Get ready for a thrilling Super Saturday! The Witzer Pre-Season Challenge is heating up, and we're in for a treat with a packed day of rugby league action. The Sharks and Raiders kick off this massive day, setting the tone for an intense battle on the NSW Central Coast.
In a double-header at Gosford, the Sharks and Raiders will clash, followed by the Roosters and Eels going head-to-head. But here's where it gets controversial... the Raiders, Eels, and Titans are all still in the hunt for the Pre-Season title and the lucrative 100K prize money. So, expect an all-out war on the field as these teams battle it out for glory.
As the action moves to Queensland, Josh Hannay's men will face a tough challenge against the mighty Melbourne Storm. Can they make a statement and upset the big guns? We'll find out soon enough!
The 2026 Witzer Pre-Season Challenge, Round 3, is live on NRL.com's blog. Don't miss a moment of the excitement as the Sharks take on the Raiders at Polytec Stadium, Gosford.
69 minutes in, and the Sharks are on fire! Mark Tuialii's clever flick pass almost sets up Jed Stuart on the right edge, but the Sharks' defense scrambles and denies the try. A tense moment, but the Sharks hold strong.
Then, a controversial call! Referee Gerard Sutton goes upstairs, recommending a penalty try after Jed Stuart grabs Michael Gabrael's jumper. The bunker agrees, and the Sharks extend their lead to 44-0. A big call that could spark debate among fans.
As the game progresses, the Sharks continue to dominate. Harrison Hassett scores a four-pointer, and Niwhai Puru converts. The Sharks' lead grows to 38-0. But it's not all about the scoreline; the Raiders' Daine Laurie puts on a show, making 12 runs for 110 meters and showing great skill under the high ball.
At halftime, the Sharks hold a comfortable lead, thanks to the playmaking duo of Nicho Hynes and Braydon Trindall. Despite 18 errors in the first half, the Sharks' cool heads kept them in control. A stop-start 40 minutes, but the Sharks lead by 16 at the break.
And this is the part most people miss... the impact of injuries. Gun playmaker Nicho Hynes and fullback Will Kennedy are done for the day, with the Sharks wrapping them in cotton wool ahead of their Round 1 clash against the Titans. A smart move to ensure their key players are fit and ready for the season ahead.
As the second half begins, the Sharks continue their dominance. Billy Burns surges over for another try, and the Sharks lead 26-0. But it's not all smooth sailing; the Raiders show some sloppy play, with errors creeping into their game.
The Sharks' Hohepa Puru scores a try, and the lead extends to 22-0. But the Raiders' Daine Laurie continues to impress, showing great strength and skill in defense.
With the game ticking towards its conclusion, the Sharks' Sione Katoa scores the first try of the day, thanks to some clever ball-playing from Braydon Trindall. A great start for the Sharks, who lead 4-0. But the Raiders fight back, with Jesse Ramien getting over the stripe, only to be held up by Laurie's strong defense.
As the final minutes tick away, the Sharks hold on to their lead. A hard-fought victory, and a great start to their Pre-Season campaign.
So, what do you think? Was the penalty try call correct? And will the Sharks continue their winning ways into the regular season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! We love hearing from our passionate rugby league fans.
