Raiders v Panthers - Holden CupSaturday 3.15pm, Canberra Stadium
The unmitigated game of the season will kick off on Saturday afternoon, featuring two teams with just three losses between them.
In fact, Canberra’s only defeat came in Round 1 when they were trounced by their Saturday opponents Penrith – adding an extra layer of meaning to this match, as if it needed it.
The Raiders’ latest effort stretched their undefeated winning streak to 11 and came in the form of a comeback win against the Brisbane Broncos.
Winger Jono Kent scored two late tries to seal the 38-28 win, despite a rare mistake-filled performance from the Raiders.
Canberra missed 46 tackles and made 16 errors in the victory and got by on strength alone – charging through 1330 metres compared to Brisbane’s 1146.
Centre Jeremy Hawkins was in sizzling form, scoring a try and racking up 177 metres, six tackle-breaks and two line-breaks.
Penrith – the only team to topple the Green Machine this year – were far more impressive last week, smashing the Wests Tigers 50-12.
The Panthers’ freakish backline again stole the show in a match that saw the Panthers race to a 22-0 lead at the break and never loosen their grip.
Fullback Kieran Moss was unstoppable in scoring two tries, setting a further two up, running for 171 metres, busting seven tackles and breaking the Wests Tigers’ line three times.
He was more than ably supported by gifted winger Dalin Watene Zelezniak, who also bagged a double as well as racking up 226 metres and 13 tackle-breaks.
The talent on show this Saturday evening will be mesmerising, leant extra spice by the fact the teams are playing off for top spot.
Tip: Panthers by two points.
Source: http://www.nrl.com/holden-cup-preview--round-14/tabid/10874/newsid/72873/default.aspx
Topic: NYC Round 14 Preview: Raiders V Panthers - Holden Cup game of the season
