Darling Downs duo give NSW the blues in State of Origin opener

Shenae Ciesiolka turned in a player of the match performance and Emily Bass scored in Queensland’s defeat of New South Wales. Read about their State of Origin exploits here.

Shenae Ciesiolka of the Maroons breaks away during game one of the Women's State of Origin series between New South Wales and Queensland. Picture: Getty Images

Oakey’s Shenae Ciesiolka was the star of the show in Queensland’s gritty State of Origin win on Thursday.

In a player of the match performance, Ciesiolka was brilliant on both sides of the ball for the Maroons.

In a first half punctuated by dropped ball and unforced errors the Brisbane Broncos centre stood tall in defence.

Ciesiolka shut down the New South Wales attack on numerous occasions – rushing out of the Maroons line and making several momentum stopping tackles.

With her side holding onto a narrow 10-6 lead, Ciesiolka broke the game wide open in the second half.

Emily Bass of the Maroons celebrates scoring a try during game one of the Women's State of Origin series between New South Wales and Queensland. Picture: Getty Images

With the Blues attacking the Maroons line Ciesiolka intercepted a pass and put on the afterburners.

Racing more than 60m down the field before she was bought down, Ciesiolka’s quick play the ball lead to an Emily Bass try on the opposite from the next play.

Five minutes later Ciesiolka played provider again setting up Julia Robinson for the game winning try.

Drawing in two defenders she found Robinson with a beautifully placed pace that ultimately sealed an 18-10 win for the Maroons.