Inspirational Canberra forward Sia Soliola says the hunger within the starting pack to dominate the early stages comes down to desperation.

Soliola and props Junior Paulo and Shannon Boyd have been unstoppable for the Raiders in the early stages and helps set up the match for the Green Machine.

“It’s a do-or-die attitude I have. We have been pretty desperate lately,” Soliola said.

“It was tough going down to the Sharks but we learnt a lot from that. It’s something we always speak between Boydy, Junior and me in terms of sparking the side in the first 20.

“We have that responsibility to start the game well and that’s all we can do, just do our job the best that we can for the team.”

Soliola said all players including himself put the team first.

“I’ve played on the wing, the back row and in the centres this season so I’m happy to play wherever I’m needed. It’s all about the club first.”