Tempers flared during a tense Friday night match between the Roosters and Bulldogs at Allianz Stadium, ignited by a controversial tackle from Roosters centre Billy Smith on Bulldogs prop Sam Hughes. This incident occurred in the 10th minute of the game, with Smith penalised for a dangerous hip-drop tackle after trying to bring Hughes down, who was making significant yardage with two Roosters players clinging to him.
The atmosphere in the stadium quickly turned heated as Canterbury fans reacted with boos, and Bulldogs hooker Bailey Hayward confronted Smith, showing his displeasure over the tackle. The situation escalated, with Roosters player Victor Radley and Bulldogs utility Jaeman Salmon also getting involved in the scuffle that followed.
Referee Grant Atkins awarded a penalty to the Bulldogs, and they capitalised on the opportunity, with Enari Tuala scoring a try shortly after. Smith was subsequently placed on report, leaving him anxious about the upcoming match review committee’s decision.
In Smith’s defence, former player Billy Slater argued that Hughes’ own actions contributed to the tackle’s dangerous nature and questioned what Smith could have done differently during the play. Slater noted, “Well, the fact that he’s trying to get his legs away probably contributed to the way he fell,” emphasising the complexities of tackling in such situations.
Despite the rough beginning, the Roosters managed to secure a 14-6 lead at half-time, learning to navigate the game’s physicality. Winger Daniel Tupou made headlines by scoring his 180th NRL try, equalling Manly Sea Eagles great Steve Menzies’ record for fifth on the all-time leaderboard. Additionally, lock forward Naufahu Whyte also found the try line late in the first half, while Sam Walker successfully added points with a penalty goal.
As the match progressed, the rivalry continued to showcase the intensity expected from two competing NRL clubs, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown amid rising tensions.