James Tedesco delivered a masterclass performance, scoring two tries and setting up another to lead the Sydney Roosters to a hard-fought 28-12 victory over the Gold Coast Titans. The win at Gosford's Polytec Stadium on Friday night extended the Roosters' winning streak to six matches, though it was far from their most polished display.
Tedesco's Origin Statement
The fullback, who missed out on State of Origin selection last year, made a compelling case to NSW coach Laurie Daley for the No.1 jersey ahead of Penrith's Dylan Edwards. Tedesco amassed 227 metres with ball in hand, scored a try in each half, and set up Rob Toia for the Roosters' first four-pointer.
Slow Start for the Tricolours
Trent Robinson's men struggled to find their rhythm early, with Victor Radley placed on report for a high shot on AJ Brimson. The Titans capitalised through Chris Randall, who stormed past Sam Walker to open the scoring. Gold Coast held firm until prop Mo Fotuaika was penalised for a hip-drop tackle just before the half-hour mark, sparking the Roosters into action.
Centre Rob Toia crashed over on the right edge after a lengthy bunker review, leveling the scores. Winger Daniel Tupou then batted a ball back for Tedesco to score, giving the Roosters a 10-6 halftime lead.
Second-Half Surge
Gold Coast fullback Keano Kini kept his side in the contest with daring plays, but back-rower Siua Wong powered through the middle to swing momentum back to the Roosters. Toia crossed for his second try shortly after, and the Titans' woes deepened when Brimson dropped the ball cold after being put through a hole by rookie halfback Zane Harrison.
Daniel Tupou added the 191st try of his NRL career, leapfrogging Billy Slater into outright third on the all-time try-scoring list. The Tongan winger jumped over Titans debutant Jensen Taumoepeau to claim a Walker bomb and score. Walker's erratic goalkicking (two from six conversions) kept the visitors within reach, but Hugo Savala's try off a Reece Robson grubber and Tedesco's late second try sealed the result. Kini crossed for a consolation try in the final minutes.
