Roosters hold on to break Newcastle hearts in NRL Grand Final

Daly Cherry‑Evans struck a decisive drop goal as the Sydney Roosters clung onto a one‑point lead in the NRL Grand Final, turning a 12‑point deficit into a historic victory. The club overcame a nightmarish 12‑goal gap to deny Newcastle a dream finish, securing their 16th premiership in a gripping Grand Final held in Sydney.

Inspirational captain James Tedesco, together with a standout performance from Mark Nawaqanitawase—set to represent Australia in both the league and union World Cups over the next twelve months—gifted the Red & Blue their first title since 2019.

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Cherry‑Evans, who played his senior game fifteen years after earning his first premiership medallion, remarked, “I didn’t do anything special—I’m simply grateful. Thank you all for the support; it’s been an amazing journey, and I’m incredibly lucky.”

“I had deep belief in this club, my fellow players and the coaching staff. This is exactly what makes it worthwhile, and we delivered. Proud to be here, and I can’t wait to reunite with family.”

The underdogs surged past 12‑0 with Francis Manuleleua’s kick off the scoring, and Kalyn Ponga capped the showdown with a breathtaking dash down the length of the field to ground Newcastle’s supporters at a sold‑out Accor Stadium.

Nawaqanitawase, finishing the spell for the Roosters on his final day with the club before returning to rugby union, erased the deficit with superb footwork, and then Billy Smith displayed strength and composure to bring the score even. Mark Nawaqanitawase, known as “Marky Mark,” added a crucial try that lifted his side to an 18‑12 advantage. Sam Walker punctuated the moment with a well‑placed conversion after a defensive breach, extending Sydney’s lead. Despite a late surge from Greg Marzhew that saw Newcastle move ggank, the Chooks sealed their fourth title under longtime coach Trent Robinson.