NRLW Match Preview: Raiders v Broncos

The Raiders went down 18-0 to the Newcastle Knights last weekend, despite a locked up scoreless first half.

The Raiders were able to hold the Knights at bay for the first half of the match, but Newcastle staged a second half comeback with 3 consecutive tries.

Coach Darrin Borthwick names a slightly altered line up this week with Hollie Mae Dodd returning to the starting side and Monalisa Soliola returning to the backs for the first time since round three.

Meanwhile, the Broncos have lost just once this season and currently sit second on the ladder, taking a strong 28-14 win against the Sharks last Saturday.

Talking Points:

• Raiders prop Grace Kemp will not play this week due to a hand injury with Chloe Saunders set to start at prop.
• In the last 10 games at GIO Stadium, Raiders winger Madison Bartlett has scored 11 tries.
• Raiders Relna Wuruki-Hosea is named as a winger, with Cheyelle Robins Reti dropping out of the line-up this week.
• Broncos centre Shenae Ciesolka is returning to the interchange after a knee injury, replacing Bree Spreadborough.
• In their last two games against the Raiders, Broncos centre Julia Robinson has scored three tries.

Last time they met:

The last time these two sides met, the Broncos claimed a 28-22 victory against the Raiders in round four last year at Totally Workwear Stadium, Brisbane.

Key Matchup

Leianne Tufuga v Mele Hufanga

These two powerhouse centres stand out not just for their individual talent, but for the unique roles they play within their respective clubs.

Tufuga may be new to the Raiders this season, but she’s already made a significant impact. She’s completed 82 tackles with an impressive 89% efficiency, playing a key role in halting the opposition’s momentum. In attack, she’s just as effective, averaging 125 running metres per game, with a total of 629 metres so far this season.

Her experience with previous clubs, the Sydney Roosters and Wests Tigers, brings valuable insight and finals experience to the Raiders. Her consistent performances on the field highlight just how valued she is within the Canberra side.

On the other hand, Hufanga plays with explosive attacking energy. She’s already made 21 tackle breaks and three line breaks this season, highlighting her power with ball in hand. Known for being difficult to bring down, Hufanga often draws multiple defenders, creating valuable attacking opportunities for her side.

In contrast to this weekend’s match, these two powerhouses usually line up together on the international stage for the Kiwi Ferns, both playing key roles in their 2023 win over Australia. Tufuga’s composure reflects her international experience, while Hufanga thrives under high-pressure situations, making both players invaluable assets to their respective clubs.

Head-to-head:

The Raiders and the Broncos have met twice before, with the Broncos emerging victorious on both occasions.