RUGBY UNION: The Whitsunday Raiders came out on top in a close fought game against Mackay Brothers, securing their second place on the ladder.

While this Rugby season has featured a number of lopsided results, Saturday's clash was always going to defy that trend.

A Brothers try in the last two minutes of the game was enough to put pressure on the Raiders, but it was not enough to change the outcome with a 20-17 result to the Raiders.

After a tough first half for the Raiders they trailed Brothers 8-10, however a morale boost in the second half helped bring the game home.

Raiders trainer Craig Spence said an emphasis on team work was what made all the difference in what was a "tough tussle” game.

"I think we bonded a bit better together and supported each other a bit more, which also put the pressure back on Brothers,” he said.

"It was one of the more even games we have had and it is far better to have a closer game to test our skill levels.”

Aden Spence was one of the leading try scorers in the game, alongside Sam Cornish and Bill Pratt.

Adding to the pressure on both sides was the tight number of reserve players, with Raiders Coach Kon Flaherty also required to take to the field.

Spence said tight player numbers was likely to be an issue leading into the finals, but still expects the Raiders to perform well.

Next week will be a home game between the Whitsunday Raiders and Slade Point at Whitsunday Sportspark.

This will be the last game of the season ahead of the semi-finals.