The Warriors have slipped to sixth on the NRLW ladder after a 30-22 defeat to Wests Tigers in Round 7 at CommBank Stadium.

A three-try burst late in the first half from the Warriors negated the Tigers’ dominant opening 25 minutes, while another surge in the second stanza levelled the scores at 22-all.

But the Tigers held their composure in the latter stages. Faythe Manera scored a go-ahead try with five minutes left before a a penalty goal from star Kiwi halfback Raecene McGregor put the result beyond doubt.

The Warriors spent most of the first half on their heels and trailed 16-0 after a try to Tigers fullback Caitlin Turnbull, and consecutive four-pointers to centre Lilly Rogan.

But a superb finish to winger Tysha Ikenasio put the Warriors on the board in the 28th minute, before centre Stacey Waaka speared through four minutes later from five-eighth Emmanita Paki’s inside ball. The Warriors cut the halftime deficit to four points on the bell, with superb lead-up work from Apii Nicholls and Kaiyah Atai sending Paki on a 60-metre sprint to the line.

Points proved harder for both teams to come by for the majority of the second half, but winger Namoe Gesa reached out for an important try 11 minutes after the resumption to give the Tigers a 22-12 advantage.

The Warriors levelled up with two tries in four minutes, however, firstly with quick hands from Nicholls, Paki and Waaka sending Ikenasio in for her seventh try of the season. A barnstorming solo effort from lock Atai made it 22-all with 10 minutes left but the Warriors were unable to maintain that momentum.

Goalkicking proved crucial in a match that finished five tries apiece, with Patricia Maliepo managing just one conversion from four attempts (Nicholls missed the other). The halfback-turned-hooker has kicked 12 from 32 in 2026 (37.5 percent).

Waaka (13 runs for 110 metres, one try, two try assists, seven tackle-breaks) was a clear standout, but fellow gun ex-Broncos centre Mele Hufaga struggled to having an impact — the strike weapon making just six runs for 32 metres.

Atai (10 runs for 84 metres, two line-breaks, one try assist, 24 tackles) and Harata Butler (11 runs for 112 metres, three tackle-breaks, 15 tackles) again performed strongly in the pack.

It’s crunch time for the Warriors this Sunday as they head to Sydney again to take on the undefeated, ladder-leading Sydney Roosters at Allianz Stadium.

NRLW — ROUND 7: Wests Tigers 30 defeated Warriors 22 (Tysha Ikenasio 2, Stacey Waaka, Emmanita Paki, Kaiyah Atai tries; Patricia Maliepo goal) at CommBank Stadium, Sydney.

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A fruitful day at Brookvale Oval for our teams in the NSWRL competitions, albeit a bit shakier than hoped for against low-ranked Manly sides after getting outscored in the second half of both games.

The Warriors have maintained their spot in the NSW Cup’s top five via an unexpectedly hard-fought 18-12 win over last-placed Manly at 4 Pines Park on Saturday.

After conceding the first try to a Sea Eagles side that has won just one game in 2026, the Warriors took control with a three-try burst in the space of 11 minutes midway through the first half. But the visitors were held scoreless in the second half, with Manly reducing the Warriors’ lead to six points— which they successfully defended for the last 24 minutes of the match.

Jye Linnane’s electric form at left centre continued with a brilliant try to open the Warriors’ account in the 21st minute and crashing over from a Luke Laulilii offload to notch his team’s third.

Linnane finished with 161 metres, three line-breaks and 11 tackle-breaks.

Gold Coast-bound Luke Hanson gave his chances of being recalled to NRL level in the wake of Luke Metcalf’s latest injury a massive boost, having a nice hand in both of Linnane's tries either side of his own superb solo four-pointer.

Potential halves debutant Jett Cleary

Laulilii racked up a game-high 219 metres from 21 carries to keep his name in the first-grade mix, as did prop Riley Price with 22 runs for 174 metres and a game-high 42 tackles.

David Tangata-Toa’s side now prepares for a Redfern Oval showdown with eighth-placed South Sydney in the penultimate round next Saturday.

NSW CUP — ROUND 24: Warriors 18 (Jye Linnane 2, Luke Hanson tries; Jett Cleary 3 goals) at Manly Sea Eagles 12 at 4 Pines Park, Sydney.

The Warriors’ Jersey Flegg side survived a second-half fightback from Manly to eke out a 26-24 victory at 4 Pines Park on Saturday afternoon and snap a three-game losing run.

Leading 22-6 at one stage, the Warriors conceded three of the last four tries but hung tough after being pegged back to two points with 10 minutes left.

Props Tepatasi Laumalili and Emosi Ravosai crashed over from close range inside the first 20 minutes, before prolific winger Brandon Norris produced a brilliant finish in the right-hand corner.

Second-rower Dezman Laban ran a good line to score the Warriors’ fourth, after which the Sea Eagles began their rally.

A late inclusion on the wing, Jeriah Vagana-Malaitai finished off a crucial 64th-minute try on the back of a Mark Sikuvea intercept and long run from halfback and captain Jack Thompson.

Despite the drought-breaking win, the Warriors are out of finals contention with two rounds remaining, sitting five points outside the top five in eighth place. They face a still-in-contention Souths outfit at Redfern Oval next Saturday.

JERSEY FLEGG CUP — ROUND 24: Warriors 26 (Tepatasi Lamalili, Emosi Ravosai, Brandon Norris, Dezman Laban, Jeriah Vagana-Malaitai tries; Harry Inch 3 goals) defeated Manly Sea Eagles 24 at 4 Pines Park, Sydney.

The Warriors overcame a sin bin and a game-ending injury to a pair of their recently restored spine stars to pump the Broncos 40-6. Accordingly, a host of players kept up their stellar season averages in TWL’s Kingz Container Crew player ratings.

1 CHARNZE NICOLL-KLOKSTAD: Sent to the bin after 17 minutes for a hip drop that will likely see him suspended, CNK returned at five-eighth and played a starring role. Soared to take a kick and score the first try of the second half and had a hand in Leiataua’s four-pointer, while his match highlight — a line-break and assist for Sam Healey to race away — was called back for a teammate’s obstruction. But very solid with 11 runs for 139 metres and 18 tackles. 7

2 DALLIN WATENE-ZELENZIAK: The veteran’s quietest game in weeks after a string of 200-metres-plus performances, though 13 carries for 140 metres in a big win is nothing to sneeze at. Got his chance to shine with a spellbinding aerial putdown in teh second half — his 19th try in 20 games. 7

3 ALI LEIATAUA: A scratchy first half that included a simple error coming out of yardage, but atoned after the break by sending DWZ in and powering over for his own try soon after. Finished with 11 runs for 123 metres and 19 tackles with just one miss. 7.5

4 LEKA HALASIMA: Fewer chances to shine than his previous two appearances at centre, yet still finished with 15 runs for 127 metres and a team-high five tackle-breaks. Great kick-chase and grabbed the spotlight in the last five minutes with a grassing tackle on star opposite Kotoni Staggs, an in-goal clean-up and a late try — all with the taste of pickle juice in his mouth as he battled cramp. 7.5

5 ALOFIANA KHAN-PEREIRA: Racked up a game-high 196 metres — largely thanks to his sizzling 90-metre intercept try off a Reece Walsh pass, a crucial play with his team only just down to 12 men. Strong on his other nine carries and error-free. 7.5

6 CHANEL HARRIS-TAVITA: A hot-stepping try and a rib-rattling hit on Tom Duffy made for a highlight-heavy first half for CHT. Jumped into the halves hotseat after Metcalf’s injury with poise, putting the pinpoint kick up for CNK’s try and having a key hand in Leiataua’s and Halasima’s. Guided the team well in general for the last hour. 8

7 LUKE METCALF: The melodrama continues. Metcalf made a strong start returning to the scene of his 2025 ACL heartbreak, helping lay on CHT’s try. But the sub-70-percent goalkicker did a hammy slotting the conversion of AKP’s intercept try and immediately hobbled off Suncorp Stadium for the second time in as many visits. A crushing blow in the wake of his spectacular NRL return against the Panthers and a genuine dent to premiership prospects that seemingly went through the roof after that game…but apparently another sorry chapter in the career narrative of one of the competition’s most injury-prone stars. 5

8 JAMES FISHER-HARRIS: Another solid captain’s knock from Jimmy Fish, racking up 15 runs for 117 metres and 27 tackles. Typically ferocious intent on both sides of the ball and fired a long ball in the lead-up to Leiataua scoring. 7

9 WAYDE EGAN: Another crafty hour on the park for the dummy-half puppeteer. Brilliant work to lay on the opener for Laban, probed for 57 metres on seven runs and reeled off 23 tackles as he helped orchestrate a huge lead before getting an early mark at 36-0. 7.5

10 MITCH BARNETT: The front-runner for the lion’s share of the Dally M votes after overshadowing fellow NSW bookend Payne Haas and even his co-captain. A mighty 154 metres (second among all players) — including a game-high 65 post-contact — and made 32 aggressive tackles. A high-quality preview of what the Broncos can expect in 2027. 8.5

