NZ Warriors 2026 Round 4 Review: Tigers Hand Warriors Reality Check

After another strong display in Round 3 against the Knights, the Warriors returned home to host the Wests Tigers, who went down 20-16 to the Rabbitohs in an exciting contest in Round 3.

The Warriors started strong, with everyone excited to see Luke Metcalf return for the first time in 2026, however a lack of cohesion and a dip in overall team performance saw the Warriors suffer their first defeat of 2026, going down 32-14.

What Went Down

The Warriors capitalised on some early ill-discipline from the visitors to open the scoring in the 9th minute. The switch of Taine Tuaupiki to fullback immediately paid dividends, with his speed causing confusion in the Tigers’ defensive line. Taking advantage of his move to right centre, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad backed up the play and crossed for the first try of the contest.

The hosts struck again just six minutes later. In the 15th minute, a clever short pass from Tanah Boyd sent Jacob Laban crashing through Jock Madden and Heamasi Makasini to give the Warriors their second try and early control of the match.

The Tigers struggled to capitalise while Adam Pompey was in the sin bin for a professional foul, but they eventually found success down the right edge after the Warriors were back to 13 men. In the 32nd minute, Adam Doueihi sliced through some shaky defence from Pompey, fended away from Luke Metcalf and found debutant Faaletino Tavana, who crossed for a try in his maiden NRL appearance.

Momentum continued to swing the Tigers’ way soon after. After a terrific scramble to regain possession following a Warriors break, Kai Pearce-Paul looked to have levelled the scores in the 35th minute. A towering Jock Madden bomb was contested well by Tavana, who appeared to bat the ball back before quick hands sent the English international over. Following a lengthy bunker review, referee Chris Butler eventually awarded the try.

With the Warriors beginning to make errors, the Tigers finally made their field position count just before the break. In the 39th minute, Royce Hunt powered over beside the posts to give the visitors the lead, their first half-time advantage in New Zealand since 2005.

The second half began tightly, with both sides guilty of squandering attacking opportunities. Eventually, Doueihi again troubled the Warriors’ right edge defence with a sharp show-and-go. Breaking clear in the 59th minute, he linked up with Jahream Bula in support, who crossed next to the posts to extend the Tigers’ lead.

The Warriors were then held scoreless for nearly 50 minutes, a stark contrast to their strong start to the season. However, after spending long periods camped inside the Tigers’ 20-metre zone, they finally broke through. In the 68th minute, Nicoll-Klokstad powered across for his second try of the night, setting up a tense final ten minutes.

The Tigers responded quickly to shut the door on any comeback hopes. In the 73rd minute, Doueihi again sparked the play, sending Luke Laulilii racing down the sideline before the ball was worked inside for Jock Madden to score the decisive try.

There was still time for one more blow, with Sunia Turuva crossing in the 79th minute to add the finishing touch to an emphatic 32-14 Tigers victory.

My Thoughts

Well, that was a humbling thump back to Earth. I came into the match brimming with confidence, believing that while the Wests Tigers had shown improvement this season, the absence of Jarome Luai would make it difficult for them to create enough attacking opportunities to stay in the contest. Unfortunately, it's possible the Warriors arrived with the same mindset. After racing out to a 10-0 lead in the first 15 minutes, they appeared to ease off the gas pedal. After three weeks of comfortably playing from in front, they didn't look ready to chase the game once momentum swung the other way. 

For me, what made the Warriors' performance frustrating was that the game felt like it was there to be controlled early. The Warriors started well, looked sharp with the ball, and built good pressure. Once the Tigers found their rhythm, the momentum shifted quickly. Errors crept in, the defensive line lost its shape, and suddenly the Warriors looked a step slow. Against a team that loves to attack, giving them that confidence and field position was always going to hurt them.

As the Tigers built pressure, the Warriors struggled to wrestle back control. Instead of steadying the ship, the game seemed to speed up around them. Good sides recognise those moments, slowing things down, completing their sets and forcing the opposition to earn their way back into the contest.

That said, putting my positivity hat on, this loss might not be the worst thing this early in the season. After three strong wins to start the year, expectations were beginning to rise quickly. Sometimes a defeat like this is the reminder a side needs that the competition is too tough to take any opponent lightly. If the Warriors learn the right lessons, it could be a valuable wake-up call rather than a defining setback.

There wasn't much to smile about, which brings me to my positives.

Match Positives

The Warriors made their best start to a match this season and looked sharp with the ball in the early stages. They took advantage of a few Tigers errors and quickly turned that pressure into points, with tries from Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad and Jacob Laban giving them an early lead. It showed how dangerous their attack can be when they build pressure and finish their chances. While the Warriors have often produced their best football after slow starts this year, this game proved they can begin strongly as well. The key now is to ensure they maintain the same intensity and execution throughout the full 80 minutes.

I had been keen to see Tuaupiki at fullback with Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad moving to centre, and I thought this ploy largely worked. Tuaupiki added speed and unpredictability to the Warriors’ attack early in the match, helping create the opening try and showing he can inject himself effectively into attacking plays. While he did have a few shaky moments defensively, it’s clear he still has some work to do to round out his game if he wants to hold the fullback role long-term.

Even after being held scoreless for a long period, the Warriors didn’t completely drop their heads. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad’s second try gave them a brief lifeline and showed there was still some fight in the side. They just need to keep that resilience and make sure they capitalise on any opportunities they create in the future. The Warriors showed last year that they can pull off fightbacks, and they need to bring that back whenever the situation calls for it.

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

Match Negatives

The Warriors’ pack didn’t control the middle of the field as they had in previous rounds, limiting their attacking opportunities. Four forwards still reached my triple-digit metre target: James Fisher-Harris (139m), Jacob Laban (112m), Jackson Ford (110m), and Tanner Stowers-Smith (101m),  but these totals were at the lower end compared to earlier weeks. They weren’t overpowered, but in the middle, they struggled all night to gain the upper hand. If the Warriors want to be consistently successful, their forwards need to become bullies in the middle again, and sooner rather than later, because so much of the team’s success depends on their go-forward.

The Warriors struggled at times to find cohesion with the changes made to the gameday squad, especially with the first-time halves pairing of Luke Metcalf and Tanah Boyd. Their combinations didn’t always click, and some attacking plays looked disjointed as they adjusted to each other’s timing. All the changes were the ones I suggested last week, and in the long run, I think they will make this team successful. A few teething problems are to be expected, but with time to gel, this squad has the potential to click and reach its best form.

Several of the Tigers’ tries came from defensive misreads, especially on the edges. Players often seemed unsure whether to jam in or slide across, leaving gaps that the Tigers’ playmakers could exploit. One moment stood out when Leka Halasima and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak were completely out of position and were made to look foolish by Adam Doueihi. I know there are new combinations in the side, but the players need to trust the man on either side to do their job. With time and experience together, the defensive line will improve, and these kinds of lapses should become less frequent.

