Roosters secure top spot on ladder after victory over Panthers
The Sydney Roosters have moved to the top of the NRL ladder, leapfrogging the Penrith Panthers with a 12-6 victory at CommBank Stadium. The win marks the first time in five years that the Roosters have held the top spot, and it comes after a period where they had lost 12 of their past 13 encounters against the Panthers.
The match, described as a finals-type clash, saw the Roosters’ defence play a crucial role. Despite the Panthers having early possession and field position, including a period of five consecutive sets on the try line, they were unable to breach the Roosters’ defensive line. This defensive effort was a key factor in the Roosters maintaining their lead throughout the game.
Cherry-Evans leads the charge
Daly Cherry-Evans was a standout performer for the Roosters, scoring both of their tries. His first try came midway through the first half, breaking the deadlock after 19 minutes. He then sealed the victory in the 77th minute with a solo effort, extending the Roosters’ lead to 12-6.
Cherry-Evans’ performance was particularly notable given recent reports linking him with a move to Hull FC in the English Super League. The 37-year-old halfback also moved past Cooper Cronk to become the outright second most capped player in NRL history, playing in his 373rd game. His halves partner, Sam Walker, also contributed to the Roosters’ effort, steering the team and forcing two goal-line dropouts.
The Roosters’ coach, Trent Robinson, praised the team’s defensive effort, stating that they “attacked in defence” and pressured the Panthers’ players effectively. He also highlighted the performance of Cody Ramsey in organising the defence.
Panthers’ struggles and injury concerns
The Panthers, who had been competition leaders since Round 4, faced challenges throughout the match. They failed to score in the first half for the second consecutive week, and their attack appeared to lack direction. Coach Ivan Cleary noted that the team’s execution was often lacking, particularly at critical moments.
Adding to their concerns, Paul Alamoti limped off the field with a leg injury and is scheduled for scans, with ice seen on his left hamstring post-game. This comes after the Panthers were already without captain Isaah Yeo due to a pectoral injury. Lindsay Smith, who was solid in the middle, set up the Panthers’ only try for Moses Leota in the 67th minute, which narrowed the Roosters’ lead to 8-6.
The match also saw some controversial moments, including a disallowed try for the Roosters just before half-time. Robert Toia believed he had scored after a Tom Jenkins error, but the Bunker ruled against it, citing Mark Nawaqanitawase as a disruptor for going up with one arm. This decision led to a penalty for the Roosters, which Sam Walker converted to make the score 8-0 at the break.
Looking ahead
With three rounds remaining in the regular season, the Roosters are now in a strong position to secure the minor premiership. They have won their last eight consecutive games and will face the Wests Tigers, the Dolphins, and South Sydney in their upcoming matches.
The Panthers, on the other hand, have now lost five of their past eight games and could drop out of the top two by the end of the weekend. Their coach, Ivan Cleary, expressed confidence that the team’s attack would improve, especially with more training sessions.
The Roosters’ victory marks only their second win against the Panthers in 14 meetings since the start of 2020. It is also the first time in those matches that they have held the Panthers to less than 20 points. The Roosters have a strong record at CommBank Stadium, winning seven of seven games against teams other than Parramatta, and 10 of 13 overall at the venue.
Daly Cherry-Evans’ two tries in the match marked his 13th career double and his second this year. Reece Robson made 54 tackles, his highest in a non-golden point match, and secured his first regular-time win when making over 50 tackles.
The Roosters’ next challenge will be to maintain their top position as they head into the final rounds of the season.
Source: nrl.com
Charlotte Reid 