Daly Cherry-Evans and Sam Walker shine as Eels edge out Roosters in NRL pre-season trial, sparking early-season intrigue.
Daly Cherry-Evans made his debut in Sydney Roosters colours, but it was his halves partner, Sam Walker, who stole the spotlight in the Eels' 28-22 pre-season victory over the Roosters. With all eyes on Cherry-Evans after his 15-year tenure with Manly, Walker's performance was a standout. He scored a try and set up two more, showcasing his potential as a key player for the Roosters.
The new Parramatta pairing of Mitch Moses and Jonah Pezet also showed glimpses of promise in their first outing together, playing the first 40 minutes. The Roosters took a 22-12 lead when Cherry-Evans and James Tedesco left the field, but the Eels rallied to secure the win and the NRL's pre-season challenge title.
Cherry-Evans, set to be a highly scrutinized figure this season, is a key reason the Roosters are early-season favourites. His 352 NRL games at halfback for Manly will be a point of comparison as he and Walker gel together in the Roosters' attack this year.
Despite playing number six with Walker at number seven, the 37-year-old Cherry-Evans was the most vocal in the Roosters' attack, directing play throughout the night. He also served as the primary in-play kicker while the halves split their touches.
Cherry-Evans' presence clearly freed up Walker, who scored a try by dummying to his senior partner and breaking through the Eels' defence. Walker then assisted Angus Crichton with a perfect short ball on the left edge, and earlier helped secure the Roosters' first points when Isaiah Iongi's bomb was spilled, leading to a try by Lindsay Collins.
Despite a lightning storm causing a 45-minute delay, Walker and Cherry-Evans' chemistry was evident. Walker acknowledged the initial challenge, stating, 'It was a little bit touch and go for the first 20, but now we've found our flow and are very comfortable with each other. He's been awesome.'
Roosters coach Trent Robinson announced that Benaiah Ioelu would start the season at hooker, replacing the injured Reece Robson, who is expected to miss a month with a broken thumb. Ioelu contributed to a try when he ran out of dummy-half, kicked a bomb, and Tommy Talau scored.
For Parramatta, Moses and Pezet had their moments, including a disallowed try for Bailey Simonsson. The highlight was a beautiful short ball from Dylan Walker to Moses, who burst through a gap and sent Matt Doorey over. Moses handed goalkicking duties to Pezet after that try and did not return after the break, with officials confirming it was part of the plan and not due to injury.
The match showcased the potential of Walker and Cherry-Evans, as well as the depth of talent in the NRL, leaving fans eager for the upcoming season.
