The Canberra Raiders SG Ball side was issued with a stern reality check by the hands of the Manly Sea Eagles in week one of the finals series.
Canberra finished the regular season as Minor Premiers and as such, teams lift immensely when they play them.
This was the case with Manly on Saturday.
The Sea Eagles delivered a polished first half performance to lead 22-6 at the half-time break.
The Green Machine fought their way back in the second half, in what was a much closer stanza, however it was not enough as the Sea Eagles powered on home.
Fortunately, the Raiders have another opportunity against the Cronulla Sharks this Saturday at 2:30pm at Campbelltown Stadium in what is an elimination final.
Manly Sea Eagles 34 (Brad Parker 2, Bill Bainbridge 2, Brydon Ramien, Harrison O'Toole tries; Luke Polselli 5 goals) def. Canberra Raiders 16 (Lachlan Cooper, Jarred Tuite, Jake Notaras tries; Nick Cotric 2 goals)
