Share and Follow
In a scene of sheer pandemonium at Allianz Stadium, the nation’s leader found himself swept up in the wave of ecstatic fans, a frenzy that sent players scurrying to the sidelines and brought the game to an abrupt halt for over 15 minutes.
The commentators on Nine couldn’t contain their excitement, heralding it as “a moment the game will never forget.”
The chaos was sparked by Johnston’s electrifying try against the Sydney Roosters, a feat that catapulted his career tally to an impressive 213, shattering the long-standing record held by Ken Irvine for 53 years.
Amidst the uproar, Brad Fittler reflected on the extraordinary scene, acknowledging, “I know it’s not the right thing at the moment for the players, but this is a one-off.” He added, “This is the only time this will happen in their life.”
“This is the only time this will happen in their life.”
Security at first had attempted to stop some of the fans but it was to no use in an iconic moment for rugby league.
And even Albanese couldn’t resist being part of the celebrations.
NRL legend Billy Slater interviewed Albanese after the game, asking if he faced being fined for joining the on-field celebrations.
“It was worth it to be part of history,” Albanese said, a red and green Rabbitohs scarf around his neck.
“I was on the Souths board when we got kicked out of the comp, and 100,000 people marched through the streets of Sydney, ‘South Sydney ’til I die’, as the slogan went.
“And a great moment for Alex Johnston.
“He’s been an extraordinary player but he’s also a great man, he’s so humble. And it was a great moment for rugby league and a great moment for South Sydney.”
The prime minister is South Sydney’s No.1 ticket holder and has been a fan for life.
He was previously a director on the club’s board, and a personal supporter of Johnston, including a period when the star almost left the club.
Albanese’s relationship with the Rabbitohs is so storied that he even fell in love with his wife, Jodie Haydon, in part due to their shared adoration of the club.
“It’s incredible and he’s a La Perouse local,” Albanese said as he continued about Johnston.
“He’s a proud Indigenous man, he’s an author, he’s written kids’ books.
“He’s just a great Australian.”
Newcastle Knights legend Andrew Johns said it was great to have the prime minister present, especially given his personal connection to Johnston.
“It’s great that he’s here and, you know, it’s not virtue signalling, he loves rugby league and he loves South Sydney,” Johns said on Nine.
“It just adds to the night.”
Unfortunately for the Rabbitohs, Johnston’s brilliance was not enough and the Roosters won 26-18.
NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.