NZ Warriors 2025 Round 23 Review: Warriors Washed Out as Bulldogs Dominate in the Wet

After their Round 22 defeat to the Dolphins, the Warriors made the trip back across the ditch to face the Bulldogs, who lost to the Wests Tigers 28-14 in Round 22.

After scoring the first points via a penalty goal, the Warriors were barely in the contest as injuries and the weather played their part in keeping the visitors on the backfoot, seeing the Bulldogs break their rain curse with a 32-14 victory, handing the Warriors their third loss in a row.

The Warriors struck first in the third minute when Adam Pompey slotted a penalty goal, but the Bulldogs quickly replied through Stephen Crichton. Ten minutes later, Crichton added another penalty to give Canterbury the lead.

Sloppy discipline from the Warriors kept handing the Bulldogs easy metres, and it finally bit them in the 21st minute. Viliame Kikau attacked down the left short side, slid over the line despite being tackled short, and opened the try-scoring. Crichton couldn’t convert from out wide.

Things got worse for the Warriors when Te Maire Martin left with a concussion in the 26th minute, followed moments later by Leka Halasima after a head clash with Lachlan Galvin (though Halasima was later cleared). The Bulldogs kept rolling after some great defence from the Warriors when Matt Burton kicked early in the tackle deep in his own half to nail a 40/20. A quick shift from right to left moments later in the 31st minute set up Jethro Rinakama to score in the corner, and Crichton nailed the extras. Just before halftime, Crichton broke through and sent Enari Tuala over untouched. Another sideline special from Crichton made it 20-2 at the break.

Ten minutes after the restart, Crichton went himself, taking the ball from a scrum, double-dummying, and muscling through Adam Pompey for a solo try. Crichton took the kick but hit the upright.

The Warriors finally hit back in the 54th minute thanks to some persistence from Samuel Healey. His grubber was blocked, but he regathered, kicked again into the in-goal, and chased through to score. Pompey converted.

Any momentum was short-lived. From the restart, James Fisher-Harris gave away a penalty, and Crichton added another two points. Then, with 12 minutes to go, Jacob Kiraz produced a beauty, juggling a low pass, stepping inside, and splitting two defenders for a try. Crichton converted from the sideline. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck gave Warriors fans something to cheer about late, snapping up an intercept and sprinting away to score in the 77th. Pompey added the extras, but the Bulldogs were well in control, sealing a 32-14 win in heavy rain.

My Thoughts

That was a tough watch, and probably one of the hardest reviews to write this season. I went into the week expecting a loss, but as game day got closer, I started to believe the Warriors could bounce back and grind out a win. For the first 20 minutes, they were right in the fight. Then came the one-two blow: a huge Matt Burton 40/20, followed by Te Maire Martin failing his HIA. From that point on, the Warriors were on the ropes and barely landed a punch.

As a fan watching from home, it felt like nothing was going their way. They were starved of possession for most of the 20 minutes before halftime, and the Bulldogs made them pay by building a comfortable lead. In the second half, the possession evened out, but the damage was done. The Warriors looked either out of gas or lacked the right halves combination to dig themselves out of the hole. I think Andrew Webster’s lineup gamble didn’t work. Personally, I would have stuck with Boyd; he’s got the best kicking game of the available halves, which could have been valuable in the wet conditions. Still, maybe it would have worked if TMM had stayed on the field.

In the end, it was a disappointing loss, made worse by the fact that it drops the Warriors out of the top four. With the ladder so tight, more defeats could see them miss the finals altogether, which would be a nightmare ending to what had been a promising season. That said, I still think they can steady the ship and fight for a finish between fourth and sixth. The fight isn’t over. They just need to dust themselves off and get back to work.

There wasn't much to smile about, but I found a few, which brings me to my positives.

Match Positives

The Warriors began with plenty of energy, earning early field position and taking the lead through a penalty goal. For the first 20 minutes, they matched the Bulldogs physically and defensively, holding their own in the middle and forcing a few mistakes. They looked organised and capable of building pressure, showing signs of the discipline and structure needed to trouble a top side. However, as the half wore on, the Bulldogs began to take control, and the momentum slowly slipped away.

I'm clutching at straws, really, but even with the game slipping away, the Warriors kept working hard right to the final whistle. They chased kicks, fought for every tackle, and kept looking for ways to break the Bulldogs’ line. A few late attacking chances showed their pride was still there, and they weren’t willing to simply give up, no matter what the scoreboard said. I still want to see them play better and win, but there's nothing worse than watching a team just throw in the towel, so at least that didn't happen.

However, I did have concerns, which brings me to my negatives from the game.

Match Negatives

The Warriors made life hard for themselves with too many mistakes and lapses in discipline. Eight errors, seven penalties, and five ruck infringements gave the Bulldogs a steady stream of possession and field position. While a few of the officials’ calls could be labelled questionable, the reality is the Warriors have no one to blame but themselves. Their own mistakes stalled their momentum and stopped them from building pressure, letting the Bulldogs control the game’s tempo.

The Warriors’ defence struggled at key moments, letting the Bulldogs break through more often than they should have. Missed tackles and slow line speed gave the Bulldogs space to make breaks and score. These mistakes put extra pressure on the Warriors’ forwards and made it harder for the team to reset and control the ruck. Because of this, the Bulldogs were able to build momentum, making it tough for the Warriors to get back into the game. Fixing these defensive issues will be crucial if the Warriors want to compete with strong teams consistently and avoid slipping out of the top eight.

Losing Te Maire Martin was a tough blow that really disrupted the Warriors’ attack. Without his experience and creativity, their play became flat and struggled to gain any momentum. Chanel Harris-Tavita and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad didn’t manage to step up and lead when it mattered most. Looking back as a Hindsight Hero, I wonder if dropping Tannah Boyd was the right move, since his experience might have helped steady the team in a difficult moment. It also feels like the Warriors have been hit by an injury curse lately, with key players going down at critical times, making it even harder for them to find consistency.

Warrior of the Match

My Warrior of the Match goes to Erin Clark. In a match where many of the Warriors were less than stellar, Clark once again provided a relentless work rate and all-round contribution. In 61 minutes, he topped all Warriors forwards with 111 metres gained, constantly taking tough carries to get the team moving. He broke two tackles, delivered an offload to keep the attack alive, and got through 32 tackles on defence. While he did miss five, he kept his game error-free with no penalties conceded. To top it off, he even threw in a surprise bomb, showing there’s more to his skill set than just the hard yards. In a match where the Warriors struggled to match the Bulldogs’ intensity, Clark’s effort stood out.

Warrior to Improve

My Warrior to Improve goes to Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad.

