By Sebastian Tan in Canberra

With Canberra’s hopes of claiming back-to-back NRL minor premierships already reeling, Simi Sasagi has been a shining light for the Raiders during their dark start. 

After a 34-22 loss to the Sharks on Sunday, Canberra slumped to 1-3, making it the worst start for a regular-season winner the previous year since the Sydney Roosters went 0-4 in 2016.

Coach Ricky Stuart dealt his side a reality check, saying they won’t win another game of footy if they continue to self-destruct, after they conceded 13 errors and a crucial sin bin to Corey Horsburgh early on at GIO Stadium.

Sasagi says the Raiders understand they have to control things better and believes their effort shown is something they can build on.

Ahead of their clash against Newcastle on Sunday, Canberra will plan to lift themselves off 15th spot on the ladder, and Sasagi will want to play a big part as he aims to prove to Stuart he should stay as the starting No.3.

The 24-year-old has been thrust into a centre role after last year’s mainstay centre Matt Timoko injured his foot, now rebuilding in the NSW Cup.

Sasagi has stepped up, breaking free of tackles, carving up the running metres and linking up with good friend Xavier Savage on the left wing.

“The connection starts from outside of footy, and we get on really well,” Sasagi told AAP.

“We get coffee and breakfast together. So obviously, that connection translates to the field.

“We obviously spent a lot of time in the preseason, and that connection also builds.”

Savage and Sasagi showed moments of brilliance on Sunday as the pair terrorised the Sharks’ defence, with Savage scoring a try and making 167 metres.

But knowing Timoko is hot on his heels, Sasagi is intent on performing consistently.

“I’m grateful that I’m in this position right now, but it just puts pressure on me every week knowing that there are always people behind you trying to push for your spot … It’s a tough thing,” Sasagi said.

“Matt and I have that connection off the field, too. Being the number three myself, he has helped me a lot with my training.

“He’s played over 100 games for this club. He’s an experienced head, and I can lean on him anytime.”