The Canberra Raiders will be looking to get back to winning ways when they take on the St George Illawarra Dragons on Sunday at WIN Stadium. Here are five things to look out for:
The Full 80 minutes
The Raiders will be looking for another fast start this week against the Dragons but will be hoping to maintain the pressure throughout the game.
Last week, Canberra had a strong first 30 minutes against the Parramatta Eels, scoring three early tries.
But the momentum switched after the Eels scored two quick tries in the last five minutes of the half. Parramatta ultimately went on to score another two tries in the second half to take out the win.
Time to change history
The Raiders have had a tough time in recent years when they face the Dragons, only winning one out of the last six.
Before this, however, the Green Machine had won nine in a row against the Dragons, scoring at least 20 points in eight out of the nine games.
Canberra will be looking to break the Dragons streak and hope to start their own streak on Sunday night.
Croker Milestone
All eyes will be on Jarrod Croker once again, with the co-captain still one try away from being the all-time leading try scorer for the club.
Jarrod is currently tied with long-time Raiders great Jason Croker on 120 tries, Jarrod is also currently coming second in scoring in the NRL this season with 128 points.
The Raiders centre has also impressed when it comes to facing off against the Dragons, scoring seven tries in 13 appearances.
The One Percenters
Canberra this season has become the kings of dummy half runs, posting 250 runs this season. This is 47 more runs than the second-best South Sydney Rabbitohs who sit on 203.
The Raiders have also impressed when it comes to the kicking game. Ricky Stuart’s side is placed first in the NRL for both total kicks (333) and 40/20 kicks (3).
Both stats help the Raiders gain crucial metres out of the back half of the field, leading to strong attacking positions.
Post Origin Performances
Canberra currently sits fourth on the ladder and wins in the final half of the season will help the Raiders secure a top-four spot.
The Raiders will be looking to get essential wins in the next four weeks when they face the Dragons, West Tigers, Penrith Panthers and the New Zealand Warriors, all teams sitting outside the eight.
With Origin ending this week, the Green Machine will be looking to make a strong push towards the finals.
