Maliepo makes mark with impressive debut performance

Warriors five-eighth Patricia Maliepo has a knack for creating history.

In 2021, the 10-cap New Zealand Rugby Union international had the honour of scoring the Auckland Blues’ first try in Super Rugby history.

Four years later, she achieved a similar feat for the resurrected New Zealand Warriors NRLW side, scoring the franchise’s first try since 2020, as they made their long-awaited return to the big time against the Roosters at Allianz Stadium.

Despite a 30-6 loss on Sunday, the Warriors could hold their heads high after a courageous showing against the defending premiers, who boasted the likes of Jess Sergis, Isabelle Kelly, and Olivia Kernick.

Conversely, the Warriors fielded 10 NRLW debutants, four of whom: Maliepo, Michaela Brake, Tysha Ikenasio and Shakira Baker, had only recently converted from union.

Of these converts, Maliepo was the most impressive. Aside from scoring their lone try with a strong carry close to the line, the 22-year-old contributed 122 run metres, 179 kick metres and a team-high five tackle breaks.

“Out of all that we’ve sort of spoken about possibly transitioning across, we thought that she was going to be a real diamond in the rough and that was proven today,” said Warriors coach Ronald Griffiths.

“You go through those tough periods... where the game really bites, and once she understands how to get through those, she’s going to be a sensational player.

“She sees space well and she backs her ability.

“I look forward to watching her journey and progression.”

But how did Maliepo herself find her first taste of the 13-woman code? And how did she find the transition?

“Honestly, I enjoyed it,” she said post-match.

“It was exciting and although the scoreboard shows we got a hiding... I had fun.

“I think you have more time in rugby league.

“There’s not too much different [to rugby union], but you’re just playing it at the line more. It’s a bit more physical.

“Definitely a bit more pain up the top, but I love it - it’s my kind of game.”

The chance to inspire young women across New Zealand to play rugby league at an elite level is a driving force for Maliepo.

Having been at the forefront of the emergence of women's union in the country, she knows how important the Warriors' return to the NRLW will be for the continued growth of rugby league in the region.

 "I just want to build on what we have created today and leave a legacy so that young female New Zealanders can aspire to become a Warrior," she said.

“I was a part of it [the emergence of women’s footy] for rugby union, so just to see the shift it’s causing in league at the moment is pretty cool.

“In three years, there will be many opportunities for the girls around New Zealand.”