11 KURT CAPEWELL: A quiet one with the ball (six runs for 40 metres) but made 28 tackles and was in the thick of the clean-up work as per. 6

12 JACOB LABAN: Ran a great line to crash through for the opening try and ended up with 107 metres on 15 runs, along with a team-high 41 tackles. Marked down slightly for a couple of errors, a head-slam penalty and an inside-the-10 infringement. 7.5

13 ERIN CLARK: One of the gun lock’s quieter night’s optically, but sound numbers with 16 runs for 126 metres and 24 tackles. 7

18 TAINE TUAUPIKI: Thrust back into the custodian role by Metcalf’s injury and resumed his attacking livewire and calm clean-up functions at the back without producing anything too spectacular. Twelve runs for 86 metres and a try assist for Leka in the latter stages. 6.5

15 TANNER STOWERS-SMITH: A busy 40 minutes that inlcluded 10 runs for 96 metres and 24 tackles was tinged negatively by a disappointing minute that featured two penalties and a burned Captain’s Challenge. Quality work otherwise. 6.5

17 EDDIE IEREMIA-TOEAVA: Really staking a claim ahead of the finals, playing 48 minutes and contributing 13 runs — several of them eye-catching — for 122 metres and 30 tackles. A big improver over the past month. 7.5

14 SAM HEALEY: Played the last quarter of the match and was mowed through for the Broncos’ only try almost straightaway. Looked to have pegged one back when he backed up Charnze’s break, only for his try to be pulled back for an obstruction. Made 13 tackles. 5.5

The Warriors rumbled to an emphatic 40-6 win over hapless defending premiers Brisbane Broncos in their own backyard, but another big step forward in title contender-ship was tainted somewhat by a likely suspension and another potential major injury blow.

In a chaotic three-minute period midway through the first half — with the Warriors already leading 10-0 — recently re-established fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad was sin-binned for a hip drop on Broncos opposite Reece Walsh.

Walsh lasted long enough on the paddock to throw a pass intercepted by Alofiana Khan-Pereira, who scorched 90 metres for a try. Luke Metcalf, in his first appearance at Suncorp Stadium since last season’s devastating ACL blow, kicked the conversion and immediately grasped despairingly at a pulled hamstring.

The night was over for Walsh (who later emerged in a moon boot) and a crestfallen Metcalf.

The Warriors added a couple of penalty goals for a 20-0 halftime scoreline and posted another three tries in the first 15 minutes of the second stanza.

The Broncos belated landed on the scoreboard through Kiwi prop Xavier Willison on the hour mark, before Leka Halasima’s late try completed the scoring.

The tone for a rout was set early with Jacob Laban crashing over in the eighth minute off Wayde Egan and Chanel Harris-Tavita stepping his way through from Metcalf’s quick hands soon afterwards.

The match slipped into a stilted pattern after the injury bedlam, but the Warriors refocused after the break to put their foot on the Broncos’ throats.

Nicoll-Klokstad, at five-eighth with Taine Tuaupiki coming off the bench at fullback following Metcalf’s exit, gloved a high kick to score, before Ali Leiataua set up Dallin Watene-Zelezniak for one of his best finishes yet then crossed himself.

A scrappy final 20 minutes hit a high point as centre sensation Halasima crashed over in the corner.

Amid the disruptions, the Warriors were clinical and physically dominant.

They made 1,663 metres to the Broncos’ 1,152 — a disparity more starkly emphasised by the average set distance difference (41.58 metres to 26.18).

The Warriors completed well (85 percent), defended stoutly and always looked calm in a match that, from afar, seemed to lack intensity as their second-last opponents crumbled to a 12th loss in 13 games.

The victorious Warriors, meanwhile, joined Penrith in equal-second — and only trail them by four for-and-against points. Remaining fixtures against Souths away, and Newcastle and Manly at home provide a mouth-watering opportunity to push for a top-two finish and a guaranteed pair of home finals.

But it’s again the No.1 and 7 jerseys that will dominate Team List Tuesday discussions ahead of the Round 25 clash with the Rabbitohs at Accor Stadium.

NRL — ROUND 24: Warriors 40 (Jacob Laban, Chanel Harris-Tavita, Alofiana Khan-Pereira, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Ali Leiataua, Leka Halasima tries; Harris-Tavita 4, Luke Metcalf 2 goals) defeated Brisbane Broncos 6 at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.

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• Rivalry shift

• Met gala

• Leka the Wrecka

• Mt Smart drought for wingers

• Gannon avoids one-game wonder fate

• Flogging dead horses

The Warriors unmistakably planted their flag in the 2026 NRL premiership race by bashing, bullying and dismantling title favourite Penrith 28-12 at Go Media Stadium on Friday.

Dominant from the outset, the Warriors led 18-0 at halftime — the Panthers’ worst scoreline at the break since trailing Melbourne 20-0 in the 2020 grand final.

Extending their lead with a try just three minutes into the second half before a lengthy impasse, the Warriors would have to withstand a Panthers fightback during the last 15 minutes before man of the moment Luke Metcalf sealed the result with his second try three minutes before fulltime.

The raw numbers reflect the Warriors’ physical authority. Enjoying 53 percent possession, they had 1,811 run metres to the Panthers’ 1,434 (including 624 post-contact metres to 463), with an average set distance of 43.13 metres to 34.99.

The Warriors were also more disciplined with the ball, completed 35 of 42 sets (83 percent) to the Panthers’ 31 of 41 (75 percent).

Line-breaks finished 8-6 in the Warriors’ favour, but the Panthers made 37 tackle-breaks to 35 and had seven offloads to five.

The Warriors won the penalty count 5-3 but lost the set restart count 6-3.

The result keeps the third-placed Warriors right in the minor premiership race, sitting just two points behind the Panthers and Sydney Roosters, who play each other this weekend. The Warriors’ points differential is now +242 — not far behind the Panthers’ competition-leading +292 and well ahead of the Roosters’ +157.

A rivalry shift

The Warriors’ instantly iconic win was just their second in 13 games against the perennial heavyweight Panthers, their biggest winning margin and first victory over a team containing Nathan Cleary since 2019, and first in New Zealand since 2018.

The Warriors also had not scored more than 22 points against the Panthers since a 30-10 win at Penrith in 2019, nor scored five tries since a 36-16 late-2018 victory in Auckland.

After post-season losses to the Panthers in 2018, 2023 and 2025, it’s a crucial psychological boost to take into a potential rematch over the next two months.

Met gala

The polarising Luke Metcalf stepped up in extraordinary circumstances to produce a superb individual performance, highlighted by a line-break assist that led to his first try and a game-sealing solo try in the dying stages to complete his fourth NRL double.

The brace also snapped a five-match tryscoring drought at NRL level and a four-match NRL losing run, which were both the longest of his career.

Read more

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The Warriors’ NSW Cup side pulled off a momentous win on Friday, while the Jersey Flegg oufit were edged out in a memorable 24 hours against Penrith.

The Warriors extended their NSW Cup winning streak to four matches and stormed into the top five courtesy of an outstanding 36-24 victory over ladder-leading Penrith on Friday — setting the tone for the NRL outfit’s heroics against the Panthers.

The home side scored three tries to two in each half, racing to a 36-12 lead with three tries early in the second stanza and withstanding a late Panthers rally.

Jye Linnane’s star continues to rise at left centre, scoring a slashing double inside the first 25 minutes. The Warriors took an 16-12 halftime lead after a brilliant break from debutant fullback Joseph Ratcliffe. Later in the set, Manly-bound Kayliss Fatialofa showed what the club will be missing out on by skirting around a horde of Penrith defenders and slipping a pass for winger Luke Laulilii to cross out wide.

Hooker tyro Makaia Tafua scored two tries from kicks Penrith was unable to clean up, either side of the highlight of the match in the 45th minute. Riley Price stepped through the defence on the Warriors’ 40-metre line and found the quicksilver Ratcliffe backing up to score.

A long-range intercept try to the Panthers off a Jett Cleary pass halted the Warriors’ momentum, but the result was never really in doubt.

Ratcliffe went off for a game-high 222 metres on 15 runs with seven tackle-breaks in a wonderful introduction to senior football, while the ever-impressive Linnane had eight tackle-breaks from his 13 runs for 141 metres. Luke Hanson, who has formed a nice combination with Linnane, finished with three try assists.

Fatialofa (18 runs for 188 metres, 25 tackles, two line-breaks, nine tackle-breaks) and Price (21 runs for 174 metres, 38 tackles, one line-break) were clear all-round standouts in the pack on top of their try assist efforts.

The 11-8 Warriors receive an ideal opportunity to cement their top-five standing this weekend, taking on last-placed Manly Sea Eagles — who have won only one game — at 4 Pines Park on Saturday.

NSW CUP — ROUND 23: Warriors 36 (Jye Linnane 2, Makaia Tafua 2, Luke Laulilii, Joseph Ratcliffe tries; Jett Cleary 6 goals) defeated Penrith Panthers 24 at Go Media Mount Smart Stadium, Auckland.

