Magic Round Preview, Stowers’ New Chapter, and the NRLW Form Guide
In the latest episode of Footy For Real, the girls break down a pivotal Round 4 of the NRLW, preview the historic first-ever Magic Round in Newcastle, and discuss Stowers' transition from the heavy contact of the NRLW to the Australian flag football team.
Shontelle Stowers: A Rugby League Legend’s New Journey
The episode kicks off with Shontelle Stowers reflecting on her decorated career across Rugby Union 7s, 15s, and the NRLW. Having captained Manly’s inaugural team last year, Stowers has shifted her focus to representing Australia in flag football, a move she describes as "refreshing" and much easier on the body. Despite the change, she remains a fixture in the league through her commentary work for Fox Sports.
The "Harry Grant of the Women’s Game" and Titan Power
Reviewing the Gold Coast Titans' 20–10 victory over the Warriors, the hosts highlight the dominance of captain Georgia Hale, who produced a staggering 156 run meters and 46 tackles. However, the real buzz surrounds young star Lily Rose Kolc. Jada notes that Phil Gould has dubbed Kolc the "Harry Grant of the women’s game" for her creativity and vision out of dummy half.
Roosters Remain the Team to Beat
The Sydney Roosters extended their unbeaten streak with a 42–22 win over the Bulldogs. Stowers identifies Isabelle Kelly as "the elite of elite," noting how she manages to improve every single season. A major talking point was the triumphant return of Corban Baxter from an ACL injury; Jada describes Baxter’s performance as "silky," showing no loss of speed despite her long layoff.
Trouble in Canberra: "Happy to Be There"
Following the Raiders' 26–0 shutout loss to the Cowboys, the mood in the capital is grim. The hosts discuss coach Darren Borthwick’s blunt post-match assessment, where he claimed some players were simply "happy to be there" rather than competing. Jada suggests the team needs a "kick up the bum" and a return to basics to save their season.
Previewing the Historic Magic Round Looking ahead to the first-ever NRLW Magic Round in Newcastle, the hosts preview a slate of high-stakes matchups:
- The Meter Eaters: A middle-unit battle between Jessica Elliston (Titans) and Alexis Tauaneai (Bulldogs).
- The Grudge Match: The Broncos vs. Sharks showdown. The Broncos will be seeking revenge for last year’s semi-final where they were kept to nil for the first time in history.
- The Fullback Duel: New South Wales representative Abby Church (Eels) faces off against the "Flash," Tegan Berry (Dragons).
The Goal-Kicking Machine
Jada shares a "fun fact" regarding Jesse Southwell, who has now slotted 20 consecutive goals for the Knights. This is nearly double the previous record of 11, cementing Southwell as the most reliable boot in the competition heading into a home-crowd Magic Round.
Watch the full episode on Fanatics TV.
