JUNIOR rugby league inked an historic new entry on Saturday at Boughton Oval when junior girls tackle was played in Moree for the first time.

Moree Giants played Dungowan Cowgirls in three grades – 13s, 15s and 17s – and both clubs left Boughton Oval Saturday afternoon the winners.

The grounds were turned out in magnificent order, despite more than 50mm of rain during the week, and a large crowd arrived to witness history unfold.

Up in the hills, Moree mixed 6s, 7s, 8s and 11s played at Bingara, with all other age groups having a bye.

The girls tackle competition, part of Group 4 rugby league, will embrace 11 rounds throughout 2025, with quarter- and semi-finals across the three age groups later in the year.

The Giants’ girls 13s powered away with a 42-nil win. However, Dungowan bounced back in girls 15s, winning 54-10.

Giants’ girls 17s prevailed 44-22 against a determined Dungowan outfit.

Moree Junior Rugby League Club president Steve Cory said the home sides – coached by Paul Spearim, Jason Brown and Wade Taylor – fared exceptionally well.

“It turned out to be a great morning considering all the rain we had during the week – and the girls played really well on their home ground,” Cory said.

“Our 13s girls came away with a fantastic win. Unfortunately, our 15s girls were beaten but there were a lot of positives to come out of the game and we can work on those.

“Moree 17s girls had a comfortable win but the day was about more than winning – it was a great opportunity for our girls tackle to take centre stage as our 14s and 16s boys had the bye,” Cory said.

“All other teams played at Bingara, so if we didn’t have girls tackle, we would’ve had a Saturday without junior rugby league in Moree. It was great to see a good crowd come and support our young girls and it was great football to watch.”

Moree Junior Rugby League Club now fields 12 age groups each weekend – mixed 6s, 7s, 8s, 9s, 10s and 11s, boys-only 12s, 14s and 16s, and girls 13s, 15s and 17s.

“Saturday’s first home games for the girls really showed the popularity of girls tackle football,” Cory said.

“We’ve got some girls that have never played before and girls from other towns as well joining the Giants.

“All in all, it was a fantastic day for our club. It’s a great step forward, and augers well for the future of rugby league in Moree,” he said.