The Warriors’ Jersey Flegg side narrowly missed out on making it a cleansweep against Penrith, going down 26-22 to their third-placed opponents at Trusts Stadium on Saturday.

Going into the match with a reshuffled backline — Brandon Norris switched to fullback with Joseph Ratcliffe on NSW Cup duty, while gun winger Harry Tauafiafi-Iutoi was a late scratching — the Warriors were down 10-0 after 20 minutes.

But they found their footing and trailed by six at halftime as centre Taipari Wikitera opened their account just before the break, combining nicely with five-eighth Noah Jensen.

The Warriors levelled up the scoreboard when a try was bizarrely awarded to interchange forward Krushil Koteka, who got up and played the ball as the referee pointed to the spot.

The Panthers responded with a try, but the Warriors made it 16-all with 22 minutes left when tall timber back-rower Connor Bowden stormed over after the bat-back of a Jack Thompson bomb.

The game slipped away from the hosts as the Panthers produced back-to-back tries, though the Warriors set up a grandstand finish thanks to Sio Kali shrugging off several defenders and slipping a ball to interchange Tama-Teahorangi Darlington to score out wide with two minutes left.

The 8-10 Warriors are eighth on the ladder with three rounds remaining, five points adrift of fifth spot. They will attempt to snap a three-match slide against second-last Manly at 4 Pines Park on Saturday.

JERSEY FLEGG CUP — ROUND 23: Penrith Panthers 26 defeated Warriors 22 (Taipari Wikitera, Krushil Koteka, Connor Bowden, Tama-Teahorangi Darlington tries; Harry Inch 2, Jack Thompson goals) at Trusts Stadium, Auckland.

A blazing start and a strong finish carried the Warriors to a 22-14 win over Newcastle Knights in the NRLW Round 6 showdown in Hamilton on Saturday night.

The match was in the balance at 14-all with 15 minutes left, but gun backs Stacey Waaka and Apii Nicholls crossed in quick succession to give the Warriors a match-winning lead.

The Warriors had earlier rocketed out of the blocks after the Knights came up with an error from the kick-off. Winger Tysha Ikenasio flashed over in the corner for tries in the second and sixth minutes, with Patricia Maliepo nailing the conversion of the latter for a 10-0 lead.

But the class of Newcastle five-eighth Kirra Dibb swung the momentum and saw the visitors head into halftime with a two-point lead.

After laying on a try for interchange prop Simone Karpani, Dibb charged down a Nicholls kick and scooted 80 metres to score.

Ikenasio put the Warriors back in front six minutes into the second half, stepping inside close the line and beating a host of defenders to complete a hat-trick.

The Knights levelled up the scoreboard when Nicholls was pinged for a high shot. But after a searing break from Gayle Broughton, Waaka produced a piece of solo brilliance to cross out wide.

Nicholls delivered a decisive blow with eight minutes left, grubbering to the in-goal and accepting a dream bounce to grab her first try of the season.

All of the Warriors’ back five ran for over 100 metres, but centre Waaka — with a game-high 165 metres, two line-breaks, nine tackle-breaks, three try assists and a try — was especially impressive.

Second-rower Shakira Baker (14 runs for 159 metres, two line-breaks, six tackle-breaks) and lock Kaiyah Atai (18 runs for 160 metres, 28 tackles) were immense, while bench prop Harata Butler (11 runs for 133 metres, one line-break, six tackle-breaks) enhanced her burgeoning cult hero status by folding a procession of Knights ball-runners in half with punishing tackles.

The result saw the Warriors leapfrog the Knights on the table and ensures they will finish the weekend in fourth spot. They head to Sydney in Round 7 for a vital Sunday afternoon showdown with Wests Tigers at CommBank Stadium.

NRLW — ROUND 6: Warriors 22 (Tysha Ikenasio 3, Stacey Waaka, Apii Nicholls tries; Patricia Maliepo goal) defeated Newcastle Knights 14 at FMG Stadium, Hamilton.

The Warriors’ unforgettable 28-12 defeat of Penrith took a village, which means a lavish edition of TWL’s Kingz Container Crew player ratings.

1 CHARNZE NICOLL-KLOKSTAD: Another characteristically tireless and physical display from the veteran, who is taking the opportunity afforded by Taine’s injury with both hands. A line-break in the first half and burrowed over for a try early in the second, while he had seven tackle-breaks among 19 runs for 192 metres. Caught out by Cleary’s kicking game in the latter stages — the bomb miss, which was nullified by an offside Panther, with five minutes to go was a shocker — but was pretty safe overall. I’m less convinced than some that he’s already done enough to permanently oust Tuaupiki, but he does seem to have his nose back in front. 7.5

2 DALLIN WATENE-ZELEZNIAK: Led the bruising ball-carrying brigade early on with a bevy of kamikaze runs. Quietened in that department to finish with 15 runs for 142 metres, but an excellent grab of a crossfield kick and even better offload produced a crucial try for CNK. Good defensively for the most part, but allowed opposite Jenkins too much leeway during the nervy last quarter of the match. 7.5

3 ALI LEIATAUA: A step back after a few good weeks, with the tyro making three errors, giving away a penalty and making a modest 76 metres on seven runs. Busy defensively with 21 tackles but his edge started to unravel in the second half. 5

4 LEKA HALASIMA: Has surely cemented his spot for the rest of the season after a second straight blockbusting performance. Putting aside an ugly missed tackle as Edgar scored, Halasima produced a centre performance brimming with the sort of impact we arguably haven’t seen since Konrad Hurrell’s heyday. Put the Warriors right on top with a sensational 50-metre burst then delivered an equally magnificent assist for CHT at the end of the set. That was the pinnacle of a team-high 241 run metres and game-high 12 tackle-breaks — insane numbers. Can improve defensively but loses little to his predecessor in that department…and it’s no contest on the attacking side of the ball. 8.5

5 ALOFIANA KHAN-PEREIRA: Few chances to get anywhere near the tryline, but made a nice line-break in the second half, took his share of carries to end up with 115 metres on 11 runs, and was sound on defence in what shaped as a tough match-up with Brian To’o. 6

6 CHANEL HARRIS-TAVITA: Coming off his best performance in a couple of months, CHT seemed a little out of sorts reuniting with his 2025 halves partner. Grabbed a well-taken try but only had two runs for 19 metres (after reaching triple figures against the Titans) and didn’t get much going in the playmaking department. Worked hard without the ball for 23 tackles. 5.5

7 LUKE METCALF: Under the circumstances — the limited build-up, the occasion, the scrutiny — it was a personal triumph. Putting Capewell through a hole and backing up to score was a huge play and a brilliant moment, while his solo effort to seal the game late wasn’t far behind. Metcalf’s long and short kicking game was probably the biggest difference in having him back in the halfback hotseat, and it included a pinpoint kick to set up CNK’s try. Clunky and hesitant on attack at times, but that’s perhaps understandable. Six runs for 67 metres, six tackle-breaks and 15 tackles (four misses). The try celebrations gave off a certain Patrick Bateman-esque vibe that, if TWL’s DMs are any indication, will ensure he remains a polarising figure (and full credit to Luke for admitting post-match he’s carrying a chip or two) — but if Te Maire is out for another couple of weeks as reported, the No.7 jersey is Metcalf’s to lose. 8.5

8 JAMES FISHER-HARRIS: Destined for a huge game after leading a historic, spine-tingling pre-match haka and completely dominated his former teammates. Led the way with 18 runs for 160 metres and reeled off 35 tackles — every one in both departments with bloodthirsty intent. Enormous cover tackle after a Panthers break with seven minutes left summed up the effort. Ramped up the passing game on occasion and had a hand in CHT’s try. 8.5

9 WAYDE EGAN: Superb in the first half, catching the Panthers out around the ruck frequently (finishing with 52 metres from six runs) and producing a line-break assist. An HIA halted his momentum and he was less effective on his return. Made 28 tackles and missed seven. 7

10 MITCH BARNETT: A tremendous foil for tone-setting JFH, grafting away for 165 metres — the most of any forward on the field — on 16 runs and 37 tackles. His 76 post-contact metres were also a game-high. Great to see the warhorse stringing games together again. 8

11 KURT CAPEWELL: The line-break and assist for Metcalf’s first try was a glittering highlight, while his outstanding kick defusal created the chance for Halasima’s match-turning line-break near the Warriors’ line. Did all the little things he usually does and put up big numbers: 102 metres on 10 runs, four tackle-breaks, 32 tackles. 8

12 JACOB LABAN: A defensive monster with a team-high 46 stops and tucked the ball under his arm for 89 metres on 11 runs. Got a clear points decision over Origin star Liam Martin. 7.5

13 ERIN CLARK: Got the upset rolling with a barnstorming fifth-minute try, disposing of a host of big-name would-be Panthers defenders. Continued in that vein to finish with 140 metres (57 post-contact) from 14 runs and 23 tackles. A machine. 8

15 TANNER STOWERS-SMITH: Racked up 101 metres on 10 carries and 17 tackles in 39 minutes of gametime, impressing with his impact and tenacity as per. Still a genuine contender for a spot when both Ford and Vaimauga are available again. 7.5

17 EDDIE IEREMIA-TOEAVA: Like TSS, staking a decent claim for inclusion in a full-strength 17. Backed up last week’s career-best display with 12 runs for 108 metres and 28 tackles (no misses) in 49 high-quality minutes. 7

14 SAM HEALEY: Filled in while Egan was on HIA early in the second half and had another late stint, during which time he added some spark and make three runs and eight tackles. 5.5

16 MORGAN GANNON: Has been saved from the ignominy of returning to the UK as the briefest of all Warriors one-game wonders thanks to his surprise selection and two-minute cameo. One run and zero tackles. N/A

The Warriors might not win the 2026 premiership. But now they know they definitely can.

