Parramatta Eels 15 def. Canberra Raiders 12
CommBank Stadium, Saturday
Parramatta Eels held on for a hard-fought 15-12 victory over the Canberra Raiders at CommBank Stadium on Saturday, handing the Raiders their ninth loss of the 2025 season.
The Eels built an imposing 9-0 lead by halftime after a try to Jordan Samrani in the 11th minute and a field goal from Ronald Volkman on the stroke of half-time. Kelma Tuilagi also crossed while the Eels enjoyed a one-man advantage following a sin-binning to Canberra's Ethan Sanders.
In the second half, Parramatta extended their lead through Kitione Kautoga, putting the home side in a commanding position.
Canberra mounted a spirited fightback, with tries to Matt Timoko (61st minute) and Daine Laurie, but they could not complete the comeback.
The Raiders were without State of Origin representatives Hudson Young and Ethan Strange, while veteran prop Joe Tapine played his 250th NRL game in the losing effort.
Key performers for Parramatta included Ronald Volkman, Isaiah Iongi, Dylan Walker, and Brian Kelly.
Incidents
- Ethan Sanders (Raiders) was sin-binned for taking out Brian Kelly.
- Josh Addo-Carr (Eels) took an intercept and was tackled by Joe Tapine; Addo-Carr kicked out while on the ground and was penalized.
Finals Hopes Fading
The Raiders now face a daunting task to reach the finals. They need to win seven or more of their remaining ten games to have any chance of playing in September.
Next Fixtures
- Parramatta have a bye next week.
- Canberra will travel to Melbourne to face the Melbourne Storm on Sunday afternoon.