Roosters Triumph Over Souths as Alex Johnston Shatters All-Time Try-Scoring Record

Australia - Ekhbary News Agency

Roosters Triumph Over Souths as Alex Johnston Shatters All-Time Try-Scoring Record

In a night destined for the annals of rugby league, South Sydney veteran Alex Johnston has officially become the NRL's all-time leading try-scorer, crossing for his 213th career try. The momentous occasion occurred during the fierce rivalry clash against the Sydney Roosters at Allianz Stadium, a game that ultimately saw the Roosters secure their first victory of the 2026 season.

The electric atmosphere was punctuated by an extraordinary pitch invasion, as thousands of fans surged onto the field to celebrate Johnston's historic achievement. This spontaneous outpouring of support defied earlier warnings from the NRL regarding potential heavy fines, arrests, and stadium bans for such actions. The allure of witnessing history being made proved irresistible, overriding concerns about $5,500 fines that had been prominently displayed on stadium screens.

Johnston's record-breaking try, his second of the night, came via a dynamic break down the left edge. Earlier in the match, a perfectly timed flick pass from Latrell Mitchell had set up Johnston to score his 212th try, equalling the mark set by the legendary winger Ken Irvine back in 1973. The significance of the moment was amplified by the presence of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, a noted Souths supporter, who was among those on the field celebrating the historic milestone.

The Roosters, seeking to rebound from a disappointing opening round loss to the Warriors, found their form on this significant night. Skipper James Tedesco acknowledged the team's determination to bounce back, telling Brad Fittler on Nine: "Last week didn't show the team we are. We knew we had to bounce back for our season, and we knew it wouldn’t be easy."

Tedesco also lauded the performance of halfback Daly Cherry-Evans, who delivered a stellar display, scoring the Roosters' opening try and setting up the match-winner. This performance served as a crucial redemption after Cherry-Evans faced criticism for his club debut the previous week. "His control, his kicking game. He adds so much value to us and he’ll just get better and better," Tedesco commented on his teammate's impact.

While the outcome was a loss for the South Sydney Rabbitohs, the shared experience of witnessing a rugby league icon reach such a monumental feat provided a bittersweet memory for their loyal fanbase. It's a moment that may overshadow the final scoreline, much like how the brilliance of individual performances can sometimes eclipse the result of a match in collective memory.

Visibly emotional after the game, Johnston spoke to Billy Slater, surrounded by his family: "To be here in this situation I can’t believe it. Honestly, it’s beyond words, and I feel so privileged right now."

The match itself provided ample drama beyond Johnston's record. The Roosters secured their victory in the dying minutes, with a masterful combination between the experienced Daly Cherry-Evans and James Tedesco. Cherry-Evans executed a perfectly weighted grubber kick under pressure, which found the chasing Tedesco, who dotted down for the game-winning try, sealing the Roosters' first win of 2026.

Despite the Roosters' victory, the Rabbitohs showed resilience, particularly in the second half. A moment of individual brilliance from Jack Wighton saw him carve through the Roosters' defence before producing a deft grubber kick for Campbell Graham to score, narrowing the deficit to two points. Latrell Mitchell's conversion kept the tension high.

However, a penalty conceded by Mitchell, subsequently converted by Sam Walker, extended the Roosters' lead to eight points, putting them in a commanding position. The Roosters had shown increased composure and control since the break following Johnston's record try, although the Rabbitohs' attacking prowess always posed a threat.

The match also saw Souths second-rower Euan Aitken forced off with a cork injury, potentially impacting their defensive structure. Nevertheless, the night belonged to Alex Johnston and the Roosters, who celebrated a historic personal milestone and a crucial team victory.

Ekhbary News Agency