A nerve-shredding 10-minute period in the latter stages aside, the Warriors were ruthless in a 28-12 beatdown of Penrith at a heaving Go Media Stadium that must rank among the most important and definitive regular-season statements the club has ever dictated.

The Warriors were relentless from the opening whistle and the first half was as near-perfect as you can be against the Panthers, leading 18-0 at the break.

An early try after the resumption and a rousing defensive stand in the ensuing period seemingly wrapped it up…until two quick Penrith tries inside the last 15 minutes hollowed out the stomachs of Warriors fans.

But an offside ruling when the visitors were about to close in on striking distance took the wind out of the comeback’s sails — and Luke Metcalf, who had already scored a dazzling try in the 11th minute, sealed the deal with a late solo effort.

The Warriors physically dominated the Panthers like few teams have in the past seven years. Enjoying 53 percent possession, the hosts made 1,812 run metres to 1,427, had 630 post-contact metres to 462, and their average set distance was 43.15 to just 34.8.

Optically, the difference between the sides was even more disparate. The Warriors maintained the ferocity of their stirring pre-match haka for the majority of the match — and the Panthers were treading water for long periods.

Erin Clark plunged over in just the fifth minute, stepping Moses Leota to score next to the posts.

Delirium ensued as Metcalf’s short ball put Kurt Capwell through a hole and backed up to run in for a scriptwriter’s dream four-pointer. He then unleashed a messianic try celebration befitting of the euphoric moment.

The Panthers were in general disarray on both sides of the ball — which was exacerbated when Paul Alamoti was binned for dumping opposing centre Leka Halasima on his head in a late tackle.

Halasima compounded the ill-discipline with a scintillating 50-metre break against the 12-man Panthers, before producing a magnificent offload for Chanel Harris-Tavita to muscle over.

Metcalf goaled from out wide for 18-0.

The halftime scoreline could have extended, but for a Halasima touch on a bomb that preceded CHT seemingly racing away for his second.

But the Warriors went up 22-0 three minutes after the break when Dallin Watene-Zelezniak caught Metcalf’s pintpoint bomb and superbly smuggled the ball back for Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad to dive in.

After the Warriors’ lengthy stint of goal-line resolve (complete with a missed forward-pass atrocity from the officials), the match lost its edge somewhat and both sides went through the motions.

The Panthers were the side to snap out of it, capitalising on some ragged defence on both edges with Izack Tago and Tom Jenkins’ excellent lead-up work laying on a try a for Nathan Cleary, and — after a brilliant Cleary 40/20 — rookie fullback Jaxen Edgar beating the poor attempted tackle of Halasima to score.

A butchered bomb with five minutes left saw Alamoti dot down, but an offside Panther allowed a collective, millions-strong sigh of relief (none bigger than from CNK).

Metcalf took on the defence on the fifth tackle to weave his way through for the capper with three minutes remaining.

The St George Illawarra-bound playmaker deserves all the praise coming his way for putting aside a tumultuous season, a four-month break from NRL action and three weeks without any football at all to deliver a big-time performance in an iconic win.

As he has so often in 2026, Metcalf will dominate fan and pundit debate in the days and weeks ahead: Did that performance justify pinning the Warriors’ premiership hopes on his self-confessed chip-laden shoulders?

And it quite possibly did. Meanwhile, after a star turn in the No.18, he has the inside running to don the No.7 in first grade for the first time in 412 days next week against the Broncos…at the very ground he suffered a fateful ACL injury last June. Can find a storyline, this bloke.

Of course, the Warriors were far, far from a one-man band — their pack was awesome to a man, Halasima and Watene-Zelezniak were immense, and the bench delivered.

And suddenly the minor premiership race is wide open. The Warriors are just one win (and now only 50 for-and-against points) behind the Panthers, who next week face the second-placed (pending tonight’s result against the Bulldogs) Sydney Roosters.

Everything can change in a week and there’s still excruciating, make-or-break selection call to be made at fullback and halfback, but it’s not hyperbolic to suggest this may be the Warriors’ best shot at a maiden premiership.

NRL ROUND 23: Warriors 28 (Luke Metcalf 2, Erin Clark, Chanel Harris-Tavita, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad tries; Metcalf 4 goals) defeated Penrith Panthers 12 at Go Media Stadium, Auckland.

WARRIORS V PENRITH PANTHERS – 8PM (NZT)/6PM (AEST) FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 @ GO MEDIA MOUTN SMART STADIUM, AUCKLAND

The Storylines

This is a showdown brimming with rich narratives — and somehow the most captivating one dropped into our lap 24 hours out from kick-off.

The rugby league world’s eyes are firmly fixed on our hallowed patch of grass at Penrose, and Luke Metcalf’s promotion to the Warriors’ starting line-up following Te Maire Martin’s withdrawal adds another fascinating edge to Friday night’s showdown with Nathan Cleary’s NRL-leading Penrith Panthers.

The teams’ absolute barnburner in Sydney in Round 13 (albeit with a handful of Origin players missing) whet the appetite for this one, which as it stands is the bookies’ third favourite to be the grand final match-up.

The high-flying outfits slipped into a bit of a funk after that instant classic, each suffering three losses apiece in the ensuing seven rounds. But both rocketed back to form in Round 22 against bottom-half teams that had been playing good footy: the Warriors lapped the Titans 42-6 on the Gold Coast and the Panthers overwhelmed the Raiders 42-18 in Mudgee.

Warriors-Panthers matches always entail something a little extra with Ivan Cleary in the opposing coach’s box, particularly since former assistant Andrew Webster took charge of our team. Meanwhile, there’s four ex-Panthers in the Warriors’ starting line-up and a couple of former Warriors in the Penrith line-up.

A Warriors upset would throw the minor premiership race wide open — particularly with the Panthers due to take on the second-placed Roosters next week.

Last but absolutely not least, it’s Indigenous Round, always a special one for every team and an occasion the Warriors always do so well at home.

Ins and Outs

The Warriors have retained Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad at fullback despite the availability of Taine Tuaupiki, who has been included on the six-man bench. Leka Halasima also stays at centre in what was an unchanged starting 13 named on Tuesday.

Luke Metcalf is catapulted into the halfback hotseat with Te Maire Martin (hamstring) a scratching 24 hours out.

Morgan Gannon was a surprise inclusion on the interchange, with last week’s club debutant Riley Price named as the reserve. Demitric Vaimauga remains sidelined with a rib complaint.

Arguably the Panthers’ two best players in their win over the Warriors in Round 13, Casey McLean has been ruled out and Dylan Edwards misses his third straight game.

Izack Tago comes in at centre, while rookie Jaxen Edgar remains at fullback. Jack Cogger — another standout in the No.7 when these teams last met — has been retained at five-eighth ahead of Blaize Talagi.

Unused last week with Tago taking up an interchange spot and Freddy Lussick playing the full 80 at hooker, Billy Scott will be looking to make his sixth NRL appearance in the No.14 jersey.

The History

Overall record: Played 55 – Penrith won 35, Warriors won 19, draws 1; Penrith scored 1,423 points, Warriors scored 1,131 points.
Biggest wins: Penrith – 62-6 at Centrebet Stadium, 2013; Warriors – 52-8 at Mt Smart Stadium, 2001.
Longest winning streaks: Penrith – 8 matches (2019-23); Warriors – 4 matches (2010-12).
Finals: Played 4 – Penrith won 4.
Most appearances: Simon Mannering (Warriors) – 21; James Fisher-Harris (Penrith and Warriors) – 20; Isaah Yeo (Penrith) – 19; Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (Penrith and Warriors) – 18; Craig Gower (Penrith) – 17; Shaun Johnson (Warriors) – 17; Stacey Jones (Warriors) – 17; Moses Leota (Penrith) – 17; Manu Vatuvei (Warriors) – 16; Jacob Lillyman (Warriors) – 15; Tony Puleuta (Penrith) – 15; Sam Rapira (Warriors) – 15;Luke Lewis (Penrith) – 14; Josh Mansour (Penrith) – 14; Ben Matulino (Warriors) – 14; Trent Waterhouse (Penrith) – 14.
Most tries: Manu Vatuvei (Warriors) – 12; Luke Rooney (Penrith) – 10; Rhys Wesser (Penrith) – 10; Ryan Girdler (Penrith) – 9; David Fusitu’a (Warriors) – 8; Tyrone Peachey (Penrith) – 8; Josh Mansour (Penrith) – 8; Brian To’o (Penrith) – 8; Logan Swann (Warriors) – 7.
Most points: Ryan Girdler (Penrith) – 113; Nathan Cleary (Penrith) – 96; Preston Campbell (Penrith) – 80; Michael Gordon (Penrith) – 76; Shaun Johnson (Warriors) – 72; James Maloney (Warriors and Penrith) – 62; Manu Vatuvei (Warriors) – 48; Luke Walsh (Penrith) – 48.

