It's the little things that count for high-flying Roosters: Kelly

Roosters gun Isabelle Kelly has heaped praise on master mentor John Strange and her middle forwards as the backbone of the club’s stunning charge towards a third NRLW premiership.

Win No.9 came at the expense of the Sharks 36-8 at Allianz Stadium with only the Cowboys in Townsville and Bulldogs back at Allianz left to complete an historic unbeaten season.

Six of the seven tries against the Sharks were scored by outside backs, including two to Brydie Parker in her 50th game, but Kelly is adamant the 9-0 run is a tribute to every player who has donned the famous jersey in 2026.

“Really proud to be honest, finding little things where we can be a lot better,” Kelly told NRL.com. 

"Defence has been our biggest focus with that. Also, really proud of the girls that don't get mentioned, our middle pack.  

“Those girls are really paving the platform for all of us to be able to go out and dominate. 

“There are a lot of our players that don't get recognition, they push week in and week out, and tonight they did again.” 

Chief in her thoughts would have been props Millie Elliott with 78 post-contact metres and Otesa Pule with 50 post-contact and two tackle breaks. 

Hooker Keeley Nizza topped the tackle count for both sides with 39 while lock Olivia Kernick ran for 103 metres and made 30 tackles. 

And pulling the talent together is coach Strange, who has won the past two Origin series with NSW along with two NRLW premierships with the Roosters (2021 and 2024). 

“I could talk for hours about Strangey and his professionalism, his ability to bring confidence and shine on everyone’s best attributes,” said Kelly.

“They might have a bad game but he shines on the good things.  

“He is one of the best if not the best.... what he does in the women’s space, is amazing and what he pushes towards.” 

After eight seasons with the Roosters, Kelly continues to get a buzz out of the support of the club's fans.

“I have been at the club for a long time, the fan loyalty stands out for me, they are so loyal to women’s game and our team,” said Kelly.

“They really have been with us through the highs and lows, losing grand finals, they were riding with us.

“And the club's support of the women's program is amazing.

"With the right staff, especially with Strangey, it’s incredible. I’m super proud. I will be here for life.”