Mason had knee surgery during the off-season and Roosters coach Brad Fittler told The Sunday Canberra Times yesterday that a decision on his star forward would be made before the match.

But the Roosters aren't the only side with injury troubles, with the Raiders set to decide on centre Phil Graham's knee injury this morning.

If Graham is not passed fit, 18-year-old Jarrod Croker will line up in the centres for the Green Machine.

Mason has not played since round 26 last year, missing both of the Roosters' 2008 finals losses after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament in their last-round win over the Dragons.

But despite training solidly for three weeks, Fittler does not want to risk the Australian representative.

''He's a good chance to play but we'll just wait and take our time,'' Fittler said.

''Other than that it's a largely unchanged side.''

Hooker Jake Friend is the only change from the losing Roosters side, suspended by the NRL after he was charged with drink driving last Sunday.

The Roosters are coming off a 52-12 first-round flogging from South Sydney, and Fittler said he expected a better showing in Canberra.

Fittler said he didn't see the big loss coming.

''I dont think anyone ever anticipates that,'' he said.

''You look back over the video and everything seemed to go right for them, and there was a general feeling that the Bunnies wanted it more than us which was the disappointing thing.

''But the attitude of the players has been really good this week so it's going to be a good challenge.''

With a forecast of 30 degrees for today, Fittler said the heat would effect both sides. He said ball possession would decide the outcome.

''Whoever handles the ball more the weather is going to suit them.''

Former Rooster Joel Monaghan, who will line up in the centres for the Raiders today, said his side was ready to get its first win of the year.

''We've got a few new players that have been on the other side coming down here to play and they're very excited,'' Monaghan said.

''We've got a good record down here in front of the home crowd.''