The Roosters' resurgence: how a dominant minor premiership turned into a 26–18 victory
In short: In 2013, the Sydney Roosters faced the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles in a historic showdown. Despite a decade of near-misses, the Roosters secured their 13th premiership, becoming the first team since 2010 to win both the minor premiership and the grand final in a single season.
On 6 October at Sydney's ANZ Stadium, the 2013 NRL Grand Final saw the minor premiers, Sydney Roosters, face the 4th-placed Manly Warringah Sea Eagles in a major clash. This match marked the first time in 41 years that these two clubs had met in a premiership decider, with Manly having previously triumphed in the 1972 NSWRL competition. While both clubs had been frequent grand finalists since the turn of the century, the Roosters had struggled with conversion, having won only one of their six previous appearances, including their 2002 victory over the New Zealand Warriors.
The match was defined by momentum shifts and individual brilliance. Manly took an early lead through a try by Jorge Taufou and a penalty, reaching 6–0 by the 17th minute. However, the Roosters responded with a try from Daniel Tupou, leveling the score at 6–6 before halftime. The second half saw intense drama, including a penalty try awarded to Manly following a tackle on Daly Cherry-Evans by Mitch Aubusson. Despite Manly leading 18–8 with 30 minutes remaining, the Roosters mounted a comeback through tries from Aiden Guerra, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, and Michael Jennings, ultimately winning 26–18.
The victory was significant for several reasons. Roosters captain Anthony Minichiello became the first fullback to lead a team to a grand final win since Frank 'Skinny' McMillan in 1934. Furthermore, Trent Robinson achieved a premiership in his inaugural NRL coaching season, a feat not seen since Ricky Stuart in 2002. Interestingly, despite the Roosters' win, Manly's Daly Cherry-Evans was awarded the Clive Churchill Medal, the first player from a losing side to receive the honor since 1993.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: 2013 NRL Grand Final
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