Canberra Raiders Cup: Finals Week One Wrap

The Queanbeyan Blues booked their spot in the 2026 Blumers Lawyers Canberra Raiders cup with a victory against their cross-town rivals, whilst the Bulldogs fairytale run continued. 

Queanbeyan Blues 22 def. Queanbeyan Kangaroos 0

The Queanbeyan Blues claimed a comprehensive victory against their rivals in the Queanbeyan Kangaroos in tough conditions at Seears Workwear Oval, earning the opportunity to defend their title in the process. 

In a physical contest, the Blues proved too strong for their opponents with their forwards led by JJ Clarkson and Allan Wratten, laying a strong platform for their side, with both middles rewarded with a try in the match. 

Meanwhile, for the Kangaroos it was a tough afternoon with their strike players provided minimal time and space to work into the contest despite trying all afternoon. 

The Kangaroos have earnt the right for the second chance after finishing as the Minor Premiers and will face the Goulburn City Bulldogs at Gungahlin Enclosed Oval. 

Goulburn City Bulldogs 22 def. Belconnen United Sharks 20

The Goulburn City Bulldogs have kept their season alive with a tight two-point victory away from home against the Belconnen United Sharks. 

The Sharks started the better of the two sides shooting out to an eight-point lead curtesy of tries to Clyde Parsons and Connor Massen, with goal kicking keeping the Bulldogs in the contest. 

The resilience exhibited by the Goulburn side this season continued as they worked their way back into the contest through their halfback Mitch Cornish and lock forward Taylor Withington, leading 22-8 early in the second half. 

Belconnen United would get themselves within two points, however the Bulldogs defence proved strong holding the attacking power of the Sharks at bay and booking their spot in the preliminary final against the Kangaroos next Saturday. 

Image by Trisha Sullivan