The Stats

• The Panthers have won 11 of their last 12 against the Warriors.

• The Warriors have not beaten the Panthers in New Zealand since 2018, or a team containing Nathan Cleary since 2019.

• The Warriors have scored more than 18 points just once in their last 12 games against the Panthers, in their 22-20 Magic Round win in 2024.

• The Warriors and Dolphins are the only teams the Panthers have not managed to score 30 points against in their last four encounters.

• Only one of the last 14 Panthers-Warriors clashes has produced more than 46 points.

• Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, who played 106 games for Penrith, has never scored a try in 13 games against the Panthers.

• Alofiana Khan-Pereira scored a try in all three of his appearances against the Panthers to date.

• Brian To’o has scored eight tries in his last seven games against the Warriors.

• The Panthers are ranked first (30.58) and the Warriors third (28.32) for points scored per game.

• The Panthers are ranked first (14.37) and the Warriors second (16.42) for points conceded per game.

• The Warriors have a 3-14 record in Indigenous Round, second-worst in the NRL behind the Dolphins (0-4). The Panthers rank third with a 13-5 record.

5 Key Match-ups

Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad vs Jaxen Edgar: CNK made a sensational return to the No.1 jersey against the Titans and could really cement the spot again with an influential display agains the NRL’s benchmark. The 20-year-old Edgar has looked the goods over the last two rounds, but the Warriors will undoubtedly look to pile pressure on the rookie…and it’s a relief to not see Dylan Edwards at the back.

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak vs Tom Jenkins: DWZ’s 18 tries from 18 games is outstanding by any measure — but Jenkins’ otherworldly 28 tries in 19 games sets up a mouth-watering duel. They both went try-less last time out and Dallin has an amazing record of his opposing wingers not scoring in 2026, while he has run for over 200 metres in his last three games.

Luke Metcalf vs Nathan Cleary: You have to feel for Metcalf — his first NRL game in four months, his first in the top-grade halfback spot in over 400 days and his first game of any description in three weeks…and it’s in the biggest regular-season game imaginable while playing in a team containing Nathan Cleary for the very first time. But Metcalf has spoken ad nauseum about his self-confidence and desire to be shot-caller, the go-to man…after a tumultuous season to date, he won’t get a better opportunity to prove himself.

James Fisher Harris vs Moses Leota: Honours were relativley even when the four-time grand final-winning front-row hombres and Kiwi Test teammates met in Round 13 — Fisher-Harris had the superior numbers, but Leota got the win. JFH had one of his quieter games of a stellar season last week, but he will leave nothing in the tank against his former club.

Erin Clark vs Isaah Yeo: Clark was in everything last week after an uncharacteristically anonymous display against the Bulldogs — setting up tries with kicks, firing up his ball-playing game and racking up hefty numbers. The Warriors need him to provide a point of difference tonight. Yeo, who sat out the match 10 weeks ago, is such an important and unwaveringly reliable cog in the Penrith machine.

Last Time They Met

The absence of five State of Origin players could not detract from Round 13’s top-of-the-table showdown as Penrith and the Warriors delivered arguably the match of 2026 so far — but it was the Panthers that came away with a pulsating 20-18 result.

The Warriors fought back from a 16-6 deficit after a first half of missed opportunities and surged into the lead, but ultimately they could not quite get enough of the pivotal, knife’s edge moments right.

A Casey McLean masterclass — exacerbated by a rough 40 minutes for opposite Ali Leiataua — and a pair of justifiably disallowed Warriors tries told the story of the first half. The Warriors’ ability to rally and do everything but win it was massively encouraging. Te Maire Martin and Taine Tuaupiki came up with huge plays, their scramble defence shone and their middle forwards again stood tall.

The Panthers just did enough of the same things a little better, a fraction more often, and regained the lead with 10 minutes left. As a spectacle, it was a belter and top-shelf quality. Both teams completed at around 90 percent and there was almost nothing in virtually every stat category.

Why the Wahs will win: The Warriors gained plenty of confidence from their showdown with the Panthers in Sydney, rebounded to form at the right time last week, and the injection of CNK, Halasima and now Metcalf to a line-up that was feeling a little tired could prove the difference against the league’s best defence.

Why the Wahs will lose: Because the Panthers hardly ever lose — and it’s even rarer that they lose to us. They also blew out the cobwebs in ominous fashion last week but will have no problem rolling up the sleeves for a typical Mount Smart slugfest in a match likely to played with finals-like intensity. The Cleary factor is impossible to overlook.

The Punt: Head to head — Warriors $2.35, Panthers $1.60; Points Start — Warriors +3.5; Total Points Over/Under — 41.5

Best Anytime Tryscorer Options — Alofiana Khan-Pereira ($2.10), Paul Alamoti ($3.25), Leka Halasima ($3.25), Luke Metcalf ($4.00), Isaiah Papalii ($5.00), Wayde Egan ($6.80)

The Verdict: The Warriors are absolutely a chance here, but they’ll have to execute a lot better than they have in recent outings at Go Media Stadium — every chance has to be converted, because there won’t be many. So much hinges on the hapless Metcalf, too. There’s more pressure on the Warriors to prove they can match it with the best ahead of the bigger games in September and they need to harness the electric home-crowd atmosphere. Heart says they can do it, but head says… Panthers by 7

The Warriors’ seesawing rivalry with the Penrith Panthers includes two shared coaches (three if you count a Panthers assistant who returned to take the head coach reins at the Warriors), several stars who have turned out for both clubs, four finals matches and a truckload of points. But after 32 seasons, it’s the Panthers who hold a commanding advantage after getting the better of the Warriors over the past decade.

Overall record: Played 55 – Penrith won 35, Warriors won 19, draws 1; Penrith scored 1,423 points, Warriors scored 1,131 points.
Biggest wins: Penrith – 62-6 at Centrebet Stadium, 2013; Warriors – 52-8 at Mt Smart Stadium, 2001.
Longest winning streaks: Penrith – 8 matches (2019-23); Warriors – 4 matches (2010-12).
Finals: Played 4 – Penrith won 4.
Most appearances: Simon Mannering (Warriors) – 21; James Fisher-Harris (Penrith and Warriors) – 20; Isaah Yeo (Penrith) – 19; Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (Penrith and Warriors) – 18; Craig Gower (Penrith) – 17; Shaun Johnson (Warriors) – 17; Stacey Jones (Warriors) – 17; Moses Leota (Penrith) – 17; Manu Vatuvei (Warriors) – 16; Jacob Lillyman (Warriors) – 15; Tony Puleuta (Penrith) – 15; Sam Rapira (Warriors) – 15;Luke Lewis (Penrith) – 14; Josh Mansour (Penrith) – 14; Ben Matulino (Warriors) – 14; Trent Waterhouse (Penrith) – 14.
Most tries: Manu Vatuvei (Warriors) – 12; Luke Rooney (Penrith) – 10; Rhys Wesser (Penrith) – 10; Ryan Girdler (Penrith) – 9; David Fusitu’a (Warriors) – 8; Tyrone Peachey (Penrith) – 8; Josh Mansour (Penrith) – 8; Brian To’o (Penrith) – 8; Logan Swann (Warriors) – 7.
Most points: Ryan Girdler (Penrith) – 113; Nathan Cleary (Penrith) – 96; Preston Campbell (Penrith) – 80; Michael Gordon (Penrith) – 76; Shaun Johnson (Warriors) – 72; James Maloney (Warriors and Penrith) – 62; Manu Vatuvei (Warriors) – 48; Luke Walsh (Penrith) – 48.

1995-2002 – Warriors and Panthers jockey for position

The Auckland Warriors had an instant connection with Penrith after signing the Panthers’ greatest-ever player, 1991 grand final-winning skipper Greg Alexander, for their debut campaign. The two-time Kangaroo tourist’s acquisition was a huge coup for the Warriors, and he provided excellent leadership at the club in their first two seasons.

But ‘Brandy’ was sidelined when the Warriors faced his former club for the first time, which saw Ryan Girdler score 18 points and legendary Kiwis halfback Gary Freeman cross for two tries in Penrith’s 34-16 win in Auckland.

Alexander was on deck for a homecoming to the foot of the Blue Mountains in 1996, however, featuring in a 26-16 Warriors win that included a Marc Ellis double.

Alexander returned to the Panthers for the 1997 Super League season, with both sides notching a home win that year. Gene Ngamu’s field goal proved the difference in their sole 1998 encounter, won 15-14 by the Warriors at Mt Smart.

