Penrith found themselves on top first but the Raiders capitalised on their opponents mistakes throughout the game and were eventually able to secure victory.

The Panthers' lack-lustre defensive performance also attributed to Canberra's win.

An early Canberra mistake looked like it would set the tone for the rest of the game when fullback Rhys Wesser capitalised and crossed under the posts for the opening try of the game after eight minutes.

Chris Hicks had no trouble with the conversion, and the Panthers found themselves 6-0 leaders.

Canberra hit back mid-way through the first half to level the scores, and edged ahead just before half-time when Brett Finch scored a highly controversial try next to the posts.

The Raiders appeared to have knocked-on, but referee Tony Archer allowed play to continue and Simon  Woolford swooped on the ball and ultimately set-up Finch who made Penrith look pedestrian.

Clinton Schifcofske landed a penalty goal with 22 minutes left in the game, and the home side then took a commanding 20-6 lead when James Buser, on debut, crossed for a memorable try.

Penrith showed signs of their now-trademark comeback when Wesser bagged his second close to full-time, but the damage had already been done, Canberra remaining comfortable through some smart attacking play.

Phil Graham rubbed salt into the Panthers' wounds with a try right on the buzzer to give the Raiders a 12 point victory.

Canberra now move onto 13 competition points, three clear of the Panthers, whose finals chances now appear slim.