The Sydney Roosters have defeated the Newcastle Knights 19–18 in a thrilling NRL Grand Final at Stadium Australia.
The Knights came out firing, racing to a 12–0 lead through tries to Francis Manuleleua and captain Kalyn Ponga. However, the Roosters fought back before halftime, with Mark Nawaqanitawase scoring to keep Sydney within striking distance.
The Roosters continued their comeback after the break, with Billy Smith crossing the line before Nawaqanitawase scored his second try to put Sydney ahead 18–12.
With just 10 minutes remaining, veteran Daly Cherry-Evans stepped up and kicked a crucial field goal to extend the Roosters' lead to seven points.
The Knights refused to give up, with Greg Marzhew scoring late to bring Newcastle within one point. Despite a frantic final few minutes, the Roosters held their nerve to secure a 19–18 victory.
The win gives the Roosters their 16th NRL premiership and their first title since 2019. James Tedesco was awarded the Clive Churchill Medal after an outstanding performance.
FULL-TIME: Sydney Roosters 19 def. Newcastle Knights 18
The Roosters are the 2026 NRL premiers!
