Matthew Timoko led Canberra to a 44-18 win, securing a strong position for finals.
Matthew Timoko has provided the game-defining presence to lead Canberra to a 44-18 win against Newcastle, building a four point buffer over the second-placed Melbourne Storm.
With six rounds left before the finals, the Raiders don't have to play any current top four opponents and have a bye in hand.
If the Green Machine are able to win the minor premiership, it would be their first since 1990, when coach Ricky Stuart was halfback.