Sandon Smith Shines on Anzac Day Roosters Star Scores 22 Points in Historic Win
On April 25, Sandon Smith solidified his position in the Sydney Roosters’ hall of fame during the solemn activities of Anzac Day. Before over 41,000 spectators at Allianz Stadium, Smith captured 22 points to lead the Roosters over the St. George Illawarra Dragons 46–18. Aside from ensuring they won, his play-scoring and play-making capability earned him the legendary Ashton-Collier Medal as player of the match.
First-Half Dominance Sets the Tone
Smith’s masterful management of the onslaught assisted the Roosters to take advantage of their first-half dominance in possession. Twice he beat the try line to demonstrate his pace and agility in the opening forty minutes. His initial plan was a 40-meter dash in which he sent challengers several steps behind him; his second was a clever dummy that beat the defence to allow him to score with ease. At halftime, Smith had set his stage for sixteen points.
Smith had set up sixteen scores at halftime. Surprisingly, he was sin-binned for high-tackling of Lachlan Ilas fairly early in the game.
Though making his forward debut, Blake Steep regained a stunning 60-meter try, the Roosters kept calm down a man. Smith asserted himself immediately upon return and delivered a grubber kick of high pressure, which led to a James Tedesco try.
Sandon Smith has a double! ✌#NRLRoostersDragons pic.twitter.com/Qkck2AiDGk
— NRL (@NRL) April 25, 2025
A History Being Made
His resilience in facing adversity reflected his mental strength and leadership abilities. Smith’s Anzac Day trek was likened to that of previous Roosters legends, a legacy in the making. His show rekindled Braith Anasta’s 2007 masterclass and Brad Fittler’s iconic 2004 match-winning performance. Ironically, Smith’s 176 cm stature is not proportional to his ground-based input, where his vision, pace, and football nous have been priceless to the team.
Statistical Highlights
Tries: 2
Goals: 7
Total Points: 22
Ashton-Collier Medal: Awarded to the player of the match
Aside from providing the Sydney Roosters with a pivotal win, Sandon Smith’s Anzac Day 2025 display spoke of the arrival of a new NRL legend. His leadership, grit, and skill suggest a bright future that can help shape the Roosters’ destiny in the ensuing years.
