The Sydney Roosters face an uphill battle to remain in the top eight throughout the Origin period after losing their crucial clash with the Canberra Raiders on Sunday.
With brutal games against the Melbourne Storm, Parramatta Eels and Penrith Panthers awaiting them, the Roosters couldn’t afford to return from the nation’s capital having lost to the 11th-placed Raiders.
But despite the unwavering efforts of Joey Manu — the best player on the field in a beaten side — Trent Robinson’s men were left to rue poor discipline and missed opportunities in a 22-16 defeat that will be tough...