Latrell Mitchell's match-winning field goal against the Storm was right out of the training manual and that's why Roosters coach Trent Robinson was a satisfied man after he watched his side register a thrilling 21-20 golden-point victory at AAMI Park.
Mitchell played out every boy's dream when he coolly slotted the winning field goal from 40 metres just a minute into extra-time after nothing could separate the two sides in the grand final rematch.
Robinson revealed he sent a message out to his team at the end of regulation to have Mitchell kick the winner and the plan worked to a tee as the Roosters claimed the thrilling victory.
"We sent a message out there with Luke (Keary) being off and with Latrell being a left-footer we know how to set up for those ones,” Robinson said.
"Cooper (Cronk) ended up being the ultimate decoy and Latrell nailed it.
Mitchell field goal wins it for Roosters in golden-point
"He practices it a lot and is a very good kicker and it was a great way to finish the game."
The Roosters looked to be well on their way to a fifth straight victory when they led 20-0 after half an hour on Good Friday, before a spirited comeback from the Storm tied proceedings and set up a grandstand finish.
A winner couldn't be found in regulation, paving the way for Sitili Tupouniua to power the Roosters down field in the opening set of golden point and give Mitchell his shot at glory.
Many of the pro-Melbourne crowd at AAMI Park would have expected Cronk to put his hand up for the shot but Robinson said his star playmaker knew it was Mitchell’s time to shine.
"Cooper is in charge (in that situation)," Robinson said.
"His ability to decide what the opposition might do and what the best option is for the team.
"A lot of young halves would have said they will take it and Cooper has taken a lot in his time and nailed a lot.
"I think he knew what the reaction might be and called on Latrell to take it.
"We were going to Latrell before in the break and it was planned in advance and well thought out."
The victory sees the Roosters join the Storm and Rabbitohs at the head of the Telstra Premiership ladder with five wins from the first six games.
Latrell's wonder try ignites AAMI Park
While Robinson was reluctant to declare the victory over the Storm as the best the Roosters have produced this season, he said he was proud of the character they showed in the absence of Joseph Manu (suspension) and Siosiua Taukeiaho, who was injured during the warm-up.
"I couldn’t be prouder of a group of men," Robinson said.
"The way they represented the club and the jersey and the way they represented themselves and their family and the way.
"The character of the way they played tonight was exceptional.
"We weren’t perfect. I think we did run out of gas at different times.
"It was uncomfortable and beautiful all in one."
