One of the most-anticipated clashes of season 2013 saw all eyes on Sonny Bill Williams in Round 6 as he faced his former club Canterbury for the first time since walking out on them five years ago. But while Williams lived up to his part of the bargain, the match itself was barely a contest as Sydney Roosters romped to an impressive 38-0 victory.
Nevertheless, it was Williams who kick-started his side’s night at Allianz Stadium with a brilliantly timed cut-out pass on the right for Roger Tuivasa-Sheck to score in the corner after nine minutes. In a tight opening 40, only a James Maloney penalty goal troubled the scorers any further as the home side went to the break ahead 8-0.
The second half was all one way traffic, however, with Williams continuing his dream outing in the 48th minute as he flashed over out wide.
Bulldogs back-rower Tony Williams came within inches of hitting back for his side, only for the ball to come free as he tried to slide across the line. The Roosters made them pay heavily for that missed opportunity as Maloney sliced through on halfway to send Daniel Mortimer over and make it 20-0.
Williams crossed for his second of the night with a powerful run close to the posts and his fellow Roosters newcomers ensured they also celebrated in style with Maloney and Michael Jennings both crossing late to push the score out to 38-0.
The Roosters ran for 1254 metres to Canterbury’s 1070 and made six line-breaks to nil in an impressive all-round display.
Tuivasa-Sheck stood out for the Roosters with 153 metres and a try while Williams’ big night included five tackle-breaks.
Michael Ennis made 42 tackles for the Bulldogs.
