Eels skipper Simaima Taufa tears up in emotional post-match speech after going down in NRLW grand final

Eels captain Simaima Taufa was overcome with emotion as she spoke graciously following Parramatta's 32-12 loss to Newcastle in the NRLW grand final.

Addressing the crowd of over 40,000 spectators at Accor Stadium post-match, Taufa began to tear up when thanking the players' loved ones for their unwavering support.

"To our family and friends, we know we get to do what we do each and every week because of you," she said.

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"It's your sacrifice that gets us to keep going to training each and every day. On behalf of the girls, we would like to thank our family and friends."

Showing exemplary sportsmanship, Taufa congratulated the efforts of the Knights, who ran away with a convincing grand final win.

"Newcastle, from where we were in season '21 - you guys played outstanding," she said.

"Led by Millie Boyle, Hannah Southwell and Tamika Upton, it's a true testament to how hard you work and we couldn't have played a better opponent."

The passionate speech concluded with Taufa attempting to console her dejected side.

"To the girls, all I asked is for you to leave everything out on the field. You did the jersey proud.

"To the girls that went before us, we hope we did you proud. And for the next generation of girls, now you see it, you can aspire to be wearing the blue and gold. I can't wait to see how the women's game grows in the near future.

"To our girls celebrate the year that was. Keep pushing our way and keep leading the next generation of girls to be a better version of themselves.

"Thank you all. All the best."

The lock scored a courageous captain's try in the 50th minute, going herself to score right under the posts.

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