BEGA’S own Kezie Apps is taking full contact women’s rugby league by storm.
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Apps just made best on ground for NSW in a full contact State of Origin clash with Queensland last Saturday.
The match, played at Leichardt Oval, was Apps’ debut for the NSW squad, after only taking up full contact earlier this year.
Apps’ performance, which included a 50-metre solo try, earned the title of best on ground by NSW head coach Matt Head.
Unfortunately, NSW lost the game 26-10, but there could be a positive outcome for Apps, who is now in contention for selection on the Australian team.
She joined the run on team as a back rower, but quickly stamped her mark on the game with some potent defence on the left side.
Apps said she was delighted with the opportunity to play.
“Being part of the NSW side was a great experience,” Apps said.
Apps also brought her own lethal brand of offence for the NSW squad.
She leapt on to a short pass then stepped around three defenders, shrugging them off 50 metres from the Queensland line before charging through the Maroons fullback to score a try.
“It was so much fun and I made a lot of great friends... I'm so glad I gave it a go,” she said.
Plenty of family and friends also made the trip to Sydney on the night including her brothers Deon and Ryan, parents Geoff and Dawn and fiancé Craig Dunham.
Everyone watching from the sidelines was privileged to witness an exceptional game.
Bega Chicks coach Andrew Badullovich said Apps’ performance should put her in good stead for an Aussie jersey.
“The Australian selectors seriously need to consider Apps for the Jillaroo Squad!” Badullovich said.
“Kezie was by far the most devastating player on the oval in both attack and defence, and deserves a shot in a green and gold jersey.”
Beyond her exceptional solo try effort, Apps had an impressive list of stats on the night.
She made 27 tackles to lead the count for NSW and also ran 10 carries of the ball.
Queensland captain Karyn Murphy, who has 15 games under her belt described the game as “one of the most physical women’s origin battles ever”.
Apps now awaits eagerly the announcement of the Australian Jillaroos team to play a four nations contest in November this year.