Warrior of the Match

My Warrior of the Match goes to Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad.

CNK stepped up in a nig way after a late switch to the centres and delivered a strong performance. Despite playing out of his usual position, he was one of the Warriors' most dangerous attacking threats, scoring two tries and leading the side with two linebreaks and four tackle breaks. His ability to find space and inject himself into the attack gave the Warriors some much-needed spark. The move to centre limited some of the high-effort areas he usually excels in at fullback, and his defensive reads were a bit patchy, but he still did a very serviceable job in the centres when the team needed him. Performances like this show just how valuable CNK is to the side and his willingness to step up wherever he's required. I still like the idea of keeping both him and Tuaupiki on the field at the same time, but I have a feeling Andrew Webster will change back to the status quo after this defeat and move CNK back to fullback.

Warrior to Improve

My Warrior to improve was Dallin Watene-Zelezniak.

DWZ worked hard coming out of yardage, finishing with 114 running metres, but his night was hurt by a team-high three errors. Those mistakes halted momentum at key moments and put extra pressure back on the Warriors. There were also a few shaky defensive reads on his edge. While some of that came from poor efforts and communication from the players inside him, he still needs to make better decisions in those situations. Watene-Zelzniak has been solid through the first three weeks of the season, but if he can't get those handling errors under control, he risks becoming more of a liability than the attacking weapon we know he can be. I have been on team Alofiana Khan-Pereira since preseason, but I think DWZ deserves the right to a redemption match in Round 5.

Next Round Thoughts and Prediction

Round 5 sees the Warriors head back across the ditch for an Easter Sunday clash vs the Sharks, who defeated the Raiders 34-22 in Round 4.

Regarding the team I would pick, I would stick with the same side. While the loss was disappointing, I don’t think wholesale changes are the answer. The best way for this group to build cohesion and improve their combinations is to continue getting reps together, especially with some new partnerships in the backline. Some areas need tightening up, particularly defensive communication and handling errors, but those can be addressed without changing the lineup. Giving this group another week together should help them respond after a tough performance.

The Sharks have been a difficult team to predict this season. They’ve produced impressive wins over the Titans and Raiders, but also turned in disappointing performances against the Panthers and Dolphins. On their day, they’re a dangerous side to face. If Nicho Hynes and Braydon Trindall are clicking in the halves, they can cause plenty of headaches for the opposition by unleashing their dangerous backline. Up front, Addin Fonua-Blake will no doubt be highly motivated and eager to get one over his former club.

For the Warriors to get the win here, the formula is simple: stick with what has worked over the opening rounds. Control the middle, build pressure, and take their chances when the opportunities come. The Sharks have plenty of attacking weapons, so the Warriors must stay disciplined, communicate well in defence, and limit offloads to stop second-phase play from building momentum. If they can win the ruck, complete their sets, and maintain their defensive structure, they’ll give themselves every chance of securing the two points. I’m backing them to bounce back from this week’s effort, so I’m tipping the Warriors to win by 8.

So, that was a disappointing Round 4, but as usual, I will leave you with some questions.

Would you make any changes to the lineup?

What were your thoughts on Metcalf's return?

Who was your player of the match?

What is your score prediction against the Sharks?

NZ Warriors 2026 Round 3 Review: Warriors Power Past Knights in Newcastle

After a dominant display in Round 2 against the Raiders, the Warriors made their first trip across the ditch to face the Knights, who also looked impressive with a 36-16 victory over the Sea Eagles in Round 2, but lost Kalyn Ponga and Dylan Brown in the process.

The Knights started strong, but the Warriors took control around the 10th minute and never looked back, outscoring the Knights six tries to two and extending their record to 3-0, moving to the top of the ladder with a 38-12 victory.

What Went Down

Despite missing Kalyn Ponga and Dylan Brown, the Knights started strongly and struck first in the 3rd minute. Tyson Gamble launched a bomb near the try line that allowed Fletcher Hunt to leap above the defence and score.

The Warriors responded well after the early setback, even after losing debutant Morgan Gannon due to a concussion. In the 12th minute, Erin Clark charged through a gap to score his first try for the club.

As the Knights’ discipline began to unravel, the Warriors took control. Tanah Boyd added a penalty goal in the 25th minute, before Jackson Ford celebrated his 100th NRL appearance by scoring in the 29th minute, after receiving a nice short ball from the returning Mitchell Barnett.

Newcastle’s problems worsened in the 32nd minute when Hunt was sent to the sin bin. The Warriors made the most of the extra man just before halftime when debutant Luke Hanson produced a sharp pass for Leka Halasima to crash over in the 38th minute, giving the visitors an 18–6 lead at the break.

The Warriors continued their attacking momentum in the second half. Boyd sparked the next try in the 51st minute, breaking the defensive line before putting James Fisher-Harris over near the posts. Boyd then backed it up himself just three minutes later, slicing through the defence to score in the 54th minute.

The Knights briefly threatened a comeback when Greg Marzhew crossed in the 65th minute, but their discipline again cost them dearly. Trey Mooney was sent to the sin bin in the 75th minute for contact with Boyd’s kicking leg, allowing the Warriors to extend their lead through a 76th-minute penalty goal from Taine Tuaupiki.

The final play summed up Newcastle’s frustrating afternoon. Tyson Frizell attempted a chip kick on the last play, only for Tuaupiki to gather it and unselfishly set up Hanson for a try in the 80th minute, which was converted by Ford to extend his 100th match celebration, sealing a comprehensive 38–12 victory.

My Thoughts

Well, another week, another win for the Warriors. After last year, when it felt like every match ended with edge-of-your-seat moments that either brought joy or heartbreak, I can admit it feels weird to enter the 70th minute of a match and feel comfortable. I came into this match confident with the massive outs the Knights had; however, in the back of my mind, I was worried, as in the past, these kinds of matches were banana-skin games, and the Knights showed early on that they were not going to make it easy.

The opening stages were a bit concerning, for the second week in a row, the Warriors conceded points within the first few minutes and lost a player for the match when Morgan Gannon went off for a head-knock, which was a big shame as I was looking forward to seeing him strut his stuff in the NRL. The first half felt like a fairly even contest, but as the game progressed, the Warriors took control and never looked back. Once again, the forward pack laid the foundation. Time and time again, they rolled down the field, generating momentum and giving the halves the space they needed to operate, and when the pack keeps things rolling, it makes life much easier for the rest of the team. The team's fitness shone through, with them looking just as fresh in the final quarter as in the first, allowing them to maintain pressure and capitalise on scoring opportunities late in the match.