There were plenty of players I could have picked here, but in the end, I went with CNK down to the fact that he disappeared. I couldn't even find a picture of him from the game to use for this segment. His influence faded after an unplanned shift into the halves, a role he likely hadn’t prepared for. Even so, the team needed him to step up and make an impact, but he finished with just 21 running metres, nine passes, and 14 tackles with three misses. He also conceded a penalty and didn’t put in a single kick, which left the Warriors short on attacking options, making their flat attack very predictable. Usually a spark of energy and creativity, this was a quiet performance in a position that required him to take control.

Next Round Thoughts and Prediction

In Round 24, the Warriors return home to host the Dragons, who defeated the Sharks 22-14 in Round 23.

For my team selection, Te Maire Martin is out after failing his HIA. In the press conference, Andrew Webster confirmed that Tanah Boyd would return, though there have been murmurs about Jett Cleary possibly making his debut. I still think Boyd is the smarter choice, Cleary doesn’t seem quite ready for first grade yet, and the Warriors need an experienced game-managing half right now.

Other than that, I’d keep the lineup the same, except for swapping Sam Healey and Freddy Lussick. If Wayde Egan is available, I’d start him, move Healey to the bench, and drop Lussick out.

The Dragons have been on a roll in recent weeks with back-to-back wins over the Raiders and Sharks, utilising their strike weapons and staying relatively error-free. They are a gritty side right now that isn't afraid of grinding out a win if necessary, with the experienced additions of Clint Gutherson and Damien Cook adding some dimension to their attack and a sense of calm when the side is under pressure. It's no secret that I am not a fan of the Dragons, and if there is any side I hate seeing beat the Warriors, it is them, so I really need to see the Warriors end their losing streak here.

For the Warriors to win, they need to improve their defence and stay disciplined to avoid giving away penalties. They should focus on controlling the middle of the field with strong forward runs and quick ball movement to break through the Dragons’ defence. It’s essential they create smarter set plays and reduce handling errors. Their playmakers must manage the game well and perform under pressure. Starting strong and maintaining intensity throughout the match will be key to beating the Dragons’ tough defence, as right now this Warriors side does not have the skill level needed to play catch-up footy. I think it will be tough, but I'm backing the Warriors to get out of their current funk, so I am picking a Warriors win by 6.

So, that was a dreadful Round 23, and I will leave you with some questions as usual.

Where do you think the Warriors will end up on the ladder at season's end?

What did you think of Websters last minute changes?

Would you bring Jett Cleary into first grade this week?

What is your score prediction against the Dragons?

NZ Warriors 2025 Round 22 Review: Warriors Blow Late Lead as Dolphins Snatch Victory

After their Round 21 defeat to the Titans, the Warriors remained at home to face the Dolphins, who had the bye in Round 21.

The makeshift Warriors outfit looked set to enter the winners' circle in a tight clash after earning a lead with 20 minutes to play, but the Dolphins refused to quit and snatched the victory in the final stages, sneaking away with a 20-18 victory.

What Went Down

The Dolphins struck first after a string of penalties against the Warriors. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow threw a crisp short ball to Farnworth, who powered through defenders to open the scoring in the 4th minute.

All eyes were on the Warriors' reshuffled spine this week, and fullback Taine Tuaupiki made an immediate impact. His speed and timing on the edge created space for Dallin Watene-Zelezniak to finish in the corner in the 9th minute. Farnworth continued to dominate early with three linebreaks and over 100 metres before his night ended abruptly. Bursting into the clear, he pulled up clutching his hamstring and had to be helped from the field.

The Warriors tried to take control after Farnworth’s departure, but the Dolphins held firm and capitalised on a Tuaupiki error. A strong carry from Kurt Donoghoe set up Jeremy Marshall-King, who made up for an earlier mistake to dive over and reclaim the lead in the 25th minute.

Discipline issues again hurt the Warriors. A crusher tackle from Sam Healey gifted the Dolphins field position, and Jake Averillo’s run across the grain pushed them into attacking range. A looping pass went to ground, but Oryn Keeley was quickest to react and scooped it up to score at the 29-minute mark.

Eventually, the Warriors' weight of possession near the Dolphins' line paid off. Using a similar play to their first try, Tuaupiki linked again with DWZ, who beat the cover defence to notch his second. Despite dominating territory, the Warriors couldn’t add to their tally and trailed by four at halftime.

The second half began as a tight grind, but the Warriors piled on pressure. Just before the hour mark, a powerful Jacob Laban run set the stage for Tanah Boyd’s crossfield kick, which found Leka Halasima. The rookie extended his try-scoring streak to five consecutive games in the 58th minute.

The Dolphins nearly hit back when Kodi Nikorima created an overlap, but a crucial DWZ intercept saved the day. A careless penalty while in possession gave the Dolphins another chance. Katoa’s unexpected grubber looked to prove fruitful with Nikorima appearing to score, but the on-field try was overturned after review.

The Warriors earned a penalty moments later after Felise Kaufusi was pinged for a hip drop tackle that saw him sent to the bin; they elected to not take a shot at goal to extend their lead and were unable to score points on the next set. 

Even with Kaufusi sent to the bin for a high shot, the Dolphins weren’t done. After earning a penalty for a high tackle, they went for the win instead of a draw. Spreading the ball through ten sets of hands, they eventually found Isaako on the right edge, who crossed in the final moments to steal the win.

My Thoughts

Well, this one really hurt. I went into the game with low expectations, already bracing for a loss, and seeing the team list on Tuesday only made things worse. By the time I walked into the stadium on Friday, I was expecting the worst. When the Dolphins scored within the first five minutes, it felt like they were going to blow the Warriors off the park. Herbie Farnworth was unstoppable early on, and the Warriors had no answer for him. His injury was unfortunate, but it evened things out a bit and allowed the Warriors to get back into the contest. The Warriors gradually found their feet. At times, the attack looked sharp and threatening, but it wasn’t consistent enough to take control of the game. By the closing stages, they looked exhausted, and that fatigue led to some costly errors, which opened the door for the Dolphins ' match-winning play. It was incredibly frustrating to watch the Warriors stand and wait on the Dolphins' final tackle instead of shutting it down. Maybe it was tired legs, or perhaps they were hesitant to rush up and risk creating a gap. Either way, the Dolphins shifted wide, seeing that the Warriors were bunched in the middle, and took full advantage.

It was another crucial game that slipped through their fingers. Yes, injuries have taken a toll, but the team needs to snap out of this slump and start stringing wins together. The ladder is so tight that a few more losses could see all the good work this season undone. My optimism has taken a hit over the past few weeks, but I still believe a top-four finish is within reach. That said, it’s going to be tough, especially with how competitive the bottom-half teams have been. Only one team in the top four won this week against so-called "weaker" opposition, so the Warriors’ run home will be anything but easy.

