NRL grand final quick hits: Kalyn Ponga shines, Daly Cherry
The Sydney Roosters defeated the Newcastle Knights 19-18 in the 2026 NRL grand final, marking a dramatic end to the season. The match featured notable performances from Kalyn Ponga and Daly Cherry-Evans, alongside minor officiating controversies.
Why it matters
The NRL grand final is a major cultural event in Australia, and this match serves as a significant milestone for the sport's professional landscape.
Daly Cherry-Evans ended his NRL career with a grand final win. ( Getty Images: Cameron Spencer )
Link copied Share Share article The Sydney Roosters prevailed in a classic grand final, holding off a spirited Newcastle Knights outfit who threatened to complete one of the great premiership wins.
In a match where the Roosters statistically dominated, but the Knights managed to lead in the second half, these were the key moments from the 2026 NRL grand final.
There are no shortage of camera angles in professional sport these days.
One of rugby league's favourite angles used by the Nine Network in its broadcasts is Spidercam, an overhead view of the action.
A Daly Cherry-Evans field goal proves the difference as the Sydney Roosters beat the Newcastle Knights 19-18 in the NRL grand final.
Also covering this story
22 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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