Relive the drama of NRL Round 10, where the Bulldogs stunned the Raiders in a top-of-the-table thriller at GIO Stadium. Comebacks, clashes, and pure rugby league theatre.


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In a game that lived up to every bit of the hype, the Canberra Raiders and the Canterbury Bulldogs delivered a heart-pounding, edge-of-your-seat showdown in Round 10 of the 2025 NRL season. Under blue skies and in front of a sold-out GIO Stadium, the top two teams on the ladder faced off in a blockbuster battle that will be remembered for years to come.

🏟️ A Sold-Out Stadium and 30 Years of History

This wasn’t just another NRL game—it was a rare top-of-the-table clash between two storied clubs meeting in the top two for the first time since their epic 1994 grand final. With over 25,000 roaring fans creating a cauldron of noise and the Viking Clap shaking the stands, the atmosphere was electric from the first whistle.

🗣️ “It’s gonna be dry-weather footy, two in-form sides, a packed house—this is what rugby league dreams are made of,” said NRL great Michael Ennis.

🔥 First Half: Raiders Run Riot

The Raiders wasted no time in showing their intent. With clinical execution and ferocious energy, they blasted through the Bulldogs’ line, taking a commanding 20-0 lead into halftime. Fans in lime green were on their feet, dreaming of another famous win in the capital.

⚡ Second Half: Bulldogs Unleash the Beast

But the Bulldogs weren't going down without a fight.

Led by their young guns and a tactical masterclass from coach Cameron Ciraldo, Canterbury mounted a thrilling comeback—scoring three tries in just 11 minutes to bring the game back to life. Suddenly, the impossible became possible. And then—boom—a late penalty sealed the deal: Bulldogs 22 - Raiders 20.

📊 Final Score:
Raiders – 20
Bulldogs – 22

📊 Match Stats Snapshot

🔢 Stat Raiders Bulldogs
First Half Points 20 0
Second Half Points 0 22
Total Tries 3 4
Possession (%) 51 49
Completion Rate (%) 88 91

🎯 What This Game Means for the Ladder

With this win, the Bulldogs seize the top spot, proving that their 2025 campaign is no fluke. For the Raiders, it’s a reminder that no lead is safe and every minute counts in the race to the finals.

🧠 Tactical Takeaways

  • Raiders’ first-half dominance showed their attacking firepower is top-tier.

  • Bulldogs’ second-half response proved their depth, grit, and game IQ.

  • Discipline and composure turned the tide late in the game.

🔥 Fan Reaction – Twitter Exploded!

💬 “That’s why we LOVE rugby league! Bulldogs comeback of the season!”
💬 “Raiders had it in the bag... how did they let that slip?”
💬 “Best NRL game of 2025 so far. Period.”

FAQ

This was the first time since 1994 the Raiders and Bulldogs faced each other while ranked top two on the ladder.

The Canterbury Bulldogs staged a stunning comeback to win 22-20.

GIO Stadium, Canberra—home of the Raiders.

Yes, a full house of 25,000+ fans witnessed the showdown.

Raiders led 20-0 at halftime.

The Bulldogs came back strong with 22 unanswered points.

Both teams had stars, but the Bulldogs’ second-half squad were game-changers.

Definitely—players from both sides are now hot contenders.

Check Fox Sports, ABC, or the NRL’s official channels

Yes, this win puts them firmly at the top.

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