The Canberra Raiders have achieved a significant milestone, claiming the top position on the NRL ladder following a close 22-18 victory over the Newcastle Knights at McDonald Jones Stadium on Friday night. This marks the first instance in 22 years that Canberra has led the league at this stage of the season, buoyed by an impressive run of six consecutive wins and 11 victories from their last 12 matches.
However, the match posed a setback for the Knights, especially concerning Queensland’s state team, as Kalyn Ponga sustained a foot injury and was unable to return to play. Ponga, who had his left knee heavily strapped during the game, reportedly injured his foot in a tackle. Fortunately, it has been confirmed by Knights staff that this is not the same foot that caused him a Lisfranc injury last year, which kept him sidelined for several months. Ponga was seen in a moon boot post-match, sharing a tender moment with his mother, raising concerns among fans and officials alike.
James Schiller’s second-half double for the Knights was insufficient, as the Raiders dominated throughout the match, displaying a convincing offloading game that the Knights struggled to counter. The Knights were kept scoreless in the first half, with the Raiders scoring three tries, two of which originated from second-phase play. Kaeo Weekes was a standout performer for Canberra, amassing significant run metres and line breaks during the encounter.
The Raiders opened the scoring in the 15th minute with Simi Sasagi finding the try line after a well-executed chip kick from Ethan Strange. Following that, Weekes assisted in a try by Strange, showcasing the Raiders’ fluid ball movement. The Knights’ attack was heavily scrutinised, with Andrew Johns urging coach Adam O’Brien to adjust their strategy at halftime, citing the lack of threat and pressure on the Raiders’ defence.
By halftime, the Raiders held a comfortable lead of 16-0. The Knights eventually found points in the 49th minute through Schiller, following a precise pass from Ponga. A critical error from Jackson Hastings allowed Jed Stuart to score again for Canberra. Despite a spirited late effort from the Knights, with McEwen and Schiller scoring to close the gap to four points, the Raiders held their ground until the final whistle.
Following the Panthers’ narrow win over the Bulldogs earlier, this victory secured the Raiders’ position as leaders, equal on points with the Bulldogs but ahead on for-and-against. With six of their remaining eight games against lower-ranked teams, the Raiders have set their sights on clinching the minor premiership.