LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The upcoming NRL clash between the Canberra Raiders and Newcastle Knights is set for Friday night at McDonald Jones Stadium, following the Raiders' hard-fought 16-12 victory over the Wests Tigers.
Raiders' captain Joe Tapine played a pivotal role, achieving three successful captain's challenges, making a crucial defensive play on the tryline, maintaining 100% tackle efficiency, and scoring a try.
In this game, Simi Sasagi will join the starting lineup, taking the place of Hudson Young, who is being rested after his recent involvement in the Origin II match.
On the other hand, the Knights recently enjoyed a morale-boosting 26-20 win against the Dolphins in Perth, revitalizing their season.
However, they faced a setback as Fletcher Sharpe suffered a lacerated kidney in that match, leading to Jackson Hastings stepping in as his replacement.
Prop Jacob Saifiti will also rejoin the lineup after recovering from a calf injury sustained in round 11.
Both teams are looking to secure a crucial victory as they approach the final stretch of the season, with Knights' coach Kalyn Ponga aiming to keep his players on track for success.
This match presents an essential opportunity for both sides to gain momentum in the competition.