In a heart-stopping, nerve-shredding semi-final that will be etched into National Rugby League folklore, the Canberra Raiders have defied the odds to secure a stunning 21-17 golden point victory over the Cronulla Sharks, booking a fairytale place in the 2025 NRL Grand Final.
A Clash of Titans Decided by the Finest of Margins
The match was a brutal, seesawing affair from the opening whistle, with both sides trading blows in a testament to finals football at its very best. The Raiders, written off by many, showcased immense courage to twice come from behind against a formidable Sharks outfit, forcing the game into an extra-time period that had fans on the edge of their seats.
The deadlock was finally broken by the ice-cool boot of Raiders halfback Jamal Fogarty, who slotted the decisive field goal to send the Canberra faithful into raptures and end Cronulla's premiership dreams in the cruellest fashion.
Heroes Emerge in Canberra's Greatest Hour
While Fogarty provided the finishing touch, the victory was built on a foundation of sheer grit and individual brilliance. Veteran forward Josh Papali'i was a force of nature, charging through the middle of the park and inspiring his teammates with every carry. Meanwhile, young gun Ethan Strange proved his mettle on the big stage, orchestrating the attack and landing a crucial try that kept his side in the contest.
For the Sharks, the loss is a bitter pill to swallow. Despite tries from stars like Nicho Hynes and Siosifa Talakai, and a commanding performance for large parts of the game, they were ultimately left shattered by Fogarty's moment of magic in extra time.
The Road to the Grand Final
This monumental victory propels the Raiders into the NRL Grand Final, a remarkable achievement for a team that has consistently been underestimated throughout the season. They will now prepare for the biggest game of the year, where they will face the ultimate test for the Provan-Summons trophy.
The Sharks, meanwhile, are left to reflect on a season of what might have been, their premiership ambitions extinguished in the most dramatic way imaginable at the hands of a relentless and courageous Raiders side.
