The Roosters have held on for a 10-6 victory over the Bulldogs in the second match of the Auckland Nines.
It was the tri-colours who got off to the better start with an early try pulled up after they were held up over the line.
The opening points didn’t come until the ninth minute when Samisoni Langi crossed next to the uprights. James Maloney converted to give the Roosters a 6-nil lead just before the half-time siren sounded.
In a game where possession is so critical, the Bulldogs opened their account in the 12th minute with back rower Shaun Lane crossing in the right hand corner. Jaline Graham beautifully converted from the sideline to level the score at 6-all.
Two minutes later the Roosters broke the deadlock after Graham was defeated out wide by Brendan Elliot. The winger went the remaining 40m to score. The try couldn’t be converted with the score staying at 10-6.
With just one minute left on the clock Damien Cook ran across field and managed to break down the outside. With cover defence coming across, the hooker went to get the ball down to score but was ruled to have bounced the ball and the Roosters gained possession.
The Roosters were able to hold on to the ball for the final seconds to register a 10-6 victory.
ROOSTERS 10 (Langi, Elliot Tries; Maloney 1 Goal) def. BULLDOGS 6 (Lane Try, Graham 1 Goal)
At: Eden Park, Auckland
