NRL grand final: Reece Walsh stars as Broncos defeat Storm
Reece Walsh has powered Brisbane to a 26-22 defeat of Melbourne in the 2025 NRL grand final that confirms redemption for their heartbreaking loss in the decider two years ago.
The Broncos needed to overcome a 22-12 halftime deficit and mid-game injuries to starting halves Adam Reynolds (hamstring) and Ben Hunt (concussion) to claim the club’s first premiership since 2006.
Star fullback Walsh continued a breathtaking finals series and was involved in everything Brisbane did well in front of 80,223 fans at a heaving Accor Stadium.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The triumph is vindication for the Broncos’ bold call to oust coach Kevin Walters after a middling 2024 season and install renowned taskmaster Michael Maguire to the top job.
Brisbane’s seventh premiership also buries the demons from the 2023 decider, when the Broncos coughed up a 16-point lead for one of the most demoralising grand-final losses in memory.
The Storm dominated Sunday’s first half but, like Canberra and Penrith earlier this finals series, could not control the NRL’s comeback kids once their attack began humming after halftime.
Melbourne are now the first team since 2004 to lose consecutive grand finals.
