Ricky Stuart, the head coach of the Raiders, expressed his dissatisfaction during a recent press conference, stating, “They displayed significantly more class than us.” He emphasized the need to focus on the upcoming game, indicating that there was no significant update on Ethan Sanders, although he confirmed Sanders would be available next week. Raiders captain Joe Tapine reflected on the match, noting, “This was a stark contrast to our performance last week. We had a game plan in place, but the execution just wasn’t there. Every match should feel like a must-win because that’s what we’re paid to do.” The press conference concluded with a palpable sense of frustration.
In a remarkable comeback from an ankle surgery, Mark Nawaqanitawase shone brightly for the Sydney Roosters, leading them to a commanding 26-0 victory over Canberra. Following a promising start to their NRL season, the Roosters had managed only 16 points in their last two matches, prompting doubts regarding their championship potential. However, under coach Trent Robinson, the Roosters (8-4) rebounded impressively, shaking off a recent lackluster performance against Melbourne at a chilly Canberra Stadium.
Nawaqanitawase’s performance was pivotal, as he scored three tries, gained 164 running meters, and broke through eight tackles, reminding New South Wales coach Laurie Daley of his worthiness for the State of Origin squad ahead of the second game on June 17. This followed a setback during the series opener, where he suffered a syndesmosis injury that required surgery in May.
Alongside Nawaqanitawase, halfback Sam Walker contributed significantly with three try assists, while prop Naufahu Whyte added 143 meters to the team’s efforts, exemplifying the Roosters’ dominance on the field. Stuart has been vocal about his team’s lack of discipline during their title defense, and the errors committed by the Raiders in the first half only added to his frustration.
Canberra (5-8) aimed for their fifth victory in eight matches but appeared lackluster, failing to score for the first time in two years. Both teams began the match with intensity, but it was Nawaqanitawase who opened the scoring for the Roosters. After an error from Canberra’s Hudson Young close to the Roosters’ line, the visitors shifted the ball to the left, allowing Billy Smith to find Hugo Savala, who played a key role in the attack.
The Roosters maintained their pressure, with Nawaqanitawase scoring his second try after a clever grubber kick by Walker was deflected back into his path. The first half concluded with hooker Reece Robson scoring, putting the Roosters ahead 22-0. The momentum carried into the second half, with Nawaqanitawase adding his third try in the 48th minute, although no additional points were scored thereafter as the Roosters fans celebrated with their own rendition of the Viking clap.
In a game that saw young halfback Walker exit due to a glute issue, the Raiders’ chances of scoring diminished as the Roosters’ defense remained solid. They maintained control despite conceding a penalty that granted Canberra a late opportunity to score, which ultimately proved fruitless. The Roosters effectively held off all attempts by Canberra, with even a potential try by Whyte being disallowed due to an obstruction penalty.
The Roosters continued to exploit Canberra’s defensive weaknesses, with Nawaqanitawase completing his hat trick as he evaded tackles to cross the line once again. Despite Walker missing the conversion, the score stood at 26-0, reflecting a dominant performance from the Roosters. As the match progressed, the Raiders struggled to create scoring opportunities, and the Roosters demonstrated strong defensive resilience.
Meanwhile, in another match, the Melbourne Storm continued their upward trajectory in the league with a thrilling 32-30 victory over Newcastle. Star halfback Jahrome Hughes led his team to success in an exciting contest at AAMI Park, marking their second consecutive win as they aim to climb higher on the competition ladder. The Storm have not lost to the Knights at home since 2015, and despite Newcastle’s four-game winning streak, they battled hard to extend their unbeaten run.
