JWH: Roosters pushing to a higher level

Jared Waerea-Hargreaves of the Roosters. Photo / AP.

Jared Waerea-Hargreaves believes Sydney Roosters dramatic win over Canterbury will push the Tricolours to another level as they seek to reclaim their NRL crown.

The Roosters showed great character to fight their way back from 28-22 down, after leading 22-0 after just 25 minutes, to prevail 38-28 over the Bulldogs in the game of the year.

Just as importantly the Roosters forwards wrestled momentum back their way in the last 20 minute of the game, when the match was in the balance.

"I think it (the win) can take us to another level," Waerea-Hargreaves said.

"We fought hard and to let it go and then come back showed true character. We will grow in confidence from that, it shook us up a bit. They ruffled out feathers a bit but I thought it was good for us."

"But (in response to that) you have to get out of your comfort zone, lift yourself to another level and don't be happy with what you are doing."

Just as good for the 2013 premiers were the effort of young gun props Kane Evans and Dylan Napa who overpower the imposing Dogs pack in the absence of Sam Moa, who suffered a first half wrist injury.

Evans floored Sam Kasiano in the hit of the year, when the Kiwi international was charged the ball back late in the first half, with all the momentum with the Dogs.

Evans, nicknamed "The Undertaker" was put on report for a shoulder charge.

"That time of the game was pretty emotional out there, it was pretty heated, there are the front-rower challenges you have out there and that was a classic example of that, of just going head to head," Waerea-Hargreaves said.

"I thought it was a great hit and it was good to see Sam get up. I loved every minute of it. I want the shoulder charge to be back in the game. I thought Sam played well and it was good to see our young guys stand up."

-AAP