Canberra coach Ricky Stuart is refusing to turn on his players despite the Raiders slumping to their ninth loss of the season, a result that leaves their finals hopes hanging by a thread. The 15-12 defeat to Parramatta on Saturday means Canberra must now win eight of their remaining 10 games to stay alive in the premiership race.
The Raiders’ attacking woes continued in worrying fashion. They went 61 minutes without scoring against the Eels just a week after being held scoreless by the Roosters and have now gone more than two matches without a try from open play. Stuart admitted the attack had become predictable, though he refused to criticise his players publicly.
“We addressed our attack at halftime… Parramatta defended well, but we were too predictable with the football, not courageous enough,” Stuart said. He declined to reveal his post‑match message, stressing that this was a moment for support, not condemnation. “There’s a time where they need their coach around them. I could never be critical after today’s effort.”
Stuart pointed to the youth in his squad, saying many players are still early in their careers and learning under pressure.
Parramatta controlled the match early, taking a 9-0 halftime lead through tries to Jordan Samrani and Kelma Tuilagi, plus a field goal from standout performer Ronald Volkman. The Eels extended their advantage after the break when Kitione Kautoga crossed, leaving Canberra with too much ground to make up.
With the season slipping away, the Raiders face a steep climb but Stuart is standing firmly behind his team as they attempt to salvage their campaign.
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