LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
The Canberra Raiders have reported a valiant second-half fightback, but a late surge by Brisbane saw them come up short 28-22 against the Broncos on Saturday at Totally Workwear Stadium.
Despite facing an early blitz from the Broncos, who scored swiftly and controlled the possession, the Raiders showed incredible grit and determination to nearly pull off a stunning away win.
The Broncos capitalized on their early momentum, with an Alli Brigginshaw bomb to the left flank resulting in Shenae Ciesiolka crossing for the first try of the game, giving them a 4-0 advantage.
Continuing to exploit errors by the Raiders, a quick pass to the right wing allowed Shenae Ciesiolka to notch a brace and extend Brisbane's lead to 8-0.
The Raiders clawed back with a try from Mackenzie Wiki, the powerful centre crashing over the line.
Zahara Temara's conversion made it 8-6 in favor of Brisbane.
A moment of brilliance from Brisbane's Captain Ali Brigginshaw, who executed a pinpoint bomb to the right wing, found Stacey Waaka to increase the lead to 12-6 at halftime.