Roosters survive late surge from Cronulla to claim NRLW premiership

THE Sydney Roosters have claimed a second NRLW premiership with a 32-28 win over a valiant Cronulla Sharks outfit at Accor Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

It was an uphill battle for the Sharks, in just their second season in the competition going against a side stacked with representative stars in the Roosters.

The ‘JillaRoosters’ came into the game as the favourites and lived up to expectations in the very early stages.

After a relatively even start, the Roosters took control of the first half and ran out to a 24-0 lead after five unanswered tries to end the opening period.

The Sharks’ defensive woes on both edges became a major issue in the first half but it was a tale of two halves with the backline dominating the second half.

Cronulla made a spirited comeback in the second half, bringing the score to 26-24 before the Dally M Medallist, Olivia Kernick, crossed over in the final minutes to all but secure the win.

Although Tiana Penitani brought the score back to within one try, it was too little too late for the Sharks as the Roosters walked away with the trophy.