Match Summary
The Sydney Roosters defeated the Brisbane Broncos 38-24 at Allianz Stadium on Saturday night.
A physically brutal contest saw multiple players exit the field with injuries. Mark Nawaqanitawase, Angus Crichton, Lindsay Collins, Adam Reynolds, Josiah Karapani, and Deine Mariner all failed to finish the game.
Controversial Incidents Involving Victor Radley
Roosters player Victor Radley was involved in two contentious incidents that sparked public discussion.
Tackle on Patrick Carrigan:
Radley made contact with Carrigan's head during a tackle. The Roosters gained possession after a knock-on call. Replays showed Radley's head made contact with Carrigan's chin. No penalty or sin bin was issued.
Tackle on Josiah Karapani:
Radley was placed on report for a tackle on Karapani that was categorized as a hip-drop tackle. Karapani left the field with an ankle injury and did not return. Radley remained on the field.
Former rugby union player Peter FitzSimons expressed surprise that Radley was not sent to the sin bin for the first tackle.
Spencer Leniu's Performance
Roosters prop Spencer Leniu, a contender for NSW State of Origin selection, played 14 minutes, making one run for five metres and three tackles. Teammate Nat Butcher played 54 minutes.
Leniu's performance may affect his selection for the NSW Blues team, with other players such as Jackson Ford considered for the position.
Injury Update
The following players failed to finish the game due to injuries:
- Mark Nawaqanitawase (Roosters)
- Angus Crichton (Roosters)
- Lindsay Collins (Roosters)
- Adam Reynolds (Broncos)
- Josiah Karapani (Broncos)
- Deine Mariner (Broncos)