NRL Holden Women's Premiership: Week 1 - the schedule
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History will be made this Saturday when the Holden Women's Premiership kicks off at ANZ Stadium with the Roosters playing the Warriors.
The historic first match in the inaugural four-team competition will get under way at 3.05pm on Saturday, with the NRL clash between the Panthers and Warriors to follow at 5.40pm.
Coached by Roosters recruitment manager Adam Hartigan, the Tricolours have endured a disrupted preparation with their recent scheduled trial against North Sydney cancelled due to opposition availability.
The Roosters announced on Sunday that Australian Jillaroos forward Simaima Taufa will lead the side in 2018, while Queensland captain Karina Brown has been cleared of a broken jaw to take her place in the star-studded line-up that boasts 11 internationals.
Their opposition the Warriors completed their preparation with a 32-4 victory over Auckland in August and boast a squad dominated by Kiwi Ferns representatives and led by playmaker Laura Mariu.
The second game of the opening weekend will be played on Sunday at 1.45pm at Suncorp Stadium with the Broncos playing the Dragons.
It was a perfect outcome for the NRL with the Broncos and Dragons men's sides locking horns later in the afternoon to ensure a magnificent atmosphere.
The Broncos women had a strong 48-14 trial win over the PNG Orchids prior to the men's game on Sunday, while the Dragons will step onto the paddock as a team for the first time after no trial game in the last month.
It shapes as a mouth-watering contest with the likes of Australian Jillaroos stars Ali Brigginshaw, Chelsea Baker and Steph Hancock locking horns with international teammates Kezie Apps, Talesha Quinn and Sam Bremner.
New Zealand team-mates Teuila Fotu-Moala and Kimiora Nati will also do battle against their Kiwi Ferns counterparts Honey Hireme and Raecene McGregor.
The fixtures for round two will be announced next Sunday and will run in line with the men's semi-finals.
Saturday, September 8
Sydney Roosters vs. New Zealand Warriors, ANZ Stadium, 3.05pm
Sunday, September 9
Brisbane Broncos vs. St George Illawarra Dragons, Suncorp Stadium, 1.45pm
