Raiders And Sharks Battle To Thrilling 18-18 Draw

The Canberra Raiders and Cronulla Sharks faced off at GIO Stadium on April 3, 2025, in a thrilling NRL encounter that showcased both teams' resilience and skill. After starting the season with strong performances, both teams entered this match looking to prove their mettle, with the Raiders eager to end a two-game losing streak.

From the outset, the match was electrifying. The Raiders struck first when rookie Matty Nicholson, in only his fourth NRL game, showcased his talent by stepping past Oregon Kaufusi and shrugging off Blayke Brailey to score under the posts. Nicholson's try set the tone for a high-scoring affair, as he continued to impress with his speed and agility.

However, the Sharks responded quickly. Mawene Hiroti, benefiting from a clever double pump by Will Kennedy, scored for Cronulla, leveling the game at 6-6. The Sharks' ability to capitalize on defensive lapses from the Raiders was evident, as they took advantage of Canberra's mistakes throughout the match.

The Raiders regained the lead when Hudson Young scored in the 23rd minute, finding the end zone after a well-placed kick from Tom Starling. Young's performance was crucial, as he demonstrated his prowess as a State of Origin enforcer, helping the Raiders to a temporary lead.

But just as the Raiders seemed to gain control, Briton Nikora of the Sharks showcased his skills by scoring in spectacular fashion. Nikora demonstrated remarkable soccer skills, kicking the ball twice before diving on it to score, tying the game at 12-12. The crowd erupted as the Sharks showcased their flair and determination.

As the first half progressed, the match turned into a back-and-forth shootout. Hudson Young scored his second try, and the Raiders once again took the lead, but the Sharks responded immediately with another try from Nikora, who dragged defenders over the line to even the score at 18-18 just before halftime.

At halftime, the score was locked at 18-18, a testament to the competitive spirit of both teams. The Raiders had gifted the Sharks opportunities through silly errors, including penalties and handling mistakes, which frustrated coach Ricky Stuart on the sidelines. He was particularly displeased with the Bunker denying a go-ahead try earlier in the match due to an obstruction call against Nicholson.

As the second half began, the tension in the stadium was palpable. The Raiders struggled to find their rhythm, with their attack failing to penetrate the Sharks' resolute defense. Despite receiving a penalty and a set restart, Canberra's attack was stifled, leading commentators to remark on the lack of urgency in their play.

Meanwhile, the Sharks capitalized on a penalty from the Raiders, with Nikora once again demonstrating his strength and speed to score, putting Cronulla ahead for the first time in the match. The Sharks were relentless, maintaining pressure on the Raiders and forcing them into errors.

Despite the Raiders' efforts to rally, they could not find the breakthrough they needed. Kaeo Weekes, who had struggled under the high ball throughout the match, made a break but was unable to convert the opportunity into points. His performance was a microcosm of the Raiders' struggles in the second half.

In the end, both teams showcased their strengths and weaknesses, with the Sharks' ability to capitalize on errors proving decisive. The Raiders, despite their early promise, were left to reflect on what could have been as they faced the prospect of a third consecutive loss.

As the match concluded, the final score stood at 18-18, a reflection of the fierce competition between the two sides. The Raiders will need to regroup and address their defensive lapses if they hope to turn their season around in the coming weeks.

With both teams now looking ahead, the Sharks will take confidence from their performance, while the Raiders must find a way to regain their early-season form. The NRL season is still young, and both teams have the talent to make significant impacts moving forward.