NRL Fans Slam Embarrassing Las Vegas Blunder Threatening US Expansion Progress

Jillaroos’ 90-4 Rout of England Sparks Backlash Against NRL’s Vegas Matchup
By Ed Carruthers for Daily Mail Australia
Published: 11:28 GMT, 2 March 2025 | Updated: 11:29 GMT, 2 March 2025

Tamika Upton (center) scored five tries in the historic victory.

The Australian Jillaroos’ staggering 90-4 demolition of England in Las Vegas has ignited fierce criticism of the NRL, with fans and pundits arguing the lopsided clash harms efforts to grow women’s rugby league internationally. The world champions ran in 17 tries, including five from fullback Tamika Upton and hat-tricks from Julia Robinson and Jessica Sergis, but the record-breaking margin left many questioning the matchup’s suitability for a high-profile event aimed at expanding the sport’s appeal.

A Mismatch Under the Vegas Lights
Held as part of the NRL’s Vegas extravaganza to boost rugby league’s global footprint, the game quickly turned into a one-sided affair. England, despite entering as underdogs, were outclassed in every aspect, trailing 42-0 by halftime. Critics argue such a crushing defeat risks alienating new audiences in the U.S., where the NRL hopes to attract fans and investors.

AAP reporter Scott Bailey tweeted: “A 90-4 flogging doesn’t help sell the sport. The women’s game is a growth area—Australia needs better opponents next year.” 7News journalist Jelisa Apps echoed this, stating: “Matches like this do nothing for the women’s game. More international players must join the NRLW to bridge the gap.”

Fan Outcry: “An Embarrassment for the Sport”
Supporters joined the backlash, calling the fixture a “disservice” to England’s team. One fan wrote: “It wasn’t a fair contest. How is this a spectacle to promote the game?” Others acknowledged Australia’s dominance, crediting the NRLW’s professional pathways but urging the inclusion of rivals like New Zealand. “Australia’s progress is incredible, but England need more support,” another comment read.

England’s Coach: “A Humbling Experience”
England head coach Stuart Barrow admitted his team was overwhelmed by the Jillaroos’ intensity. “Australia blew us away from the first five minutes. Our players hadn’t experienced that level,” he said. Despite the humiliation, Barrow d