Rabbitohs v Raiders - Holden Cup Friday, 5.20pm, ANZ Stadium
Canberra have produced many a surprise in recent times, but the federal leadership drama pales in significance to the shock loss suffered by the junior Raiders at the weekend.
Though this column accurately predicted a Wests Tigers upset, few actually thought it possible. But thanks to a vocal Campbelltown crowd, the Wests Tigers ended the Raiders’ three-month undefeated streak with a gutsy 36-24 win.
Canberra, despite missing 35 tackles, found themselves six points clear with 11 minutes to play. Instead of digging deep, like they have so often this year, the Raiders fell asleep and let in three late tries.
A dazzling performance from five-eighth Jack Ahearn (one try, one try assist, four line-break assists, four line-breaks) deserves more than a passing mention, as does the effort of second-rower Mitchell Barnett (143 metres, 27 tackles, six tackle-breaks).
It was a rare lapse in concentration from one of the competition’s most reliable teams and, to the Rabbitohs’ dismay, one unlikely to repeat itself for a long while.
South Sydney look to have tumbled out of contention after a dour and dismal display against Parramatta. Trailing 18-6 with minutes to play, the Rabbitohs scored late to earn themselves a flattering scoreboard.
Completing only 58 per cent of their sets and missing 31 tackles, the Rabbitohs turned in a performance that can only be described as unforgiveable.
Tip: Raiders by 12 points.
Source: http://www.nrl.com/holden-cup-preview--round-16/tabid/10874/newsid/73148/default.aspx
Topic: Raiders V Rabbitohs Holden Cup Preview
