Raiders produce late miracle to stun Panthers in wild upset…
In one of the season’s most astonishing turnarounds, the Canberra Raiders shocked the NRL world by snatching a dramatic late victory over the Penrith Panthers. Just a week after a dismal collapse that had fans and coach Ricky Stuart fuming, the Green Machine delivered a spirited, resilient performance that culminated in a last-minute try to seal a 26-24 win at GIO Stadium.
Trailing by eight with less than ten minutes on the clock, the Raiders rallied behind inspired efforts from veterans Jordan Rapana and Jack Wighton. A crucial intercept and a sweeping backline play brought the crowd to its feet, as young gun Xavier Savage crossed in the corner with seconds remaining.
The Panthers, missing a few key players, looked to have done enough after building a lead through slick attacking combinations, but their composure faltered late. The result leaves Penrith stunned and Canberra surging with belief, finally showing the grit Stuart has long demanded.
“This is what we’re capable of,” Stuart said post-match. “We owed our fans that.”
The Raiders now reignite their finals hopes in the most dramatic fashion imaginable.
