Canberra and Newcastle do battle in Round 7 of the NRL Telstra Women's Premiership with both sides looking to push clear of rival clubs and maintain their spots in the top two and four respectively.
The Raiders suffered a heavy loss to the Broncos on Sunday which now puts pressure on them to maintain fourth spot at the end of the round with a showdown against the Knights on home turf an opportunity for them to bounce back.
The Knights were good for 45 minutes of their match against the Sharks but fell away after getting to a big lead in a concern for Ron Griffiths despite another two competition points.
A win in enemy territory will all but ensure the Knights lock in a top two finish while the Raiders can maintain their spot in the four with victory over the visitors.
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Team news
Raiders: Monalisa Soliola will start in a reshuffled Raiders forward pack, with Simaima Taufa to play prop and Hollie-Mae Dodd moving to lock. Grace Kemp drops back to the bench. Apii Nicholls returns from a foot injury at fullback, which means Shakiah Tungai moves back to her customary spot on the wing after filling in there last week and Jessica Gentle goes to the interchange. Prop Sophie Holyman will start despite suffering a leg injury against the Broncos. Elise Smith returns in the second row after being 18th player in Round 6.
Knights: Ron Griffiths has made one change to the 17 that defeated the Sharks last week with Tiana Davison coming onto the bench for Felila Kia. Back-rower Laishon Albert-Jones accepted a warning for a high tackle on Jada Taylor in Round 6 and is free to play. Viena Tinao came off the field late with a head knock but has been included on the interchange. No changes when the teams were finalised 60 minutes before kick-off.
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Stat Attack
- The Raiders have not lost at home in three attempts this season.
- Newcastle are averaging 26 points per game this year to Canberra’s 20.
- The Raiders have conceded 49 more points in their six matches to Newcastle in 2023.