NSW Waratahs Women’s back-rower Emily Chancellor will mark a milestone this Sunday when she earns her 25th Cap for in the team's Super Rugby Women’s semi-final against the Western Force at Leichhardt Oval in Sydney.
Chancellor, an experienced campaigner and a pivotal figure in the NSW Waratahs Women’s squad, is embracing the occasion but remains focused on the task at hand.
That task is to win the game and earn a place in the Super Rugby Women’s Grand Final.
“We’ve got to take it as just another game,” Chancellor said on Thursday from the team’s base at Daceyville in Sydney.
“You can’t get ahead of yourself thinking about what could be. It’s do-or-die for everyone in the semi-finals.
“Whether we finished as minor premiers or not, once we step onto the field on Sunday, it’s anyone’s game.”
The NSW Waratahs Women are defending champions and coming into the match in strong form, but Chancellor knows the past counts for little in finals.
“We need to continue to respect the opposition, respect the game, and make sure we get the detail right to give ourselves the best chance of playing in another final,” she said.
The NSW Waratahs Women will still take lessons from previous games with the Western Force, but Chancellor says their focus remains on their own game.
“We can’t worry about past matches or previous semi-final experiences,” Chancellor said.
“We know we’re a really good team, and we’re confident in our ability to win if we play to our potential.”
Reflecting on the season, Chancellor highlighted the team’s resilience, particularly their last-minute victory over the Western Force at home earlier in the year.
“That was a game where we really had to dig deep,” Chancellor said.
“We showed a lot of belief in each other, and I think it reinforced our confidence as a group.
“But we also learned valuable lessons from that match. The Force are a physical side, and we know we’ll need to match that intensity.”
The NSW Waratahs’ Women’s never-say-die attitude has been a defining characteristic of their campaign, and Chancellor believes it stems from the competitive culture embedded within the squad.
“Having a winning culture doesn’t mean you win every time – it’s about how you create an environment that pushes you to be better,” Chancellor said.
“Every training session is competitive, and every player earns their spot. That’s why we are where we are.”
The semi-final will see Chancellor and her teammates come up against formidable opposition, including Wallaroos star Ash Marsters, a key player for the Western Force.
Chancellor acknowledges the threat posed by Marsters but remains confident in the Waratahs’ defensive strategy.
“Ash is one of those players who can do it all,” Chancellor said.
“The key for us is shutting her down early – getting off the line quickly and cutting off her space before she builds momentum.
“But we also need to respect the threats across their entire squad, and that comes down to discipline and working hard when we have the ball.”
Chancellor also took a moment to recognise the resilience of her teammate and captain Piper Duck, who has battled injury setbacks to make a return for the semi-final.
“It’s so unfortunate what she’s been through, but to see her back in the team for such an important match is a testament to her character,” Chancellor said.
“Rehab is a lonely place, but she’s done the hard work, and we’re thrilled to have her back on the field.”
As a senior player, Chancellor understands the importance of leadership during high-pressure moments.
She credits the team’s strong mentality and collective responsibility for their ability to perform under pressure.
“When we talk about leadership, it’s not just about one or two players – it’s about everyone stepping up,” she said.
“The best teams have leaders all over the park. That’s something we pride ourselves on.
"Whether it’s in defence, attack, or decision-making, we all take ownership of our roles.”
Chancellor also reflected on her journey with the Waratahs and what it means to reach her milestone of 25 Caps.
“It’s incredibly special to bring up my 25th cap in a semi-final,” Chancellor said.
“I love this team, and I love what we stand for.
“Every time I pull on the jersey, it’s an honour, and to be able to celebrate this achievement in a match as important as this one makes it even more meaningful.”
Looking ahead to Sunday’s clash, Chancellor remains focused on the finer details that will make the difference.
“Finals rugby is all about the little moments – the discipline, the work rate, and taking your opportunities when they come,” she said.
“We know the Force will come at us hard, and we need to be ready for that. But we also need to trust in our structures and play our game.”
With a place in the final on the line, Chancellor and her teammates are ready to embrace the challenge ahead.
“We’ve prepared well, we’ve got belief in each other, and we’re ready to go. Now, it’s about executing on game day,” she said.
When: 3.05 pm (AEDT) Sunday, 6 April 2025
Where: Leichhardt Oval, Sydney
Tickets for the Super Rugby Women's semi-final went on sale via Ticketek today at 2:00 pm [AEDT]. To buy tickets, click HERE
The game will be televised Live on Stan Sport – The Home of Rugby