It wasn't a perfect performance, with the slow starts still something to address, but overall, there was a lot to like. The Warriors are continuing to build nicely, and with some player returns just around the corner, there is every reason to believe this team still has higher levels to reach; they just need to keep their heads in check and not buy into thier own hype, which is an issue we have seen derail several NRL clubs in the past.

There was plenty to smile about, which brings me to my positives.

Match Positives

In what has seemingly become part of the 2026 Warriors' DNA, the forwards impressed again. Laying the foundations for the halves to exploit the Knights' defence. Four players hit my target of over 100 metres, with Jackson Ford leading the way with a massive 236 metres, followed by James Fisher-Harris (162m), Erin Clark (138m) and Mitch Barnett (121). Marata Niukore (94m) and Jacob Laban (93m) were not far off either. It's been awesome to watch this pack get to work and refuse to take a back step. If they can keep this level up, then the Warriors could find themselves a genuine title contender.

It was another strong second half. After building a solid 12-point lead in the first 40, the Warriors came out strong in the 2nd outscoring the Knights 20-6. their ability to keep up pressure, support each other in attack and defence while their opposition tires highlights not only their physical preparation but also their mental focus. These second-half performances have become a hallmark of the Warriors in 2026, and the days of old, where teams knew they only had to worry about the Warriors for 60 minutes before outrunning them in the final 20, appear to be a thing of the past. 

Lastly, man, how great was it to see Mitch Barnett back. He brought energy, aggression and experience to the forward pack. His carries were strong, as mentioned above, running for 121 metres and also showing some nice touches, including putting Ford over for his try. Defensively, he was just as impressive, making crucial tackles. While he will be leaving the club at the end of this season, he clearly has not put his cue in the rack and intends to leave on a high note. His presence adds stability and leadership, and the Warriors should build to the next level with him back on the pitch.

However, I did have a concern, which brings me to my negative from the game.

Match Negatives

The only real concern I had was the Warriors' start to the match. For the second game in a row, they conceded points within the first five minutes. While the team quickly settles into the game and dominates for the next 75 minutes, as they did against the Raiders, giving up early points puts unnecessary pressure on the side and could prove costly against stronger opponents. Tightening up those opening sets and showing sharper focus from the first whistle will be key if the Warriors want to keep adding to thier winning streak.

Warrior of the Match

My Warrior of the Match goes to Tanah Boyd.

Boyd continues to impress me week after week and once again played a key role in controlling the game from start to finish. He constantly challenged the defensive line, running 13 times for 125 metres, scoring a try, and breaking the line twice. His playmaking was just as impressive, finishing with a line-break assist and two try assists, as his running game created opportunities and opened space for his teammates. Boyd’s kicking game was also a major weapon, racking up 653 kicking metres to keep the Knights pinned in their own half, and he managed all of this while making just one error. Performances like this highlight just how confident and composed he is becoming in the halves. If he continues playing at this level, it will give Andrew Webster a real selection headache when Luke Metcalf returns from injury.

Warrior to Improve

I don’t have a single Warrior to call out for the second week in a row because none of the 17 that featured let the team down, or they simply 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

Round 4 sees the Warriors return home to host the Wests Tigers, who went down 20-16 to the Rabbitohs this Round, and also could make the trip to Auckland without Adam Doueihi and Jarome Luai after both picked up injuries in the defeat.

Regarding the team I would pick, I would bring Chanel Harris-Tavita back in for Luke Hanson. I am not sure what you do with Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, as I think Taine Tuaupiki has been playing too well to lose the fullback spot, so perhaps I would go with CNK coming in at centre for Leiataua (although I think Ali has picked his game up since that Round 1 effort, so it would be a tough call). The pack stays the same, Gannon will be out, but Halasima will move back into that spot.

The Tigers have come into 2026 with a new mindset and seem to have embraced playing "Benji Ball", which makes for an entertaining matchup as they are willing to move the ball and take risks in attack. However, consistency remains a key challenge, and the absence of Jarome Luai and Adam Doueihi raises questions about how effectively they can execute that style.

For the Warriors to get the win here, it's a rinse-and-repeat of what has been working for them in the first three weeks: control the middle, apply pressure, and execute their opportunities when they come.  Wrap the Tigers up to stop their second-phase footy, which can rip teams' defensive lines to shreds. If the Warriors stay disciplined defensively and take their opportunities when they arise, the Warriors should put themselves in the driver's seat for a 4-0 start to their campaign, which is what I am backing, so the Warriors to win by 20.

So, that was a satisfying Round 3, but as usual, I will leave you with some questions.

What would you do with Tuaupiki and CNK?

Which area of the Warriors game do you think needs the most improvement?

Who was your player of the match? 

What is your score prediction against the Tigers?

NZ Warriors 2026 Round 2 Review: Warriors’ Second-Half Surge Sinks Raiders

After their strong Round 1 victory over the Roosters, the Warriors stayed at home to host the Raiders, who were coming off a Golden Point win against the Sea Eagles in Round 1.

Played in wet conditions, the Warriors proved far too strong. They ran in 40 unanswered points, including 34 in the second half, to cruise to a 40–6 victory and improve their record to 2–0.

What Went Down

The Raiders struck first in the 4th minute after an early penalty against Jacob Laban handed them excellent field position. Crisp ball-playing from Joe Tapine and Ethan Sanders opened up the defensive line, sending Kaeo Weekes through a yawning gap to score the opening try of the contest.

Despite losing Kurt Capewell in the warm-up and later Chanel Harris-Tavita to a Category 1 HIA after connecting with the hip of Noah Martin, the hosts managed to respond. The Raiders’ discipline began to slip, and the Warriors capitalised in the 13th minute. A smooth shift to the right edge created space for Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, who slid underneath the scrambling defence to score in the corner.

Points remained hard to come by in a grinding first half, but the Warriors managed to draw level in the 33rd minute when Tanah Boyd slotted a penalty goal after a late tackle from Hudson Young on replacement Taine Tuaupiki. The kick brought the scores even and ensured the sides went into the break locked together.

The second half began perfectly for the home side. Just after the restart, in the 41st minute, an ill-timed Raiders pass was picked off by Ali Leiataua, who intercepted the ball and raced away to score, handing the Warriors a lead they would never relinquish.

Momentum continued to build when Boyd produced a clever grubber in the 48th minute. The kick sat up perfectly for the chasing Leka Halasima, who won the race to the ball and grounded it in the in-goal to extend the advantage.

From there, the final twenty minutes belonged entirely to the Warriors. Their defensive pressure paid off just after the hour mark, forcing another Raiders error deep in their own end. In the 62nd minute, some terrific ball-playing from Erin Clark drew in the defence and created space for Jackson Ford, who powered over the line.

