LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In a display of true Aussie spirit, the Canberra Raiders have kicked off their NRLW season in style with a convincing 32-12 victory over the Wests Tigers on a blustery Sunday afternoon at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.
The Green Machine got off to a flying start, scoring four tries in the first twenty minutes to build a formidable lead that they were able to hold onto for the rest of the game.
The Tigers were left scratching their heads after failing to find touch from a penalty, paving the way for the Raiders to capitalize with a slick left-edge shift finished off by Madison Bartlett, who received a picture-perfect offload from Wiki.
The Raiders continued to dominate when the Tigers handed them a gift-wrapped opportunity, with Crichton and Lutu colliding while trying to field a Temara kick, allowing Nicholls to pounce and set up Dummett for an easy try.
A beautifully executed short pass from Ash Quinlan put Soliola through a gap before she found Mackenzie Wiki for her first NRLW try, extending the lead to 16-0.
The Raiders' momentum carried on as a strong set down the field led to Chante Temara darting out from dummy half to set up Simaima Taufa for another four-pointer.
The Raiders' strong start set the tone for the rest of the game, showing they are a force to be reckoned with in the NRLW competition.
Fans of the Green Machine will no doubt be looking forward to more scintillating performances as the season unfolds.