It was initially expected to be a historic cross-code double-header featuring the New Zealand Warriors, Canberra Raiders and Super Rugby’s ACT Brumbies in Auckland, but the pandemic put paid to that.
Instead, the Warriors will base themselves in the northern New South Wales town of Kingscliff and play their game against the Raiders on the Gold Coast before deciding whether to continue with the season past this weekend.
Given the situation they are facing, with New Zealand recently introducing strict laws mandating a two-week quarantine period for those entering the country, it seems inevitable they will abandon the 2020 season, effectively giving them the wooden spoon.
Last week in Newcastle they struggled to break through the strong Knights defence as they recorded the season’s first duck egg, which has led to predictions that they could indeed be contending for the tag of least wins in the season.
On the other hand, the Raiders showed why they will again be contenders in season 2020, recording a strong 24-6 win over the Gold Coast Titans at home.
While coach Ricky Stuart would be happy with the result, he would be fuming that the second half was drawn 6-all – something which could come back to bite his club should they miss out on the double chance come September.
Jack Wighton was the architect of the Raiders’ victory, scoring two first-half tries against the insipid Titans defence – and he will again be key if the Raiders are to start the season 2-0.
Revenge will also play a key part for the Raiders, after their final-round loss to the Warriors last September cost them a top-three berth in the finals.
This time, on neutral territory, the Green Machine should prevail.
Prediction: Raiders by 16 points.
More:
https://www.theroar.com.au/2020/03/17/2020-nrl-season-round-2-preview/
Topic: Raiders seek revenge against Warriors on neutral territory
