Cherry-Evans field goal seals Roosters’ narrow grand-final win

Daly Cherry-Evans ended his NRL career with a premiership after kicking the field goal that gave the Sydney Roosters a 19-18 victory over the Newcastle Knights. The Roosters dominated territory in the grand final, but Newcastle repeatedly defied the pressure and led during the second half. Cherry-Evans’ kick, with 10 minutes remaining, ultimately separated the teams.

Kalyn Ponga was central to Newcastle’s performance. The Knights captain ran 95 metres to score after collecting a bouncing ball following a Roosters attacking play. Earlier, he had stopped a likely try by knocking the ball from Mark Nawaqanitawase’s grasp.

Ponga was also involved in a first-half tackle on Victor Radley in which his shoulder made contact with Radley’s head. Referee Adam Gee and the bunker did not send him to the sin bin. Roosters captain James Tedesco was heard on the broadcast questioning the decision.

Newcastle scored first through Francis Manuleleua, who had dislocated his elbow 35 days earlier. The Roosters responded through Nawaqanitawase, who used a series of kicks to control the ball before scoring. Nawaqanitawase later scored again, while Billy Smith also crossed for the Roosters.

Newcastle’s final try came from Greg Marzhew, leaving the Knights within reach, but they could not score again. Cherry-Evans had earlier hit the cable supporting the Spidercam with a kick, forcing Ponga to adjust and catch the dropping ball. The incident did not result in a Newcastle knock-on.

The Roosters’ victory was built on sustained forward pressure, while Newcastle managed only six tackles inside the opposition half compared with 51 for the premiers. Tedesco was named Clive Churchill Medal winner. The result ended the Knights’ run despite Ponga’s major contribution and their late fight.