The match was effectively sealed in the 67th minute when Halasima grabbed his second. Receiving early ball on the edge, the young back-rower fended away from multiple defenders and stormed his way to the try line.

Boyd capped off an excellent individual performance in the 74th minute with a memorable solo effort. After a 40/20 turned the pressure back onto the Raiders, Boyd put a grubber through, which ricocheted off several legs before Clark kicked the ball back, straight into Boyd’s path for the halfback to slam down. The finishing touch came in the 77th minute. Boyd again targeted the edge with a well-placed cross-field kick toward Savelio Tamale. Watene-Zelezniak timed his leap perfectly, soaring above the contest to grab his second try of the night and cap off a dominant performance from the Warriors.

My Thoughts

Well, that was another unexpected surprise. I had predicted a Warriors victory; however, I was expecting a tight tussle. I came into this match nervous, as it was on my birthday, the Warriors had never won a match on the 13th of March before, and I could not be happier that they broke that hoodoo in such a big way.

For much of the first half, the contest was fairly even; both sides were battling the elements and struggling to build momentum. However, the second half is where the game truly opened up. The Warriors piled on 34 points after the break, turning this into a very one-sided match. The conditions were horrible, but the Warriors handled them better than the Raiders. Thier patience stood out as the match progressed; they resisted the urge to force plays and instead built pressure through solid sets and field position. Once that pressure became too much, the Raiders simply struggled to keep up.

Just like last week, the Warriors pack laid the platform, winning the middle consistently, all the more impressive given that James Fisher-Harris had to leave the field for an HIA test. This saw the spine take control of the match, with Taine Tuaupiki making the most of his opportunity after the early exit of Chanel Harris-Tavita. With Tanah Boyd stepping up once again, the points started to flow.

Defensively, there was also plenty to like. The Raiders are a hard team to keep to a low score. Besides a soft try in the early stages and some issues restricting thier offload game, the Warriors did a great job limiting thier opportunites and driving the Raiders' players back to keep them on the back foot.

It wasn't a flawless performance by any means, with plenty of areas for improvement, and with a few stars nearing a return soon, we should see the Warriors take another level, which is an exciting prospect for what 2026 could deliver.

There was plenty to smile about, which brings me to my positives.

Match Positives

The most impressive aspect of the performance was the Warriors’ second-half dominance. After heading into the break locked at 6–6, they returned with greater control and intent, eventually piling on 34 unanswered points. Their fitness and composure stood out as the game wore on, as they continued to build pressure before striking repeatedly once the momentum shifted in their favour.

Another encouraging aspect of the performance was the Warriors’ resilience in the face of early disruption. With late injury concerns heading into the match and an early concussion forcing a reshuffle during the game, the side could easily have lost its structure. Instead, the Warriors adapted well, maintaining their composure and continuing to control the contest. The way they reorganised and stayed disciplined highlighted the group's leadership, belief in each other, and ability to manage the game despite setbacks.

Defensively, the Warriors grew into the match and became increasingly physical as it progressed. Their line speed and contact through the middle made it difficult for the Raiders to build any rhythm in attack. By consistently winning the collision and driving Canberra backwards, the Warriors were able to shut down their momentum and create the platform for their dominant second-half surge.

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

Match Negatives

Despite the convincing result, the Warriors’ edge defence still had a few shaky moments. The Raiders were able to create space out wide on several occasions and looked dangerous when shifting the ball. The wet conditions prevented some of those opportunities from turning into clean breaks or tries, but against stronger attacking teams in better conditions, those defensive gaps could be punished more consistently.

Another area the Warriors will want to tighten up is limiting second-phase play through the middle. At times, the Raiders kept the ball alive with offloads, allowing them to maintain momentum during certain sets. While it didn’t translate into many points, Canberra finished the match with 13 offloads to the Warriors’ 2, highlighting how often they extended their plays. Against stronger attacking teams, allowing that much second-phase football could put far more pressure on the defensive line.

Lastly, the Warriors have a growing injury toll. With Kurt Capewell and Chanel Harris-Tavita both ruled out and added to the casualty ward, the side is starting to feel the strain. The new extended bench has helped, allowing talents like Taine Tuaupiki to step into the contest and make an impact, but the Warriors will need a bit of luck in the injury department if they hope to remain genuine contenders later in the season. Managing the workload and keeping key players available will be crucial as the campaign progresses.

Warrior of the Match

My Warrior of the Match goes to Jackson Ford.

Ford could have easily been our selection last week, but I went with Tanah Boyd, and this week it was a toss-up between the two again. In the end, Ford’s performance was impossible to ignore. He played 76 minutes, leading the forwards with 154 metres from 16 carries, including six powerful tackle-breaks. He also topped the tackle count with 37 and scored a crucial try that helped swing momentum firmly in the Warriors’ favour. Ford has always been reliable to put in the hard yards, but in the past, silly errors and occasional lapses in discipline have held him back a little. It’s clear he has worked hard on eliminating those mistakes from his game, and the Warriors are reaping the rewards. His outstanding output has also helped reduce the hole left by Mitch Barnett’s current injury, giving the side greater stability through the middle.

Warrior to Improve

I don’t have a single Warrior to call out this week because none of the 17 that featured let the team down, or they simply 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

Round 3 sees the Warriors head across the ditch for the first time in 2026 to face the Knights, who defeated the Sea Eagles 36-16, but it was at a cost, with both Kalyn Ponga and Dylan Brown suffering injuries, which should see them miss this clash against the Warriors.

Regarding the team I would pick, both Kurt Capewell and Chanel Harris-Tavita will miss this match. Halasima keeps that starting second-row spot, and I would move Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad into five-eighth, as I prefer his experience to Luke Hanson's, plus it allows Taine Tuaupiki to play at fullback. The only other change depends on whether Mitch Barnett is available for selection. If he is ready to go, then Tanner Stowers-Smith gets dropped, despite his strong showing.

The Knights have looked good in thier back-to-back wins in the first two rounds, but the losses of Ponga and Brown take a lot of wind out of their sails. That does not make them easy beats, though, with strike weapons like Bradman Best, Dominic Young and Greg Marzhew all ready to break a game apart at will. 

For the Warriors to get the win here, it's not a surprise, it's the same plan we saw against the Raiders, they need their pack to control the middle of the field again, get those quick play the balls, and give thier halves as much time as possible to play thier pressure-based game. On the other side of the ball, they need to have a quick kick chase, communicate when the Knights shift the ball and wrap up the ball carrier to eliminate the offloads. If they can tick all those boxes, they should move to 3-0, which is what I am predicting, with the Warriors winning by 18.

So, that was a dominant Round 2, but as usual, I will leave you with some questions.

Which Warriors player stood out to you the most?

With CHT missing this week, who would be your 6?

How confident are you that this is the Warriors' standard now?

