LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a thrilling Round 18 matchup of the Knock On Effect NSW Cup, the Western Suburbs Magpies overcame an early deficit to defeat the Canberra Raiders 22-18 at GIO Stadium.
The Raiders started strong, with Mitchell Prest and Myles Martin quickly scoring thanks to veteran hooker Danny Levi, establishing a 12-0 lead.
The Magpies began their comeback when Jaxson Rahme scored from dummy half around the half-hour mark, rewarding their sustained pressure.
Kurt Falls converted the try, narrowing the deficit to 12-6 at halftime.
Canberra extended their lead after the break with Jordan Martin scoring, making it 18-6.
However, the Magpies took control in the final quarter.
Taking advantage of a Raiders player down in back play, they attacked the left edge.
In the 61st minute, Heamasi Makasini and Izaac Tu'itupou combined, allowing Makasini to score his twelfth try of the season.
The momentum continued to swing in Wests' favor when Alex Lobb leapt to catch a bomb in the 72nd minute and offloaded to Elie El-Zakhem, who sprinted for the line, bringing the visitors within two points.
The match showcased a remarkable second-half surge from the Magpies, culminating in a hard-fought victory.