Canberra crush Rabbitohs in Dubbo

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South Sydney Rabbitohs v Canberra Raiders

Canberra have spoiled Souths' trip to central western NSW, executing a near-perfect first half before coasting home to a 32-12 win at Apex Oval today.

The afternoon started disastrously for the favourite team of the newly-elected Prime Minister, with Albo's Bunnies losing Tevita Tatola in the opening tackle of the match.

The Raiders took advantage quickly, with the visitors enjoying the lion's share of early possession, and Nick Cotric capitalised with the opening try just 4 minutes into the contest.

Their advantage was extended ten minutes later when 250 game star Josh Papali'i crashed over from close range, and Canberra led 8-0.

Hudson Young was next on the board as the one-way traffic continued, running a hard line and scoring Canberra's third try after 32 minutes and with Jordan Rapana taking over the goalkicking (Brad Schneider missed the first two conversion attempts), a successful conversion meant a 14-0 lead.

The Raiders looked likely to take that 14-0 advantage into the sheds until a slick set of hands from Horsburgh and Young saw Seb Kris score. Rapana's second goalkick pushed the Green Machine to 20-0 at halftime.

After the break the Canberra momentum continued early, with Matt Timoko getting over after a messy effort in the corner.

Down 24-0, South Sydney finally got on the board when Damien Cook ducked around the defence and sped to the line.

After the hour mark, Canberra pressed further when Jordan Rapana steered a penalty goal through to increase Canberra's lead to 26-6, while Xavier Savage was next to score a try a few minutes later.

A consolation try to the Bunnies went the way of Alex Johnston inside the final ten but it was to no avail as Canberra held on for an easy 20-point win.

The victory elevates the Raiders - who were in 15th place just a few weeks ago - to ninth. South Sydney are hanging onto eighth by the skin of their teeth and will need a good performance against the Wests Tigers next Saturday. Canberra's resurgence will be tested next Sunday at GIO Stadium when they host heavyweights Parramatta.