Both clubs then carved out three-match winning streaks (Penrith from 1999-2000, Warriors from 2001-02) in a remarkable streak of high-scoring clashes, with the six encounters averaging aggregates of almost 60 points a game.

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The Warriors’ NSW Cup and Jersey Flegg Cup teams both had the bye last weekend, so we’re running the rule over their finals chances with a month of the regular season left.

NSW CUP

It hasn’t been the easiest NSW Cup title defence for the Warriors after a host of off-season departures and the elevation of several key 2025 contributors to the NRL side.

Of the State Championship-winning side last year, captain Kalani Going, Setu Tu, Moala Graham-Taufa, Ed Kosi, Bunty Afoa, Tom Ale and Freddy Lussick all joined rival clubs; Taine Tuaupiki, Tanah Boyd, Sam Healey and Tanner Stowers-Smith have been permanent members of the NRL side; and Eddie Ieremia-Toeava has been an intermittent first-grader.

On the plus side, recruits Haizyn Mellars, Jye Linnane, Cooper Page-Wilson and Morgan Gannon have been regulars; the likes of Jett Cleary and Makaia Tafua have stepped up as key spine players, while Bishop Neal, Rodney Tuipolotu-Vea and Connor Bowden have shone in the pack; Luke Hanson and Kayliss Fatialofa remain from last year’s regular line-up; and they have frequently had the services of out-of-favour NRL squad members Luke Metcalf, Marata Niukore and Rocco Berry.

Despite line-up instability, David Tangata-Toa’s side has surged back into finals contention with three straight wins prior to last week’s bye — beating Western Suburbs (44-20), St George Illawarra (31-26) and Canterbury-Bankstown (38-16) in impressive style.

The 10-8 Warriors currently sit in a share of fourth place (sixth on for-and-against); NSW Cup runs a five-team finals format.

They have their work cut out in the remaining four rounds, however. After a home showdown with ladder-leading Penrith on Friday (played before the NRL match, likely robbing them of a couple of six-man NRL bench selections), next Saturday’s road trip to take on a Manly side that has won just one game shapes as a free hit.

The Warriors then close out the regular season with crunch fixtures against Souths at Redfern Oval and Newcastle at Go Media Stadium. The Rabbitohs and Knights both currently lie ahead of the Warriors on the ladder.

JERSEY FLEGG CUP

The Warriors under-21s’ finals hopes are looking a little more tenuous.

Back-to-back losses to the Dragons (34-22) and, in their most disappointing effort of the season, the Bulldogs (56-10) — who they beat only a month earlier — have seen the Warriors slip to eighth on the Jersey Flegg Cup table with an 8-9 record.

Their remaining draw mirrors the NSW Cup team’s, with Saturday’s match against the third-placed Panthers at Trusts Stadium followed by clashes with the 13th-placed Sea Eagles and fifth-placed Rabbitohs away, and the 11th-placed Knights at home.

Three points adrift of the top five, the TJ Ashford-coached side would likely need to win all four remaining games and have one or two other results fall their way.

From a future-facing point of view, there’s plenty of interest in the Warriors’ individual performers.

Fullback Joseph Ratcliffe is having a stellar season and looks a genuine NRL player-in-waiting, while wingers Brandon Norris and Harry Tauafiafi-Iutoi are among the competition’s top tryscorers with 38 between them. Halfback and captain Jack Thompson is coming along in leaps and bounds and rugby union convert Harry Inch has made a seamless transition in the five-eighth role.

Amasio Tiatia, like Tafua a Linwood Keas (Canterbury Rugby League) junior, has been a great find at hooker, while Neal, Bowden and Caelys-Paul Putoko have all moved back into the age-group ranks after seeing plenty of NSW Cup action earlier this season.

• Wahs and Titans attract the masses

• Split the differential

• Metre-eating mania

• Wing pairing on fire

• CHT-TMM combo firms for finals

• Nicho evokes memories of Witt streak

• Wahs eye end of eight-year home drought

The Warriors rocketed back to form with a 42-6 rout of a previously in-form Gold Coast Titans at Cbus Super Stadium, cementing their top-four standing and staying in the race for the minor premiership.

Racking up their equal-most points of the season, the Warriors scored a season-high eight tries and conceded just one try for the fourth time in 2026.

The 26-6 halftime scoreline also represented their most first-half points this season, beating their tally against the Roosters in Round 1 (22-6), the Titans in Round 7 (22-0) and Broncos in Round 11 (22-0).

With the Warriors enjoying an eye-watering 58 percent possession and completing at a more familiar 81 percent (to the Titans’ dismal 66 percent), they crushed the Titans in the run metres (2,311 to 1,501) and post-contact metres (774 to 518) departments, as well as pouring through for 12 line-breaks and breaking 48 tackles.

The Warriors’ average set distance clocked in at a massive 53.74 metres, to the Titans’ 37.53.

Crowded market

The crowd at Cbus Super Stadium (25,181) was the third-biggest for a Warriors-Titans match, behind only the 2010 qualifying final (27,026) and the Round 7 clash in 2008 (25,310), which were also both at Robina.

The past eight matches between the clubs at all venues (starting in the last round in 2022) have attracted crowds of more than 20,000 — unprecedented in any rivalry in the Warriors’ history.

The next-most consecutive games involving the Warriors and another club to get 20,000-plus attendances is six matches against the Broncos from 2009-11. The past five Warriors-Broncos clashes have had crowds of at least 22,000 and is sure to sail past that mark at Suncorp Stadium again in Round 24.

Split the differential

The Warriors’ for-and-against now sits at +226 — the club’s highest ever outside of eight weeks of the 2002 season.

The 2002 Warriors peaked at +264 with three rounds remaining, before suffering a 44-0 defeat to the Roosters. The minor premiers finished the regular season with a points differential of +236.

Last season, Andrew Webster’s side wound up with a mere +21 for-and-against record, while the 2023 vintage had a points differential of +124 — third in the club’s history behind the 2002 side and the 2007 combination (+149).

If the Warriors maintain their current points per game average (28.32), they will finish with 679 points — just shy of the 2002 outfit’s record 688.

Meanwhile, they are conceding only 16.42 points per game; extending that to the end of the regular season would see the Warriors end up with 394 points against. The 2011 team conceded a record low 393 points.

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The Warriors have suffered their second loss of the 2026 NRLW season in Round 5, edged out 18-16 by Gold Coast in the Wagga Wagga-hosted Magic Round after setting up a grandstand finish with a thrilling late surge.

In what was largely a frustrating watch for Warriors fans, the Titans built an 18-0 lead with 10 minutes of the second half gone.

Ivana Losesio scored just three minutes in from a deft Lauren Brown grubber, before Evania Isa’ako stormed over for an alarmingly soft try in the 16th minute.

The Warriors never really threatened to get on the scoreboard during the first half, struggling to create space or opportunities for superstar club debutant Mele Hufanga on the left edge, while the right-side offence was plagued by sloppy execution and poor option-taking.

Gold Coast winger Indie Bostock’s try in the 44th minute put the Warriors at the foot of a daunting mountain, but they started the climb when halfback Gayle Broughton turned former Broncos teammate Hufanga under. The powerhouse centre beat a couple of tackles and dived in with 17 minutes left — and the momentum shifted dramatically.

Celebrating her 20th birthday, forward Ivana Lautiiti muscled over under the posts soon afterwards to cut the deficit to six points.

At the end of the ensuing set, winger Stacey Waaka bagged a freakish try in the corner when she soared to take a Broughton bomb. Patricia Maliepo’s conversion attempt to level the scores fell just short, but the Warriors were running downhill.

Hufanga, who finished with six tackle-breaks among 12 runs for 128 metres in her return from injury, made multiple skittling charges to set up a couple of late chances.

But inexplicably, the Warriors ignored strike weapons Broughton, Hufanga and Waaka inside the red zone, their last couple of cracks at the line ending with unimaginative fifth-tackle crash plays on the right edge.

The comeback was highly encouraging but masked an overall disappointing, clunky performance.

Besides flashes of brilliance from Hufanga and Waaka, positives came in the form of another immense dipslay from lock Kaylah Atai, who topped the run metres (142 metres on 20 carries) and tackle (40) counts, and the powerful running of prop Harata Butler (11 runs for 99 metres). Some of Apii Nicholls’ kick-defusing was top-shelf, while starting front-rower Matanoia Fetalaiga also topped 100 metres.

Out with concussion, Jasmin Huriwai’s calm and class around the ruck was missed.

The Warriors will remain in the top five at the end of the round, but the loss put some pressure on Ron Griffiths’ side ahead of a tough match-up next Saturday night against Newcastle Knights in Hamilton.

NRLW — ROUND 5: Gold Coast Titans 18 defeated Warriors 16 (Mele Hufanga, Ivana Lauatiiti, Stacey Waaka tries; Patricia Maliepo 2 goals) at Geohex Park, Wagga Wagga.

The Warriors blew out some recent cobwebs with a 42-6 demolition of the Titans that sets up the run home beautifully. It’s no surprise, then, that the Kingz Container Crew player ratings deliver the highest collective Warriors score for many, many weeks.

