"It sends a message that Papua New Guinea is ready, rugby league is strong here, and our future in the NRL is bright." – Prime Minister James Marape
Record-Breaking Achievement
The Milestone
Alex Johnston scored his 213th career try in the opening minute of the second half of the Rabbitohs' match against the Sydney Roosters at Allianz Stadium, breaking the record set by Ken Irvine in 1973. He had equaled Irvine's record of 212 tries earlier in the first half. The try was set up by a pass from fullback Latrell Mitchell.
Career Context
Johnston made his NRL debut on April 25, 2014, against the Brisbane Broncos, scoring his first try within six minutes of his first game. He finished the 2014 season with 21 tries in 18 games and scored the first points in South Sydney's Grand Final victory. Johnston has been the NRL's leading try-scorer four times (2014, 2020, 2021, 2022) and has represented Australia, Papua New Guinea, and the Indigenous All Stars. He has scored 105 tries in 92 games between the 2020 and 2023 seasons. Johnston is a La Perouse junior who has played exclusively for the Rabbitohs throughout his career.
Historical Record Context
The record of 212 tries held by Ken Irvine had stood since surpassing Harold Horder's career total of 152 tries in 1969. Horder's record had remained unbroken since his retirement in 1924. Johnston's achievement marks only the second time the all-time try-scoring record has changed hands in 102 years.
"He is a great Australian and an extraordinary player." – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
Fan Pitch Invasion and Game Disruption
Following Johnston's record-breaking try, thousands of fans entered the field of play at Allianz Stadium. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the South Sydney Rabbitohs' No. 1 ticket holder who is a long-time supporter of the club, also joined the on-field celebrations.
Delay and Security Response
The pitch invasion caused a halt in play lasting approximately 15-16 minutes, during which players returned to the sheds before resuming the game. Security personnel made arrests during the event. NRL officials and Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett had previously cautioned against field invasions, noting potential fines of $5,500 or two-year bans.
Coach and Player Reactions
Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett stated the event was "pretty special" but also described the fan presence as "pretty disruptive" to his team's momentum. Roosters coach Trent Robinson described the milestone as "legendary" and praised Johnston's humility and skill. Prime Minister Albanese stated that joining the celebration was "worth it to be part of history."
Match Outcome
The Sydney Roosters defeated the South Sydney Rabbitohs 26-18. Following the pitch invasion and delay, the Roosters regained the lead and secured the victory.
Recognition and Proposed Honors
Statue and Medal Renaming
The South Sydney Rabbitohs unveiled a statue of Johnston at their Heffron headquarters. Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly proposed renaming the Ken Irvine Medal, awarded annually to the NRL's top try-scorer, to the "Irvine-Johnston Medal." The statue project was initiated by Rabbitohs fan Danny Taibel.
Upcoming Events
Johnston, who has Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and Papua New Guinean heritage, is scheduled to participate in a Multicultural Round match against the Wests Tigers. His achievement has been recognized by Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Future Contract and PNG Chiefs Move
Contract Details
Alex Johnston, aged 31, has been announced as the first player to sign with the Papua New Guinea Chiefs, the NRL's 19th franchise entering the league in 2028. The move was confirmed via an Instagram post by Johnston. The contract is reported to be a one-year, tax-free deal worth $325,000. South Sydney coach Wayne Bennett gave his blessing for Johnston to join the PNG franchise.
International Career
Johnston made his Test debut for the Papua New Guinea Kumuls in 2019 and has scored four tries in 12 internationals.
Jarome Luai Signing
Jarome Luai is expected to become the second player to sign with the PNG Chiefs, following Johnston's announcement. Luai is currently playing for the Wests Tigers after a career with Penrith where he won four premierships. His contract with the Chiefs is reported to be a tax-free $1.2 million per season. Luai visited Papua New Guinea and met with Prime Minister James Marape and club officials.
"To be the first high-profile player to come and show interest in our team is something we deeply appreciate." – Prime Minister James Marape