LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Sydney Roosters have emerged victorious with a hard-fought 16-8 win over the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles at Wentworth Park on Sunday afternoon, solidifying their position at the top of the Jersey Flegg Cup standings.
The Roosters' success can be attributed to exceptional individual performances from Braith Alexander and Tayson Fakaosi, supported by a collective display of impenetrable defense.
The Roosters' defensive efforts paid off when they were awarded a penalty, granting them advantageous field position.
Capitalizing on this opportunity, Alexander expertly maneuvered his way to the try line with swift footwork and a deceptive dummy, extending the Roosters' lead to 10-0 after Tamati's successful conversion.
However, the Sea Eagles managed to retaliate just before halftime, with winger Viliami Kuli crossing the line despite the resistance of four Roosters defenders.
This reduced the deficit to a mere six points.
Displaying resilience, the Roosters forced an error from the Sea Eagles as the first half drew to a close, ensuring they maintained their six-point lead heading into the break.
The visitors commenced the second half with great intensity, as halfback Tylor Bunting executed a precise looping pass that allowed winger Tom Jarrett to score in the corner, narrowing the Roosters' lead to just two points a mere five minutes into the second half.