“Scenes that will last forever.”
That’s how Fox League’s Dan Ginnane described the electric atmosphere at Allianz Stadium after Souths winger Alex Johnston broke the all-time NRL tryscoring record during his side’s 26-18 loss to the Roosters.
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Johnston enjoyed a historic night, but the Roosters spoiled the celebration, securing an eight-point victory.
The record-breaking moment arrived less than a minute into the second half, when Latrell Mitchell delivered a pass that sent Johnston clear for a 40-meter sprint to the try line.
Despite repeated warnings from the NRL before and during the game about a potential field storming, thousands of Rabbitohs and Roosters fans flooded the pitch, eager to witness history firsthand.
The ensuing chaos caused a delay of approximately 15 minutes whereas security and stadium staff worked to clear the field and restore order.
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“That is a tremendous moment. It leaves you speechless,” Greg Alexander said on Fox League.
Play resumed with the score tied at 12-all after Mitchell calmly slotted the conversion with 39 minutes on the clock.
After the excitement settled, the remainder of the contest proved to be a hard-fought affair, with both teams displaying physicality and intensity.
An outstanding individual effort from Mark Nawaqanitawase broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute, giving the Roosters a crucial lead.
Bennett: “We all know how special We see” | 08:27
A Sam Walker penalty goal extended the Roosters’ lead to eight, but the Rabbitohs refused to proceed away, with Campbell Graham scoring a late try with ten minutes remaining.
Mitchell converted to narrow the gap to two points, but the Roosters held on for the win, capped off by a try from James Tedesco in the 79th minute.
The Roosters secured their first win of the season, while the Rabbitohs fell to 1-1.
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Fan chaos as Johnston makes history! | 01:03
BIG HITS
AJ’S MOMENT
Alex Johnston was the center of attention after the final siren, and deservedly so. The star winger savored the moment as fans celebrated his historic achievement.
The NRL held a brief post-game ceremony where Prime Minister and Souths supporter Anthony Albanese presented Johnston with the game ball.
“I don’t know what to say, I’ll keep it short and sweet,” Johnston said.
“First and foremost to the fans, I just saw the footage of everyone running onto the field. Pretty special to be apart of that so thank you for making it a special evening.
“I can’t thank my kids, partner and teammates enough. I couldn’t have done it without you all.”
“I knew it was about to kick off!” | 04:12
Daly Cherry-Evans had a strong performance after a disappointing debut with the Roosters last week.
The former Manly halfback showcased his skill, dancing through the defense to score the opening try.
The Roosters’ defense also looked improved, with winger Daniel Tupou adding to his impressive try-scoring record with a powerful solo effort.
Mark Nawaqanitawase sealed the victory with a remarkable play in the corner, somehow grounding the ball before being tackled into touch.
Skipper James Tedesco then finished off a Cherry-Evans grubber in the final minute as tensions rose.
– Martin Gabor (NCA Newswire)
WAYNE’S ‘RARE’ ADDRESS
Wayne Bennett expressed his frustration with the field storming, stating he found the disruption unwelcome.
Despite his concerns, Bennett was seen rallying his players in the sheds during the stoppage after Johnston’s try – a rare sight, according to those who have previously played under him.
“You don’t see him get into the huddle too often like that,” Adam Reynolds said on Fox League.
Braith Anasta added that Bennett’s actions suggested he was “worried about complacency” after such a momentous occasion for Johnston and the team.
Alex Johnston stands alone! | 06:40
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Roosters team: 1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 4. Robert Toia 19. Junior Pauga 5. Mark Nawaqanitawase 6. Daly Cherry-Evans 7. Sam Walker 8. Naufahu Whyte 9. Benaiah Ioelu 10. Lindsay Collins 11. Angus Crichton 12. Siua Wong 13. Egan Butcher 14. Connor Watson 15. Blake Steep 16. Nat Butcher 17. Salesi Foketi 18. Cody Ramsey 21. Tom Rodwell 22. Taylor Losalu
Rabbitohs team: 1. Jye Gray 2. Alex Johnston 3. Latrell Mitchell 4. Jack Wighton 5. Campbell Graham 6. Cody Walker 7. Jayden Sullivan 8. Tevita Tatola 9. Bronson Garlick 10. Keaon Koloamatangi 11. David Fifita 12. Euan Aitken 13. Cameron Murray 14. Peter Mamouzelos 15. Tallis Duncan 16. Lachlan Hubner 17. Sean Keppie 18. Latrell Siegwalt 19. Moala Graham-Taufa 21. Thomas Fletcher
