The enigmatic Canberra Raiders have frustrated their fans for two seasons and the players are starting to think the same way.
Despite a heroic 14-12 NRL victory over the Sydney Roosters, there was almost a sense of deflation about the result for the Raiders.
Where has that been for most of 2018?
Just when there finals hopes are buried, they pull off a performance that shows why they’re one of the most dangerous teams at the top of their game.
It was only their third win of the season in a game decided by six points or less, having been on the other end seven times.
In 2017, Canberra lost eight times by a converted try or less.
The Raiders have been known for their attack, as they lead the competition for points scored despite sitting in 10th on the ladder, but it was their defence that stood out against the Roosters.
Canberra crossed the line just once in the match, instead relying on four penalty goals from halfback Sam Williams to impose themselves on the scoreboard.
It was the first time the Raiders have won a match when scoring less than two tries since 1987.
Canberra captain Josh Hodgson says the result against the Roosters showed what the team is capable of.
“I think as a player I’ve always had a belief and I think that’s where the frustration comes from,” Hodgson said.
“When you get a win like that, you get more frustrated when you look at what you can do and the consistency is the biggest thing we need.”
Raiders coach Ricky Stuart says the win reinforced to him that they can bounce back quickly next year.
“When you lose close games, as a coach I say to people we’re not far away … and a couple more people might believe me after that effort,” Stuart said.
“This team isn’t far away and sometimes you need a couple of things to go your way in a tight competition.”