Ranked: The 10 gamebreakers to decide the Parramatta Eels vs Sydney Roosters grand final
The SG Ball Cup is the most prestigious title on the line in junior reps with both the Eels and Roosters looking to add another to their trophy cabinet. We rank the 10 elite gamebreakers to decide the grand final.
Sport
Don't miss out on the headlines from Sport. Followed categories will be added to My News.
The SG Ball Cup is the most prestigious competition on the junior reps schedule.
In its 60th edition, this year’s decider will pit the Parramatta Eels against the Sydney Roosters.
The Eels are chasing a record 15th title having last won in 2023, while the Roosters are hoping their fifth will end an 11-year drought.
Ahead of Saturday’s showdown at Leichhardt Oval, we rank the 10 gamebreakers set to feature:
10. JAMES FINEGAN
The son of former Wallabies forward and World Cup winner Owen, James is a genuine strike weapon on an edge for the Roosters. Has a background in union with Waverley College, but has shown his future is in league with his hole-running a key trait in his game.
9. CHRISTOPHER PETRUS
A Penrith junior who the Eels are very happy to have in their system. Over the years has transitioned into a second rower and is relishing that role. Brings size and is a constant threat on the left-hand edge.
8. PETER BENJAMIN UINI
Has changed roles to come off the bench since the start of the finals series and the big man has given the Roosters the desired impact. He’s a hard man to bring down and adds plenty of controlled aggression to the team.
7. RYDA TALAGI
The younger brother of former Eel and current Panthers five-eighth Blaize. The Eels are at their best when they’re offloading and playing off the front foot. Talagi has been a big reason for that with his big charges in the middle. The front rower has plenty of mobility and is always a threat.
6. JACKSON STEWART
Rex Bassingthwaighte went down early in the season and left the Roosters looking for someone to fill the fullback role. Stewart has done an almighty job in his place, developing into an elite player in this competition as they week’s have gone on.
5. LINCOLN FLETCHER
The controlling force of Parramatta at halfback, Does a fantastic job in freeing up his outside men and turning around opposing backs with his kicking game. One of the best goalkickers in the division as well.
4. TYSON WALKER
The younger brother of Sam who plays in a very similar style to the bright NRL prospect. Really coming into his own as the season progresses. Was best on ground when these sides met in the first week of the finals with his passing skills on full display to set up tries. Has become much more confident in defence.
3. LORENZO TALATAINA
Few in SG Ball possess the X-factor that Talataina does. A dangerous runner of the ball, especially close to the line when he’s given room to move, Talataina also does a great job in putting others into space.
2. LACHLAN COINAKIS
If you called him the best hooker in SG Ball, not many would disagree. Is a pivotal piece in getting Parramatta’s lethal attacking game rolling. An all-round talent who is strong in defence and lands his passes on a dime.
1. TOBY RODWELL
A special talent who would not be surprised to see in the NRL later this year. Has a top-30 contract and has been a standout in the finals to date, scoring three tries in two games. Has a great kicking game and is lethal when he opts to run the ball.
Originally published as Ranked: The 10 gamebreakers to decide the Parramatta Eels vs Sydney Roosters grand final
Slip-up, media storm, redemption: Ex-Swan on AFLW drug ban
Paige Sheppard was the first AFLW player charged with drug possession, but with best mate Lisa Steane by her side the duo has gone from delisted Swans to reborn stars in WA. She breaks her silence to Eliza Reilly.
Why former world title challenger Wilson has returned
Once touted as Australia’s next world champion before suddenly disappearing from professional surfing. Now Julian Wilson has returned and detailed exactly what his ambitions are.