In a stunning display of dominance, the Canberra Raiders triumphed over the Parramatta Eels with a resounding 50-12 victory at TIO Stadium in Darwin on April 12, 2025. This match marked a significant turning point for the Raiders, who showcased their offensive prowess and defensive strength against a struggling Eels side.
As the game unfolded, the Raiders established their authority early on, with Joseph Tapine scoring the opening try just six minutes into the match. His powerful run through the Eels' defense set the tone for what was to come. The Raiders continued to apply pressure, with Corey Horsburgh nearly adding to the score shortly after, but he was stopped just short of the try line.
Despite a brief moment of hope for the Eels when Dylan Brown broke through to score their first try, the Raiders quickly regained control. Ethan Strange capitalized on a Jamal Fogarty grubber to restore Canberra’s lead, and Hudson Young added another try in the 23rd minute, showcasing the Raiders' ability to capitalize on every opportunity.
By halftime, the Raiders had established a commanding 24-6 lead. The Eels' defense struggled to cope with the relentless Raiders attack, and they found themselves in a deep hole. Matt Timoko's try in the final minute of the first half further extended the Raiders' advantage, leaving the Eels with a daunting challenge ahead.
As the second half commenced, the Raiders showed no signs of slowing down. Hudson Young scored his second try, and Matty Nicholson added another in the 74th minute, bringing the score to an eye-popping 50 points. Kaeo Weekes' conversion following Sebastian Kris's try sealed the deal, marking the Raiders as the third team this season to reach the half-century mark.
The match was not without its controversies, as Ryan Matterson was placed on report for a hip drop on Joe Tapine, and Josh Addo-Carr was involved in a contentious penalty try awarded to the Raiders. The Eels, who had high hopes for a turnaround after a golden-point victory against the Dragons earlier in the week, were left reeling from this latest defeat.
Rookie coach Jason Ryles, who finally secured his first win of the season just days prior, faced the harsh reality of a team that has now lost five out of six matches. The Eels’ performance was riddled with errors, and their inability to maintain composure under pressure was evident throughout the match.
In stark contrast, the Raiders, led by the experienced Jamal Fogarty, executed their game plan flawlessly. Their ability to control the tempo and capitalize on mistakes proved decisive. This victory not only boosts the Raiders' confidence but also propels them into the top four of the league standings.
The atmosphere in Darwin was electric, with fans witnessing a masterclass from the Raiders. However, the attendance figure of 31,347 was significantly lower than previous years, highlighting a potential concern for the NRL's popularity in the region.
As the Eels head back to Sydney, they must regroup and address their shortcomings if they hope to turn their season around. Meanwhile, the Raiders will look to build on this momentum as they aim for a strong finish in the 2025 season.
In summary, the Canberra Raiders have sent a clear message to the rest of the NRL with their commanding 50-12 victory over the Parramatta Eels. It was a night to remember for the Raiders and a stark reminder for the Eels of the work that lies ahead.