There were a couple of things to smile about, which brings me to my positives.

Match Positives

The Warriors’ reshuffled lineup did a solid enough job in their first outing together. With several key players missing, the new combinations still managed to create some good attacking chances, especially out wide. At times, the timing was off and things didn’t quite click, but that’s to be expected for a new combination. There were a few defensive lapses, but the effort was there. It wasn’t perfect, but there were enough positive signs to show they’ll improve as they get more games together.

After Herbie Farnworth, who was carving the Warriors up, left the field, the Warriors scrambled well in defence and showed plenty of grit to stay in the contest. They worked hard to cover for each other, shutting down several dangerous Dolphins sets close to the line. Their line speed and effort plays improved, with backs and forwards alike digging in to hold the middle and scrambling out wide when needed. While the Dolphins still found space at times, the Warriors’ desperation and scramble defence helped limit the damage and kept them in the fight. Unfortunately, they switched off in the final seconds, allowing the Dolphins to sneak through and steal the win right at the death.

The Warriors’ young players continue to impress, with Sam Healey, debutant Eddie Ieremia-Toeava, and Jacob Laban all standing out. Healey was strong at hooker, passing cleanly from dummy-half, defending well in the middle, and showing smart touches around the ruck. He played with great energy and confidence, making a strong case to be part of the game day 17 more often. Ieremia-Toeava had a solid debut, getting involved early and showing good effort in both attack and defence. Laban added impact off the bench with strong carries and tough tackles. All three looked comfortable in first grade and gave fans plenty to be excited about for the future.

However, I did have concerns, which brings me to my negatives from the game.

Match Negatives

Errors and discipline let the Warriors down again. They made 9 handling errors, gave away 5 penalties, and were caught twice for ruck infringements. These mistakes often came at crucial times, either when they were building pressure or trying to get out of trouble, and gave the Dolphins an easy way back into the game. You can’t hand free sets to any team in the NRL, especially now when recent results have shown there’s no such thing as an easy win. If you let teams off the hook, they’ll make you pay. The effort was there, but the lack of control ultimately cost them. It’s something they’ll need to fix quickly if they want to turn close losses into wins and hold on to their top-four spot.

The Warriors missed a big chance to close out the game. With just under seven minutes left, they got a penalty right in front but chose not to take the easy two points that would’ve given them a four-point lead. It was a decision made by coach Andrew Webster, and looking back, it proved costly. Instead of building pressure and stretching the gap, they let the Dolphins stay in the contest, and it came back to bite them. The Warriors just didn’t show the killer instinct needed to put the game away, something they’ll need to work on if they want to win tight matches once again.

The Warriors have been hit hard by injuries again, adding to their list of worries. Jacob Laban looks like he’ll be out for a few weeks as he recovers from a hip-drop tackle. Meanwhile, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, Leka Halasima, and Taine Tuaupiki all got knocks during the game that might keep them sidelined in the coming weeks. With key players already missing, the Warriors can’t afford to lose any more. These injuries put extra pressure on the squad and make it harder to build strong combinations on the field. Keeping players fit will be really important, and hopefully, the Warriors can catch a bit of luck soon.

Warrior of the Match

My Warrior of the Match goes to Roger Tuivasa-Sheck.

Another standout performance from RTS here, he led the match in running metres with a massive 335 metres and had 7 tackle breaks. He was full of energy and constantly put pressure on the Dolphins' defence. His ability to find space kept the Warriors moving forward, and he created plenty of chances for his teammates. Even when the team was under pressure, he kept working hard and led by example, giving 100% right until the end. If a few more of his teammates can get closer to his level, the wins will return.

Warrior to Improve

My Warrior to Improve goes to Tanah Boyd.

It was hard to single anyone out with most players doing a balance of good and bad, but I have gone with Boyd here. He did some good things, like playing a significant role in DWZ tries and setting up a nice kick for Halasima's try. He also went 3/3 with his goalkicking. But overall, his game was a bit uneven. He made a few kicking errors, gave away a costly obstruction penalty, and showed some limits when it came to ball-playing. Defensively, he struggled too, missing eight tackles and often being targeted by the opposition, which made things tougher for the Warriors' defensive line. With cleaner execution and more consistency, Tanah could have a much bigger impact on the game, and I still think he is the best halfback option right now with Luek Metcalf out.

Next Round Thoughts and Prediction

In Round 23, the Warriors head back across the ditch to face the Bulldogs, who went down 28-14 to the Wests Tigers in Round 22.

For my team selection, the only definite return is Wayde Egan, who I’d slot back in at hooker. I’m working off the assumption that the knocks to CNK, Leka, and Taine were minor, so I’m keeping all three in the side. I’d drop Lussick, move Healey to the bench, and bring in Bunty Afoa to replace Laban.

The Bulldogs have been building nicely, and moving Lachlan Galvin into the starting halfback role has added a spark to their attack. Their defence has been solid for most of the season, but the recent loss to the Tigers exposed some areas of vulnerability. That defeat will have them fired up for a bounce-back performance, unfortunate timing for the Warriors, who need a win to stay in the top four with the Panthers closing in.

For the Warriors to get the job done, they need to shut Galvin down early and prevent him from settling into the game. If they can rattle him, the Bulldogs are more likely to make mistakes. From there, it’s about controlling the tempo and targeting the edges in attack, while staying switched on for the full 80. Do that, and they’re a real chance. But with key players still out, I think it might be a step too far. I’m tipping the Bulldogs by 8.

So, that was a heartbreaking Round 22, and I will leave you with some questions as usual.

Are there any changes to the 17 you would make?

Do you think the Warriors will remain in the top four come finals time?

Would you have taken the penalty to push the lead out to four?

What is your score prediction against the Bulldogs?

NZ Warriors 2025 Round 21 Review: Warriors Fall Flat As Titans Curse Lives On

After their Round 20 victory over the Knights, the Warriors returned home to face the Titans, who lost 21-20 to the Wests Tigers in Round 20.

The Warriors burst out to a 10-0 lead in the opening ten minutes, but they let a determined Titans side back into the contest. Refusing to give up, the Titans fought hard and came away with a 24-16 upset win in Des Hasler’s 500th game as a first-grade head coach.

What Went Down

The Warriors got off to a flying start, opening the scoring with a 4th-minute try to Adam Pompey. Just minutes later, last week’s hero Leka Halasima powered over in the 8th minute for his ninth try of the season, giving the home side a 10-0 lead.

But things quickly turned when hooker Wayde Egan was ruled out after failing a head injury assessment. The Titans took full advantage, hitting back with tries to Jojo Fifita (11th minute) and Phillip Sami (15th minute) to level the scores at 10-all.

