Raiders Hand Storm Capital Punishment

Melbourne Storm 20-24 Canberra Raiders
NRL Round 8
AAMI Park
Attendance: 15464



A moment of magic from Reece Robinson (right) sent league leaders Melbourne Storm crashing to a surprise defeat at the hands of Canberra, for the third successive year at AAMI Park, in the season’s biggest upset so far.

The full back’s 53rd minute try proved to be the difference between the teams as he shuffled and shimmied his way through the narrowest of gaps from 60 metres out to round opposite number Billy Slater and cap a memorable evening as the hosts were beaten at their own game by the fearless visitors.

The defending champions were lacklustre throughout and, after a scare versus bottom side New Zealand Warriors on Anzac Weekend, were subsequently punished by the less-forgiving Raiders.

The hosts, who now have South Sydney Rabbitohs breathing down their necks, were notably below par upfront and in their decision making. 

It is perhaps excusable for Craig Bellamy’s side to be overpowered by teams on occasions, but the decision by stand-off Gareth Widdop – with 81 seconds remaining - to kick on the first tackle when 40 metres out, and needing a score, was just plain baffling.

Visiting centre Blake Ferguson was in inspired form in the first half; converting both his identical scores down the Storm’s left flank which came either side of Storm’s Jessie Bromwich’s close range rampage and Slater’s dubious try - confirmed on referral after suspicions of obstruction in the build up.

The Raiders started the second period in blistering fashion, taking full advantage of the host’s sluggishness. Jack Whighton’s try emphasised Canberra’s dominance as he brushed off two tacklers to ground before Robinson’s moment of magic left the Storm reeling.

Despite a brief rally from the reigning world champions, they were ragged for large periods. 

Mahe Fonua went from assisting to scoring in the space of four second half minutes as first he palmed an arcing cross-field kick by Cooper Cronk back in to the path of Justin O’Neill before a delightfully lofted Cronk kick was tapped by Ryan Hoffman in to the onrushing winger’s path.

Cameron Smith couldn’t paper over the cracks any longer though as he screwed both conversion attempts wide from difficult angles to give the Raiders a score they deserved and the whole division, a shuddering jolt.
 

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