BY ROB

After two scrappy victories cobbled together in the face of adversity the Raiders came crashing back to earth (and reality) in spectacularly depressing fashion against the Roosters. Outgunned and out-enthused across the park the Raiders collapsed like a property guarded by Milhouse.

It’s pretty clear by now that the big five (Sharks, Panthers, Broncos, Roosters and Storm) are simply a bridge too far for the Green Machine in 2024, particularly in their current format. But that doesn’t mean the Raiders can’t aspire to topple the other mid-table teams.

Sitting in 4th the Redcliffe side look like they’re miles ahead of the Milk, but a closer look at the ladder shows them to be in front by just one win. One factor to their ascent is that they’ve almost exclusively played teams outside the top 8, whilst Canberra have suffered the wrath of the Sharks twice as well as the Roosters.

This round thus becomes something of a calibration test – two teams punching above their weight (and expectations), doing so minus a starting half and with a smattering of key personnel sidelined.

A win this weekend would provide sweet comfort for Canberra, with a bye coming in round 14 and the possible return of Corey Horsburgh after that (who can help bolster the Raiders depleted second row stocks).

Changes

Despite being gaslight to hell by former Blues coach Fittler last year Hudson Young has managed to garner himself a second opportunity to don the Sky Blue. His absence this week means the Raiders have to rummage around the second row shelf of the player pantry in an effort to cobble together a dignified 17. Mariota slots into Huddo’s spot, with Simi Sasagi returning to provide insurance and respite from the bench. Big Papa is back too, a welcome sight given the Raiders will have just four props in total for this match.

The Opposition

The ‘Phins should not be underestimated, particularly when their gun halfback Katoa is in the side. The Raiders need to be wary of early shifts, along with the cunning plays of Marshall-King. If Canberra can contain the likes of Farnworth and Isaako they should be able to stifle some of the Dolphins attacking options.

Match-ups

Matt Timoko vs Herbie Farnworth

Timoko will be looking to spark his edge up after last week, but he’s up against something of a mirror image in Farnworth. Both players have explosive power at their disposal, and it’ll be interesting to see who can get the upper hand. Look for Timoko to get his fend on as he tries to punch through the ‘Phins edge.

Danny Levi vs Jeremy Marshall-King

Levi will have his work cut out for him against the likes of JMK, who is proving to be one of the more capable rakes in the comp. There has been some improved form on Levi’s behalf, with a slight uptick in crisper passing and speed of service from dummy half. The Raiders need to be mindful of JMK setting up short plays once he gets inside the red zone.

Rookie Radar

I realise that the last few rounds I’ve neglected one Trey Mooney in this section, who has just 11 appearances in the top grade. His contribution in recent weeks has been fascinating, mainly by generating big impact from limited runs and metres. It appears that his mere potential acts as a gravity well, drawing in defenders desperate to stop him getting to the next level. It’s only a matter of time until he breaks on through.

In Conclusion

Every game feels like crunch time for this transitional Raiders squad, and I must confess to drinking the Cottees (sugar free) lime cordial on occasion this season, letting gritty wins get the better of me. Still, a win here means the Green Machine will continue to thumb their collective nose at all the pre-season naysayers.

Raiders by a flamboyant 6!

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