Penrith Cede Top Spot as Star Haunted by Costly Brain Fade
The Roosters relied on defense and a late intercept to secure their eighth straight win and move to the top of the ladder, coach Trent Robinson said.
- On Thursday, August 13, 2026, the Roosters defeated the Penrith Panthers 12-6, securing top spot on the NRL ladder and claiming an eighth straight win despite the absence of captain James Tedesco.
- Both teams entered the match facing significant lineup challenges, with the Roosters missing captain Tedesco due to an ankle injury and the Panthers sidelined without co-captain Isaah Yeo, recovering from a pectoral injury.
- Daly Cherry-Evans scored a crucial try after straightening off his right foot, catching defenders flat-footed, while the Roosters maintained their advantage through persistent defensive pressure that prevented Penrith from cracking the line.
- Roosters coach Trent Robinson praised his squad's defensive backbone, stating, "All 17 guys really care about it." Panthers coach Ivan Cleary expressed frustration, noting, "I felt like our execution let us down too often."
- With the win, the Roosters maintain critical momentum heading into the finals series, while the Panthers must regroup after struggling to crack the defensive line despite nearly five minutes of sustained possession.
11 Articles
11 Articles
DCE-inspired Roosters grab top spot from Penrith in nail-biting win
The Roosters are now the outright NRL ladder leaders after defeating their bogey team the Panthers in one of the best games of the season.
Roosters take NRL top spot
The Sydney Roosters have climbed to the top of the NRL ladder for the first time in five years after defeating Penrith 12-6 at Parramatta Stadium, extending their winning streak to eight matches. Daly Cherry-Evans scored both Roosters tries, including a decisive 77th-minute effort, while Sam Walker impressed in the halves and contributed with the boot. The Roosters led 8-0 at halftime before Moses Leota crossed late to bring Penrith within two p…
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