LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
The Roosters' official website, roosters.com.au, is reporting that after two consecutive seasons in the bottom eight, the club sought the expertise of former assistant coach Trent Robinson to lead them in 2013 and revitalize their chances of winning the Premiership.
Robinson's appointment, along with a successful recruitment drive that included star players Sonny Bill Williams, James Maloney, Michael Jennings, Sam Moa, and Luke O'Donnell, proved to be exactly what the club needed.
In his first year as head coach, Robinson transformed the Roosters into a defensive powerhouse, becoming the first team in history to shut out six opponents throughout the season.
This defensive strength was highlighted by the team's nickname, the 'Bondi Wall', which showcased their determination to prevent tries.
The Roosters began the 2013 season strongly, winning three out of their first five games, thanks to the leadership of new captain Anthony Minichiello.
As the season progressed, the team's strength grew, bouncing back from a narrow loss to the Raiders in round five to keep Canterbury-Bankstown scoreless the following week.
During the State of Origin period, with Maloney and Pearce on representative duties, Robinson turned to Williams and Daniel Mortimer, even though Williams typically played as a second-rower, to partner in the halves.