LAS VEGAS: Joseph Tapine has vowed to continue to lead by example rather than with his mouth after his stunning captaincy debut in Canberra's win over the Warriors.
Tapine was the most influential big man on the field in his team's shock 30-8 upset of the Wahs, making more metres than any other middle forward.
For the rangy Kiwi, it was a dream start to his captaincy after being handed the job by Ricky Stuart over the summer following Englishman Elliott Whitehead's departure.
"It was a huge game for the team being here in Vegas and I suppose it was a big game for me – my first as captain," Tapine told Wide World of Sports.
"I am not a huge talker – I could probably speak a little more out there but I try to lead by example.
Joseph Tapine The Mole Getty
"I was happy with how I went – the Warriors have a big pack and we knew they would try to out-muscle us. We stuck together well and came up with a good win. It's a once in a lifetime experience playing here so to win was a dream come true.
"To have my family over here made it even more special."
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A two-game suspension for a shoulder charge somewhat dampened Tapine's mood – but not greatly.
The win was a classic Stuart ambush in the week the bookies named the Raiders as wooden spoon favourites – but the veteran coach isn't getting carried away.
"I'm so proud but it's just round one and we need to come back down after such an amazing week," the club legend said.