A dramatic qualifying final unfolded at GIO Stadium in Canberra on March 24, 2024, as the Canberra Raiders triumphed over the Brisbane Broncos in a thrilling match that went into extra time. The contest showcased a rollercoaster of emotions and moments that will be remembered by fans for years to come.
The game took an unexpected turn when Reece Walsh faced a moment of recklessness, headbutting Hudson Young and gesturing to the home crowd. This incident led to his ejection from the field just 27 minutes before full-time, leaving the Broncos down to 11 players. In that crucial period, Kaeo Weekes seized the opportunity, sprinting 100 meters to score, pushing the Raiders’ lead to 28-12 with 14 minutes remaining.
Yet, Walsh’s absence was short-lived. He returned to the field and transformed the game, inspiring the Broncos to score three tries within six minutes, narrowing the score to 28-26 as the clock ticked down to just five minutes. The atmosphere in Canberra shifted dramatically, as fans began to believe in a potential comeback.
The excitement of the match overshadowed the anticipated blockbuster scheduled for the following weekend between the Canterbury Bulldogs and the Penrith Panthers. Instead, the focus shifted to the Raiders, led by coach Ricky Stuart, who remained determined to guide his team to victory. The tension escalated as the game drew to a close, with both teams exchanging blows on the field.
As time expired, the drama intensified. A smothered kick from Walsh resulted in a penalty, which he converted, sending the match to extra time. The crowd erupted as the game extended into a golden point scenario. The weight of the moment was palpable, reflecting the hopes of both teams and their respective supporters.
In the extra period, Ben Hunt emerged as the hero, kicking the field goal that sealed the Raiders’ victory. As the final whistle blew, the atmosphere shifted from jubilation to disbelief among the Broncos’ supporters, their hopes dashed in a sea of green.
Stuart’s expression captured the complexity of emotions, reminiscent of his playing days in 1995 when the Raiders last faced the Broncos in an NRL finals series. That match was a turning point, and this encounter was seen as an opportunity to recreate the magic. Yet, the path to victory proved challenging, with Stuart and his team having faced numerous obstacles throughout the week leading up to this pivotal match.
Despite the loss, this electrifying contest highlighted the unpredictable nature of rugby league, as well as the resilience of the players involved. Fans left GIO Stadium with a blend of excitement and disappointment, knowing they had witnessed a match that will be talked about for years to come.