1 CHARNZE NICOLL-KLOKSTAD: CNK’s first run-on appearance at fullback since Round 7 was a doozy, doing what he does best by chewing off a game-high 245 metres (83 post-contact) on 22 carries. It’s no coincidence that, aside from a brilliant late try-saver in the corner, the Warriors had one of their best defensive displays of the season with Charnze at the back. Also made a great line-break through the middle, five tackle-breaks, had a hand in the first try, had his own nice try disallowed by an obstruction call, and produced a sensational intercept that probably saved another try in a faultless performance. Something similarly influential against Penrith would really make the No.1 selection battle for the run home interesting. 8.5

2 DALLIN WATENE-ZELENZIAK: Topped 200 metres for the third straight week, getting things underway with a magnificent try-saving intercept and jaunt downfield before cruising over for the first try soon afterwards. His involvement thereafter was mostly as a battering ram out of danger — a role he performed with aplomb (including 85 post-contact metres) — but getting his long passing game going was an eye-catching feature. 8

3 ALI LEIATAUA: Seems to be really getting the knack of this NRL thing in the past few weeks after a recent trough. Beautiful quick hands to put DWZ over early and made a long, powerful line-break in the second half among 13 runs for 174 metres, while 17 tackles without a miss opposite the livewire Brimson was an equally important step in his progression. 8

17 LEKA HALASIMA: A late inclusion for a struggling Adam Pompey, ‘The Wrecka’ rediscovered the joy in his footy again after appearing a frustrated player for much of 2026. Relished the extra space to rack up 147 metres (67 post-contact) from 15 runs, including five tackle-breaks, as well as delivering an exquisite quick-hands assist for AKP to score and getting the over stripe himself thanks to his winger. This genuinely could be the backline plan for the rest of the season. 8

5 ALOFIANA KHAN-PEREIRA: A dazzling move on Dean Ieremia to score his try, a sizzling break to put CHT in and a wonderful high grab and pass to set up Leka made for a dream homecoming for Lofi. Finished with a somewhat modest nine runs for 102 metres, but had a very good day defensively with a string of good jams and sound decisions. 8.5

6 CHANEL HARRIS-TAVITA: Call him Angela Bassett, because this game could be renamed How Chanel Got His Groove Back. Big hand in AKP’s try, kick-started the movement that put Lofi into space and backed up to score, had a season-high 106 running metres with a line-break, kicked well and found his trademark defensive bite again. Great signs. 8.5

7 TE MAIRE MARTIN: After a subpar fortnight, TMM warded off the Metcalf temptation with a performance that resembled his first seven after coming in for Boyd. Helped lay on the first try, put Laban over just before halftime and zipped in for the last two tries of the match himself. Ten runs for 91 metres, five tackle-breaks and 24 tackles, while his short kicking game threatened. 8.5

8 JAMES FISHER-HARRIS: A somewhat understated performance by his 2026 standards in a season-low 42 minutes, but led from the front when out there with eight runs for 87 metres (another season-low) and 26 tackles. 6.5

9 WAYDE EGAN: Tied the Titans up in knots from dummy-half from the outset, getting the defence back-peddaling when he wasn’t drawing penalties and six-agains. Eight runs for 72 metres, a line-break assist and 28 tackles before getting an early mark at the 55-minute mark (he would come back on for a late cameo) — not bad after hobbling out last week’s game and turning up today with a heavily bandaged arm. 8

10 MITCH BARNETT: Looked hellbent on stamping himself as the chief enforcer, battering the Titans in his 42 minutes with 13 runs for 138 metres (59 post-contact) and 26 tackles. But coupled that with his second try assist in as many weeks, a deft short ball for EIT. 8

11 KURT CAPWELL: Did all the dirty work defensively and was busy with the ball for 114 metres on 12 runs. But held onto the pill a couple of times when he should’ve just shifted it to Leka — including once inexplicably in the second half that almost certainly cost Halasima or Khan-Pereira a try. 7

12 JACOB LABAN: Another player to bounce back impressively from a dip over the past couple of rounds. Rattled through 15 runs for 146 metres (62 post-contact), steamed over for a try, took an intercept, made a team-high seven tackle-breaks and reeled off a team-high 38 tackles. 8

13 ERIN CLARK: Following a subdued display in limited minutes against the Bulldogs, Clark was back to his Dally M Lock of the Year best in a 64-minute shift. One of his best ball-playing efforts yet with 19 passes, a key hand in two tries with a pass and another with a pinpoint kick to the corner. On top of that, a customary 16 runs for 138 metres and 25 tackles. 8.5

15 TANNER STOWERS-SMITH: A just-shy-of-career-high 177 metres (59 post-contact) on 16 runs included a remarkable intercept and bullocking 40-metre charge downfield. Also finished with five tackle-breaks and 25 tackles in 47 minutes. In my mind it’s a flip of the coin between Tanner and Demitric for a spot in the 17 when Jackson Ford returns. 8

20 EDDIE IEREMIA-TOEAVA: Got 56 minutes on the field and used it to a compile the most impressive of his 13 NRL appearances to date. Led all forwards on the field with 18 runs for 191 metres (81 post-contact), charged over for a try and was second on his team with 35 tackles. A might step forward for the tyro. 8

14 SAM HEALEY: Received a bigger piece of the dummy-half gametime pie than usual and was in his element, probing and asking questions. Made six runs for 38 metres and 11 tackles, and had a hand in two tries. 6.5

22 RILEY PRICE: With Cat Stevens’ ‘Father and Son’ playing in every fan’s head (or was it just me?) as we witnessed our first second-generation first-grader become Warrior #299, Riley looked very much at home in his fourth appearance at NRL level. Son of Steve made five runs for 38 metres, six tackles and popped a superb offload in 13 minutes. An excellent player for Webby to have up his sleeve. 6

Wahsworld is up and running at one of the Gold Coast’s iconic theme parks, and all is well in the Wahs’ world again after a slump-busting 42-6 statement win over the in-form Titans.

The Warriors took the ascendancy at a packed Cbus Super Stadium in the opening stages and never looked back, powering to a 26-6 halftime lead.

And as much as the crispness, intent and direct play returning to their attack was an absolute joy to watch as they ran in a season-high eight tries, the desperation, aggression and commitment in defence was equally pleasing as they held a potent Titans side — who had scored 38 points in each of their past two games — to a season-low-equalling one try and two line-breaks.

A surprise late change to bring Leka Halasima into the centres for a meandering Adam Pompey reaped handsome dividends, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad took his first opportunity to start in more than three months with both hands, and the likes of Chanel Harris-Tavita and Te Maire Martin played themselves back into form on the back of a monstrous forward platform.

With the Warriors enjoying an eye-watering 57 percent possession and completing at a more familiar 81 percent (to the Titans’ dismal 66 percent), they crushed the Titans in the run metres (2,219 to 1,462) and post-contact metres (755 to 502) departments, as well as pouring through for 12 line-breaks and breaking 48 tackles.

The Titans created a plethora of half-chances, but the Warriors’ first-rate scramble repeatedly frustrated the Titans’ livewires and strike weapons.

It was a timely boost to the for-and-against with top-four rivals Sydney Roosters and Cronulla piling on the points of late — and an ideal tune-up for next Friday’s blockbuster against Penrith at Go Media Stadium.

An early try-saving intercept from Dallin Watene-Zelezniak set the tone for the Warriors — and DWZ zipped in for the first try after six minutes after lovely inside work from Martin, Nicoll-Klokstad and Ali Leiataua.

Soon afterwards, Harris-Tavita and Halasima combined brilliantly for Alofiana Khan-Pereira to produce a superb finish in his first visit to the Gold Coast as a Warrior.

A searing break from AKP saw CHT finish off a 70-metre special in the 17th minute.

Aramau Hau’s response for the Titans — albeit off an extremely flat pass — was a bit too easy for comfort, but the Warriors regrouped quickly with Khan-Pereira setting up Halasima for a try off a pinpoint Erin Clark kick.

Lovely sleight of hand from Martin put Jacob Laban over four minutes out from the break.

The procession continued in the second half.

Mitch Barnett delivered his second try assist in as many weeks, this time a delicate short ball for late inclusion Eddie Ieremia-Toeava to steam through.

The Titans then lost AJ Brimson to the sin bin, before TMM cruised in for very soft double inside the last 17 minutes — one try against 12 men, the other against the full complement — to secure the Warriors’ biggest winning margin of 2026.

A gallant try-saver from CNK (who earlier had a nice try pulled back by EIT’s borderline obstruction run) in the dying stages was an apt and most satisfying way to close out a dominant win.

Meanwhile, there was a wonderful dollop of history achieved as midseason recruit Riley Price — offspring of 2005-09 captain Steve — became Warrior #299 in a robust debut cameo, giving the club its first father-son first-grade duo.

Thanks to the performances of Nicoll-Klokstad and Halasima, Andrew Webster has a couple of happy selection headaches in front of him.

