Roosters Soar into Top Eight with Rampant 32-12 Win over Bulldogs as Tupou’s Hat-Trick and Walker’s Magic Shine
In a thrilling encounter at Allianz Stadium, the Sydney Roosters secured a dominant 32-12 victory over the Canterbury Bulldogs, powered by Sam Walker’s deft kicking and a standout performance from rookie Naufahu Whyte. The win marked their third consecutive triumph, propelling them into the top eight—at least for the night—giving them fresh hope as the NRL season enters its final stretch.
The match was a high-intensity affair, with both teams coming out with finals-like energy. The Bulldogs struck first in the 10th minute, as captain Stephen Crichton played provider, setting up Enari Tuala in the corner after sustained pressure. The try came on the back of an aggressive and controversial cannonball tackle from Roosters’ centre Billy Smith on Sam Hughes, which left Smith on report but sparked heated exchanges on the field.
But the Roosters quickly responded, showing their attacking prowess. A pinpoint bomb from Sam Walker found the towering Daniel Tupou, who outmuscled Tuala to score, leveling the match at 6-all. Tupou would go on to score two more tries, completing a brilliant hat-trick that demonstrated his aerial dominance.
Despite the Bulldogs’ early lead, the Roosters’ clinical attack saw them race away with the game. With 19 tries in their last three outings and a staggering 114-28 point differential in that stretch, the Roosters are hitting form at just the right time. The victory was particularly sweet for the Roosters, who have struggled at home this season, with just three wins at Allianz Stadium.
Looking ahead, the Roosters face a crucial Round 27 clash against the Rabbitohs, a match that promises to be a sell-out and could prove vital in securing their finals spot.
