NZ Warriors 2025 Round 24 Review: Warriors edge Dragons in Unconvincing but Crucial Victory

After their Round 23 defeat to the Bulldogs, the Warriors returned home to face the Dragons, who defeated the Sharks 22-14 in Round 23.

It was far from convincing, with the Dragons left cruelly short-handed after losing three forwards to concussion inside the first half hour. The Warriors edged back into the top four with a scrappy 14-10 victory.

What Went Down

Before kickoff, the Warriors delivered a powerful Māori challenge for Indigenous Round, a goosebump-inducing moment for the Go Media Stadium crowd.

However, the early chances went the Dragons’ way. In the 5th minute, Mathew Feagai broke through the Warriors’ shaky right edge. He had support on either side but blew the chance, losing the ball while trying to link with Lyhkan King-Togia.

James Fisher-Harris made an error and then moments later conceded a penalty, which gave the Dragons the opportunity to strike first in the 10th minute when Kyle Flanagan sent Feagai into space, and this time he finished cleanly down the right. Only minutes later, disaster hit the Dragons’ forward pack. In the 14th minute, both Jack de Belin and Hamish Stewart were forced from the field for head injury assessments, and neither returned. Despite being short-handed, the Dragons kept pressing. 

In the 20th minute, Feagai again exposed the Warriors’ right edge, beating Adam Pompey to cross for his second try and stretch the margin to 10-0.

Their night got even tougher in the 29th minute when Hame Sele was knocked out in a heavy collision and failed his HIA, leaving the Dragons with just one fit forward on the bench.

The Warriors looked desperate for points, their best early chance wasted when Jackson Ford spilled the ball over the line. But the weight of possession finally told just before halftime. In the 32nd minute, rookie forward Leka Halasima powered through on the left edge before linking with Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who somehow got a pass away to Chanel Harris-Tavita. His try cut the Dragons’ lead to 10-6 at the break.

The second half became a grinding arm-wrestle, both teams trading sets, but were struggling to execute in attack. The deadlock finally broke in the 62nd minute when Tanah Boyd’s running game put the Warriors on the front foot. The ball shifted right, and despite a collision in the lead-up, Adam Pompey finished off the move to score. Boyd converted to lock the scores at 10-all.

The decisive blow came in the 72nd minute. With Lyhkan King-Togia caught out in defence, Taine Tuaupiki moved the ball quickly for Pompey to dive over for his second try, putting the Warriors ahead 14-10. The Dragons had one last chance in the 75th minute when the activated 18th man, Tyrell Sloan, burst through a gap, but the final pass went to ground. The Warriors held on to claim a gritty, uninspiring win that snapped their three-game losing streak and saw them regain the 4th spot on the ladder.

My Thoughts

Well, that was another stressful watch. This season is definitely aging me. I predicted a six-point win, so I was ready for a tight contest, but man, that was ugly. The Warriors struggled all night and never really looked in control. Honestly, if the Dragons hadn’t lost three players to failed HIAs, this could’ve easily been their fourth straight loss. Luckily, the Warriors took advantage once the Dragons ran out of steam and scraped together a much-needed win. It puts them back in the top four and back in charge of their own destiny. Now they just need to shake off this funk and string together three solid performances to close out the regular season. Ugly win or not, I’ll take that any day over a “pretty” loss.

It’s a strange feeling, though. I always try to keep my reviews honest but with a positive slant, and even though the Warriors sit in 4th, it feels like seasons past where they were battling near the bottom. The difference is that they did the hard work early this year to give themselves this platform. With a few winnable games ahead, they can still build some momentum; they just need to tidy up the basics. Worst-case scenario, even if they slip up once or twice, a top-six finish still looks likely. The key now is focus, discipline, and finishing the regular season on a high.

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

Match Positives

Even after missing earlier chances to take control of the match, the Warriors stayed calm and focused. They trusted their defensive structure, communicated well across the field, and refused to quit under sustained pressure. Rather than panic or force risky plays, they waited for the right moments to strike, piled on the pressure and stuck when they saw an advantage out wide. That patience and composure were vital to getting the much-needed win, even if it gave my nerves a workout.

The Warriors had a few defensive missteps, but they made up for them with strong goal-line stands and excellent scrambling efforts. The team communicated well, covered for each other, and limited the Dragons’ opportunities, aside from the first 20 minutes, when they conceded two soft tries. Their organisation and discipline under pressure were key in keeping the Dragons to just 10 points. The reduced Dragons bench also helped, as tired forwards were forced to play more minutes than expected, giving the Warriors’ defence an edge in the later stages. Even in a messy game, their defensive structure proved they could hold firm when the attack wasn’t firing, but they will need to find another level or two come finals time.

