3 minute read

A look at the Sydney Roosters' semi-final defeat of Manly, which moved Trent Robinson's side into a grand final qualifier against Melbourne.

SNAPSHOT OF THE NRL SECOND SEMI-FINAL

Result: Sydney Roosters 40 beat Manly 16 in front of 40,818 fans at Allianz Stadium

Key moment: Jared Waerea-Hargreaves' opening hit-up. On return from suspension, Waerea-Hargreaves signalled the Roosters' intentions to win on the back of their physicality, with Tolu Koula concussing himself in an unsuccessful attempt to contain the rampant prop. Manly back-pedalled to recover from the loss of their centre and the Roosters rolled on.

The stat: The win marked only the third time in their 116-year history that the Roosters had scored 40 points in a finals match.

Judiciary watch: Sea Eagles - Jake Trbojevic (dangerous throw on Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, on report in the first half), Ben Trbojevic (hip-drop tackle on Sandon Smith, on report in the first half)

Injuries: Sea Eagles - Tolu Koula (head knock)

What's next? The Roosters travel to Melbourne for a preliminary final against the Storm, whom they have beaten only once in the sides' past 11 meetings. But the season is over for the Sea Eagles, despite promising improvements in Anthony Seibold's second season in charge.