Api Koroisau Stunned by Sin Bin Incident as Tigers Suffer Costly Setback in First Half

Api Koroisau has found himself in hot water with the match review committee after being sin-binned for dangerous contact during the Tigers’ encounter with the Raiders.

During the 26th minute at Leichhardt Oval, Raiders forward Noah Martin hit the deck in pain, visibly frustrated as he pounded the ground.

Koroisau inadvertently caught Martin’s foot and knee, raising immediate concerns for the injured player. Notably, the vigilant Brad Fittler was quick to identify the potential issue for the Tigers’ hooker.

“It’ll be fascinating to see if Api Koroisau has any case to answer here, as he came down on his calves,” he commented on Nine.

Paul Gallen remarked that while it was accidental, a sin bin was likely to follow.

Referee Ashley Klein ultimately made the decision, prompting a surprised reaction from Koroisau. Fortunately, Martin bounced back shortly after the sin bin call was made.

At that stage, the Tigers were holding a 10-0 lead following tries from Luke Laulilii and Adam Doueihi.

Koroisau’s absence seemed to invigorate the Raiders, with Matthew Timoko and Kaeo Weekes scoring in quick succession, turning the tide to give Canberra a 12-10 advantage.

Catch the 2026 NRL season live and free on Nine and 9Now.

During this time, the Raiders also welcomed back Ethan Strange, who had earlier been sidelined with an ankle injury.

Strange had sought to leave the field prior to the Tigers notching their first try, with Nine’s Danika Mason reporting that he had his ankle strapped before the match kicked off.

The five-eighth made his return with nine minutes remaining in the half, and shortly after, Canberra converted a penalty goal just before halftime, taking a 14-10 lead.

“That first half was a game of two halves; the first 20 minutes were dominated by the home team…then suddenly the Raiders found their stride and scored 14 points of their own,” commented Phil Gould.