NRLW Match Preview: Raiders v Sharks

The Raiders fell 22-18 to the undefeated Sydney Roosters at GIO Stadium last week in a close match that saw the home side in the lead at halftime. 

Both teams scored four tries each, however just fell short after a late try to the Roosters sealed the victory for the visitors.

Canberra fullback Sheridan Gallagher was a standout player, racking up 168 running metres and a try to top off her performance. The Raiders have shown impressive resilience and power through their defence and ability to shift the ball from sideline to sideline.

Meanwhile, the Sharks travel down to Canberra in the hope of securing their first victory of the 2026 season. 

The Cronulla squad were overcome by the Bulldogs last week in a 24-18 loss that left them at the bottom of the ladder. Although their ability to score tries was lacking, the Sharks dominated through the middle and will be desperately chasing their first victory of the year.

The matchup between the sides will be fiercely competitive with two unchanged squads.

Talking points:

• The Sharks are chasing their first win of the season.
• The Raiders have scored exactly 80 points this season, more than doubling the Sharks.
• The Sharks have won all three matches against the Raiders.
• Raiders winger Mackenzie Wiki has scored four tries in three games this season.
• Last week’s debutant Ellie Brander retains her spot on the Raiders bench.

Last time they met:

The Raiders fell to the Sharks 56-6 at GIO Stadium in round 2 of the 2025 season.

Key Matchup: Sophie Holyman v Caitlan Johnston-Green

It will be a battle up the middle to decide this contest, with eyes falling on the two starting props, Sophie Holyman and Caitlan Johnston‑Green, whose clash will set the tone for the match. 

Holyman enters her fourth season with the Raiders carrying valuable experience and a growing reputation as a powerful middle. Across her NRLW career, she has made 37 appearances, compared to Johnston‑Green’s 29, giving her a slight edge in experience on the big stage. Despite the difference in games played, both props have crossed for four tries each and will be eager to add to that number. 

This season, Holyman has been a standout in attack. She’s produced three tackle breaks and an impressive 142 post‑contact metres, consistently driving her side forward and breaking the defensive line. Johnston‑Green sits just behind her with one tackle break and 97.6 post‑contact metres. 

Defensively, the matchup swings the other way. Johnston‑Green has been solid up the middle, making 66 tackles at 94.3% efficiency. Her ability to shut down momentum makes her one of the most reliable defenders in the competition. Holyman has made 61 tackles at 92.4% efficiency, which is highly effective, but Johnston‑Green’s precision and consistency give her the defensive edge.

Holyman separates herself in her ability to cover ground with the ball. She averages 120 metres per game, significantly higher than Johnston‑Green’s 81m. That difference gives the Raiders more opportunities to drive down the opposition's end of the field and attack their line.

This matchup will have a massive impact on the game, where Holyman’s mobility or Johnston‑Green’s size will dominate and give their side a crucial advantage.