Australian player Kennedy Cherrington helped her team to win the Women’s Rugby League World Cup final.

The 23-year-old rugby player Kennedy Cherrington, who hails from Newcastle in New South Wales, scored her first international try at the home of football as Australia fought back to win the Women’s Rugby League World Cup final 16-10 against defending champions New Zealand.

Kennedy Cherrington backed up a barnstorming run from hooker Brittany Breayley to crash over in the corner with 24 minutes remaining, and it proved to be the decisive scoreline. The Jillaroos had trailed 10-4 at halftime following a brilliant converted breakaway try from Kiwi winger Honey Hireme, before wrestling back control in a thrilling second stanza.

Cherrington was one of the heroes for Australia, and her try sparked wild celebrations from the players and fans alike. She revelled in the moment in front of a crowd of 3,753 at Old Trafford, and admitted after the match that it was a dream come true.

“It feels amazing to have scored that try in a World Cup final,” Cherrington said. “It was a great team effort and I am proud of the girls for not giving up when it seemed like we were behind.”

The Jillaroos now have three World Cup titles to their name, and Kennedy Cherrington will forever be remembered as one of the stars of the show in this year’s tournament. The local hero’s moment of magic was the difference between victory and defeat, and Australian rugby league can be immensely proud of Kennedy Cherrington.

Her international try-scoring debut will live long in the memory of all who witnessed it. Congratulations Kennedy! You truly are a star.