Roosters top Wigan to secure record-equalling WCC title
Brett Morris scored a first-half hat-trick before the Sydney Roosters survived a bruising examination after the break to secure a record-equalling fourth World Club Challenge title with a tight 20-8 triumph over Wigan.
The NRL champions led 10-0 after just 10 minutes at Wigan's DW Stadium and 14-4 at half-time as former Dragon and Bulldog Morris made an instant impression on his new teammates by crossing the line three times in a stunning debut.
A 61st-minute penalty converted by Siosiua Taukeiaho made it 16-4 to the visitors, but the Warriors dominated large parts of the final 20 minutes, with a Liam Marshall try pulling the home side within eight points with 15 minutes remaining.
The Roosters were able to withstand the barrage before a late Daniel Tupou try ensured the Sydney club equalled Wigan's record total of WCC trophies.
"There's something about this field, I really love playing here," said Morris, who was named man of the match for the second time in this fixture, added to his 2011 honour with St George Illawarra.
"To get man of the match is a huge bonus. I enjoy playing over here in England, I love the crowds, and I was in the right place at the right times tonight.
"I was given a job to do my best tonight, I did my best for the boys, it's been a long pre-season and I've been trying to earn their trust."
More to come