Can we recover from the loss to the Broncos? The Raiders celebrate in what was a huge game on Sunday. Photo: Supplied, Canberra Raiders.
If ever there was a game to revive memories of the 2019 grand final, this was it.
In a game littered with controversial decisions, the Broncos came from being down 28-12 to defeat the Raiders in golden point 29-28, with a Ben Hunt field goal sealing the victory in one of the wildest games in the history of the NRL.
The Raiders and their supporters believed they had won the game twice to that point, but the charge down on a Reece Walsh field goal attempt was deemed illegal while the bunker also ruled Jed Stuart had knocked the ball on in the tap down for Jamal Fogarty’s no try.
To be fair, though, the Raiders appeared to be passive in defence as the Broncos stormed back to level the scores. Fogarty’s final kick into touch close to the end of regular time was an indication to the Broncos that the Raiders had put the cue in the rack.
The Raiders celebrated hard twice, believing they had won the game, only to be denied by the officials.
The supporters went just as hard. How do you respond when so much emotion has been expended?
It will be difficult for both parties to get going again for Saturday night’s semi-final against the Sharks at Canberra Stadium.
Starling enjoys a moment during the 28-29 loss to the Broncos at GIO in golden point. Photo: Canberra Raiders.
The Sharks, on the other hand, have momentum following the 20-10 victory over the Roosters on top of an impressive win over the Bulldogs the weekend before. They will be on a high with plenty of confidence as they head down the Hume.
It will be fascinating to see how the team responds this week. I wouldn’t imagine there will be too much reviewing of the Broncos game this week with such a short turnaround and the importance of focusing on the semi-final ahead.
If I look back on the time it took the club and supporters to recover from the controversial 2019 loss to the Roosters, it is no easy task.
For some, it took months to comprehend.
The positive this time around is they can quickly put the disappointment to bed a week later and not be forced to endure an entire off-season for redemption.
Saturday night’s clash against the Sharks will be the ultimate test of character.
The Raiders will take on the Sharks at GIO on Saturday, 20 September. Get your tickets at Ticketek.
