Roosters sign Daly Cherry‑Evans amid ticket shortage worries for Grand Final fans
The club’s recruitment move aims to secure James Tedesco’s legacy as fans grapple with a limited ticket pool for the NRL Grand Final.
By Felo News Desk · Published
On the eve of the NRL Grand Final, the Sydney Roosters announced the signing of Daly Cherry‑Evans, a move they say is intended to safeguard captain James Tedesco’s chance of a third premiership, while many supporters face a shortage of tickets for the match at Accor Stadium.
What happened
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Roosters completed the deal for Cherry‑Evans at Bondi ahead of the Grand Final, a decision driven by concerns that Tedesco might retire with only two titles. The club’s powerbrokers reportedly acted after a meeting with influential figures who felt time was running out for the captain.
On the same day, the Herald reported that a shortage of Grand Final tickets left numerous Roosters and Knights fans unable to attend the game. The club’s fan base, estimated at more than 478,000 supporters with about 24,000 members, could not secure enough tickets to fill the 80,000‑seat Accor Stadium, meaning many families would watch from home.
What the reports add
One article highlighted the strategic motive behind the Cherry‑Evans signing, noting that the Roosters wanted to ensure Tedesco does not finish his career with “just” two premierships. Another piece focused on the emotional impact on fans, quoting a mother named Michelle who described her partner as “devastated” after failing to obtain tickets and her children as “in tears every day.”
What was said
"We’re trying to tell our kids we’ll just have a barbecue at home and watch the game, but they’re not having it," Michelle told the Herald about her family’s disappointment.
The club’s insiders, as reported by the Herald, said the Cherry‑Evans signing was a “last‑ditch” effort to give Tedesco the best possible chance of a third flag before he retires.
How it came about
Earlier Felo News coverage detailed the Knights’ preparation for the Grand Final (Sandon Smith’s pressure) and the Roosters’ recent challenges, including Sam Walker’s injury comeback and contract negotiations (Walker’s contract clash, six‑day finals turnaround). Those pieces set the context for the Roosters’ urgency to bolster their roster and the heightened fan interest in securing tickets.
Key facts
- The Sydney Roosters signed Daly Cherry‑Evans ahead of the Grand Final to help James Tedesco achieve a third premiership. (smh.com.au)
- A shortage of Grand Final tickets left many Roosters and Knights supporters unable to attend the match at Accor Stadium. (smh.com.au)
- Michelle, a Roosters fan, said her partner was "devastated" after failing to obtain tickets, and her children were in tears daily. (smh.com.au)
Timeline
- 2026-09-20 — Roosters faced back‑to‑back six‑day finals turnarounds, with Sam Walker returning from injury.
- 2026-09-27 — Sam Walker’s contract negotiations stalled ahead of the Grand Final.
- 2026-09-29 — Newcastle Knights halfback Sandon Smith discussed pressure before the Grand Final.
Sources
- [1] smh.com.au
- [2] smh.com.au
- [3] smh.com.au
