In an exciting conclusion to the season, the Canberra Raiders secured a remarkable 50-30 victory over the North Queensland Cowboys, showcasing their youthful spirit and determination.
With Josh Papalii playing his final game, the round 27 match saw two debutants among the Raiders' ranks. Early in the game, Reuben Cotter was sent to the sin bin for high contact on Papalii, setting the tone for a fast-paced encounter.
Xavier Savage opened the scoring with a self-kicked try before debutant Coby Black successfully converted, extending the Raiders' lead. Matty Nicholson helped push the action forward, allowing Kaeo Weekes to add another try.
Shortly after, Savage's quick thinking led to his own try, while Black's third straight conversion put the Raiders ahead by 18 within 16 minutes. The Cowboys soon responded with Jake Clifford scoring after a significant line break from Scott Drinkwater.
Another quick score followed when Heilum Luki created further opportunities for Taumalolo to touch down. Papalii, however, retaliated by powering through for a try that marked his impressive career culmination.
With Savage scoring again in the 32nd minute, the Raiders ended the first half with a comfortable 30-12 lead. The second half saw both teams continue to score, with Drinkwater finding a gap to add points for the Cowboys.
Black continued to shine, scoring his second try and setting up Ethan Strange shortly after. Savage then completed a hat-trick, further swelling the Raiders' point tally. Black's performance set a new debut record with a total of 26 points.
Despite the Cowboys fighting back with a late try from Taumalolo, Black capped off his debut with a penalty goal, sealing the win for the Raiders.
The Raiders concluded their season on a high note, demonstrating promise for the future with their young talents.