Ref calls shatter Raiders’ chances

THE NRL’s under- fire match officials better batten down the hatches after two absolute howlers all but put the red pen through Canberra’s 2018 finals hopes.

In the most controversial game of the season that will have a huge impact on the make- up of the top eight, the Raiders had two terrible calls go against them that ultimately cost them a vital victory, with Cronulla holding on for a 28- 18 win.

Valentine Holmes starred for the Sharks on the day the club reportedly tabled a new four- year offer to the fullback to try to stop him making a move to North Queensland.

But that story got lost in the drama last night after a refereeing performance that will be talked about for some time to come.

The Raiders had every right to be seething after two stunning calls went against them.

One came from a knock- on that handed Cronulla’s Sione Katoa a try.

While the Raiders later had a try called back when a pass was ruled forward but replays clearly showed the ball from Joey Leilua to Brad Abbey travelled backwards.

The Sharks’ win pushes them to 26 competition points and keeps them well and truly in the hunt for a top four finish.

The Raiders were always going to be up against it missing five key players including skipper Jarrod Croker, halfback Aidan Sezer, fullback Jack Wighton and forwards Shannon Boyd and Joe Tapine.

To make the finals from here they are going to need a miracle. They remain on 18 points and most likely can only afford one more loss from their six remaining games.

When you look at their draw it doesn’t look likely.

They take on the Storm next Saturday in Melbourne followed by the Panthers, Tigers, Roosters, Rabbitohs and Warriors.