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A nail-biting clash in Newcastle saw the Canberra Raiders snatch victory from the Newcastle Knights with a 22-18 scoreline, but the win came at a cost for the Knights as star player Kalyn Ponga limped off the field with a suspected foot injury. The injury casts serious doubt on his availability for the crucial Origin decider, leaving Newcastle fans anxious and potentially reshaping the state's chances. Meanwhile, the Raiders' impressive performance catapults them to the top of the NRL ladder, solidifying their position as genuine premiership contenders.

A Gripping Contest

The match itself was a captivating display of NRL football. Both teams traded blows throughout the 80 minutes, with momentum swinging back and forth. The Knights, buoyed by a vocal home crowd, started strongly, but the Raiders' resilience and clinical finishing ultimately proved decisive. Canberra’s defence held firm in the final stages, denying Newcastle a late comeback and sealing a hard-fought victory.

Ponga's Worrying Exit

The biggest concern, however, surrounds Kalyn Ponga. The Knights’ captain and playmaker was visibly distressed as he left the field clutching his foot. While the full extent of the injury remains unknown, early reports suggest it’s a significant concern. Losing Ponga for the Origin decider would be a devastating blow for New South Wales, as he is considered a key figure in their attack and leadership.

“It’s obviously a worrying sight for the Knights and for New South Wales,” said NRL commentator Andrew Voss. “Ponga’s influence on the game is undeniable, and his absence would be felt significantly.”

Knights coach Adam O’Brien confirmed the injury after the match, stating, “We’ll get a full assessment tomorrow, but it doesn’t look good. We’re hoping for the best, but we need to be realistic.”

Raiders Roar to the Top

For the Raiders, this win is a major statement of intent. They’ve been building steadily throughout the season and have now overtaken Penrith to claim the NRL’s top spot. Their powerful forward pack and sharp backline are proving to be a formidable combination, and they’ll be looking to maintain their momentum in the coming weeks.

“The boys put in a tremendous effort tonight,” said Raiders coach Ricky Stuart. “We knew it would be a tough game against a quality side, but we stuck to our game plan and got the job done. We’re pleased with where we’re at, but we know there’s still a lot of footy to be played.”

What's Next?

The Knights face a challenging week ahead as they await news on Ponga’s injury. They’ll need to regroup quickly and find a way to compensate for his potential absence. The Raiders, meanwhile, will be looking to consolidate their position at the top of the ladder with a strong performance in their next match. The Origin decider looms large, and the fate of Kalyn Ponga and the hopes of New South Wales hang in the balance.