What is your score prediction against the Knights?

NZ Warriors 2026 Round 1 Review: Warriors Make Early Statement in Roosters Rout

With the preseason now behind us, the NRL season is underway, and Round 1 saw the New Zealand Warriors open their campaign at home against the Sydney Roosters.

The Warriors wasted no time getting started, dominating the Roosters on their way to a comfortable 42–18 victory.

What Went Down

The home side struck first in the 10th minute when Tanah Boyd dummied at the line and slid over near the posts to finish off a strong early period of pressure. Boyd converted his own try to give the Warriors an early 6–0 lead.

The Sydney Roosters hit back five minutes later. In the 15th minute, Billy Smith broke through on the left edge and found captain James Tedesco in support, who crossed for his 150th career try,  and his 100th for the club. Sam Walker converted to level the scores at 6 all.

That was as good as it got for the visitors in the opening half. The Roosters’ errors and repeated infringements put pressure on them, and the Warriors took full advantage. Adam Pompey was awarded a try in the 23rd minute after a lengthy bunker review, before Kurt Capewell sliced through on a sharp inside line off Chanel Harris-Tavita in the 27th minute.

The Warriors continued to build momentum when Harris-Tavita crossed himself in the 33rd minute, finishing a slick left-edge movement after Roger Tuivasa-Sheck created space out wide. With Boyd converting from the sideline, the Warriors surged to a 22–6 halftime lead, having dominated both territory and possession.

Any hopes of a Roosters comeback were dented almost immediately after the break when Leka Halasima snatched a Boyd kick to score at the 46th minute with his first touch of the ball to extend the lead. To their credit, the Roosters responded with a brief period of momentum. Smith finished neatly in the corner in the 50th minute, before Angus Crichton backed up a Tedesco break to score in the 55th minute, cutting the margin to 28–18 with more than 20 minutes still to play.

The Warriors steadied soon after. Boyd added a penalty goal in the 59th minute to push the lead back out and halt the Roosters’ momentum.

From there, the home side closed the contest out strongly. Harris-Tavita grabbed his second try in the 75th minute after clever aerial work from Tuivasa-Sheck, before Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad sealed the result with a late try in the 78th minute after breaking through on the right edge, seeing the Warriors end thier first game of the season in a commanding 42–18 victory.

My Thoughts

Well, that was not the performance I expected. I had predicted a Roosters win, mainly due to my concerns about the Warriors’ halves and the Roosters’ talent across the park. Thankfully, I was well off the mark.

The Warriors controlled the match from start to finish, and aside from a brief period in the second half, it never really felt like the Roosters were in the contest. It was far from a flawless performance, but when it comes to starting the season on the right foot, the Warriors certainly ticked that box.

It must also be said that the Roosters did themselves few favours. They were poor with the ball, making plenty of errors that continually handed the Warriors the momentum. Their discipline also left a lot to be desired, which kept them on the back foot for much of the night. While they spent plenty of time complaining about some of the calls that went against them, from my seat in the stadium, it felt like they were fortunate not to have conceded even more six-again rulings, given how often they were slowing the ruck.

With several key players still on the sidelines, the next-man-up mentality was on full display. Those called upon stepped up and did an excellent job. The young forwards helped the experienced heads maintain momentum, while Tanah Boyd produced one of his best performances to date. Out wide, the backs looked far more dangerous than they did in 2025 and combined well with strong support play.

Defensively, there were still a few issues that will need attention. However, keeping a side as talented as the Roosters to just a handful of somewhat fortunate tries is a solid start.

I’ll admit I’m still trying to wrap my head around the new interchange rule. At times, it felt like Andrew Webster was reluctant to make changes, but it’s early days, and everyone will be learning how the new rules affect game plans.

Overall, it was an impressive start to the season. If the Warriors can make this level of performance their baseline each week, it could turn into a very good year.

There was plenty to smile about, which brings me to my positives.

Match Positives

Once the Warriors gained momentum in the first half, they were ruthless. Tries to Adam Pompey, Kurt Capewell, and Chanel Harris-Tavita came from well-executed attacking shapes and strong support play, highlighting the cohesion between the spine and the edges. The ball movement was crisp, the timing of their runs created space, and they made the Roosters pay for defensive lapses. By halftime, the Warriors had turned their pressure into points and built a commanding lead that set the tone for the rest of the match. If they can maintain that level of attacking execution for the full 80 minutes each week, they should find themselves in the winner’s circle more often than not.

The Warriors’ middle forwards consistently won the ruck battle early, allowing the halves to play on the front foot. That platform gave the halves time and space to organise, making their shapes look far more structured and dangerous. The work through the middle was reflected in the numbers, with four forwards topping 100 running metres: Jackson Ford (218m), James Fisher-Harris (157m), Tanner Stowers-Smith (134m), and Erin Clark (128m). Their strong carries and quick play-the-balls helped the Warriors build pressure and keep the Roosters on the back foot for long periods.

When the Sydney Roosters scored twice and cut the margin to 10 points, the Warriors could easily have let the momentum swing further against them. Instead, they stayed composed, tightened up defensively, and focused on completing their sets. The penalty goal from Boyd helped steady things and halt the Roosters’ surge, before late tries allowed the Warriors to regain control and pull away on the scoreboard. It was an encouraging sign of maturity, especially after their composure slipped away at times in 2025.

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

Match Negatives

While the Warriors were generally solid defensively, they looked vulnerable when the Sydney Roosters were able to generate second-phase play. Offloads and broken-field situations briefly disrupted the Warriors’ defensive structure, particularly during the Roosters’ second-half fightback. When the defensive line was forced to scramble, players like James Tedesco were able to exploit the extra space and create opportunities. It didn’t cost the Warriors on the scoreboard in the end, but it was one of the few periods where the Roosters were able to apply genuine pressure. Tightening their control in the tackle and limiting offloads will be important moving forward, especially against sides that thrive on second-phase play.

The Warriors briefly lost momentum when the Roosters scored through Billy Smith and Angus Crichton. During this period, the defensive intensity dropped, and the line became stretched, allowing the Roosters back into the contest and putting unnecessary pressure on the Warriors’ attack. It showed that even when a team is playing well, a short lapse in focus can give opponents a foothold. Maintaining intensity and concentration for the full 80 minutes will be crucial if the Warriors want to limit these momentum swings and ensure that they close out games that get a bit too close for comfort.

While the Warriors dominated large parts of the game, the Roosters still found space on the edges at times, particularly when the defensive line was stretched or slow to shift. A few missed tackles and gaps in communication allowed the Roosters to make small gains that, if they didn't have issues with their ball handling, could have proved costly. This was an issue the Warriors struggled with last year as well, so it needs to be addressed immediately. With the next few rounds coming up against very capable sides who will look to exploit these weaknesses, improving spacing, sharpening slide defence, and tightening communication across the edges will be crucial.

