LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Raiders NSW Cup squad has had a tough weekend, succumbing to their third defeat of the season against the Dragons with a scoreline of 24-16 at North Sydney Oval.
Like a scrappy underdog trying to take on a reigning champion, the Raiders found themselves trailing as the Dragons gained an early advantage with tries from Sione Finau, Savelio Tamale, and Benjamin Johnson, leaving the Green Machine team struggling to catch up.
Just before the halftime break, a spark of hope emerged for the Raiders when a slick pass from Zac Woolford set up prop Jake Clydsdale for a crucial try, injecting some much-needed energy into the team.
With Adam Cook adding the extra points, the Raiders were able to narrow the gap to 14-6 before heading into the sheds for halftime.
However, the Dragons continued their dominance in the second half as fullback Mathew Feagai added to their tally, further stretching their lead to 18-6.
Despite the odds stacked against them, the Raiders fought back with determination and grit.
Second rower Simi Sasagi powered over the line for a strong try, followed by a dazzling solo effort from James Schiller just minutes later, bringing the Raiders within touching distance of victory.
But in the end, the Dragons held on to secure the win, leaving the Raiders to lick their wounds and regroup for the challenges that lie ahead.
Like a classic tale of a gritty underdog putting up a valiant fight against a formidable opponent, the Raiders will look to learn from this defeat and come back stronger in the next round.