Fittler’s Concern for Edwards Reflected in His Gait as Roosters Stun Defending Champions

The Sydney Roosters have stunned the four-time reigning champions, the Penrith Panthers, with a gripping 38-32 victory at Commbank Stadium on Friday night.

As the Panthers took to their new ground in Parramatta, they appeared ready for a fierce contest. However, their post-premiership aura was quickly diminished by injuries and a resurgent Roosters team looking to recover from a disastrous Round 1 performance.

One of the major concerns for Panthers coach Ivan Cleary will be the health of star fullback Dylan Edwards, who was forced to exit midway through the second half.

Edwards seemed to be experiencing minor discomfort after making a dynamic chase on Connor Watson during the play, but he chose to attempt to push through the pain.

A replay of Watson’s try revealed Edwards slowing down near the 10m line while clutching his leg.

Edwards’ injury concerns were further highlighted moments later when he seemed to limp back to the middle after scoring an impressive try in the 49th minute.

Premiership winner Brad Fittler noted on Nine that Edwards appeared to be dealing with a groin issue.

“He’s wearing a groin strap,” Fittler stated on Nine.

“The Penrith staff have checked on him and claim he is alright, but he is definitely hindered.”

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Edwards’ time on the pitch was cut short following his try as Daine Laurie stepped in to take his place.

“You can see by the way he walks that he seems to have heavy legs,” Fittler continued as Edwards made his way to the sidelines.

“At the moment, he’s on adrenaline, but it will be tougher for him come the morning.”

“Let’s hope there’s no tear,” Fittler added post-match.

“Hopefully, it’s just a bit of bruising… but they are fortunate to have Daine Laurie.”

However, it was Edwards’ inability to chase after Roosters attackers that rang alarm bells for Cleary, according to Phil Gould.

“I’ve never seen him give up on a chase or stop running,” Gould remarked.

“He took two strides and had to pull out.

“The (Roosters) are beating the Panthers to the punch everywhere now.”

Edwards’ premature exit was just one of the multiple issues plaguing the Panthers in the second half as the Roosters sliced through their defence.

With under 15 minutes left, Daniel Tupou and Sandon Smith both crossed the line, establishing the Roosters’ largest lead of the game.

James Tedesco partnered with Chad Townsend to assist Dom Young for Tedesco’s third try assist of the evening.

A high tackle by Salesi Foketi on Scott Sorensen granted Casey McLean the chance to score a desperate attempt to revive his team’s chances.

However, Penrith’s season ended in heartbreak as Brian To’o was thwarted in a nail-biting finish.

“This serves as a terrific lesson for rugby league supporters to never give up on your team,” Gould emphasised.

“Always stand by your team and never lose faith in them.”

“Tonight proved that the game isn’t won on paper,” John added.

Earlier, a dismal defensive performance by Siua Wong and Foketi allowed Penrith’s Paul Alamoti to score first.

Mark Nawaqanitawase and Watson ignited the Roosters’ offensive efforts, each scoring within three minutes to snatch the lead from their opponents.

However, a prolonged period of defending their own line took its toll and some remarkable teamwork from To’o brought the scores level.

In the end, the Roosters managed to hold on for the win.

“No one anticipated such a high-scoring affair,” Mat Thompson noted on Nine.