A double by Waratahs and Wallaroos winger Maya Stewart has helped Easts claim the 2023 Jack Scott Cup over Sydney Uni Gold at North Sydney Oval.
Stewart produced a player of the match performance to help Easts to a 22-17 upset win over the minor premiers, their first title since reforming as a program.
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Uni, who put two teams into the competition, entered the Final as favourites after finishing the regular season undefeated with 14 straight victories.
Both teams were boosted by a plethora of returning Wallaroos, with 11 capped Test players taking the field. Uni called upon seasoned veterans Emily Chancellor, Sera Naiqama, Bridie O'Gorman and Adiana Talakai whilst Easts had a near-full Waratah backline with Stewart, Arabella McKenzie and Georgina Friedrichs.
Talakai and the Uni forward pack imposed their will early on, with the hooker crossing for the first try off the back of a rolling maul.
Breakout star Rory Owens then crossed for her 14th try of the season to give Uni Gold a 12-3 lead heading into the break.
The Lionesses looked set to reclaim their crown after going down to Gordon last year, only for the class of Stewart and their Wallaroo backline to turn the game.
Centre Georgina Friedrichs sparked the comeback, securing a crucial pilfer just after the break as both teams were reduced to 14 thanks to yellow cards to Elise O’Donnell (Easts) and Fi Jones (Sydney Uni)
It allowed Stewart to sprint down the short side and race 60 metres for Easts' opening try.
The 23-year-old then put Easts straight back on the attack with a chip and chase, nearly re-gathering to score a wonder try.
The injection of teenage sensation Caitlyn Halse added further class to the backline.
Slotting into fullback, Halse threw the final pass for Stewart to cross for her second in the 59th minute to give Easts the lead.
Halse then found fellow Waratah debutant Jacinta Windsor to help seal the win.
There was one late twist left in the game when Uni captain and one-cap Wallaroo Jemima McCalman crossed at the death.
In the end, the underdogs forced the mistake from the centre to seal a famous victory.
Stewart and the plethora of Wallaroos in action will turn their attention towards the second O'Reilly Cup Test against the Black Ferns on September 30 in Hamilton.
This will be followed by the inaugural WXV competition, kicking off against England on October 14.
