NRL Match Preview: Raiders v Titans

Leading into the weekend off the back of a 33-14 loss against the Tigers, the Raiders will be hoping to salvage a victory despite an array of injuries.

Notable exclusions include second row pairing Zac Hosking and Noah Martin, who have both been ruled out following injuries sustained in last week’s clash.

This see’s Ata Mariota move out to an edge, with Simi Sasagi named to fill the other.

Elsewhere, Chevy Stewart looks destined to make his first appearance of the season coming off the bench, with Jayden Brailey moving into the starting side at lock.

On the other side of the field, the Titans have been bolstered by the return of AJ Brimson and Chris Randall as they come off the back of a bye in round eight.

Talking Points

• Ethan Strange and Simi Sasagi have both been named in the starting lineup despite injuries suffered last week. Both players will be need to pass a fitness test on Friday.
• The Raiders have not been defeated at Cbus Super Stadium since 2018.
• Both teams sit equal on competition points through the first eight weeks.
• Beau Fermor will earn his 100th NRL appearance.
• Matt Timoko has enjoyed try scoring form against the Titans, scoring six tries in six games against the Gold Coast outfit.
• The Raiders enter Saturday’s game on a six-game win streak against the Titans

Last Time They Met

The Canberra Raiders defeated the Gold Coast Titans 40-24 at GIO Stadium, in round 11 of the 2025 season.

It’s good to have a long week and just worrying about ourselves and getting all our stuff right come Saturday.

Daine Laurie #410

Key Matchup: Kaeo Weekes v Keano Kini

Electric fullbacks light up the round nine key matchup, with Kaeo Weekes and Keano Kini coming face-to-face on Saturday afternoon.

Raiders fan favourite Kaeo Weekes has started the season in blistering form, continuing to showcase his ability to score from anywhere on the field.

Weekes highlight reel hasn’t been limited to attacking plays, with the fullback producing one of the tackles of the season against the Tigers last Thursday Night.

Game after game, Weekes determination and effort on both sides of the ball continues to place the Green Machine in competitive positions.

On Saturday Afternoon, Weekes will match-up against another scintillating young fullback in Keano Kini.

Returning from a neck injury suffered last season, Kini’s presence hasn’t gone unnoticed as the Titans continue to rebuild under Josh Hannay.

Kini has displayed an impressive ability to keep play alive in 2026, currently sitting fourth for the most offloads made, with 20 through the opening eight rounds.

The young fullbacks speed and unpredictability will certainly prove as a challenge for the Raiders defensive line this weekend.

Fans are sure to witness a great battle between two of the games most exciting young fullbacks, as both players look to assist their teams higher up the ladder.