Wests Tigers secure upset victory over Roosters with late field goal
The Wests Tigers achieved a notable upset, defeating the Sydney Roosters 25-24 at Allianz Stadium. The victory, secured by a field goal from Jock Madden in the final minute, ended the Tigers‘ eight-game losing streak and significantly impacted the top of the league standings.
The Roosters, who began the round at the top of the ladder, dropped to third place following this unexpected loss. The result has implications for their pursuit of the minor premiership, especially with two rounds remaining in the season. Coach Trent Robinson acknowledged the impact of the game on his team’s top-two aspirations.
Match Highlights and Key Performances
The match saw the Tigers overcome an early setback when Alex Twal was forced off the field in the opening set due to a head knock. Shortly after, Billy Smith scored for the Roosters. Despite these challenges, the Tigers demonstrated resilience.
Patrick Herbert was instrumental in the first half, providing the final passes for three Tigers tries, including a double for Jeral Skelton. Tony Sukkar also scored after Smith dropped the ball. Co-captain Api Koroisau played a significant role, scoring a try, converting two goals, and executing a 40/20 kick.
The Roosters managed to tie the game late in the second half. Robert Toia scored, and Sam Walker converted a penalty goal from 35 metres out with less than five minutes remaining, levelling the score at 24-all. However, a crucial error from Naufahu Whyte gave the Tigers one last attacking opportunity.
With the game tied, Jock Madden successfully kicked a field goal from nearly 30 metres out, securing the 25-24 victory for the Tigers. This marked the first time the Tigers have achieved consecutive wins over the Roosters since 2009, having also won 30-28 last season.
The Tigers‘ defensive effort was notable, with the team defending 38 tackles inside their own 20 metres. Samuela Fainu, who was later placed on report for a hip drop, limped off the field late in the game.
Impact on the League Standings
The defeat means the Roosters, with 38 points and a points differential of +162, now sit third on the ladder. The Warriors lead with 38 points and a +295 differential, followed by Penrith, also with 38 points and a +294 differential. The outcome has intensified the competition for the top spots as the finals approach.
The Roosters‘ loss was their first and the most points conceded since Round 15. It was also the first time they have lost a game after scoring 20 points or more this season. Their next match against the Dolphins is now crucial, as a victory for the Dolphins could see them move into third place.
Several players were placed on report during the match. Jock Madden was reported for a high tackle, his second charge this year. Siua Wong also received a high tackle report. Samuela Fainu was reported for a hip drop, adding to a dangerous contact charge from Round 6. DCE was reported for tripping, his first charge since 2024. Victor Radley was placed on report for a high tackle, his fifth charge in the past 12 months, and underwent a head injury assessment late in the match.
The Tigers‘ win was their first since Round 15 and their first away victory since Round 5. This result marks only the second time in Premiership history that a team on an eight-game or longer losing streak has defeated a team on an eight-game winning streak. The previous instance was in 1996 when the Western Reds defeated Manly.
Benji Marshall, coach of the Wests Tigers, expressed pride in his team’s performance, particularly given the early loss of Alex Twal and the presence of players on development deals. He described it as one of the club’s best wins. Jock Madden‘s return from injury, replacing Adam Doueihi who will undergo season-ending shoulder surgery, proved pivotal for the Tigers.
Source: foxsports.com.au
Charlotte Reid 