Young gun Sam Walker hit the winning field goal but Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson says Jared Waerea-Hargreaves was the real match-winner over Gold Coast.
Veteran enforcer Jared Waerea-Hargreaves marked his 250th NRL appearance with a brutal display as the Roosters claimed a thrilling 35-34 win over the Titans at CBUS Super Stadium.
The 32-year-old played a full 80 minutes, notching 199 running metres from 20 carries and 44 tackles including a number of try-saving efforts.
His final run was crucial in getting the ball into position for Walker’s winning field goal and Robinson was in no doubt of the value of the New Zealand international’s efforts.
“That was an incredible game from Jared. He led the whole team. He dominated the game,” Robinson said.
“Every time he had the ball, the way that he defended, the way that he saved tries – that was an incredible performance.
“To play 80 minutes, 250 games, carry like he did, save tries like he did – that was a beast of a performance.
“It was just incredible to watch him play and he was the reason we won.”
The Roosters headed back to Sydney on Saturday night ahead of a quick turnaround before facing Penrith next Friday.
Walker will be in doubt after picking up an injury to his right shoulder against the Titans early in the second half.
Despite that, the 18-year-old came back onto the field to win the game and Robinson was also full of praise for the teenage halfback.
“You know the temperament of guys, you can see the guys that want the ball in the difficult moments and Sam has always proven to be that guy.”
The Roosters will also be hoping NSW Origin captain James Tedesco is fit to face the Panthers after he was a late scratching after aggravating an existing hip injury in the Blues’ big win over the Maroons in Townsville.
Tony
Roar Guru
That explains their proficiency at getting the crutch play right all of the time
timbo 59
Guest
I came across a description of the game from some publication in Quebec, Canada, where the journalist described the game in this fashion - 'For Wallace, the Titans caused the most trouble to the Cock attackers.' I've heard some interesting things thrown at the Roosters at times, but 'cock attackers' is a new one! :) I'd put the link on here for the whole article, but I'm afraid they'd probably take the comment down.
Watda
Guest
JWH is worth 2 James Tamou, both have ability but JWH has a huge heart
Malo
Guest
One of our greats. Top 10 roosters for me since the 80s.
criag
Roar Rookie
Some serious improvement needed by Cummins before next weekend, to be more precise.
Paul
Roar Guru
Paul Green could do worse than box up the highlights of JWH's game and show this to the guys in the Maroons camp before game 2. 80 minutes of commitment, channeled aggression and desperation was exactly what the bulk of the Qld team did not show in Game 1.
The Barry
Roar Guru
JWH was immense yesterday. Great leadership
Albo
Roar Rookie
JWH has never been one of my favourite player types, but there is no denying the terrific performance he displayed for 80 minutes yesterday. He probably saved the Chooks from an embarrassing loss from what seemed an impossible position.
Kerry Hanson
Guest
Say what you like about the big grrrruuub, but you’ll never see him hamming it up on the ground clutching at his neck after coming into contact with a bootlace. Some serious improvement needed by the Roosters before next weekend though .