A penalty goal from Jayden Campbell gave the Titans a narrow lead late in the first half, and a desperate defensive play from AJ Brimson to stop a flying Roger Tuivasa-Sheck helped them go into the break with an unlikely 12-10 advantage.

The Titans carried that momentum into the second half. Kieran Foran, playing his 50th game for the club, threw a brilliant cutout pass to send Sami in for his second try in the 47th minute.

The Warriors were then reduced to 12 men when DWZ was sin-binned for an off-the-ball tackle on Brian Kelly near the line. The Titans made the most of it, with Fifita crossing again in the 56th minute to stretch the lead to 24-10.

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck gave the Warriors a late spark with a sharp run and try in the 61st minute, but despite Sean Mullany being sent to the bin in the dying minutes, the Titans dug deep to hold on for a 24-16 upset win in Des Hasler’s 500th NRL game as head coach.

My Thoughts

Well, that wasn't pretty. I came into the match confident, but I had lingering fears due to the recent history against the Titans. With the Warriors now sitting with only one win from their past seven clashes against the Gold Coast, the curse is well and truly in play. The Warriors started well and looked ready to put a cricket score on, but the Titans refused to quit and, despite missing key players, swung momentum in their favour, and like we have seen several times this season, the Warriors struggled to get that momentum back and as time was running out they kept trying to take shortcuts and were undone by their own errors and poor discipline. They just looked flat, and the same issues that I had last week were still present here. It was a real letdown in what should have been a layup game against a struggling team, but perhaps the Warriors came in with the same attitude, and it cost them. Andrew Webster is saying all the right things in his press conferences, but the Warriors need to start seeing some positive changes if they wish to be competitive in the finals, and the first step is not to let games like this slip again.

There were a couple of things to smile about, which brings me to my positives.

Match Positives

The Warriors started really well against the Titans, scoring twice in the first ten minutes and playing with good energy, strong carries, and clear intent. They looked focused and ready to take control of the game. But after that, things started to slip. Their intensity dropped, the attack lost direction, and the defence became too soft. The Titans didn’t do anything special; they just stuck with it and capitalised on the Warriors' faltering. It’s something we’ve seen too often this season. If the Warriors want to make a serious push for the finals, they need to play with that same effort and energy for the full 80 minutes. The opening ten showed what they can do; now they have to back it up for the whole game.

There were some really solid individual efforts from the Warriors, with Roger Tuivasa-Sheck constantly looking dangerous with the ball, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad putting in a big shift at the back, Leka Halasima making strong carries, and James Fisher-Harris leading the way through the middle. Each of them had moments where they tried to lift the team, but as a group, it just didn’t click. The combinations felt off, support play was lacking, and at times, it looked like players were trying to make something happen on their own. That disconnect made it easier for the Titans to shut them down in key moments. The talent is clearly there, but until they start playing more connected footy, wins like this will keep slipping away.

The loss to the Titans was tough to watch and highlighted a few problems the Warriors still need to address. But the good news is they still have a bit of breathing room between them and fifth place. That gap helps for now, but they can’t rely on it. With the finals approaching, the team needs to elevate their game and find more consistency in their play. The top four is still theirs now, but if they want to be a real threat in the finals, the effort and execution need to improve starting now.

However, I did have concerns, which brings me to my negatives from the game.

Match Negatives

The Warriors’ discipline cost them throughout the game, continually putting themselves under pressure. They gave away four penalties, four ruck infringements, and were offside twice inside their own 10. This made it much harder for them to gain momentum or come back into the match. Some of the referee’s calls were a bit tough, but the Warriors still need to adapt quickly to how the game is being officiated. These mistakes gave the Titans extra chances and space to control the game. If the Warriors want to improve, they must clean up their discipline moving forward.

The Warriors’ defence was off in this game, struggling to keep up with the speed of the Titans’ backs. They often failed to slide and get back in position, especially on their right side, leaving gaps open. Players like Sami and Fifita capitalised on these overlaps created by poor reads. A big part of the problem was poor communication, which left some players isolated and exposed. To fix this, the Warriors need to talk more on the field and work better as a team to cover each other and close those gaps.

The Warriors’ attack fell apart after Wayde Egan left the field early. Te Maire Martin is a handy player to have on the bench for backline injuries, but not having a solid backup hooker really hurt the team. Without someone steady to control the ruck and direct the attack, their game plan became messy, and they lost momentum. Looking back, it’s clear that having a reliable backup hooker on the bench would have helped keep their attack going.

Warrior of the Match

My Warrior of the Match goes to James Fisher-Harris.

It was a tough night for many of the players, but there were a few who could keep their heads up, and I am going with the Skipper here. He ran hard for 151 metres, consistently making good ground. Defensively, he was solid, making 46 tackles with only one missed, showing great effort and dependability. He also played a clean game with no errors or penalties, setting a strong example for the team. As the leader, he now needs to find a way to lift the rest of the squad to his level if the Warriors want to bounce back. His effort really stood out on an otherwise tough night for the team.

Warrior to Improve

My Warrior to Improve goes to Kurt Capewell.

There were a few players I could pick here, but I have gone with Capewell. He still looks like he’s not quite at full fitness, and it showed in his performance. He made 2 errors, missed 6 tackles, and missed some significant chances to get the ball to his winger. While a lot of the focus has been on Dallin Watene-Zelezniak for his poor defence, which is fair, some of those mistakes happened because it looked like DWZ was trying to cover for Capewell on his inside. On the plus side, Capewell did make 4 tackle breaks, showing glimpses of his strength and skill. Maybe the Warriors need to rethink their backline choices and let Capewell move back to the pack, where he can be more effective and ease the pressure on the edges.

Next Round Thoughts and Prediction

In Round 22, the Warriors remain at home to host the Dolphins, who had the Bye in Round 21.

For my team selection, Egan will miss this week because he failed his HIA, so I’d bring in Sam Healey. The centre position is a bit trickier since Ali Leiataua is injured again. So I’d move Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad to centre and bring Taine Tuaupiki in at fullback. I know Webster doesn’t like that kind of change, but I think it’s the best option at this time. As for DWZ, I’d give him one more chance to bounce back since there aren’t many quality alternatives available at the moment.

The Dolphins started the season slowly but have built up momentum and are now in the top eight. They’re one of the most dangerous attacking teams in the NRL, known for creating chances and striking quickly. For the Warriors to win, they need to start strong and put pressure on the Dolphins right away, making sure their key players don’t get any space to break free. The Warriors also need to minimise errors and remain disciplined to prevent giving the Dolphins easy scoring opportunities. Stopping their main threats will be crucial to slowing their attack and controlling the game. While I want to see the Warriors learn from their mistakes and return to winning ways, I think the Dolphins’ speed will be too much, and they’ll take the win by 12 points.