Warrior of the Match

My Warrior of the Match goes to Tanah Boyd.

I’ll admit that Boyd was my biggest concern coming into this match. I’ve always thought he was a capable backup half, but he has been criticised for not always playing the most eyes-up style of footy. In this game, however, he more than answered those concerns. He took on the line far more often, finishing the night with 90 metres from 11 runs, and when he engaged the defensive line, it created opportunities for those around him.

He also made his mark on the scoreboard, scoring a well-taken try and setting up two more with some clever kicking. His general play kicking game was strong as well, finishing with 354 kicking metres. Defensively, he was reliable for a half, making 20 tackles with only three misses. Boyd has said he wants to prove he can hold onto the halfback role long term, and while I still think Luke Metcalf walks straight back into that spot when fit, performances like this might at least give Andrew Webster something to think about.

Warrior to Improve

My Warrior to improve is Ali Leiataua.

It was difficult to single out a Warrior to improve after such an impressive win, but I’ve gone with Ali Leiataua due to a couple of costly defensive lapses. He struggled at times marking Billy Smith, which led to the first two tries for the Sydney Roosters.

With the ball in hand, he was solid enough, finishing with 92 metres from eight runs, but if he wants to cement a regular first-grade spot, he’ll need to significantly improve his defensive positioning and decision-making. The competition for that centre spot isn’t particularly strong at the moment, so he should have time to work on those areas without immediate pressure on his place. That said, I’m still an advocate for shifting Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad to centre and bringing Taine Tuaupiki into the side at fullback.

Next Round Thoughts and Prediction

Round 2 sees the Warriors remain in Auckland, hosting the Raiders, who defeated the Sea Eagles 29-28 in Golden Point to kick off their season.

Regarding the team, I would pick the same side; no one played badly enough to be dropped, with the only change depending on whether Mitch Barnett is available for selection. If he is ready to go, then Tanner Stowers-Smith gets dropped, despite his strong showing.

The Raiders have been overlooked by many pundits during the preseason, with plenty suggesting the departure of Jamal Fogarty would prove costly. However, they looked impressive in Round One. It wasn’t a perfect performance, as they conceded a fair share of errors and penalties, although the poor conditions certainly didn’t help. One thing they did well was utilise second-phase footy, generating momentum through offloads. That’s an area the Warriors will need to tighten up quickly, as failing to shut that down could create problems.

The Raiders will lose a bit of experience and punch in the middle with Josh Papalii sidelined after failing his HIA, but this is still a quality side that shouldn’t be taken lightly.

For the Warriors to come out on top, they’ll need to start strongly and maintain their intensity for the full 80 minutes. Winning the middle through a dominant forward performance will be crucial, as will moving the ball well and sticking to their pressure-based game: kicking deep, chasing hard, and forcing the Raiders’ young halves to play under pressure.

It won’t be an easy contest, but I’m backing the Warriors to get the job done with a 12-point win.

So, that was an impressive Round 1, but as usual, I will leave you with some questions.

Who was your player of the day?

Would you make any changes to the 19?

How do you feel about the Warriors' chances this year?

What is your score prediction against the Raiders?

NZ Warriors 2026 Season Preview: The Next Step Forward or Stuck in the Middle?

We are finally here. The NRL is back, and the Round One start in Vegas is now just days away. 

Over the past few weeks, I’ve broken down the five players I believe will stand out in 2026, as well as the five who need to lift. Now, it’s time to look at the bigger picture and predict how the Warriors’ season will unfold.
As I did last year, this preview is split into key sections: a look at the preseason and trial results, my signing of the year, a breakdown of the 2026 squad, my predicted Round One 19, and finally, where I see the Warriors finishing on the ladder in 2026.

As always, these are just my thoughts and opinions. I’m keen to hear yours too, so let me know what you think and let’s talk some footy.

Preseason News: Rehab Room Full, Rule Book Revised

After a disappointing year in 2024, I came into the 2025 season down on confidence and predicted a 10th-place finish, however the Warriors started the year strong and, despite losing key figures like Mitch Barnett and Luke Metcalf, ended the year in 6th position before bowing out of the competition after losing to the Penrith Panthers in the first week of finals.

While fans were able to switch off over the offseason, the Warriors certainly didn’t. The club continued to strengthen its pathways, with strong programs in the Harold Matthews Cup, where they’re chasing a three-peat — as well as Jersey Flegg, SG Ball and NSW Cup. The NSW Cup side, fresh off bringing championship success in 2025, shapes as an early contender to go back-to-back.

The NRLW squad has also taken shape, with the signings of Gayle Broughton, Mele Hufanga, Annetta Nuuausala and Stacey Waaka significantly boosting their premiership credentials. These pathways and women’s programs are crucial to building sustained success, and while we’ve already seen promising young talent emerge, there’s plenty more ready to rise through the ranks.

The club also secured the signing of Alofiana Khan-Pereira, adding further strike power to the roster. He was included in a strong Warriors contingent selected for the 2026 All Stars match, alongside Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, Te Maire Martin, Jacob Laban, James Fisher-Harris and Adam Pompey, a clear reflection of the depth and quality building within the club.

The NRL was also busy in the offseason, announcing a batch of rule tweaks for 2026 that could subtly shift how teams approach games. Trainers are now limited to entering the field only in clearly defined situations, keeping player safety front and centre while reducing unnecessary stoppages. Interchange rules have also been adjusted: teams can now rotate four players up to eight times from a six-player bench, meaning coaches will have to be even smarter with their rotations and interchange selections. In-goal play has changed too, with the “zero tackle” ruling removing the automatic seven-tackle set after an accidental knock-on by the attacking side. Finally, certain infringements beyond the 20-metre line will now restart the tackle count, replacing the old 40-metre threshold, a subtle tweak that could influence field position strategies.

The Warriors fans continue to impress with thier support, selling out the June 21 match against the Cowboys in Christchurch in five days, five months before the game is even played. After selling out most of their Mt Smart games in 2025, you will imagine that they are on track to do it again in 2026. The team has to get results, of course, but if the fans continue to pack out any stadium they play in, it will make for an intimidating arena for their opposition, and I can't wait to be part of that atmosphere again.

The roster has had a few changes, but I will keep that for my 2026 squad section below.

Lastly, let's talk about the trials.

The first preseason outing saw the Warriors head down to Napier to face the Sea Eagles, where they went down 33-18. Despite several big names out due to injury or on All-Star duty, there was enough talent with first-grade experience to give the Warriors the edge; however, it was not to be, with an error-riddled performance keeping the Warriors on the back foot. They struggled to keep thier defensive line in check. They offered very little on attack, with most of their points coming from lucky breaks. The new signings didn't spark much confidence, with the only highlights for me being Demitric Vaimauga and Tanner Stowers-Smith, alongside a few of the youngsters showing a glimpse of thier potential in a few years. Not the best way to kick off 2026, but plenty of lessons to take.

