The Sydney Roosters achieved their third straight victory with a commanding 26-12 win over the Bulldogs, elevating themselves into the top eight in the NRL standings, if only momentarily. Daniel Tupou was the star of the match, scoring a hat-trick that propelled him past Steve Menzies on the all-time tries leaderboard.
Tupou’s three tries, combined with a double from lock forward Naufahu Whyte, helped the Roosters ascend from ninth to seventh place on the ladder. They now sit on 28 points, ahead of the Dolphins based on point differential and level with the Sharks, who are yet to play their match against the Titans. Depending on the results of those games, the Roosters might end up outside the top eight at the end of the round.
Regardless of the final outcome of round 24, the Roosters have secured vital competition points, demonstrating their potential to make an impact in the finals if they qualify.
Tupou’s first try of the match saw him equal Steve Menzies’ record of 180 tries, and he surpassed it with his second and third, bringing his career total to 182 tries, placing him as the fourth highest try-scorer in NRL history. He now trails only Ken Irvine (212), Alex Johnston (209), and Billy Slater (190).
As the season progresses, the bout for finals positions intensifies, but Tupou’s performance has undeniably highlighted the Roosters’ capability to contend fiercely in the play-offs.