So, that was a deflating Round 21, and I will leave you with some questions as usual.

What’s the most significant area the Warriors need to improve?

What changes would you make to the lineup?

Who impressed you and who didn't?

What is your score prediction against the Dolphins?

NZ Warriors 2025 Round 20 Review: Halasima Magic Seals Last Second Win for Warriors

After their Round 19 victory over the Wests Tigers, the Warriors made the trip to Newcastle to face the Knights, who went down 32-14 to the Storm in Round 19.

It was a clunky performance from the Warriors who struggled to match the Knights intensity for most of the contest, a series of missed field goals and penalty goals had Warriors fans lamenting missed chances and a costly defeat until Leka Halasima scooped up a charged down field goal attempt to run 40 metres to score the match winner after the siren blared, seeing the Warriors sneak away with a 20-15 win.

What Went Down

The Warriors opened the scoring after seven minutes, with back-up halfback Tanah Boyd continuing his strong form at NRL level. His well-placed grubber sat up perfectly for Adam Pompey to dive on and score the opening try.

Despite barely touching the ball and facing a lopsided 70/30 possession split, the Knights somehow avoided falling behind by 12 early on, a minor miracle. But eventually, the weight of possession told. Wayde Egan darted from dummy half and looked to have scored, only for the Bunker to rule a double movement and deny the try.

That decision turned the momentum. A penalty marched the Knights upfield, and a well-placed cross-field kick targeted Dom Young. The Warriors couldn’t clean it up, and Fletcher Hunt pounced to score Newcastle’s first points in the 21st minute.

Newcastle started building pressure, though they squandered several chances. Then, after an error by Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, the Knights hit their favoured left edge. Greg Marzhew pulled off a brilliant offload to Dane Gagai, who sent the home side into the lead.

The Warriors then imploded. A simple yardage error by Jackson Ford handed Newcastle another opportunity, and they again went left. This time, after slick ball movement, Marzhew crossed for the try he’d fluffed earlier in the 30th minute. Desperate defence from both sides kept the margin to just six, with the Warriors going into the sheds trailing 12-6.

The Knights began the second half strongly but failed to capitalise with some poor execution. A relieving penalty gave the Warriors a rare attacking set, and Egan found Demitric Vaimauga close to the line for the levelling try in the 49th minute.

Newcastle hit back with a frantic attacking movement that went through at least nine pairs of hands before Gagai broke through and linked with Jayden Brailey. An attempted intercept by the Warriors was ruled a knock-on, and a scrum penalty allowed Gagai to slot a penalty goal and regain the lead in the 56th minute.

But it didn’t last. Watene-Zelezniak was hit high by Jack Cogger after a bomb was spilled, and Boyd stepped up to nail the penalty, tying the game with just over ten minutes to go.

With five minutes left, Cogger slotted a field goal that clipped the post on the way over, giving the Knights a 15–14 lead. Boyd tried a two-point field goal that missed, but a successful captain’s challenge gave the Warriors one more shot. Boyd couldn’t land the penalty goal, but the drama wasn’t over.

In the dying seconds, Boyd had another go at a two-point field goal. It was charged down, but the ball bounced straight into the arms of Leka Halasima, who sprinted 40 metres to snatch a dramatic win for the Warriors.

My Thoughts

Well, what do you even call that?

I went into this match feeling confident the Warriors would get the job done, but that belief started to slip away as the game wore on. That said, there were flashes where they dragged me back in, giving hope that they’d pull through. The final few minutes were among the most stressful I can recall. First came the heartbreak of Tanah Boyd’s field goal being charged down, then the pure elation of watching Leka Halasima pull off yet another miracle run to steal the win. It was a chaotic finish to a game that will be talked about for a long time.

As for the rest of the contest, if I’m being honest, the Warriors probably didn’t deserve to win. The Knights were the better side for most of the match. The Warriors blew several chances and struggled to defend their right edge. Some gutsy scrambling defence and a few questionable decisions from Newcastle kept the Warriors in the hunt, and luck definitely played a part.

Still, a win’s a win. The Warriors will know they got away with one, and there’s plenty to fix before next week. But with Andrew Webster at the helm, I’m confident those issues will be addressed sooner rather than later. It was ugly, but it was a vital two points, keeping a buffer between them and the Broncos and edging them one week closer to locking in a top-four finish. They just can’t afford any banana skin games from here on out.

There were a couple of things to smile about, which brings me to my positives.

Match Positives

There’s no sugar-coating it; that was an ugly win. But it’s still another two points for the Warriors, and one they simply wouldn’t have pulled off last season. In a scrappy, see-sawing contest short on polish, the team dug deep and kept their composure, even as the game threatened to slip away. As the final minutes ticked down, they stayed focused and showed the kind of grit and resilience that comes from a side growing in confidence. It wasn’t pretty, but it was gutsy, and in years past, that’s a game they would have lost. Not this time. What’s different now is the self-belief running through this group, belief in themselves and in each other. That trust, that unity, is what’s giving them a real shot, even when the odds are stacked against them.

The Warriors’ scrambling defence was key to their win. Although their defensive line struggled at times to hold up under pressure, their quick ability to scramble and close down dangerous breaks kept them in the game. They repeatedly threw themselves into the gap, stopping several breakaways that looked set to become match-winning tries. Without that defensive grit, the opposition could have easily taken control of the match. Going forward, the Warriors need to strengthen their frontline defence, but their resilience under pressure gave them the edge to secure a hard-fought victory.

Both the experienced players and the younger ones remained calm under pressure and didn’t let the game's intensity shake them. The veterans led by example when it mattered most, while the younger players stepped up, showing the same focus and determination. This mix of steady leadership and fresh energy helped the team keep their composure in the most challenging moments. It’s a strong sign that the Warriors are building confidence and resilience throughout the whole squad as they prepare for bigger challenges ahead.

However, I did have concerns, which brings me to my negatives from the game.

Match Negatives

The Warriors’ right edge defence was an evident weakness during the match, with gaps that the Knights repeatedly tried to exploit. The players on that side struggled to stop quick runs and sharp plays, which put extra pressure on the rest of the defence. This weakness presented the Knights with several dangerous opportunities and made it more difficult for the Warriors to maintain control. To improve, the Warriors will need to tighten their right edge defence and stop giving away easy yards and scoring chances in future games.

The Warriors kept their errors to single digits, making nine mistakes in total, but those errors proved costly. Several came at crucial moments, including mistakes right when they were about to score. These errors disrupted their momentum, allowing the Knights to stay close and making the game tighter than it needed to be. To close out games more comfortably in the future, the Warriors will need to reduce these costly mistakes and show more respect for the ball.

