LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
The Canberra Raiders aim to build on their recent success as they prepare to take on the Bulldogs this Saturday, following their first win of the season against the Warriors in New Zealand.
In contrast, the Bulldogs are coming off their second straight defeat, having succumbed to the Cowboys 22-6 last Sunday in Townsville.
Coach Darren Borthwick has implemented some alterations to the Raiders' lineup, with Tatiana Finau and Isabella Waterman stepping into starting positions while Georgia Thomas is named as the 18th player.
Notably, these two teams have never faced each other before.
Taufa is a formidable figure within the Raiders squad. Serving as co-captain, her experience and consistency are invaluable, particularly alongside Zahara Temara. As a seasoned NRLW player, she has distinguished herself even during the Raiders' challenging season, achieving an impressive record of 249 tackles with a 93% efficiency rate.
Her exceptional game management skills enable her to dictate the pace of play in the middle of the field, expertly navigating the ruck. Additionally, her strong communication skills help direct her team effectively through both defensive and offensive strategies, thwarting the opposition's attempts to gain ground.
Taufa's prowess is further underscored by her international accomplishments. She has represented the Jillaroos, celebrating World Cup victories in 2017 and 2021, and has been a staple of the NSW Women's Origin team for over a decade. Moreover, she achieved the esteemed Dally M Medal in 2017, solidifying her reputation as one of the sport's most esteemed players.