It wasn’t the prettiest performance, but the Warriors got the job done. The win moves them back into the top four and brings them closer to securing a finals spot. Just as importantly, it gives the squad a confidence boost after morale took a hit over the past three weeks. Sometimes a hard-fought, messy victory can be just as meaningful as a dominant display, and this result gives the Warriors some self-belief as they head into the final rounds of the season, still not good enough for a finals side right now but with some focus and improvement around the basics they coud build some momentum in the final few rounds.

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

Match Negatives

The Warriors often made things harder for themselves, committing 10 errors, many of them unforced. Early on, these mistakes allowed the Dragons to take control of the match, and even after the Warriors began to assert themselves, the errors left the door open for the Dragons to threaten a comeback. These lapses disrupted the Warriors’ rhythm and could have been costly if the Dragons had capitalised. The team simply needs to show more respect for the ball, as better sides will punish them if they are this sloppy again. While the win was important, cleaning up their attack will be crucial in the final rounds.

The Warriors’ attack was often flat, with sets lacking creativity and fluidity for much of the match. Early opportunities went begging, and ball movement was predictable. Things started to improve when Tanah Boyd began attacking the line, forcing the Dragons to adjust and creating gaps in their defensive line. This flatness in attack has become a recurring problem since the injury to Luke Metcalf, who was the attacking lightning rod of this Warriors side. While Boyd’s efforts brought some spark late in the game, the team still needs to find more consistency in attack to fully capitalise on their chances.

The Warriors used 7 of their 8 interchanges, but the timing and deployment raised some questions. Jackson Ford stayed on the field too long, which began to affect his performance, while Sam Healey wasn’t brought on early enough to make an impact. Perhaps taking Ford off earlier, shifting Marata Niukore into the middle, and bringing Leka Halasima back on could have maintained intensity and added more punch in the forwards. I’ve long had concerns about Andrew Webster’s use of the bench, and while missing players like Mitch Barnett makes rotations more challenging, better management of interchanges could have helped the team control the game more effectively.

Warrior of the Match

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

I was tempted to give the nod to Adam Pompey this week, given his two tries, but he also had a hand in the Dragons’ tries, so I went with RTS. He was a constant attacking threat with 24 runs for 267 metres, including 103 post-contact metres, and consistently threatening to break the line. With the Warriors’ attack struggling overall, he remains one of the few players capable of creating opportunities, highlighted by a spectacular try assist off an offload while pinned against the sideline. Aside from one handling error, his performance was excellent, blending smart decision-making with moments of individual brilliance that helped keep the Warriors in the fight.

Warrior to Improve

My Warrior to Improve goes to James Fisher-Harris.

It was hard to pick JFH as he had some solid contributions, running 119 metres, breaking 2 tackles, and ending the match with no missed tackles. However, his 2 errors and 2 penalties were avoidable and put the Warriors under unnecessary pressure. As Captain and leader of the side, I hold him to a higher standard, and in a close game like this, those lapses stood out. While his work rate and defence were strong, greater discipline and control would have helped the team maintain momentum throughout the match.

Next Round Thoughts and Prediction

In Round 25, the Warriors head back to Australia to face the Titans, who went down 54-22 to the Sharks in Round 24.

For my team selection, Jackson Ford looks set to be out for at least 3 weeks due to suspension, as I assume the Warriors won't try to fight the charge, which would risk a 4-week ban. So I would move Marata Niukore to the front row and bring Kurt Capewell back into the second row. Ali Leiataua, Rocco Berry and Te Maire Martin are all slated to be available, but I would most likely stick with the team that was named this round and give the two centres a game in the cup first. Te Maire could return at 14, but I like Sam Healey on the bench, so I'm keeping him.

The Titans had a bit of a performance bump after defeating the Warriors in Round 21, taking the Panthers to the limit in Round 22 and narrowly losing to the Rabbitohs before the severe beating handed to them by the Sharks this Round. However, as we all know, their form doesn't matter when they face the Warriors, as they also pull out their best performances, winning 6 of the past seven clashes between the sides, so it will be another tough match.

For the Warriors to beat the Titans, they need to control the ruck and keep their sets tidy. Strong defence through the middle and quick line speed will stop the Titans from playing their fast, unpredictable style. In attack, the Warriors should look to win the middle first, then shift the ball wide to test the Titans’ edges, which are often exposed. Staying patient and turning pressure into points will give them the best chance of coming out on top. I think the Warriors will end the Titans' curse here and get revenge for their embarrassing 66-6 loss on the Gold Coast last season, so I am picking the Warriors to win by 10.

So, that was a stressful Round 24, and I will leave you with some questions as usual.

Is this win a turning point, or just a short-term relief?

Which player needs to lift this week?

Do you think the interchange was managed well this week?

What is your score prediction against the Titans?

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 back foot, seeing the Bulldogs break their rain curse with a 32-14 victory, handing the Warriors their third loss in a row.

What Went Down

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?