The Warriors’ attack struggled at times to make an impact. They spent long stretches inside the Knights’ red zone but often couldn’t turn that pressure into points. Their play sometimes felt out of sync, with miscommunication and hesitation breaking their momentum. Adding to their frustration, costly errors gave the ball back to the Knights just when the Warriors looked set to break through. To convert pressure into points in future games, the Warriors need to improve their communication and reduce mistakes.

Warrior of the Match

My Warrior of the Match goes to Leka Halasima.

Halasima played 67 minutes, running 94 metres from just 8 carries, including that brilliant 40-metre match-winning run that sealed the game. He was always tough to bring down, finishing with 4 tackle breaks, and contributed strongly on defence with 31 tackles and only 3 misses. Additionally, he made no errors, delivering a powerful and well-rounded performance. At just 19 years old, the sky’s the limit for him; he truly has superstar written all over him.

Warrior to Improve

My Warrior to Improve goes to Dallin Watene-Zelezniak.

DWZ had a disappointing game, making 4 costly errors and often being out of sync in defence, which made him an easy target for the Knights. Although he was active in attack, running 15 times for 136 metres, his impact was limited. Without his usual spectacular finishes, he didn’t add much value to the team. He’ll need a big bounce-back in the coming games to regain his form and confidence.

Next Round Thoughts and Prediction

In Round 21, the Warriors return home to host the Titans, who went down 21-20 to the West Tigers in Round 20.

For my team selection, if Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad is cleared to play this round, I’d bring him straight back in at fullback. I’d then shift Taine Tuaupiki to the wing, replacing Dallin Watene-Zelezniak — that would be my only other change. I don’t expect Webster to drop DWZ, but if he’s named, hopefully he delivers a big bounce-back performance.

The Titans have had a rough 2025, currently stuck in a four-game losing streak. But for whatever reason, they seem to lift when they face the Warriors, having won both meetings in 2024, including a humiliating 66-6 blowout on the Gold Coast.

That said, this Warriors side is a much-improved version of last year’s team, and I’m expecting a different result this time around. To get the job done, the Warriors must avoid underestimating the Titans and sharpen up their edge defence, especially with the Titans boasting serious pace out wide.

Tino Fa'asuamaleaui is under an injury cloud and might not play, but even if he’s out, the Warriors forwards need to set the tone and control the tempo early. The backs, meanwhile, must play direct and make the most of their scoring chances.

The Warriors should come into this one with a point to prove. I’m tipping them to win by 16.

So, that was a stressful Round 20, and I will leave you with some questions as usual.

What would you do with DWZ?

How confident are you that the Warriors are still a top 4 lock?

Do you have any concerns about this side come finals time?

What is your score prediction against the Titans?

NZ Warriors 2025 Round 19 Review: Warriors muscle up and dominate Tigers

After their 3rd and final bye of the season, the Warriors were back at Go Media Stadium, hosting a Tigers side fresh off an upset win over the Roosters in Round 18.

All eyes were on Tanah Boyd, making his Warriors club debut, replacing the injured Luke Metcalf. 

Despite a slight wobble at the start of the contest where the Tigers capitalised, the Warriors quickly took over the match and never looked back, ending their losing streak with a dominant 34-14. 

What Went Down

The Tigers opened the scoring before the Warriors even touched the ball, capitalising on an early penalty that set up Jeral Skelton to dive over in the corner in just the 2nd minute.

The Warriors hit back quickly, with Rocco Berry slicing through the Tigers’ edge defence in the 8th minute and improving the position for the conversion. They then found their attacking rhythm, with a pinpoint pass from Erin Clark creating space for Chanel Harris-Tavita to stroll through untouched in the 18th minute, giving the home side a 12-4 lead.

The Tigers responded by building pressure on the Warriors' line, and it paid off when Adam Doueihi slid over in the 27th minute for his third try of the season.

Just before halftime, the Warriors executed a crisp scrum play that sent Dallin Watene-Zelezniak over in the 33rd minute, sending the teams to the sheds with the Warriors leading 16-8.

The hosts extended their lead early in the second half, with Roger Tuivasa-Sheck finishing in the corner after a sustained period of pressure on the Tigers’ line in the 49th minute.

A successful captain’s challenge gave the Tigers a rare attacking opportunity, and Doueihi took full advantage in the 57th minute, stepping through some flimsy defence to keep the visitors in the game.

But the Tigers' hopes of a comeback were dashed by handling errors and a lack of polish. The Warriors sealed the result with two late tries, Harris-Tavita’s second in the 73rd minute and a last-minute effort from Leka Halasima in the 79th, closing out a dominant 34-14 victory.

My Thoughts

The Warriors needed a bounce-back win, and they delivered. It wasn’t a flawless performance by any means, and the Tigers aren’t exactly the most formidable opposition, but the Warriors applied constant pressure and wore them down.

I came into the match confident, though I had a few doubts when the Tigers scored early. Thankfully, the Warriors responded almost immediately and never looked back. After failing to show up against the Broncos, the forward pack came out firing, dominating the middle and largely shutting down Terrell May. That platform gave the halves time and space to create some sharp attacking sets.

This felt like a much-needed reset for the team. Everything that was missing in the Broncos' loss showed up here. That said, there's still room to improve. This needs to be a turning point, a line in the sand moment to build from as they head toward the finals. There's still a decent buffer between them and fifth place, but with the Broncos and Panthers gaining momentum, the Warriors can’t afford to ease off.

There were a couple of things to smile about, which brings me to my positives.

Match Positives

The Warriors forwards came out with purpose and didn’t take a backward step, bringing constant intensity that kept the Tigers under pressure from start to finish. Their dominance through the middle laid the platform for victory, with five players racking up over my triple-digit target. Jackson Ford led the way with a powerful 165 metres, Erin Clark was sharp out of dummy half with 119, and James Fisher-Harris brought his usual aggression to notch up 113. Leka Halasima added substantial impact with 108 metres, while Demitric Vaimauga chipped in with a relentless 105. It was a statement performance from the pack, and if the Warriors want to build momentum, this kind of physicality and work rate has to become the norm.

Tanah Boyd made a strong impression in his first game for the Warriors’ top side, bringing much-needed direction to their attack. His calm presence in the halves helped guide the team around the field, with smart decision-making and solid game management standing out right from the start. Boyd’s kicking game was especially effective, consistently putting the Tigers under pressure with well-placed kicks deep in Tigers territory.

While he may not have Luke Metcalf’s explosive running ability, Boyd’s skill in managing the game and controlling the tempo more than makes up for it. This balance keeps the Warriors a dangerous side to face. As a big fan of Boyd, who’s been eager to see him get a real chance in first grade, it was incredibly satisfying to watch him make the most of this opportunity. His composed and confident debut hints that he could become a key player in the Warriors’ spine going forward.

