The Wests Tigers achieved a notable upset against the Sydney Roosters, who were previously at the top of the ladder, with a 25-24 victory at Allianz Stadium. The win, secured by a Jock Madden field goal in the final minute, ended the Tigers‘ eight-game losing streak and significantly impacted the minor premiership race.
The Roosters, who had won eight consecutive matches and had recently defeated the Panthers, began the round in first place. However, this loss saw them drop to third on the ladder. Coach Trent Robinson described the game as a “poor game” for his side, noting its negative implications for their top-two aspirations. The team’s performance was characterised by errors and a lack of attacking cohesion, particularly in the first hour of the contest.
Tigers’ Resilient Performance
Despite facing a team that had been in strong form, the Tigers displayed considerable resilience. They overcame an early setback when prop Alex Twal was forced off with a head knock in the opening minute, and Billy Smith scored for the Roosters shortly after. Tigers coach Benji Marshall expressed immense pride in his team’s effort, especially given that some players were on development deals.
Patrick Herbert was instrumental in the first half, providing the final pass for three tries, including a double for Jeral Skelton and one for Tony Sukkar. Even a try by Smith just before half-time, which tied the score, did not deter the Tigers. The left edge of the Tigers‘ attack was particularly effective, with a Samuela Fainu offload leading to a try, followed by Api Koroisau scoring and then executing a 40/20 kick.
The Roosters managed to draw level late in the game, but a crucial error from Naufahu Whyte gave the Tigers one last opportunity. Madden, returning from injury, successfully kicked a field goal from nearly 30 metres out, securing the win. This marked the first time since 2009 that the Tigers have achieved consecutive victories over the Roosters, having won 30-28 in their previous encounter.
Impact on the Ladder and Player Incidents
The outcome of this match has had significant ramifications for the top of the ladder. The Roosters, with 38 points, now sit third, behind the Warriors (38 points) and Penrith (38 points). Their upcoming matches against the Dolphins and Rabbitohs will be crucial for their final ladder position, as they could potentially miss out on a top-four spot.
Several players were placed on report during the match. Jock Madden was reported for a high tackle, as was Siua Wong. Samuela Fainu was reported for a hip drop, and DCE for tripping. Victor Radley was placed on report for a high tackle and also underwent a head injury assessment late in the match after a head knock. Alex Twal was ruled out of the game early due to a head clash and will miss the Tigers‘ next match.
The Tigers‘ victory was their first win and most points scored since Round 15, and their first away win since Round 5. For the Roosters, it was their first loss and most points conceded since Round 15, and only their sixth loss of the season. It was also the first time they have scored 20 points or more and lost a match. The match also saw Billy Smith score his fifth career double, and Jeral Skelton his fourth, with the Tigers winning all four games in which Skelton has scored a double.
Api Koroisau‘s leadership was highlighted as key to the Tigers‘ upset, as he scored a try, converted two goals, and executed a 40/20 kick in the second half.
Source: foxsports.com.au
