Congratulations to the most appropriately-sponsored team in the league, as the Sydney Roosters last night took down the Manly Sea Eagles 26 – 18 to win the 2013 NRL Grand Final at Sydney’s Olympic Stadium.
The Roosters came back from a 10 point deficit to win their 13th premiership, and their first since 2002. For those who missed it (or those who watched it, but can’t remember after participating in our Grand Final Drinking Game) Sydney were up 8-6 at half time, but a couple of quick tries and conversions put the Sea Eagles ahead at 18. Their lead didn’t last too long before the Roosters retook control of the game, thanks in part to a questionable refereeing decision about a possibly-forward Maloney – Minichiello pass, which led to a try.
Manly’s Daly Cherry-Evans was awarded the Clive Churchill Medal for his best on ground performance – but admitted it was “a very surprising moment” to be awarded the medal as a member of the losing team.
Setting aside the sporting mumbo jumbo, let’s all take a minute and appreciate the fact that Ricky Martin, with a little help from Jessica Mauboy, totally rocked the pre-match entertainment like it was the FIFA World Cup circa 1998. Regardless of Channel 9‘s dedication to shameless The Voice cross-promotion year-in year-out, you can’t deny Ricky is Livin’ La Vida Loca that all-white sleeveless number.
Images by Cameron Spencer/Ryan Pierce Via Getty Images
