Fifty-three years. That’s how long Ken Irvine’s record stood — untouched, seemingly untouchable. Until tonight.
South Sydney Rabbitohs winger Alex Johnston has etched his name into Rugby League folklore, becoming the greatest try scorer in Australian Premiership history. The proud one-club player surpassed the 53-year-old record held by the late Ken Irvine, crossing for his 213th career try in the 41st minute of his side’s clash with the Sydney Roosters at a sold-out Allianz Stadium.
The moment was pure theatre. Johnston first drew level with Irvine in the first half, then broke the record racing 40 metres after backing up a break by Latrell Mitchell and outpacing Mark Nawaqanitawase to score — sparking a stoppage in play as fans flooded the field to celebrate.
The tributes came fast and from the very top. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, a lifelong Rabbitohs fan who was present at Allianz Stadium, was among the first to congratulate Johnston. “AJ has become an all-time legend. With years left in his playing career, his record may never be broken,” Albanese said.
The numbers alone tell the story of greatness. Johnston scored his 213th try from just 245 career games — compared to Billy Slater’s 190 tries from 319 games, and Steve Menzies’ 180 tries from 349 games.
Of Papua New Guinean, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage, Johnston is an inspiration to communities across the Pacific. Kumuls great Justin Olam said it best: “There have been some great tryscorers in the last 52 years so for him to break the record is a testament to his legacy — and it is something every Papua New Guinean can be proud of.”
One club. Thirteen seasons. 213 tries. Legend.
