LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Canberra Raiders faced a tough defeat at home, falling to the Paramatta Eels with a score of 46-12 at GIO Stadium.
The Eels struck first, with hooker Reuben Cherrington scoring just ten minutes in.
Halfback Rachael Pearson successfully converted, giving the Eels an early six-point lead.
Shortly afterward, winger Martha Mataele extended this lead, crossing the line in the right corner.
The Raiders responded in the 18th minute when fullback debutant Elise Simpson set up winger Maddison Bartlett for a spectacular try.
Although centre Cheyelle Robins-Reti's conversion attempt was unsuccessful, the Raiders narrowed the gap to 10-4.
The Eels quickly countered with another try by centre Rory Owen, further increasing their lead to 16-4 with a successful conversion.
The Raiders had their chances; shortly after, Elise Simpson, after making a good play on an Eels chip kick, broke through the defensive line for an impressive 80-meter run, but she was stopped just before scoring.
Overall, it was a challenging match for the Raiders as they struggled to keep pace with the Eels throughout the game.