Round four of the NRL competition is just around the corner and the Raiders are gearing up to write history as they play their first home game at Campbelltown Stadium against the Newcastle Knights as two undefeated teams go head to head.
Here are six things we’re looking forward to in round four:
Undefeated
The Raiders have got off to a thrilling start to the season, proving that not even 10-weeks away from the footy field can put an end to their winning momentum.
The Raiders are clutching undefeated status as they come up against the Knights this weekend.
So far, they’ve only let their opponents get away with six points in each round. The Green Machine trumped the Titans 24-6 back in round one followed by 20-6 win against the Warriors in round two.
Last weekend when the NRL returned, the Raiders force continued, taking down the Storm 22-6 at AAMI Park, in what was an exhilarating match to watch.
The Raiders currently sit in second place on the ladder and this weeks' opponents are closely trialing in third place after a 14-all draw against Penrith last weekend.
Match Highlights: Storm v Raiders
New stadium
It’s been a season full of uncharted territory and for the first time in history, the Canberra Raiders will call Campbelltown Stadium home in what’ll be one for the record books. The temporary home ground comes as part of the revamped draw which sees the Green Machine lacing up the boots 253km up the road from their usual home at Bruce until at least round nine.
Virtual Viking Clap
Raiders fans may not be able to pack stadiums in the foreseeable future but that doesn’t mean the Viking Clap doesn’t live on.
With the help of our loyal fans and our Major Sponsor Huawei, we’ll be using your Viking Clap home videos to help us continue the tradition, echoing the stands as we welcome the boys into Campbelltown Stadium.
Defence
The Raiders physical form has been unbeatable. Their strength and teamwork in defence have made it near impossible for their opponents to make metres and cross the try line. The Raiders sit second on the ladder in defence, having only conceded 18 points from the first three games.
The Knights will need to bring their A-game on Sunday if they're wanting to succeed in breaking through the green brick wall.
George Williams has demonstrated just how valuable of a signing he is, delivering bone-crunching tackles and world-class defence.
Joseph Tapine, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad and Jarrod Croker were also impressive in taking down the Storm, all producing try-saving plays but it was Josh Hodgson who made the most tackles across the field, with a total of 37 under his belt. It's clear that each player knows their role on the field and together they’re leaving little room for the attacking side to play with.
Fast football
Round three debuted new rules for the NRL which changed the pace of the game entirely. Now, if the defence isn't out of the ruck quick enough, it'll be six-again for the attacking side. The new rules mean fewer stoppages and a quicker ruck, which the Raiders used to their advantage against the Storm last weekend. Fitness is now a crucial part of being able to keep up with the pace of the game and avoid giving the attack the upper hand. The Raiders have proved their fitness and ability to play quick football and will look to use it against the Knights come Sunday.
Williams breaks the Storm through the middle to set up Nicoll-Klokstad
Rapana is back!
Jordan Rapana was quick to make an impression in his NRL return, cruising over the try line within minutes of the opening half, off a sneaky pass from Jarrod Croker. Rapana dominated the field, racking up the most metres of any player, with an impressive 167 metres made. Rapana returned to the Raiders after a short stint in Japanese Rugby but it was like the winger never left.
Welcome back the the NRL, Jordan Rapana
