Play stopped at 9.06pm and resumed at 9.20pm. Johnston took off his jersey and replaced it with a golden No.2 on his back.
Faithless were playing next door at the Hordern Pavilion, with the English dance band known for their โ90s anthem, God Is A DJ. This particular Black Friday night, Johnston was a god in rugby league circles.
Once play resumed, most people would have been happy to call it a night. How on earth could you top the epic scenes?
Latrell Mitchell kicked the conversion to get the Bunnies back to 12-all.
Daly Cherry-Evans scored his first try for the Roosters in the first half, then Daniel Tupou doubled the lead when he stepped inside four defenders to take his own career tally to 184 tries.
Tupou has been such an excellent loyal servant for the Bondi club, and if he played on another few years, would also be a chance of breaking Irvineโs record. If he does not retire at seasonโs end, 2027 would likely be his last.
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For Johnston, he is still only 31 and every chance to set a mark that could stand for another 53 years.
Not only did he score tries, Johnston was also applauded when he wrapped up his opposite Mark Nawaqanitawase with the ball and drove him into touch. Even the officials were being kind to him when they ruled he had already put a foot into touch when catching a Cherry-Evans kick that sailed into touch.
Looking ahead, David Fifita was placed on report for a high shot, as was Siua Wong who collected Jack Wighton with his shoulder. Wong was solid in defence and did an excellent job protecting Cherry-Evans on the right edge.
