For the first time since 2018, the Wests Tigers have toppled the Sydney Roosters, ending a six-game losing streak and rewriting club history in a 30-28 thriller at Allianz Stadium. The last time the Tigers beat the Roosters away from home was August 9, 2009, while “I Gotta Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas was topping the Australian charts. But on this fateful Round 18 afternoon, it was the Fainu brothers who provided the soundtrack to a new era for the Tigers.
Turbulence before takeoff
The build-up was anything but smooth. The Tigers entered the clash under a cloud, having not tasted victory in two months and reeling from the departures of Lachlan Galvin and Tallyn Da Silva. Coach Benji Marshall bristled at suggestions the pair were let go, insisting the club’s direction was clear even if the results hadn’t always shown it. Missing key players like Jahream Bula, Jarome Luai, and Api Koroisau, the Tigers’ depth was tested against a Roosters side also depleted by Origin absences.
The Fainu phenomenon
But the Roosters had never faced all three Fainu brothers before. In a historic NRL first, Samuela, Latu, and Sione Fainu each crossed the stripe, becoming the first trio of brothers to score tries for the same team in the same game in the NRL era. Latu, the youngest, pounced on a Roosters error and sprinted 50 metres to score under the posts while Sione and Samuela followed with powerful efforts that left the Roosters shaken. Their combined brilliance gave the Tigers a 20-0 lead and, ultimately, the edge in a see-sawing contest.
A club transformed
Alex Twal, captaining for the first time, had a feeling. “It started with Benji. We showed today how much he means to us,” Twal said post-match. “Everyone really wanted to win today. It was an indication on how much he means to the boys.”
This was more than just a win. It was a statement that the 2025 Wests Tigers are a different beast – resilient, united, and, finally, rewarded for their faith in youth and their coach. With two wins now separating them from the top eight, the Tigers’ feeling is growing stronger, and the rest of the NRL would be wise to listen.
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Big T
Host of the podcast Sports BFs.
Co-host of the podcast Chasing Kangaroos.
Co-founder of Footy Smiles.
Illustrator for The Front Row magazine.
Roar rookie journalist.
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