The Hull FC bound star landed the match-winning play.
Hull FC-bound Daly Cherry-Evans is an NRL winner.(Image: Getty)
Hull FC-bound Daly Cherry-Evans has completed his fairy-tale NRL ending, winning the Premiership for the second time of his illustrious career.
Landing the decisive drop-goal as Sydney Roosters defeated resilient Newcastle Knights 19-18 in the NRL Grand Final this Sunday morning, Cherry-Evans’ second Premiership comes 15 years after his first with Manly Sea Eagles back in 2011. It is the longest wait in history between two Premiership wins ensures the future FC half-back takes the tag of the oldest winner in the NRL era.
The 37-year-old, who turns 38 next February, has signed a one-year deal with Hull for the 2027 season. He landed a drop-goal deep into the second half to put the Roosters 19-12 ahead and after a late Knights surge, the East Sydney-based foundation club were able to hold on for victory.
“We did it – I didn’t do anything,” Cherry-Evans modesty said after the game. “Thank you so much to everyone here tonight. I’m so grateful for the support. It’s been an amazing journey. I’m so lucky.
“I didn’t want to arrogant or over confident (going into the match) but I had so much belief in this group of players and coach. This is what it’s all about and we did it. I’m so proud to be here.”
On the drop-goal, he continued: “In close games, you’ve just got to do it sometimes. I’m just so grateful again to be part of this club and add to its history.
“It feels amazing. This is not just about me, it’s about my teammates and my family. The journey is all about the ups and the downs and it’s so amazing to finish here.”
The Knights led 12-0 before the Roosters scored 19 unanswered points, with Cherry-Evans catching the eye again with his leadership and kicking game once again.
James Tedesco won the Clive Churchill Medal for his Man of the Match pertinence, running for over 300 metres and standing tall when the Roosters needed him the most. The Chooks tries came through a Mark Nawaqanitawase brace and England hopeful Billy Smith.
The Roosters will face Super League winners Wakefield Trinity in the 2027 World Club Challenge – a game that could take place at Oakwell, the home of Football League club Barnsley FC.