The Canberra Raiders stunned many in 2025.

Written off by most before a ball was kicked, they responded by claiming their first minor premiership in 35 years.

They made a statement on opening night in Las Vegas, flogging the New Zealand Warriors. They beat every team in the top eight except the Canterbury Bulldogs, a match they led 20–0 at halftime before letting it slip away.

Their first final against the Brisbane Broncos was one of the games of the season. Leading 28–12 with roughly 17 minutes remaining, they were ambushed by a Reece Walsh led comeback after his return from the sin bin.

The Raiders thought they had the match won on three separate occasions only for tries to be disallowed. A penalty after the siren tied the match and sent it into golden point, where Brisbane prevailed.

Six days later they fell to the Cronulla Sharks and went out in straight sets. Ricky Stuart was named Coach of the Year, but for the Raiders to take the next step, several players must rise again in 2026.

3. Matthew Timoko

Matthew Timoko is a class player, a New Zealand national rugby league team international with power, speed and the ability to break a game open.

He averaged around 149 running metres per game in 2025, with high tackle break and line break numbers, and remains one of the most potent centres in the competition. But his defensive output took a dip.

He finished the season with a tackle efficiency of just 84 percent, the lowest of his career. In the finals, the Raiders' right edge was targeted and cracked badly against both the Broncos and Sharks.

Why his role is so important

  • He is the strike weapon on the right side of the field.
  • A defensive improvement from Timoko would immediately strengthen the Raiders' ability to close out big games.
  • If the Raiders' right edge tightens up, their overall defensive line becomes far more resilient.

Key areas of focus for 2026

  • Improving tackle technique and timing to cut down missed tackles.
  • Sharpening defensive communication with Sanders and Nicholson.
  • Maintaining his strong running game and tackle breaking ability.
  • Bringing greater consistency to his big game performances.

If Timoko maintains his attacking punch but locks down his defensive responsibilities, the Raiders will remove one of their biggest finals weaknesses.