The Warriors have won a thrilling game against the Cronulla Sharks at Westpac Stadium in Wellington.
MATCH DETAILS
The Sharks were determined to get a win, after falling just short over the last few weeks. Issac Luke was the first to score points in the game, kicking a penalty goal for the Warriors. However, just a few minutes later, Cronulla’s Briton Nikora scored a try while Shaun Johnson converts. Chad Townsend followed up with a try of his own a few minutes later, giving the Sharks a ten-point lead in the opening 15 minutes of the match.
Blake Green went over for the Warriors in the 24thminute of the game, making it a four-point difference between the sides. The Sharks went to the break leading 12-8.
The second half began in a similar fashion to the first, with Issac Luke kicking a penalty goal for the Warriors, then a few minutes later, Sosaia Feki scored a try for Cronulla – their final points of the game. In the final 20 minutes of the game, Kodi Nikorima scored a try, a penalty goal was kicked, and Blake Green kicked a field goal to win the game for the Warriors.
The Warriors won against the Sharks 19-18 in Wellington.
FOUR POINTERS
Too Many Errors
The Sharks’ errors have once again proven to be an important factor in their loss to the Warriors. Completing at 73 per cent, Cronulla put pressure on themselves rather than their opposition, giving away possession and good field position, resulting ultimately in a win for their opposition.
Possession is Key
The Warriors had plenty of possession throughout the game, which led to good field position and ultimately, the points they needed to win the game. Though, in saying that, they should have scored more tries – the Sharks’ defense prevented them from doing so.
Season on the Line
Five losses in a row, the Sharks are giving themselves plenty to improve on, but they’re running out of time to do it. Four of their last five, they have scored more tries than their opposition, however, have gone on to lose. This is concerning for the club, and something needs to be done immediately if they hope for a chance in the top eight.
Warriors Did Just Enough
Despite the win, the Warriors didn’t have their most fantastic game. It was a solid effort, however, not their best. They had plenty of possession and good opportunities but didn’t score as many points as they could have. The game showed positive signs and could be a confidence boost for the Warriors going forward.
THE RESULT
NZ Warriors 19
Tries: Blake Green, Kodi Nikorima
Goals: Issac Luke 3, Chanel Harris-Tavita 2
Field Goals: Blake Green
Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks 18
Tries: Briton Nikora, Chad Townsend, Sosaia Feki
Goals: Shaun Johnson 3
SQUADS
Warriors: 1. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, 2. Adam Pompey, 3. Peta Hiku, 4. Gerard Beale, 5. Blake Ayshford, 6. Kodi Nikorima, 7. Blake Green, 8. Agnatius Paasi, 9. Issac Luke, 10. Leeson Ah Mau, 11. Adam Blair, 12. Isaiah Papali’I, 13. Jazz Tevaga, 14. Lachlan Burr, 15. Sam Lisone, 16. Bunty Afoa, 17. Chanel Harris-Tavita
Sharks: 1. Matt Moylan, 2. Sosaia Feki, 3. Bronson Xerri, 4. Kurt Capewell, 21. Ronaldo Mulitalo, 6. Shaun Johnson, 7. Chad Townsend, 8. Andrew Fifita, 9. Jayden Brailey, 10. Aaron Woods, 11. Briton Nikora, 12. Scott Sorensen, 13. Paul Gallen, 14. Blayke Brailey, 15. Jack Williams, 16. Braden Hamlin-Uele, 17. Matt Prior
