Snapshot of the NRL grand final
SNAPSHOT OF THE SYDNEY ROOSTERS' 14-8 NRL GRAND FINAL WIN OVER CANBERRA
* RESULT: Sydney Roosters 14 defeated Canberra 8 in front of 82,982 fans at ANZ Stadium.
* THE STORY: The Sydney Roosters were the first team in 26 years to defend a premiership by edging Canberra 14-8 in a controversial NRL grand final decider at ANZ Stadium. The contest was marred by a refereeing gaffe with eight minutes remaining that resulted in the Roosters sealing the win one minute later. The Roosters led by two points at halftime but had to overcome the sin-binning of retiring halfback Cooper Cronk in the second half to lift the trophy.
* KEY MOMENT: With scores locked at 8-all in the 72nd minute, referee Ben Cummins changed his mind from restarting a set of six for Canberra to a change in possession. One minute later, Roosters fullback James Tedesco scored the match-winner.
* KEY PERFORMANCE: Canberra fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad was arguably best on ground, carrying the ball for a game-high 214m and breaking seven tackles before succumbing to cramps late in the match.
* KEY QUOTE: "Cummins waved six again. There's no doubt that he waved six again. We will hear more again about that six-again call." - Nine commentator Phil Gould on the moment the Raiders were robbed of a crucial set of six.
* KEY STAT: Canberra had 37 plays inside the Roosters' half compared with 14, and 10 plays to one inside their opposition 20m zone, but failed to score the try they needed in the second half.
* JUDICIARY WATCH: None.
* INJURIES: Roosters - Mitch Aubusson (knee).