More importantly, the wobbling Warriors have delivered arguably their best performance since going down narrowly to the Panthers in Round 13 — just in time to hit the ground running against the premiership favourites in perhaps the biggest regular-season home game at Mount Smart since the 2022 homecoming.

WARRIORS V GOLD COAST TITANS – 5PM (NZT)/7PM (AEST) SATURDAY, JULY 31 @ CBUS SUPER STADIUM, GOLD COAST

The Storylines

The NRL premiership landscape looks decidedly different than it did this time last week — all courtesy of a punishing 18-6 loss to Canterbury.

Suddenly, some of the slight form concerns we’ve been trying to push deep into our subconscious became impossible to ignore; the Warriors dropped out of the top two for the first time in more than three months; and the nagging flashbacks of too many late-season fadeouts started to materialise again.

All from a singular, three-tries-to-one loss.

So maybe we’re just a bit too reactive — and the Warriors are only a win away from making us feel bullish about our title prospects again. But there’s no question a loss to 13th-placed Gold Coast will make us feel like the sky is falling on our 2026 campaign.

And despite the opposition fanbase almost certainly packing out their stadium, the Titans are showing no signs of being content to roll over and allow the Warriors to play their way back into form.

They are coming off consecutive high-scoring wins over Manly (38-32) and St George Illawarra, with Josh Hannay’s methods apparently started to bed in and bear results.

There’s also the horrific memory of a 66-6 obliteration at this very ground just two years ago, when the Warriors were only a win outside the Top 8 and coming off three straight wins and the Titans were running last. Or the jarring déjà vu or losing to the Des Hasler’s last-placed outfit at home in Round 21 last year when we were fourth — a defeat that heralded a 2-5 finish to the regular season and saw the Warriors slip to sixth.

Forward dominance — which they didn’t get at all last week — is the obvious key for the Warriors. They are 12-0 when they make more run metres than the opposition; 0-6 when they don’t. But certain individuals must lift, with Adam Pompey, Te Maire Martin, Chanel Harris-Tavita and Jacob Laban on mild to moderate form slides for the past couple of weeks (and in some cases longer).

It’s a crossroads game, without a doubt…

Ins and Outs

AJ Brimson and Kurt Morrin return for the Titans — at centre and in the No.14, respectively — with Jaylan de Groot and Siale Faeamani making way.

Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad returns to the No.1 jersey with Taine Tuaupiki out injured in the only change to the Warriors’ 17 from last week. Luke Metcalf and Eddie Ieremia-Toeava are on the six-man bench at this stage, while Rocco Berry is a notable reserves inclusion.

Demitric Vaimauga dropped out of the Warriors’ squad on Friday, with Riley Price coming onto the six-man bench — but it’s Eddie Ieremia-Toeava likely to take the interchange slot on gameday.

The History

Overall record: Played 37 – Warriors won 22, Gold Coast Titans won 15; Warriors scored 849 points, Gold Coast Titans scored 760 points.

Biggest wins: Gold Coast Titans – 66-6 at Cbus Super Stadium, 2024; Warriors – 42-0 at Mount Smart Stadium, 2014.

Longest winning streaks: Warriors – 8 matches (2011-14); Gold Coast Titans – 6 matches (2008-10).

Finals: Played 1 – Gold Coast Titans won 1.

Most appearances: Simon Mannering (Warriors) – 22; Shaun Johnson (Warriors) – 18; Ben Matulino (Warriors) – 18; Manu Vatuvei (Warriors) – 18; Jacob Lillyman (Warriors) – 17; Nathan Friend (Warriors & Gold Coast Titans) – 16; Anthony Don (Gold Coast Titans) – 15; Mark Minichiello (Gold Coast Titans) – 15.

Most tries: Shaun Johnson (Warriors) – 13; Manu Vatuvei (Warriors) – 11; Roger Tuivasa-Sheck (Warriors) – 9; Anthony Don (Gold Coast Titans) – 8; David Fusitu’a (Warriors) – 8; Konrad Hurrell (Warriors & Gold Coast Titans) – 8; Alofiana Khan-Pereira (Warriors & Gold Coast Titans) – 7; David Mead (Gold Coast Titans) – 7.

Most points: Shaun Johnson (Warriors) – 132; Scott Prince (Gold Coast Titans) – 66; Jayden Campbell (Gold Coast Titans) – 58; Tanah Boyd (Warriors & Gold Coast Titans) – 50; James Maloney (Warriors) – 46.

The Stats

• The Titans have won six of their last nine against the Warriors.

• The Titans have won four of the last six between the clubs at Cbus Super Super Stadium, though the Warriors have won two of the last three — including a 32-18 victory last season.

• The Warriors are 7-7 in Queensland under Andrew Webster and have lost three of their last four in Australia, after starting the 2026 season 5-1 across the Tasman.

• Titans backs Keano Kini, Phil Sami, Jojo Fifita, AJ Brimson and Jayden Campbell have all scored doubles against the Warriors since 2021.

• Beau Fermor has crossed for five tries in nine games against the Warriors.

• Alofiana Khan-Pereira hasn’t gone try-less in consecutive games this season, while he boasts seven tries in four Titans-Warriors encounters and has scored 26 tries in 25 NRL games at Cbus Super Stadium.

• The Titans have scored 18-plus points in their last nine games against the Warriors; the Warriors have been kept to six or less twice during that time.

5 Key Match-ups

Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad vs Keano Kini: An intriguing duel between the New Zealand Test incumbent and the veteran he shunted to centre. CNK starts at fullback for the first time since being brought in against the Titans in Round 7 as a late inclusion — which proceeded an eight-week break from the top side. He was one of the Warriors’ best after entering the fray against the Bulldogs, but given his attacking limitations he needs to be at his industrious, safe best. Kini is electric, racking up 17 line-breaks this season, but the diminutive Kiwi can be targetted due to his size.

Alofiana Khan-Pereira vs Dean Ieremia: AKP scorched in for a double in a satisfying first outing against his former club in Round 7, though he had a few sketchy moments on defence. With 12 tries in 11 games, Khan Pereira shapes as a key figure in his maiden visit to the ground he scored 26 tries in 25 games in for the Titans. Former Storm journeyman Ieremia has taken more than five years to accumulate his tally of 26 NRL appearances, but he lines up on the flank for the Titans for the fourth straight week.

Te Maire Martin vs Zane Harrison: TMM has had a couple of subpar games after re-signing earlier this month and needs to step up as a genuine No.7 as the calls for Luke Metcalf’s return grow louder. The 20-year-old Harrison has been one of the season’s best discoveries, helping engineer four wins in his first 10 NRL games — including a match-winning field goal against Penrith — and producing six try assists.

Wayde Egan vs Oliver Pascoe: There’s still a fair bit of speculation Egan may be ruled out after playing severely hampered for more of the second half against the Bulldogs — and the Warriors need a fully-fit dummy-half orchestrator here. An NRL newcomer this year, 26-year-old Pascoe has been a great find and has scored four tries and racked up six line-break assists in 15 appearances.

James Fisher-Harris vs Tino Fa’asuamaleaui: The rival enforcers and skippers will look to set the tone for their sides. JFH has been one of the NRL’s form props, while big Tino has lifted post-Origin to rack up his two highest run-metre tallies (187 and 198) as the Titans have racked up consecutive wins in the past fortnight.

Last Time They Met

The Warriors’ 28-20, game-of-two-halves victory over Gold Coast Titans ultimately had an ‘a win’s a win’ feel about it, but a dominant display in the opening 40 minutes was more than enough for Andrew Webster’s side to hang their hat on as they conquered a bogey (albeit a more minor one this time) for the second straight Saturday.

The hosts led 22-0 at halftime, benefitting from a stiff breeze, aggressive defence and slick backline play that saw ex-Titan Alofiana Khan-Pereira blaze over for a double and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak score a beauty in the other corner.

Erin Clark’s wrap-around try — combining with James Fisher-Harris — was the Warriors only addition to the scoreboard. The Titans, with the wind at their backs this time, jagged four second-half tries without ever really threatening to make of a game of it again.

Why the Wahs will win: The Warriors are clearly the better team with a stronger pack and boast far more quality on the bench, while after the past fortnight there should be zero complacency. A sold-out away crowd mostly on their side doesn’t hurt, either.

Why the Wahs will lose: You cannot help but feel like the last two weeks was perhaps a harbinger of another limp finish to the regular season…and the Titans are playing good footy with a host of unknowns emerging as quality first-graders.

The Punt: Head to head — Warriors $1.52, Titans $2.55; Points Start — Warriors +4.5; Total Points Over/Under — 49.5

Best Anytime Tryscorer Options — Alofiana Khan-Pereira ($1.60), Phil Sami ($2.15), Jojo Fifita ($2.70), Jayden Campbell ($2.90), Te Maire Martin ($3.45), Leka Halasima ($4.10); Erin Clark ($6.25)

The Verdict: The Warriors know how important this game is in the context of their season — they were (still are?) widely regarded as premiership threats only a week ago so and can prove last week’s loss was a mere blip. A strong start is paramount, but if they get it that should go some way towards the visitors reminding the Titans why they are where they are on the ladder. Warriors by 10