A strong performance from the Sydney Roosters ensured a narrow 22-18 victory over the Canberra Raiders at GIO Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
MATCH DETAILS
Enterprising play from the Roosters in the opening exchanges saw them score the first points of the clash. A slicing run from James Tedesco was enough to break the Raiders’ defence and create space for Victor Radley to score under the posts (6-0). Two successive tries to the Raiders, courtesy of Jordan Rapana and Jarrod Croker, halted the Roosters’ momentum (12-6). Against the run of play, Rooster Latrell Mitchell made use of a loose ball and monstered his way to the line to close the gap (12-12). A pinpoint kick from Luke Keary found winger Daniel Tupou and sent the visitors into the break with a six point lead (18-12).
The opening try of the second half came in the 52nd minute. A sweeping left movement from the Roosters opened up the space for Daniel Tupou to stroll over for his second try (22-12). While the Roosters appeared to be well in control, a clever grubber kick from Josh Hodgson (grounded by Elliott Whitehead) got the Raiders back into the contest (22-18). Strong defence from the Roosters in the final minutes was enough to withstand the Raiders’ attack, and secure a four point victory (22-18).
FOUR POINTERS
Red-hot Roosters
The Roosters’ four straight wins has elevated them two points clear of the third-placed Raiders on the NRL ladder. With only the Melbourne Storm in their sights, no doubt they will be looking to continue their winning streak for the remainder of the regular season to reduce the deficit.
Croker 250
Although his team did not reign supreme, this clash was a reason to celebrate for Jarrod Croker. Becoming the second ever player to make 250 appearances in the lime green jersey, he has cemented himself in Raiders folklore. Becoming the second youngest of all-time to reach the milestone is no surprise when considering that he is one of the NRL’s most humble, courageous and tough players.
Penalties galore
This round 21 clash yielded a flurry of penalties. Throughout the match, 17 penalties were blown (9 Roosters, 8 Raiders). When considering the amount of time that the players took to readjust after a stoppage, the number of penalties significantly reduced the amount of the time that the ball was in play.
Finals looming
For the Raiders to reign victorious in the coming weeks against the Melbourne Storm, Manly Sea Eagles and Cronulla Sharks, it is imperative that they alleviate their defensive lapses and improve their coherence in attack. Restricting their opponents’ ability for offloads will also assist the Raiders in their pursuit.
THE RESULT
Canberra Raiders 18
Tries: Jordan Rapana, Jarrod Croker, Elliott Whitehead
Goals: Jarrod Croker 3
Sydney Roosters 22
Tries: Victor Radley, Latrell Mitchell, Daniel Tupou 2
Goals: Latrell Mitchell 3
SQUADS
Canberra Raiders: 1 Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, 2 Bailey Simonsson, 3 Jarrod Croker, 4 Nick Cotric, 5 Jordan Rapana, 6 Jack Wighton, 7 Aidan Sezer, 8 Josh Papalii, 9 Josh Hodgson, 10 Iosia Soliola, 11 John Bateman, 12 Elliot Whitehead, 13 Joseph Tapine. Interchange: 14 Siliva Havili, 15 Dunamis Lui, 16 Corey Horsburgh, 17 Ryan Sutton.
Sydney Roosters: 1 James Tedesco, 2 Daniel Tupou, 3 Latrell Mitchell, 4 Joseph Manu, 5 Brett Morris, 6 Luke Keary, 7 Cooper Cronk, 8 Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, 9 Sam Verrills, 15 Zane Tetevano, 11 Angus Crichton, 12 Mitchell Aubusson, 13 Victor Radley. Interchange: 10 Isaac Liu, 14 Nat Butcher, 16 Poasa Faamausili, 17 Sitili Tupouniua.