The Warriors’ win has solidified their spot in the top four, keeping a vital four-point gap between them and the Broncos. With no byes left to offer free points, every remaining game is even more critical. While many of their upcoming matches are winnable, the Warriors can’t afford to underestimate any opponent or let chances slip away. Staying consistent and focused will be crucial for them to finish the regular season strong and secure the best possible position for the finals.

However, I did have concerns, which brings me to my negatives from the game.

Match Negatives

The Warriors let themselves down a few times by switching off defensively, allowing the Tigers to score some soft tries. Although these lapses didn’t cost them the match this time, they revealed a weakness that can’t be ignored. To remain competitive against tougher opponents, the Warriors must eliminate these moments of complacency and stay focused for the full 80 minutes. Stronger teams will punish any defensive mistakes, so it’s vital they tighten up and fix these issues moving forward.

The Warriors made nine errors in the game, which was a bit too many for my liking. Although this was a slight improvement on their performance against the Broncos, it’s still concerning. Giving away that many extra sets to any top-eight team makes winning much tougher, as it gives the opposition more chances to attack and gain momentum. If the Warriors want to compete consistently with the best sides, they’ll need to improve their ball control and cut down on these costly mistakes.

Rocco Berry sustaining yet another injury is truly devastating for the kid; luck just hasn’t been on his side. He clearly has a lot of talent and potential, but if he can’t start putting together consistent games, the Warriors might have to make some hard choices about his future. It’s a harsh truth, but at this level, being durable and available regularly is just as important as skill.

Warrior of the Match

My Warrior of the Match goes to Roger Tuivasa-Sheck.

There were plenty of players I could have picked here, but I went with RTS. He was outstanding in this match, constantly putting the Tigers’ defence under pressure and creating numerous problems for them. He led the Warriors with an impressive 271 running metres, crossing for a try himself while also breaking the line twice and busting through four tackles. Although he did make two errors, Roger more than made up for them with his relentless effort and attacking threat, proving once again why he’s such a vital player for the team.

Warrior to Improve

I don’t have a single Warrior to call out this week because no one in the 17 let the team down or didn't play enough minutes to be judged fairly. They weren’t all perfect, but every player gave it their all, and that’s all you can really ask for.

Next Round Thoughts and Prediction

In Round 20, the Warriors head back across the ditch to face the Knights, who went down 32-14 against the Storm in Round 19.

The only change I’d make to the team is bringing Kurt Capewell in at centre to replace the injured Rocco Berry. The forward pack and bench all did a solid job, so there’s no reason to drop any of them to fit Capewell in. He’s filled in well at centre this season when needed, so to me, it’s the logical move

The Knights have had a disappointing 2025 season so far, currently sitting 13th on the ladder and coming off back-to-back losses. Consistency has been a major issue for them, and with Kalyn Ponga sidelined, they've lost some of their attacking spark. However, the return of Dominic Young has added a genuine threat out wide. Their unpredictability makes them dangerous; you never quite know which version of the Knights will show up.

For the Warriors to come away with the win, their forward pack needs to dominate the middle again, giving Tanah Boyd and Chanel Harris-Tavita the time and space to bring their outside backs into play. Defensively, the key will be wrapping up the ball carriers and putting pressure on the halves to shut down opportunities for the Knights’ lethal outside backs, who can punish teams when they’re switched on. Winning in Newcastle is never easy, but I’m backing the Warriors to get the job done. I’m tipping them to win by 12.

So, that was an improved Round 19, and I will leave you with some questions as usual.

How did you think Tanah Boyd went?

Who would you bring in for Berry?

Do you think the Warriors will keep a top-four spot for the finals?

What is your score prediction against the Knights?

NZ Warriors 2025 Round 17 Review: Errors and missed chances cost Warriors again

After their lacklustre defeat at home to the Panthers, the Warriors made their way back across to Ditch to Suncorp Stadium to face the Broncos, who were confident after their 34-28 win over the Sharks in Round 16.

The Broncos controlled the match right from the start and despite the Warriors' attempted fightback in the second half, the home side never lost control, cruising to a 26-12 victory.

What Went Down

The Broncos wasted no time setting the tone, capitalising on a Warriors error in the opening set. Just two minutes in, Adam Reynolds rolled a grubber into the in-goal for Kotoni Staggs to pounce on and open the scoring.
They continued to impress without the ball too—Josiah Karapani forced Edward Kosi into touch with the try-line in sight. Moments later, Karapani was rewarded at the other end, finishing off a sharp cut-out pass from Ezra Mam to score his fifth try in three games and give the Broncos a 10-0 lead by the 14th minute.
A Reynolds penalty goal in the 24th minute stretched the margin further. The Warriors thought they had hit back through Chanel Harris-Tavita, who claimed a Metcalf bomb, but the bunker ruled he didn’t ground it cleanly.
Just before halftime, Reece Walsh capped off a dominant first half by putting Gehamat Shibasaki over in the corner, sending the Broncos to the sheds up 18-0.

The home side picked up where they left off after the break, with Walsh close to scoring, thwarted by a massive try-saving effort from Te Maire Martin, who replaced Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad at fullback after he succumbed to a knee injury. That gave the Warriors an energy boost, and it was them who struck first, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck diving over in the 45th minute for his first try at Suncorp Stadium since 2014.
Reynolds added another two points via penalty in the 51st, after Jackson Ford was pinged for an escort, extending the lead to 20-6.
The Warriors kept fighting. Leka Halasima climbed high to collect a bomb and score in the 65th minute, giving them hope. But that was short-lived, as Luke Metcalf left the field soon after with a suspected ACL injury following a heavy shot from Brendan Piakura.
Their frustration grew when Kosi spilled a pass with the line wide open. The Broncos made them pay. Shibasaki crossed again in the 75th minute to secure his third double in as many games.
The 26-12 win was Brisbane’s third straight victory and handed the Warriors their first set of back-to-back losses in 2025.

My Thoughts

Another tough one to watch. I came into the game confident the Warriors would bounce back from the Panthers' loss and keep their unbeaten record at Suncorp intact. But when Marata Niukore dropped the ball in the first set and the Broncos scored almost immediately, you just had that sinking feeling it was going to be one of those nights.

The Warriors were outmuscled and outplayed. And to make matters worse, luck was nowhere to be found; bad bounces, injuries, and even the referee’s calls all seemed to go against them. It was a frustrating watch from home.

They lacked punch early, which put them on the back foot straight away. While they never stopped fighting, they couldn’t build any momentum, errors and penalties constantly disrupted their sets. Losing Metcalf and CNK hurt badly. It threw the team's rhythm off, and they never looked in sync after that. Understandable, but costly.

