Josh Papalii scored a fairytale double as he became the most-capped player in Canberra history and lifted the Raiders to a gritty come-from-behind win over South Sydney.

Chants of "Papa" rang through GIO Stadium after the Raiders legend's two late tries, and rose to a crescendo as Papalii converted his second himself, to put the icing on a 36-12 victory and send the Raiders to the top of the NRL ladder.

"I'm so happy for him because the boys did it for him," coach Ricky Stuart said.

"I know what Joe (Tapine) done this week to get those boys ready to play for Josh.

"He's more of a mate than a guy I coach."

[Josh Papalii.][Josh Papalii.] Josh Papalii was the fan favourite as he played a leading role in his 319th match. (Mark Evans/AAP PHOTOS) Despite the veteran's late show, it was youn

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