The Canberra Raiders have overcome a diabolical first half effort (not to mention a 14 point deficit) to defeat the Wests Tigers 30-24 at Canberra Stadium today.
A downpour half an hour before kickoff ensured the match was played under tricky conditions – but this was no excuse for the ineffective gameplay of the Raiders in the first half, allowing the Tigers some easy points.
Despite repeated handling errors and an uninspired attack, the Raiders still managed two tries in the first half to go to the break with 10 points on the board in response to the Tigers 24.
The second half was a totally different story for the Raiders as they yet again kept their opponents scoreless in the second half whilst managing to post four tries – including an impressive breakaway try from Carney and two tries from Adrian Purtell to put together a hattrick.
The game was also the first time the Raiders and Tigers contested a new perpetual trophy to celebrate the greatest grand final ever – the 1989 Winfield Cup.
Thurling wasplaced on report for a lifting tackle – a decision that I’m sure won’t even make it to judiciary.
Whilst the Raiders will be happy to come away with their second home game win of the season (one that should see them enter the top eight) there are, as per usual, plenty of concerns to address – particularly on the defensive wing of Purtell and with the kicking game of our halves – Campese in particular.
The next challenge for the Raiders will be against the Melbourne Storm on Monday the 21st of April here at home. Kickoff will be at 7pm.
ALSO: Be sure to check out the brand new “Raiders TV” – a mini-Footy Show dedicated to the Raiders. The ‘show’ is screened via the Raiders website – check it out at www.raiders.com.au/tv. My understanding is that it is updated each Thursday.
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