LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
'Stirs the pot': Jordan Rapana antics criticized as Raiders navigate sin bin mayhem
In a true display of grit and determination, the Raiders have clinched a jaw-dropping victory despite briefly finding themselves two players down and amidst some late-game controversy.
In a match that showcased the essence of Rugby League toughness, Canberra mounted a stunning comeback to triumph over the Bulldogs 24-20 in a high-octane Magic Round opener.
After surrendering their 12-0 lead and slipping to a 20-12 deficit following four consecutive Bulldogs tries - three of which occurred while Canberra players were serving sin bin penalties - the Raiders exhibited unwavering resilience to kick off Magic Round with a bang.
In a rapid turn of events, second rower Hudson Young notched two tries within mere minutes, propelling the Raiders past the Bulldogs and solidifying their position in the top eight.
However, the remarkable victory was not without its share of drama.
The sin-binning of Jordan Rapana and Josh Papali'i towards the end of the first half completely altered the course of the game.
As time wound down in the first half and Canberra held a narrow 12-6 lead, Bulldogs winger Josh Addo-Carr seized an opportunity, latching onto a cross-field kick and executing a deft solo play.