There’s no need for extra motivation when these two sides meet again.
The Canberra Raiders are carrying unfinished business into their clash with the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, still stung by the pain of last season’s finals exit.
Finals Pain Still Fresh
The Raiders’ campaign came to a crushing end at the hands of Cronulla — a defeat that lingered long into the off-season. For many within the squad, that loss wasn’t just a result; it was a missed opportunity.
Now, with a new season underway, the chance to face the same opponent presents something deeper than two competition points.
It’s personal.
‘Right Some Wrongs’
Internally, the message has been clear: this is about correcting the moments that cost them when it mattered most.
Whether it was:
- Missed tackles in key passages
- Poor game management under pressure
- Inability to close out crucial sets
The Raiders believe they beat themselves as much as they were beaten.
This time, they want control.
Different Raiders, Same Edge
Canberra enter this matchup with renewed confidence and a sharper edge. Lessons from that finals defeat have shaped their preparation, with a stronger focus on discipline, defensive structure and composure in big moments.
There’s also a sense that this group has matured — understanding what it takes not just to compete, but to finish.
Sharks Won’t Back Down
But the Sharks won’t be intimidated.
Cronulla proved in that finals clash they can match Canberra physically and tactically. They’ll arrive confident, knowing they’ve already exposed cracks in the Raiders’ armour.
That sets the stage for a high-intensity rematch.
More Than Just a Game
Regular season or not, this carries finals energy.
For Canberra, it’s about redemption.
For Cronulla, it’s about reinforcement.
And when there’s history between two sides, form often takes a back seat.
The Raiders aren’t just chasing a win.
They’re chasing closure.
