No fear’: Raiders yet to go ‘next level’ as Panthers blockbuster awaits…
‘No Fear’: Raiders Yet to Go ‘Next Level’ as Panthers Blockbuster Looms
The Canberra Raiders are bracing for a defining clash with the Penrith Panthers, and while their season has shown flashes of grit and grind, there’s an unshakable sense that the Green Machine is still holding something back. Sitting just outside the top four, the Raiders have clawed their way through close contests, but consistency – and killer instinct – remain elusive.
Coach Ricky Stuart insists there’s “no fear” heading into the Panthers clash, a showdown that could expose the Raiders’ true ceiling. Penrith, even without some key stars, remains the benchmark. For the Raiders to shake off their “nearly-there” tag, they must prove they can do more than just survive against the NRL’s elite — they need to dominate.
All eyes are on rising half Ethan Strange and powerhouse forward Joseph Tapine to ignite the spark. Canberra’s loyal fan base has waited patiently, but time is running out for this squad to go from battlers to genuine title threats.
Saturday’s blockbuster is more than just a test. It’s a statement opportunity. If the Raiders want to be taken seriously, this is their moment to go next level — or be leftbehind.
