Roosters book spot in NRL semis with thrilling Sharks win

In a thrilling NRL showdown, the Roosters have clinched their spot in the semi finals, edging out Cronulla with a razor-thin 13-12 victory, thanks to Sam Walker’s 72nd-minute field goal at Shark Park.

Earlier on Saturday, Penrith had smoothly handled the New Zealand Warriors to secure their fourth straight NRL preliminary final spot.

Roosters’ head coach, Trent Robinson, did not hide his admiration for the team’s performance, claiming it might be among the bravest wins he’s witnessed.

“The spirit we played with was top end,” he said.

“There were lots of reasons not to win that game.”

The journey to victory was far from smooth for the Roosters. They were struck by injuries, with winger Joseph-Aukuso Sua’ali’i and centre Joey Manu both sidelined. The challenges mounted when captain James Tedesco sin-binned for 10 minutes, resulting in a reshuffled lineup.

Despite the Sharks’ initial lead, they found it challenging to maintain their momentum. The Roosters made a comeback when back-rower Siua Wong seized an opportunity, followed by centre Billy Smith’s equalising kick and Walker’s decisive field goal.

Veterans Tedesco and Luke Keary further safeguarded the Roosters’ win with crucial defensive plays during the final moments.

On the other hand, the Sharks are bracing for introspection after their exit. Their early lead with a Sione Katoa try seemed promising, but they faltered in the second half.

Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon acknowledged growth within his team over 2023 team and commended the Roosters’ unyielding spirit.

The Roosters are paying $3.23 with rugby league betting sites to continue their winning ways on Friday night in their semi-final against Melbourne Storm ($1.35), who were beaten by Brisbane on Friday night in their qualifying final.

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