Canberra Raiders Cup: Round Three Preview

Round Three of the Blumers Lawyers Canberra Raiders Cup competition kicks off on Saturday, 2nd May, following the ANZAC weekend break.

Queanbeyan Blues vs Queanbeyan Kangaroos, Seiffert Oval, Saturday 2nd May 3:00pm 

This week’s Match of the Round is the Queanbeyan Blues up against the Queanbeyan Kangaroos at Seiffert Oval.

It is the first Queanbeyan Derby of the season, with both sides showing early promise and local pride on the line to create a fierce match-up.

The Kangaroos have shown a dominating season so far, claiming victory in the first two rounds and securing an early second place on the ladder. Jake Keily noted the strength of the competition this season and the need for teamwork and adaptability to remain competitive this season.

“The comp looks pretty strong this year across the board, so every away game and every home game is gonna be tough,” Keily said.

He also reflected on the team’s development and the time they took to connect as a club.

“It took us a little while to gel and connect.”

With two wins behind them, the Kangaroos have prioritised rest and recovery to ensure they arrive at Seiffert Oval in peak condition. Their preparation is aimed at maintaining their early momentum to prepare for the rivalry match.

“The boys feel rested, a couple of training sessions here and there, so we’re primed and ready to go for this weekend.”

The Blues have revealed their focus on defence has been rewarding, but they will need to adapt to meet the fast and experienced Kangaroos side.

The Blues have been steadily working on their game, with a focus on defence being a key part of their preparation. They know they’ll need to rely on those areas against a quick and experienced Kangaroos side. The Blues are aiming to stick to their plan, stay composed, and make the Roos work for their opportunities.

Blues player JJ Clarkson expressed their commitment to focusing on themselves in training.

“We’ll focus on what we can do, what we can control,” Clarkson said.

The excitement is building for both teams as they gear up for the rivalry match.

“This is the one we check mark on our calendar every year because this is gonna be the game that tests us.” Clarkson said.

“Always a good game. Bragging rights comes with it.” Keily said, echoing Clarkson’s response.

Gungahlin Bulls vs Tuggeranong Bushrangers, Gungahlin Enclosed Oval, Saturday 2nd May 3:00pm 

The Gungahlin Bulls return to their home ground this weekend to host the Tuggeranong Bushrangers, with both clubs desperate to secure their first victory of the season.

After a slow start for each side, this matchup is an opportunity to reset momentum and build confidence heading into the rest of the season.

The Bushrangers fell to the Belconnen United Sharks last round, conceding 20 points in a challenging game.

Meanwhile, the Bulls are returning from a two-week break, with the home game and extra training time handing them a small advantage over the Bushrangers.

Anticipation is building as one of them is finally set to break through and have a win to their name.

West Belconnen Warriors vs Goulburn City Bulldogs, Raiders Belconnen, Saturday 2nd May 3:00pm 

The West Belconnen Warriors are back at Raiders Belconnen for their game against the Goulburn City Bulldogs.

Both teams suffered defeat last round at their home grounds, with the Warriors at eighth on the ladder and the Bulldogs just above in sixth, due to their win against the Gungahlin Bulls in round one.

For West Belconnen captain Elliott Whitehead, the early rounds have been a test of leadership. Drawing on his extensive NRL and international experience, he’s working to guide the local squad to a much‑needed win.

With both teams eager to bounce back, this matchup promises excitement and physicality as they fight to climb the ladder.

Woden Valley Rams vs Yass Magpies, Woden Park, Saturday 2nd May 3:00pm

Woden Valley Rams and Yass Magpies face off at Woden Park in a tight match-up to close out the round.

The Rams claimed the victory in round 2 in their first game of the season. They put on a dominating performance against the Warriors, with their conversion abilities being vital to their success in the game.

Meanwhile, the Magpies struggled to capitalise on their round one performance, falling to the Kangaroos 20-12 at home in a tight match.

Both teams are sitting side by side, with the Rams in third and the Magpies in fourth, this exciting match will determine who has the ability and teamwork to pull away and gain another win.