Why DCE had 'no doubt' about Roosters' premiership potential

Daly Cherry-Evans has expressed his gratitude for his playing career as he concludes his NRL career as a premiership winner.

In one of the biggest storylines coming into this season, the former Queensland halfback decided to leave the Manly Sea Eagles after 15 seasons of service to join the Sydney Roosters for a chance at premiership success.

And despite being shifted into the five-eighth position whilst Sam Walker wore the No.7 jersey, the gamble paid off with the 37-year-old kicking the field goal that proved to be the difference in Sydney’s 19-18 win against Newcastle on Sunday night.

This would be his first premiership success since 2011, marking a 15-year wait to lift the Provan-Summons Trophy.

With Cherry-Evans having played his 379th and last NRL game, he admits that he is in disbelief in the immediate aftermath of the match.

“As a young kid, I couldn't have scripted a career like this,” Cherry-Evans told SEN League.

“I'm so grateful to have been so lucky, not just to play for so long, but to be so fortunate to be (a part) of some great sides, like this side tonight (and) the Manly sides I was a part of. I've been so lucky in my career to finish with the Premiership.

“I don't know if it's really sunk in yet. I'm obviously very happy, but I don't think I'm aware of what's just happened.”

But he notes that when he signed during the off-season, he knew that this side was capable if everyone was able to do their role.

“I mean, I just did my job. It's as simple as that,” he continued.

“I knew before I signed here, this is a strong club with a great coach, great coaching staff and a really strong playing group.

“There was no doubt in my mind that I could come here and just do my job; everyone else will do theirs, and it's paid off.”

Cherry-Evans will spend next season in the Super League. He’ll play for Hull FC, who finished 11th after 27 games.