Canberra’s Challenge Against Gold Coast
Canberra coach Ricky Stuart has faced a difficult situation as he prepares his team for the upcoming match against the Gold Coast Titans. With several key players sidelined due to injuries, Stuart is forced to make quick decisions and assemble a team on the fly.
Kaeo Weekes, the fullback, is set to take on the role of five-eighth in this crucial game. The Raiders are looking to turn their NRL season around after only managing three wins in their first eight matches. However, the team’s chances of securing two important points were dealt a blow when Ethan Strange, the five-eighth, failed to participate in training on Thursday due to an ankle injury.
This injury adds to the growing list of challenges the team is facing. Noah Martin (ankle), Zac Hosking (concussion), Josh Papali’i (calf), Hudson Young (suspension), and Xavier Savage (ankle) are all out for the clash in Robina. This has put significant pressure on the team’s depth and requires Stuart to make tough choices.
During a media session on Friday, Stuart was asked about who would replace Strange in the halves. He highlighted that Weekes has experience playing in the position and praised his skills. “He has played in the halves … We’ll have another session today. ‘K’ (Weekes) did a good job there yesterday,” Stuart said.
“He has very elite skill and speed.”
Weekes last played in the No.6 jersey in 2024 and returns to the halves position after the reduced squad of 20 was announced. Daine Laurie, who previously played as a fullback for Penrith, will now take on the No.1 jersey.
Stuart emphasized the importance of controlling what they can. “You just have to control what you can, and that’s what we’re doing. We’ll throw a team out there, and I know they’ll give everything.”
He also mentioned the impact of recent injuries, stating, “We were very lucky last year with the minimal injuries, but it’s certainly paid us back in that last fortnight.”
Strange was not at his best during training, and Stuart explained the decision to keep him out of the game. “I said ‘mate, it makes it too hard if you are there for 10 to 15 minutes into a game and find you’re not confident with your ankle.’ It just disrupts the balance of your interchange.”
Simi Sasagi is expected to return from a hamstring niggle in the back row, while Sione Finau joins the bench. Stuart also confirmed that Martin will not be rushed back and will undergo a syndesmosis operation.
The Titans, coming off a bye, are looking to end the Raiders’ eight-year winning streak on the Gold Coast. They welcome back centre AJ Brimson (personal) and lock Chris Randall (calf) for the match.
