LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Canberra Raiders are currently leading the ladder despite suffering a loss last weekend. They are set to face the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles at GIO Stadium in Canberra this Friday night.
In challenging weather conditions in Wollongong, the Raiders faced their first defeat since round 10, losing 18-12 to the Dragons. The match was tied at 10 at halftime, but unforced errors in the second half hindered the Raiders, allowing the Dragons to secure the win and deliver the Raiders their fourth loss of the season.
Despite this setback, the Raiders maintain their position at the top of the ladder, bolstered by the Bulldogs' loss over the weekend, which keeps them a game clear with a bye still upcoming.
On the other hand, Manly is looking to recover after their second consecutive loss, which dropped them to 10th place on the ladder following a 20-4 defeat against the Roosters. The Sea Eagles will be keen to stage an upset to propel themselves into the top eight, while the Raiders aim to defend their top spot and chase their first minor premiership since 1990.