The Sydney Roosters sent a strong message to the NRL with an 82-12 thrashing of North Queensland in Townsville on Thursday, July 30th, 2026. This score represents the most points by a winning team in 91 years, the last being the Roosters' own 87-7 win over Canterbury in 1935.

Halfback Sam Walker, currently negotiating a multi-million dollar contract, led the charge with a masterclass performance. Walker scored 36 individual points, including a hat-trick of tries and eight goals from eight attempts in the first half alone, matching the record for most points by an individual in an opening 40 minutes. Winger Mark Nawaqanitawase also scored a hat-trick of tries.

The Roosters scored eight tries in the first half, leading 48-6 at halftime, equaling the most first-half points in premiership history. Fullback James Tedesco crossed the line twice before leaving the game with a precautionary ankle injury.

This comprehensive win temporarily placed the Roosters level with Penrith on 34 competition points atop the table, highlighting their premiership credentials.

North Queensland were unable to respond effectively to the Roosters' relentless attack.

Daly Cherry-Evans, reflecting on the match, said it was a special night because of the scoreline and praised Sam Walker's outstanding performance. He noted, "It could have easily ended up 60-12 or 60-14 but you don't get 80 if you don't defend well at the other end."

Cherry-Evans also emphasized the team's hunger and clarity in their system, stating, "If you're hungry you're gonna keep hunting and we've gotta keep doing that. There was two parts - clarity on system and the ability to play it over and over again."

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