The Warriors then wrapped up the trials by heading to Leichardt Oval to face the Dolphins, suffering another defeat, this time 38-34. A few more of the Warriors' stars appeared in this match against a near full-strength Dolphins team and while they did get rundown towards the end when the youngsters were all playing I felt it was a better effort, still too many errors and missed opportunties and poor defensive reads but the forwards were getting a roll on consistently and on the back of that Tanah Boyd and Luke Hanson looked more at ease in the halves putting togther some nice attacking phases with the backline, which the team needs to see more of with Luke Metcalf out for atleast the first six rounds. 

The trials were a bit hit-and-miss for me; it's hard to judge without the full-strength side playing the entire 80, but there were enough positives to take from those matches to let me come into the 2026 regular season nervous but slightly optimistic.

Key Signing: Morgan Gannon

Gannon is a forward who combines toughness, skill and a relentless work rate with strong defensive reliability. Initially brought in as a locking option, he now faces the challenge of forcing his way into a regular spot in the 17.

He has the engine to play big minutes and contribute on both sides of the ball, and a fresh start at the Warriors offers the perfect opportunity to rediscover his best form. If he can stay healthy, add more impact with the ball and develop into a consistent line-running threat in 2026, he could quietly become one of the side’s most dependable forwards, the type whose true value is measured by what the team gains when he’s on the field.

His trial form was mixed, with a quiet first outing followed by a much stronger second performance, where he set up a nice try for Wayde Egan and worked tirelessly through the middle. With confidence and time, I believe he has all the tools to deliver the impact he’s capable of.

2026 Squad: Depth To Be Tested Early

The Warriors saw a mass exodus at the end of 2025, with Bunty Afoa (Wests Tigers), Tom Ale (Panthers), Toby Crosby (Panthers), Kalani Going (Panthers), Moala Graham-Taufa (Rabbitohs), Edward Kosi (Rabbitohs), Freddy Lussick (Panthers) and Setu Tu (Dragons) all moving on. They also welcomed four new players with the signings of Morgan Gannon (Leeds Rhinos), Alofiana Khan-Pereira (Titans), Jye Linnane (Knights) and Haizyn Mellars (Rabbitohs).

The Warriors head into 2026 with a squad that retains its core strength from 2025 but will have its depth tested early on with Luke Metcalf, Mitch Barnett, Chanel Harris-Tavita, Marata Niukore, Te Maire Martin and Rocco Berry all in the casualty ward. We will all be waiting for Luke Metcalf to return but the players chosen to fill his boots in the early stages of the season will be pivotal to where the Warriors are sitting when they get to full strength, Wayde Egan will once again play a key role, providing the halves time and space to unlock the backline, and with the halves depth a bit light right now they will all need to stay healthy as the Warriors can't afford any more injuries.

In the backline, you have the experienced heads that will lead the way, with Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, and with Taine Tuaupiki, Alofiana Khan-Pereira and Haizyn Mellars in the squad, there is competition for spots, so hopefully that means we will see a lift from all the outside backs. The centres are trickier with Adam Pompey, the only lock-in each week. Ali Leiataua has plenty of potential but needs to stay on the field, and Rocco Berry needs to stay injury-free this year, or the Warriors may need to cut their losses and move on.

The forward pack remains a major strength for the Warriors, offering both power and defensive solidity in the middle. James Fisher-Harris and Mitch Barnett (when he returns) must set the platform and lead the way. Jackson Ford, Kurt Capewell, Erin Clark and Marata Niukore will all need to dig in and help the Co-Captains and set an example for the youngsters in the roster. We saw growth from players like Leka Halasima, Demitric Vaimauga, and Jacob Laban last year. They will need to find another level this season as they will be looked at to contribute more, and the likes of Morgan Gannon, Tanner Stowers-Smith, and Eddie Ieremia-Toeava may have to bide thier time. Still, when given their chances, they will need to hit the ground running.

My Round One 19 was tough to pick, and I've had to make some assumptions about players' availability. Chanel Harris-Tavita, Mitch Barnett and Marata Niukore have all been left out by me, as we have had no certain news on whether they will be ready to go in Round 1. I've kept Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad at fullback, although I am in the camp to move him to the centres, giving Taine Tuaupiki a chance out the back, but with the current outs, I'm sticking with experience. On the wings, I'm going with last year's picks in Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak. DWZ is on a short leash, with AKP a straight swap if DWZ's form doesn't pick up. For the centres, I've selected Ali Leiataua and Adam Pompey. Ali showed some good moments in both trials, and Pompey is the best option consistently right now and deserves his spot. In the halves, I've gone with the two we saw in both trials in Tanah Boyd and Luke Hanson. If CHT is fit, then he slots in for Hanson, but they are the best the Warriors have for those spots right now.

The forward pack selects itself, I've gone with a James Fisher-Harris, Wayde Egan and Jackson Ford front row as it seems logical. In the second row, it was a bit harder, but I went with Kurt Capewell and Jacob Laban, with Laban showing more in the All Stars and trials than Leka Halasima. Erin Clark takes the lock spot after such a strong 2025 and solid enough outings in the trials.

The bench is the toughest part, with so many talented players left to pick from, and figuring out how to use the six-man bench. I've gone with Sam Healey as my bench hooker. I think a combination of him and Egan each week will keep opposition defences on their toes. My bench props, Demitric Vaimauga and Tanner Stowers-Smith, after the trials, look to be the next best middles. Then I've gone for Leka Halasima as my final traditional interchange player; his X-Factor was on full display in 2025, and the Warriors will be looking to him to create many more highlight reel moments this season. Then, for the final two spots, I've gone with Morgan Gannon as an overall forward cover and Taine Tuaupiki as my outside back cover.

My 2026 Prediction

Continuing my season preview trend, I was wrong last season when I predicted the Warriors would finish 10th.

It's a mixed bag across the ditch with the NRL Pundits; some believe the Warriors can be a finals contender, while others are predicting them to be a bottom-four side.

The early injuries and a tough beginning to the draw do have me worried, but I think this side can definitely be a finals side in 2026.

The pundits have rated the Warriors one of the more favourable draws, but it looks tough to me with the Warriors facing the Broncos, Panthers and Sharks twice. They have only 10 matches against sides from last year's top 8. Still, most fans will see the draw as before Metcalf and after Metcalf, with clashes in the first six rounds looking tough against the Roosters, Raiders, Sharks and Storm, all ready to derail the season before it even begins. Travel-wise, they dodge the tough trips to Townsville and Canberra for the second year in a row and get to start the season with back-to-back games at Mount Smart; however, there is a seven-week span where the Warriors will not be at Mount Smart, from Round 8 through to Round 14 (two of those Rounds being byes).

