, the NRL, and the game.”___
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