This was another chance for the Warriors to prove they’re serious premiership contenders, and they let it slip. If they want to be taken seriously, they need to start winning these big games. The upcoming clashes with the Dolphins and Bulldogs are must-wins in my eyes, perfect opportunities to make a statement.

There’s still a bit of a buffer between them in fourth and the Broncos in fifth, but it won’t last long if performances like this continue. I still believe this team can stay in the top four, but they’re going to have to earn it.

There were a couple of things to smile about, which brings me to my positives.

Match Positives

The Warriors may have been outplayed for most of the first half, but they came out after the break with more energy and purpose. Their defence tightened up, slowing the Broncos’ momentum and forcing mistakes, while their attack started to click. They scored 12 points in the second half and kept the contest alive. There were also a few attacking chances that, with better execution, might’ve changed the outcome. In the end, it wasn’t enough to get the win, but the Warriors showed real fight and determination, battling hard right to the final whistle.

The Warriors’ offloading began to shift momentum in their favour in the second half, although it did not secure them the win. They completed 12 offloads compared to the Broncos’ 6. This helped break down the Broncos’ defence and create more attacking opportunities. These sharp offloads added energy to the Warriors’ attack, helping them gain ground and build longer sets. Keeping them in the fight, and while it wasn’t enough for a win, the offloading showed real promise as a way to break through defence and needs to stay in the game plan for the rest of the season.

The Warriors found themselves on the back foot early but gradually stepped up their defensive intensity. As the game went on, their line speed improved, they wrapped up the ball more effectively, and showed greater urgency in scramble situations. This increased pressure disrupted the Broncos’ rhythm at times and helped keep the scoreline from getting out of hand for significant stretches. The Warriors’ defensive effort in the second half demonstrated resilience and a refusal to give up; they just need to do it for 80 minutes.

However, I did have concerns, which brings me to my negatives from the game.

Match Negatives

The Warriors struggled all night with discipline and ball control, which constantly disrupted their momentum. They racked up 11 errors, conceded eight penalties, and gave away four set restarts, handing the Broncos repeated opportunities and valuable field position. Every time the Warriors showed signs of getting back into the game, a mistake or penalty would undo their progress and swing the momentum back to Brisbane, making an already tough challenge even harder. In a competition as tough as the NRL, you cannot hand the opposition free sets at any stage, so the Warriors need to get these down asap.

The Warriors’ forward pack was clearly outmuscled in the middle during their 26-12 loss to the Broncos, failing to provide any real go-forward. None of the starting forwards consistently bent the line, making it hard for the team to build momentum through the middle of the field. Only James Fisher-Harris (125 metres) and Erin Clark (120 metres) managed to crack the 100-metre mark that I like to see, well below what's needed to pressure a strong Brisbane defence. With such little impact up front, the Warriors’ attack lacked spark, and their halves had no platform to work from. If the Warriors want to stay in the top four and push for finals success, their forward pack needs to toughen up and stop getting dominated through the middle.

Injuries once again disrupted the Warriors’ rhythm, with the loss of Luke Metcalf and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad unsettling key combinations and raising fresh concerns about the strain on their squad. With Mitch Barnett already ruled out for the season, and Ali Leiataua (returning around Round 21) and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (returning around Round 22) still sidelined, the growing injury list is becoming a major obstacle. The latest knocks suffered during the match could have lasting effects, depending on the scan results, potentially forcing further changes in an already stretched lineup. While the club continues to emphasise a “next man up” mentality, these repeated in-game losses are testing their depth and team cohesion. With the finals approaching, the Warriors will be hoping their luck improves and they can finally get through a match without losing multiple players.

Warrior of the Match

My Warrior of the Match goes to Roger Tuivasa-Sheck.

There were only a handful of players who could have been in the conversation here, but I had to go with RTS. Led the Warriors in running metres with 173m, scored a try and was safe out the back when he had to move to Fullback when Metcalf went off. It felt like he was one of the only Warriors players who looked threatening with the ball in hand. Has had a great 2025 and consistently gives it 100% regardless of where he plays. With CNK out, the discussions about him moving to fullback may start up again, and I wouldn't fight it right now.

Warrior to Improve

My Warrior to improve is Ed Kosi.

I feel for Kosi; he seems to be a great guy, but he's just so rocks and diamonds when on the footy field. He has had a few games this year and has performed fine, but we got the rocks display here. He made four errors and was carried over the sideline several times. He was one of only five Warriors to run over 100 metres, ending the match with 118m. He also had a few poor reads and positioning defensively.

In a performance where the Warriors needed composure and execution, Kosi's inconsistency stood out for the wrong reasons, highlighting areas that still require major work if he wants to cement his spot in first grade, I just don't think he has what it takes to play at the level week in and week out, but i truly hope he can prove me and his many doubters wrong.

Bye Round and Round 19 Thoughts and Prediction

In Round 18, the Warriors get their third and final bye of the season. It looks like a great time to get it, with some issues that need to be ironed out, and it's an ideal week off for the injured players to improve without the team missing them on the field.

After the bye, the Warriors are back at Go Media Stadium, hosting the Wests Tigers.

As for the team I'd select, Andrew Webster said that both Luke Metcalf and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad will not be playing. So I would bring Tanah Boyd in for Metcalf and Tuaupiki in for CNK. I would also be dropping Ed Kosi, but with the current outside back stocks low, it makes it tricky. So I would be looking at moving Kurt Capewell to centre and pushing Adam Pompey to the wing. Either that or Tuapiki goes to the Wing with Te Maire Martin playing fullback. I'm 50/50 on which option to go with right now. I'm a massive fan of Boyd and have been wanting to see him get a chance in the top grade, although an injury to Metcalf was not the way I wanted it to happen.

The Tigers have shown improvement this year, but ultimately are not at the level of a team vying for a finals spot, so on paper, this is a perfect opportunity for the Warriors to bounce back. However, as we saw earlier this year, the Tigers took the Warriors to the limit, so they cannot come into this match with a poor attitude. For the Warriors to get the win here, they will need to muscle up on Terrell May and pressure Jarome Luai. If they do that, then they should be in the driver's seat. With the ball in hand, they need their pack to get the Tigers' defensive line on the back foot and utilise the offloads again. The attack may be a bit clunky with a new look spine, but if they kick to the corners and pressure the Tigers into mistakes, the points will come. I'm confident the Warriors will be too much for the Tigers, so I'm picking them to end their losing streak and win by 16.

So, that was a poor Round 17, and I will leave you with some questions as usual.

Who would you bring in for Metcalf and CNK?

After back-to-back losses, do you think the Warriors can remain a top-four side come the finals?

Are you concerned with the Warriors' outside backs' depth?

What is your score prediction against the Tigers?