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The Raiders have proved that this year’s competition is more open than any other in recent history, stunning the table-topping Roosters 14-12 on Sunday afternoon at GIO Stadium.
With the Panthers and Warriors also stumbling against lowly opposition in Round 23, it is clear that no result is guaranteed in the closing rounds of this season, with just two points separating first and sixth place on the competition ladder.
The two points were crucial for the Roosters given that it would have seen them remain outright leaders ahead of the Rabbitohs and Storm.
However, what they did not expect was a committed and controlled Raiders outfit, who despite having little to play for, held on for a two-point win.
Canberra surged to a 12-0 lead at half time on the back of a perfect completion rate, with their only try coming in the 9th minute when Jordan Rapana soared over out wide of a lovely ball from Brad Abbey.
Their remaining six points came from penalty goals, as Ricky Stuart’s men put in a composed first forty minutes to hold a comfortable lead heading into the sheds.
It did not take long, however, for the Roosters to hit back, with Boyd Cordner charging over in the 43rd minute to reduce the deficit to six.
Despite having the best attack in the competition, the Raiders were instead building the victory off a resolute effort in defence.
But ill-discipline eventually cost them when they conceded three-consecutive penalties on their own line, with Victor Radley finally cracking them in the 61st minute.
With scores locked up at 12 points apiece heading into the final ten minutes, Canberra fans settled in for what looked like yet another devastating last-gasp defeat.
However, halves Sam Williams and Blake Austin stepped up to close out the game, with Williams’ 70th minute penalty goal proving the difference.
The victory sees the Raiders climb back up to 10th spot on the ladder while the Roosters drop down to second behind the Storm.
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