Canberra celebrated a significant victory in their NRL season opener, delivering a commanding 30-8 defeat to the New Zealand Warriors in Las Vegas. Playing before a sizable crowd at Allegiant Stadium, the Raiders showcased a return to form after an inconsistent 2024 season, setting a hopeful tone for the remainder of the year.
The Warriors, struggling in the post-Shaun Johnson era, looked disjointed as new halfback pairing Luke Metcalf and Chanel Harris-Tavita failed to spark their offense. Despite a strong showing of traveling fans, it was clear the Warriors were outmatched by a Raiders side in full control.
Raiders captain Joe Tapine’s temporary absence due to a sin-bin incident for a shoulder charge may draw attention from the match review committee, but it did not dampen the team’s momentum. A late consolation try from Roger Tuivasa-Sheck couldn’t resuscitate the Warriors as the Raiders maintained control throughout.
Xavier Savage stole the spotlight, scoring two tries in the first half, including a spectacular 90-meter run after an ill-timed pass by Metcalf. Valuable contributions from hooker Tom Starling, who is battling for a permanent spot against rookie Owen Pattie, and impressive performances from players like Corey Horsburgh and Hudson Young further highlighted the team’s depth and adaptability.
As the match unfolded, Canberra’s commitment to exploiting the NFL field dimensions was clear, showcasing their speed and tactical awareness, particularly along the wings. This victory is a promising sign for the Raiders, offering a renewed sense of hope and excitement for fans as they look forward to the rest of the season.
Overall, this resounding win encapsulates the Raiders’ potential to reclaim glory in the NRL and provides a fresh start as they pursue their goals. The players’ confidence and synergy on the field suggest that this season may lead to a successful campaign for the club.
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