Canberra secured a noteworthy win in their NRL season opener, convincingly defeating the New Zealand Warriors with a score of 30-8 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. This victory marks a significant turnaround for the Raiders after a lackluster 2024 season, instilling a sense of optimism for their journey ahead.
The Warriors, currently navigating the aftermath of Shaun Johnson’s departure, struggled to find their rhythm. Their new halfback combination of Luke Metcalf and Chanel Harris-Tavita couldn’t generate the offensive spark needed, leaving the team looking disorganized. While a robust presence of traveling fans supported them, it was evident that the Raiders were in firm control of the game.
Although Raiders captain Joe Tapine faced a temporary setback after being sin-binned for a shoulder charge, the team continued to surge forward without losing momentum. A late try from Roger Tuivasa-Sheck provided a glimmer of hope for the Warriors, but it wasn’t enough to shift the tide.
Xavier Savage shone brightly, contributing two tries in the first half, one of which featured an electrifying 90-meter dash following a misplaced pass from Metcalf. Hooker Tom Starling, in a bid to secure a permanent position against rookie Owen Pattie, delivered a strong performance, while Corey Horsburgh and Hudson Young added to the Raiders’ impressive display, showcasing their depth and versatility.
Throughout the match, Canberra strategically leveraged the dimensions of the NFL field, demonstrating their speed and tactical awareness, particularly on the wings. This decisive win serves as a promising indicator for the Raiders’ ambitions to reclaim their status in the NRL, igniting a renewed sense of excitement among their supporters as the season unfolds.
This victory encapsulates the Raiders’ potential and suggests a bright future ahead as they aim for success in the competition, driven by their newfound confidence and cohesive teamwork.
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