Sydney, December 06, 2025
The Sydney Roosters experienced a dramatic 2025 season marked by a narrow loss and on-field conflict in the NRLW Grand Final, an early elimination in the men’s NRL finals, and the final campaign of a key MVP-level player, signaling the end of an era for the club.
The NRLW Grand Final Brawl
On October 4–5, 2025, the Sydney Roosters Women’s team faced the Brisbane Broncos Women in what was described as an intense and closely fought NRLW Grand Final. The Broncos secured a 22–18 victory over the previously unbeaten Roosters. The match has been widely regarded as an instant classic, noted for its competitiveness and high stakes. Immediately following the final whistle, emotions boiled over into a full-scale melee involving players from both sides. Officials and staff intervened to separate the combatants amid a flurry of punches, marking a chaotic culmination to the Roosters’ dominant season run. This incident not only symbolized the Broncos reclaiming their fourth premiership title since 2020 but also underscored the volatile emotional environment surrounding the conclusion of this high-profile match.
The Men’s NRL Finals Exit: The “Shark Attack”
The men’s Sydney Roosters campaign concluded in the first week of the 2025 NRL Telstra Premiership Finals. Pitted against the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in a sudden-death fixture, the Roosters suffered a narrow defeat in a low-scoring and tightly contested match. The Sharks managed to capitalize on crucial errors and sustained defensive pressure, resulting in the elimination of the Roosters from the finals race. This loss extinguished the Roosters’ premiership aspirations for the season and has been metaphorically described as a “shark attack,” indicating the abrupt and impactful nature of their exit.
The MVP and End of an Era
The 2025 season also marked the final professional campaign for a prominent Sydney Roosters player widely regarded as an MVP-caliber contributor and a central figure in the club’s leadership. Although not explicitly named in reports, this player’s departure represents a significant moment in the club’s history. Their consistent high-level performance throughout the season, despite the team’s ultimate setbacks, embodies the narrative of a “final run” for the Roosters. This farewell season highlights the transition underway within the club’s roster and leadership structure.
Significance for the Club and Beyond
Collectively, these events frame the 2025 season as one of high drama, near success, and pivotal change for the Sydney Roosters franchise. The women’s team’s undefeated streak up to the grand final, ended by both the opponent’s performance and the post-match brawl, contrasts with the men’s team’s swift elimination in the finals. Both outcomes signal challenges at the highest competitive level and emphasize the fine margins within elite rugby league competition. Moreover, the departure of a key veteran player adds emotional weight and signals a forthcoming phase of rebuilding for the club.
Moving forward, the Sydney Roosters face the complex task of regrouping and adapting in both the NRL and NRLW competitions, navigating a year that delivered memorable moments and underscored the unforgiving nature of professional sport.