The nib Newcastle Knights have held on for a gritty 16-12 win over the Canberra Raiders at GIO Stadium in the Nation's Capital.
Played in chilly but clear conditions, the contest stayed close with both sides tearing for a chance to go level on points with the 8th placed Cowboys.
The Knights will now look ahead to a crucial Round 19 trip to Sydney's Northern Beaches to take on Manly.
HOW IT PLAYED OUT:
6th min - Josh Papalii crashed over from close range to open the scoring for the home side.
9th min - A penalty for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga put the Knights on the attack for the first time in the game, with the red and blue side cashing in through Dane Gagai to level the scores.
Dane Gagai Try
17th min - Ponga asserted himself into the contest, playing a slick role in a backline move which resulted in Greg Marzhew crossing almost untouched to put the Knights in front.
Greg Marzhew Try
39th min - With just seconds remaining before the break, Brodie Jones pulled off a stunning cover tackle on a flying Ethan Strange to ensure the Knights stayed four points ahead at the break.
43rd min - Just a matter of moments after the break, Gagai surged over for his second of the afternoon after hitting a yawning hole in Canberra’s right edge.
Dane Gagai 2nd Try
53rd min - The Raiders struck back just 10 minutes later, with Kaeo Weekes racing 100 metres to score after scooping up a loose Knights pass while the red and blue were deep on the attack.
Match Highlights: Knights v Raiders
