The Sydney Roosters surged into the NRL top four with a convincing 26-8 victory over the Canterbury Bulldogs at Industree Group Stadium on Saturday. The match was played in torrential rain, which made conditions challenging for both teams. Despite the weather, the Roosters dominated the game, with Sam Walker playing a pivotal role, contributing four conversions, a penalty goal, and three try assists.
Late-Game Drama: Pauga Sent Off
The game took a dramatic turn late in the second half when Junior Pauga was sent off for a high tackle on Connor Tracey. This incident added to the challenges for the Roosters, who were already without Joseph Suaalii due to a suspension. Sam Walker also found himself in the sin-bin shortly after for a leg pull on Viliame Kikau. Despite these setbacks, the Roosters maintained their composure and secured a comfortable win.
Walker Shines Despite Tough Conditions
Walker was instrumental in the Roosters’ victory, showcasing his exceptional skills even in difficult conditions. His precise kicking and strategic playmaking were crucial in breaking down the Bulldogs’ defense. Walker’s performance was complemented by Brandon Smith, who returned to the lineup and made an immediate impact, including a crucial 40-20 kick that shifted the momentum in favor of the Roosters.
Bulldogs Struggle in Wet Weather
The Bulldogs found it hard to adapt to the wet conditions, committing several costly errors. Despite a solid completion rate, their mistakes near their own line led directly to Roosters’ tries. Bulldogs’ captain Reed Mahoney acknowledged that their inability to handle the conditions and critical errors ultimately cost them the game. The Bulldogs’ coach, Cameron Ciraldo, expressed his disappointment, noting that they missed a chance to climb the leaderboard.
Roosters’ Strategic Play Seals the Win
The Roosters executed a smart, controlled game plan, well-suited to the wet weather. They capitalized on the Bulldogs’ mistakes and managed the possession effectively. Their defensive resilience was also on display, particularly during the periods when they were down to 12 and then 11 men. Coach Trent Robinson praised his team’s performance and highlighted the importance of their disciplined approach in securing the victory.
In summary, the Roosters’ adaptability and strategic execution in challenging conditions led to a decisive win over the Bulldogs, propelling them into the top four of the NRL ladder.