The Canberra Raiders' thrilling victory over the Cronulla Sharks at Shark Park on Saturday was a testament to their resilience and determination. The game was a rollercoaster, with the Raiders holding on to secure a hard-fought win. But the real drama unfolded off the field, with the future of several key players in question.
The Big Story: Horsburgh's Departure and the Raiders' Midfield Crisis
The biggest news coming out of this game was the impending departure of Corey Horsburgh. The fiery prop, who has been a key player for the Raiders, is set to join the Perth Bears on a three-year deal. This comes as a surprise, given that he was contracted to the Raiders for next season. The Raiders won't stand in his way, but it's a blow to their midfield depth.
The Raiders are already in a precarious position, with Josh Papali'i playing his final three games for the club and Morgan Smithies failing his HIA. The loss of Horsburgh exacerbates their midfield crisis, as they are in desperate need of middle forwards to bolster their pack. The situation is further complicated by the fact that everyone wants to play alongside Papali'i in his final games, including Horsburgh.
The Future of the Raiders' Midfield
The Raiders' midfield is in a state of flux, with several key players on the move. The loss of Horsburgh and the impending departure of Papali'i and Smithies mean that the Raiders will need to rely on their younger players to fill the void. This includes the likes of Savelio Tamale, who is playing in the centres against the Sharks, and the PNG Chiefs, who are also circling future Canberra captain Hudson Young.
The Raiders' Focus: Preparing for the Future
Despite the turmoil, the Raiders are focused on finishing the season on a high. Coach Ricky Stuart said his priority is to prepare his team for the future, with a particular emphasis on blooding young props in their remaining games. The Raiders are on the hunt for new midfield players, but the options are limited.
The Takeaway: A Time of Transition for the Raiders
The Raiders are in a period of transition, with several key players on the move and a midfield crisis on their hands. The future of the club is uncertain, but the Raiders are determined to finish the season on a high and lay the foundation for a successful future. The game against the Sharks was a step in that direction, with the Raiders showing their resilience and determination to hold on to a thrilling victory.
