The Canberra Raiders mounted a valiant second-half comeback but ultimately fell short, losing 28-22 to the Brisbane Broncos at Totally Workwear Stadium on Saturday.
The game began with a dominant display from the Broncos, who capitalized on their early possession and pressure to score the first try. Alli Brigginshaw’s precise kick to the left flank set up Shenae Ciesiolka for the opening try, giving Brisbane a 4-0 lead. The Broncos continued to exploit the Raiders’ mistakes, and Ciesiolka crossed the line again, doubling Brisbane’s advantage to 8-0.
The Raiders responded through Mackenzie Wiki, whose powerful run brought Canberra their first try, and with Zahara Temara’s conversion, the score narrowed to 8-6. However, just before halftime, Brigginshaw’s tactical kicking again paid off, as Stacey Waaka caught another bomb to extend Brisbane’s lead to 12-6 at the break.
The Raiders emerged from halftime with renewed energy, quickly leveling the score at 12-12 after Shakiah Tungaii’s speedy dash to the tryline, followed by a successful sideline conversion from Temara. Brisbane, however, regained the lead through Julia Robinson, who scored twice in quick succession—first with a dive over the line and then with an intercept try—pushing the Broncos ahead 22-12.
Canberra remained resilient, using slick ball movement to create opportunities. Kerehitina Matua powered over the line after a well-timed pass from Temara, narrowing the gap to 22-16. The Raiders kept the pressure on, with Emma Barnes scoring a smart try from dummy half. Temara’s conversion tied the game at 22-22, setting up a tense finish.
In the closing stages, both teams searched for the decisive play. However, it was the Broncos who had the final say, as Waaka scored in the dying moments to secure Brisbane’s 28-22 victory.
The Raiders, despite their commendable fightback, will look to rebound in their next match, a home game against the North Queensland Cowboys at GIO Stadium next Saturday afternoon.
.
