Women’s State of Origin partners share emotional embrace after historic clash

MUCH like the iconic 1963 “Gladiators” image of Norm Provan and Arthur Summons this shot captured a historic moment which could lay the platform for a massive interstate rivalry.

• Outrage as NSW captain sacked on Origin eve

MUCH like the iconic 1963 “Gladiators” image of Norm Provan and Arthur Summons this shot captured a historic moment which could lay the platform for a massive interstate rivalry.

Partners Karina Brown and Vanessa Foliaki shared an emotional embrace after going head to head in Friday’s inaugural women’s State of Origin match.

But while most fans were happy with the couple’s PDA, others criticsed the NRL for publishing the picture.

Vanessa Foliaki and partner Karina Brown after the Women's State of Origin game. Picture: Adam Head

In response to one comment accusing the NRL of “sexualising the women’s league” the NRL Facebook account noted State of Origin stars are regularly seen embracing partners after matches.

‘Welcome to 2018... can’t wait for you to join us!’ the NRL posted.

Brown captained Queensland while Foliaki played lock in the Blues’ historic 16-10 win at North Sydney Oval.

The pair met while representing the Jillaroos in 2014 and had described Friday’s match as the toughest test of their relationship.

Karina Brown scores a try during the Women's State of Origin match. Picture: AAP

Foliaki said the rugby league community had supported their relationship.

“I think it’s more accepted now and the Jillaroos make it feel like home. The coaching staff are supportive. We’re feeling all the love,” Foliaki told NRL.com.

A crowd of 6824 people turned up to watch the match while television ratings were strong with 689,931 people watching the live telecast on Nine or Fox League.

They represented Australia at last year’s World Cup.