“Embarrassing” Canberra danger slipping even additional behind the NRL eight-ball if they cannot upset reigning premiers Penrith at GIO Stadium on Friday evening.
With suspended star Jack Wighton becoming a member of a string of injured teammates on the sidelines, the Raiders are languishing in 16th spot on the ladder after a lamentable show in a 24-14 loss to Newcastle.
Raiders coach Ricky Stuart admitted the efficiency wasn’t as much as scratch and stated the five-day break between matches was good, along with his troops itching to set the document straight.
“It has been a brief turnaround, however we did not play nicely final week,” he stated.
“I assumed it was a efficiency that we have been a bit bit embarrassed by… and we need to repair that.
“That is not our final week, and I really feel that the quick turnaround has in all probability carried out us extra good than hurt.
“We have been clunky defensively and in assault … we have been by way of it, we weren’t pleased with it general, and we have to repair it.”
It has not been significantly better at Penrith, additionally with only one win thus far, though each their losses have been by a single level.
Panthers coach Ivan Cleary was removed from panicked, however harassed his aspect couldn’t depend on their back-to-back premiership-winning type to easily return with out arduous work.
“There is a little bit of a sample there the place we have put in a stage of efficiency that … isn’t adequate to win,” he stated.
“We’re a bit upset with the place we’re at, however assured we are able to proceed to evolve – there’s nonetheless a variety of enchancment in us.
“It is unrealistic to look again on final 12 months and the 12 months earlier than. We’re not dwelling previously, we’re simply worrying about now and it is a very powerful comp.
“What’s been proven is there’s a variety of good groups on the market, everyone seems to be jockeying to search out their greatest footy.”
Cleary confirmed second-rower Luke Garner had not been dropped however was nonetheless recovering from a rib harm, whereas Liam Martin is “actually shut” to getting back from a hamstring niggle.
The Raiders get veteran winger Jordan Rapana again from a three-week ban to hitch a younger backline the place every of the opposite 4 members are aged 23 or youthful.
Stuart hoped Rapana may make up for misplaced time and convey a giant efficiency after a tough shoulder cost earned him his suspension.
“I perceive it is damage him, it is damage us too,” Stuart stated.
“I may see the frustration in his physique language proper all through the final three weeks… you’re feeling a bit bit remoted from the crew.
“It has damage the crew … however we have got to regroup now and we have got to ensure that we’re getting that proper.”
