New South Wales Rugby League

Matthew Timoko discussed the stress of contract rumors during his recovery, but will stay with Canberra Raiders for another year.

Zero Tackle

Canberra Raiders centre Matthew Timoko has opened up about the mental burden of swirling contract discussions, speaking out after finally making his long-awaited return to the NRL.

While Timoko was stuck watching from the sidelines, nursing a foot injury picked up in the preseason and working his way back through the NSW Cup, rumours about his future ran wild.

With his deal set to expire at season's end, albeit with club options for 2027 and 2028, whispers linking the Kiwi international to both the Perth Bears and the Warriors grew louder by the week.

It was coach Ricky Stuart who eventually silenced the noise, confirming Timoko would remain in the nation's capital for at least another year.

See more...

Raiders winger Savelio Tamale voluntarily moves to NSW Cup to regain form and confidence after a recent performance.

Zero Tackle

Raiders star Savelio Tamale has reached out to head coach Ricky Staurt to be dropped to NSW Cup to reclaim his spark and to get back to his brilliant-best after the side's win in Perth on Saturday.

A unique scenario where Tamale pulled up short just before scoring a long-range try spearheaded it, with many speculating if it was a showboating effort, or whether he just accidentally stumbled and almost bombed a 4-pointer.

Turns out the gifted winger just needs to reignite his kindle, with him and Stuart coming to the agreement that for the short-term success of the Raiders, it's best for the team if he goes back to NSW Cup to help regain confidence. 

It is a courageous call from the young Dragons junior and shows great maturity to make a selfless decision like this. 

See more...

Bronson Xerri's NSW Cup demotion serves as an audition for rival clubs amid uncertainty over his future with the Bulldogs.

Zero Tackle

Bronson Xerri's demotion to NSW Cup this weekend looms as far more than just a stint in reserve grade; it shapes as a live audition for rival clubs as his future with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs hangs in the balance.

Set to line up at left centre against the Canberra Raiders on Saturday, Xerri will effectively begin his campaign to secure a new home, with interest quietly building despite contractual complications.

The 24-year-old still has two years remaining on his current deal, meaning clubs cannot formally approach until the Bulldogs grant a release.

According to reports from The Daily Telegraph, the release may not be far away, stating that it would be "highly unlikely" for the Bulldogs to reject his request should negotiations progress.

See more...