The Byes are all grouped together in the middle of the year, with the Warriors sitting out Round 10, 14 and 18. This sees them end the year with an unbroken nine-game stretch, which could test the squad's health.

If the Warriors can pick up a few wins in the first six weeks, stay injury-free, and build momentum in time for Metcalf to return, the Warriors put themselves in the driver's seat to make a strong run at the backend of the season and remain in the hunt for finals football. That said, this season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent years, with so many sides looking better than they were in 2025, making my attempt at predictions difficult. I've had a sixth-place finish in mind for the Warriors for months, and I'm sticking with my gut. While they have the potential to improve and push for higher honours, so do many other teams. So, my prediction for 2026? Sixth place.

What I want to see from the Warriors is simple: stay healthy and consistently deliver what we all know they can do on the pitch. Keep the pressure on every side they face and never quit for the entire 80. If they can do that, more often than not, they will walk away winners.

So, let's bring on the season. I'm looking forward to finally having footy back, and while a first-up match-up against the Roosters is nerve-racking, I can't wait to get back to Mount Smart.

Once again, I will be writing weekly game reviews and releasing them every Monday throughout the season. I will also attend all the Warriors games at Mt Smart as well as the game in Wellington, so if you are there, come say hi.

I'm also continuing to host my show, The Stand-Off, on New Zealand Sport Radio with my good friend Richie every Wednesday night at 8pm NZ time, so come join us there as we discuss everything going on in League and answer your questions live. I'm sure I will still be joining several other podcasts focused on Warriors content throughout the year, so be sure to keep an eye or ear out for me on all platforms.

If you like what I do here, please share my blog with your friends and comment on how you think the season will go.

So that's my take on the Warriors' upcoming season, and I just can't wait for Round One. As usual, I will leave you with some questions.

How is your confidence after the Trials? 

Which player do you think will be the standout performer? 

Who would be in your gameday 19? 

Where do you think the Warriors will finish in 2026?

My Five Warriors That Must Improve In 2026

After last week’s list of players tipped to stand out in 2026, it’s now time to look at the five Warriors who have the most to prove this season. Only one player from last year’s list appears again, showing how things have shifted heading into the new campaign.
This group features players who need to lift certain areas of their game or finally deliver on their potential if the Warriors are to compete at the top level. Once again, the names are listed in no particular order.

1. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak starts the list for 2026.

Injuries and inconsistency made 2025 a frustrating season for Dallin Watene-Zelezniak following his outstanding form the year prior. When fit, his finishing ability and strong carries out of trouble remained valuable, but he struggled to build momentum and, at times, couldn’t replicate the impact that once made him one of the competition’s most dangerous wingers, ending the year with only 7 tries from 16 games. Errors and a lack of confidence kept him on the backfoot and defensive issues on his edge, while not always solely his fault, also became a talking point, with fans often nervously watching whenever opposition attacks were directed his way.

Heading into 2026, Watene-Zelezniak’s priority will be staying healthy and rediscovering the high-involvement style that made him so effective. The Warriors need him to consistently lead the yardage battle, finish opportunities, and make strong defensive reads on the edge. A full preseason and improved durability could see him return to being one of the side’s most important outside backs, but he’ll need to ensure his performances once again match the high standards he previously set, or he may find himself out of contention with several eager players ready to take his spot.

2. Rocco Berry

Rocco Berry endured a frustrating, injury-disrupted 2025, managing just nine appearances and playing the full 80 minutes only five times. In his limited time on the field, he scored three tries, recorded 12 tackle breaks and two line breaks, and made 115 tackles at 85.8% efficiency, while averaging 64 running metres per game. However, seven errors and his inability to stay consistently available again stalled his progress. The club has shown plenty of patience in his development, but with competition for centre spots increasing, Berry now finds himself under real pressure to deliver.

For Berry to take the next step in 2026, consistency and durability will be crucial. Improving his defensive reads, building stronger combinations with his winger, and becoming more assertive with the ball in hand will all be key areas of focus. The talent is clearly there, but the challenge now is turning those occasional standout performances into reliable week-to-week output. If he cannot maintain his fitness in 2026, the Berry experiment may have to come to an end

3. Chanze Nicoll-Klokstad

Perhaps the most controversial pick on my list, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, remained one of the Warriors' hardest workers in 2025, playing 22 games and providing a steady presence at fullback. He scored two tries, set up four more, broke 80 tackles, made six line breaks, and averaged 186 running metres per game. While his effort and work rate were never in question, I have him on this list because his attacking impact remains limited, and he lacks the X-factor to consistently trouble top sides.

In 2026, Nicoll-Klokstad will need to add greater attacking involvement to complement his work rate, particularly in support play and ball-playing around the ruck. Becoming a greater creative threat and injecting himself into attacking sets could help elevate both his own game and the team’s attacking structure. With competition for spine spots always looming, adding another dimension to his game could prove crucial for maintaining his role as the Warriors’ starting fullback.

4. Marata Niukore

For the second year in a row, Marata Niukore has made this list. His 2025 season was solid, but he didn’t perform consistently enough or add the impact his paycheque would suggest. Whether through the middle or on the edge, he brought effort and physicality, yet didn’t always impose himself on games as his talent demands. Occasional lapses in discipline and defensive mistakes at key moments also hurt the team in tight contests.

In 2026, Niukore’s challenge will be to turn reliability into impact. Running with greater intent, tightening his defensive reads, and leading through his actions up front could lift the pack’s overall performance. With several younger forwards all vying for his spot, he needs to deliver at his aggressive, damaging best, or be prepared to step aside for those ready to make their mark.

5. Kurt Capewell

Kurt Capewell brought experience and professionalism throughout 2025, but his impact was inconsistent at times. While he offered versatility and defensive stability, there were stretches where his attacking contributions were limited, and he struggled to consistently influence games—especially when the team relied on senior players to step up in tough moments. In his defence, being moved between the second row and the centre didn’t help him settle into a rhythm.

In 2026, Capewell will need to combine his experience with stronger on-field leadership, while also increasing his attacking involvement through sharper lines and improved ball-playing on the edge. As one of the squad’s senior figures, setting standards through both performance and communication will be crucial. A more assertive season could not only elevate his own game but also help the younger players around him raise their level.

So those were my picks for the Warriors players who need a big 2025. Next up is my season preview, but it will have to wait until the preseason games are complete. In that, I will cover the preseason news, the current roster, who my gameday 17 would be, and how I think the Warriors will fare in 2025. Until then, let me know what you think about my choice and who you think needs to improve the most in 2026.