NRL Match Preview: Raiders v Tigers

The Raiders head into the clash full of confidence after last week’s golden point thriller in Mudgee, where they edged out the Penrith Panthers 20-16 in extra time.

The game looked over with Penrith lining up a field goal directly in front of the posts, but a “miracle in Mudgee” turned the tide, handing possession back to Canberra. Kaeo Weekes then crossed for what many are calling the try of the season.

With only two rounds remaining before finals, the Raiders remain on top of the ladder. The Melbourne Storm are hot on their heels, but if they slip up this week, a win on Saturday will hand the green machine their first minor premiership since 1990.

Meanwhile, the Tigers went down 34–28 to the Cowboys last round, ending their finals hopes. They’ll be determined to finish their season on a high by upsetting Canberra’s charge.

Talking points:

• Raiders winger Xavier Savage will miss the remainder of the season after fracturing his shoulder in last week’s game.
• Raiders youngster Savelio Tamale returns from a knee injury he suffered in round 14 to take Savage’s position on the wing.
• The Raiders have won the last 9 out of 10 games against the Tigers.
• Prop Josh Papalii will play his 150th home game for the Raiders this weekend.
• Tigers halfback Adam Doueihi's season has ended after a facial fracture he suffered in last week’s game, with Latu Fainu taking his place.
• The Wests Tigers have not won at GIO Stadium since 2018.
• Starford To’a returns to the Tigers centres after a shoulder injury, pushing Brent Naden to the reserves.
• The Raiders have only lost one game at GIO Stadium this season.

Last time they met

The last time these two sides met, the Raiders took a narrow 16-12 win in round 16 of this season.

Key Matchup

Terrel May v Joseph Tapine

Both these props have had strong performances this season and are forces in the middle for their respective sides.

Tapine, a valued member of the Raiders forward pack and an inspirational captain for the Raiders side, thrives on work rate and big defensive plays under pressure. He has been instrumental in the Raiders’ success, recording 1156 post contact metres, showcasing his attacking strength.

Renowned for his tireless work ethic and ability to perform under pressure, Tapine holds the composure needed in the middle and can swing a contest when it matters most. His defensive effort shows no bounds with a tackle efficiency of 94% and 634 tackles made this season.

A club veteran, having worn the jersey since 2016, and helping the Raiders reach the 2019 grand final, he leads his team with experience and action, making the tough carries and crucial tackles, setting a high standard for his team to follow.

Whereas May is still relatively new to the Tigers and the NRL, having debuted with the Roosters in 2022, but he has quickly established himself as a key member of the Tigers’ forward pack in 2025.

This season, his all-round ability has been on show, recording 1,254 post contact metres, 61 tackle breaks and averaging 17 hit ups per game. Defensively, he has been just as reliable, boasting a tackle efficiency of 97.9%. May brings an explosive combination of power and footwork, constantly testing opposition defences.

His sharp decision-making allows him to turn a set into an attacking opportunity in an instant. While still new to the Tigers’ setup, he has already made a significant impact as a powerful forward and valuable addition to the side.

Head-to-head

Since 1998 the Raiders have faced the Tigers 45 times, claiming victory on 25 occasions.