Overview

• The Sydney Roosters took an early 6–0 lead with Sandon Smith scoring and converting his own try in the fourth minute.
• Dragons winger Sione Finau leveled the scores at 6–6 with a stunning 90-metre try in the eighth minute, converted by Kyle Flanagan.
• Mark Nawaqanitawase restored the Roosters' lead in the 18th minute with a try in the right corner, bringing the score to 12–6 after Sandon Smith's conversion.
• Early physicality defined the match, including a sideline tussle involving Tyrell Sloan, Billy Smith, Victor Radley, and David Klemmer.
• The fixture began with Anzac Day formalities, including The Ode, a minute’s silence, and the playing of the Australian and New Zealand national anthems.