NSW Waratahs Women’s winger Maya Stewart made history on Sunday, scoring two tries against the Queensland Reds at Ballymore, Brisbane to take her career tally in Super Rugby Women's to a record forty tries for 200 points.
Reflecting on the milestone, a humble Stewart credited the team’s collective effort in what was a crucial 36-14 victory against their traditional rivals.
“It was a really great game. We struggled voting on a player's player because I think everyone really turned up for that game,” Stewart told media on Tuesday.
“But to get a win over Queensland is always special.”
The match saw the NSW Waratahs Women play a dynamic and expansive brand of rugby, a shift from their earlier performances in the season.
“We’re probably our own worst enemy at times, as you saw in those first two games,” she said.
“But that performance was more like the style of rugby we enjoy playing.”
Asked about her personal milestone, Stewart focused on the bigger picture rather than individual accolades.
“It’s probably not something I think about too often,” she said.
“It’s really cool doing it for a team like the Waratahs.
“We all play for each other, and they’re some of my best mates.
“To be able to just do my job within the team — sometimes that means putting the ball over the line — is really cool.”
Stewart also acknowledged the impact of Sevens players joining the competition and how it has raised the standard of play.
“It’s awesome to have them involved, and they bring so much athleticism and rugby knowledge,” she said.
“It also brings more eyes on Super W, which is great for the game. It makes us step up and fight harder, whether that’s in training, in the gym, or on the field.”
Looking ahead, Stewart expressed confidence in the team’s direction and their ability to build on their momentum.
“We’re always trying to put on an entertaining brand of footy,” Stewart said.
“That game against Queensland was a step in the right direction, and we want to keep pushing ourselves.
“With a strong squad and a lot of depth, we’re in a great position moving forward,” she said.
With the NSW Waratahs Women on a bye this week, they will turn their attention a development game against Penina Pasifika on Saturday.
The game, at 4 pm at David Phillips Sport Field in Daceyville, is part of a free-entry triple-header also featuring NSW Waratahs U18s v Queensland Reds U18s at 12.20 pm and NSW Waratahs ‘A’ v Brumbies Runners at 2 pm.
