LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
The Dragons website has revealed how 19-year-old Ella Koster's halftime pep talk fired up the more seasoned Indigenous players, leading to a thrilling 20-18 comeback victory over the Māori Ferns.
Koster and her 20-year-old teammate Montgomery were called upon to step up after injuries to Dibb and Law, with Koster taking on the centre role and Montgomery stepping in as the new halfback - and they certainly delivered.
Montgomery seized control of the game, setting up Koster for the only try of the second half and knocking over two crucial penalty goals in the dying moments of the match, including a game-winning one after the final whistle had blown, sealing a historic win over the Māori Ferns.
The Indigenous All Stars had to battle not only injuries to key players Dibb and Law, but also an 18-12 halftime deficit after the Māori Ferns ran riot in the second quarter with three consecutive tries.
But with Koster's inspirational words ringing in their ears, the team dug deep, showed true grit, and pulled off an unforgettable victory.