Reece Walsh delivered a breathtaking performance in the 2025 NRL Grand Final, helping the Brisbane Broncos secure their first premiership in 19 years. The match, held on March 15, 2025, saw the Broncos overcome significant injury challenges, including the loss of key players Ben Hunt and Adam Reynolds during the game.
Walsh’s early play set the tone for the match. In just the third minute, he assisted Deine Mariner for the opening try. Mariner’s effort nearly ended in disaster as he tiptoed along the dead ball line while evading pressure from Storm defenders Harry Grant and Stefano Utoikamanu. Despite the close call, the try was confirmed after a lengthy review by the video referee, allowing the Broncos to take an early lead.
The Melbourne Storm quickly responded to the setback. Shortly after Mariner’s try, they suffered an injury blow when Jack Howarth limped off the field due to a groin injury. Despite this, the Storm rallied with Nick Meaney and Eli Katoa scoring two tries within six minutes to take a 10-4 lead.
Walsh narrowly avoided a sin-bin later in the first half following a high tackle on Storm player Xavier Coates. The referee initially put him on report but allowed him to continue playing. His timely presence on the field proved crucial, as Walsh later scored a remarkable try, weaving through six Storm defenders to equalize at 10-10. Commentary from former player Billy Slater described it as one of the most inspiring grand final tries he had ever seen.
The second half began with drama as Tui Kamikamica thought he had extended the Storm’s lead with a try in the 44th minute. However, the Bunker reviewed the play and ruled it out due to a knock-on, a decision that proved pivotal. Just two minutes later, Gehamat Shibasaki scored for the Broncos, shifting the momentum in their favor.
Tragedy struck for the Broncos when Reynolds suffered a calf injury that forced him off the field. His departure was a significant blow, as he was unable to walk to the sidelines without assistance. This left the Broncos without their captain in a critical moment of the match.
The situation worsened for Brisbane when Hunt was knocked out in a tackle attempt late in the game, leaving them with just eight minutes to play. The veteran player stumbled and required medical attention, ultimately being ruled out with a category one concussion. Tyson Smoothy stepped in to fill the void, but the Broncos were now down two key players.
Despite the odds, the Broncos showcased resilience in their defense. A crucial moment occurred in the dying minutes when Kotoni Staggs and Mariner successfully forced Coates out of bounds, denying what appeared to be a certain try for the Storm. Slater remarked on the defensive effort, suggesting it could well have been the game-winning play.
As the final whistle blew, the Broncos celebrated a hard-fought victory, overcoming a 10-point deficit at halftime. Their triumph not only ended a long premiership drought but also highlighted the team’s depth and determination, demonstrating their ability to rise to the occasion even when faced with adversity.
