International winger Mark Nawaqanitawase scored two tries to help Sydney Roosters end Newcastle Knights' fairytale in the NRL Premiership Grand Final. Nawaqanitawase, stepping away from rugby league, crossed once in each half before a crowd of 80,814 at Stadium Australia.
Newcastle sought a first title since 2001 and a comeback from bottom place. A late try from Greg Marzhew made it a one-point game, but the Roosters held on for a 16th title, their first since 2019, in Nawaqanitawase's last game before moving to union in Japan.
"Credit to the Knights, they fought for 80 minutes there," said the 26-year-old. "This is going to last me a lifetime." The Knights led 12-0 early through Francis Manuleleua and skipper Kalyn Ponga. Nawaqanitawase cut the deficit, Billy Smith levelled, and Sam Walker put Sydney ahead.
Nawaqanitawase added his second try, and Daly Cherry-Evans, 37, slotted a drop-goal. Marzhew crossed with four minutes left, but the Knights couldn't complete a famous comeback.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing