Raiders Rookie Steals the Show in Golden Point Thriller
Canberra Raiders’ promising young playmaker, Ethan Sanders, has announced his arrival on the NRL scene, stepping into the crucial halfback role with remarkable composure and skill. In his first outing as the Raiders’ chief orchestrator for the 2026 season, Sanders delivered a performance that will be etched in the memories of Green Machine fans for years to come. His defining moment arrived in the dying stages of a pulsating Round 1 clash against the Manly Sea Eagles at Brookvale Oval, where he calmly slotted a 35-metre field goal in extra time to snatch a dramatic victory.
This match carried significant narrative weight, marking not only Sanders’ breakout game but also the debut for former Raider, Jamal Fogarty, with the Sea Eagles. Fogarty’s highly publicised move from the nation’s capital to the Northern Beaches over the summer was intended to fill the considerable void left by the departure of Daly Cherry-Evans. Ironically, it was the very player he mentored and guided during his time in Canberra who would ultimately deliver the decisive blow to his new team.
Sanders was quick to acknowledge the invaluable tutelage he received from Fogarty. “I looked up to all these boys, especially last year, just to be able to train with them, rub shoulders with these boys. I learnt a lot,” Sanders shared in the post-game coverage. “Even Jamal, they had a few games last year, they went down to the wire, and just seeing his composure, I learnt a lot from Jamal. I’d like to thank him too.” This humble gratitude underscores the maturity and respect Sanders possesses, even in the face of a career-defining moment.
Beyond the match-winning field goal, Sanders showcased his all-around playmaking ability throughout the contest. He demonstrated exceptional vision and decision-making, scoring a crucial solo try by taking on the defensive line with conviction. His ability to read the game and steer his team around the park before delivering under immense pressure was a testament to his development. For Raiders supporters, this performance is a hugely encouraging sign, indicating that Sanders has the capacity to capitalise on opportunities and make smart choices on the field, as evidenced by his decisive run for his try.
The influence of Raiders head coach Ricky Stuart has also been a pivotal factor in Sanders’ burgeoning confidence. Stuart, who experienced a similar trajectory in his own playing career, has provided invaluable guidance and mentorship. “Sticks have been massive for me. Like I’ve said all offseason. Sticks sorta live this. He played this role,” Sanders elaborated. “He had a mad team he was playing with there, with a bunch of old middles that were playing rep footy, that sort of stuff, same as what I’ve got here. To be able to bump ideas off Stick, take his advice, and really listen to him, he’s been a massive help for me.” This close relationship with Stuart has clearly empowered Sanders to play with the freedom and confidence necessary to succeed at the elite level.
The narrative of the match provided a compelling twist of fate. Fogarty, eager to prove his mettle and deliver the clutch performances reminiscent of Cherry-Evans in golden point, was denied the opportunity by his former protégé. Instead, it was the student who outshone the mentor, bringing a fairytale ending to the Sea Eagles’ home opener.
What’s Next for Both Sides?
Looking ahead, the Canberra Raiders have a challenging road trip as they prepare to face the New Zealand Warriors in Auckland this week. The Sea Eagles, meanwhile, will be looking to regroup and bounce back when they host the Newcastle Knights on Sunday. Both teams will be keen to build momentum from their respective Round 1 fixtures, with the Raiders buoyed by Sanders’ sensational debut and the Sea Eagles aiming to shake off the disappointment of a narrow loss.
