LAS VEGAS — Sunday marked a significant moment as rugby league made its vibrant return to Las Vegas, aiming to captivate American audiences with the intense, pad-free sport. Drawing a crowd of 50,000 spectators to Allegiant Stadium, the event blended the raw intensity of this traditional Australian game with the star-studded allure of Las Vegas.
The occasion was a melting pot of local curiousities and devoted fans who had journeyed from Australia, New Zealand, and England to witness the action. Four matches unfolded throughout the day, including two from Australia’s National Rugby League (NRL), one from England’s Super League, and a women’s international face-off featuring reigning champions Australia against England.
Displaying thrilling tries and ferocious tackles, the matches kept fans on the edge of their seats, culminating in a heart-stopping finale. The NRL has solidified its presence on U.S. soil with plans to continue hosting regular season matches in Las Vegas until 2028, aspiring to expand its international fan base.
Efforts to woo American audiences began back in 1987 with a State of Origin match in Long Beach. The turnout on Sunday surpassed the previous season’s attendance, where 40,746 fans attended clashes between the Manly Sea Eagles and South Sydney Rabbitohs, as well as the Sydney Roosters and Brisbane Broncos.
The Canberra Raiders commenced the 2025 season in style, with Seb Kris securing the initial try within six minutes, followed by another, as they sailed to a 30-8 victory over the New Zealand Warriors. Contributions from Xavier Savage and Matthew Timoko further solidified the Raiders’ commanding performance. Despite efforts by Kurt Capewell and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, the Warriors struggled with handling and defensive errors. Their defensive woes were highlighted by 40 missed tackles during this NRL opener.
In another captivating contest, the Penrith Panthers edged out the Cronulla Sharks 28-22, thanks to a late 75th-minute try by Daine Laurie. With a narrow 12-10 lead at halftime, the Panthers extended their advantage to 22-10 before the Sharks threatened with tries from Kayal Iro and Addin Fonua-Blake. Laurie’s decisive try not only secured victory but also marked coach Ivan Cleary’s 55th birthday in style.
Meanwhile, the Wigan Warriors triumphed over the Warrington Wolves, securing a 38-24 win in an English Super League matchup. With a commanding 24-0 halftime lead, the Warriors’ success included contributions from Tyler Dupree, Abbas Miski, Bevan French, and Harry Smith. The match marked the United States’ debut as the seventh country to host a Super League match.
The Australian Jillaroos demonstrated their prowess with a commanding 90-4 victory over England in the women’s international. With halfback Tarryn Aiken masterfully orchestrating plays, the Jillaroos dominated with Tamika Upton scoring five tries. Julia Robinson and Jessica Sergis also recorded hat-tricks, affirming their formidable status. England’s sole try, by Georgia Roche, came moments before the clock ran out. The intense match saw England’s Vicky Whitfield hospitalized following a significant clash midway through the second half.
True to the spirit of Las Vegas, the event wasn’t without a few antics. Raiders players Hudson Young and Morgan Smithies had to tender apologies after a playful altercation with an inflatable bat led to a brief hotel eviction. “Things got a bit out of hand,” Young admitted, expressing remorse for his actions.
