Webster has worked wonders with the Warriors - now they can't let him wander
There’s probably not a more popular Australian in New Zealand right now than Andrew Webster and deservedly so. Usually at this time of year,…
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There’s probably not a more popular Australian in New Zealand right now than Andrew Webster and deservedly so. Usually at this time of year,…
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Agreed. I thought the South’s outcome was good for them. A timely reminder there is still work to do.
Johnson has been the team barometer for me, I’ve never seen him defend like he has this year. And everything else has flowed out of that.
Could they win it this year? Possibly… Will they? Probably not, but the impact for the game here has already been huge. Another sold out game this weekend – big props for the Tigers for making it happen too.
Webster has worked wonders with the Warriors - now they can't let him wander
Three years currently I believe but the club is looking to review and extend his contract. I know it’s early days and we haven’t won anything yet, but his impact has been immediate and obvious.
Webster has worked wonders with the Warriors - now they can't let him wander
I miss the biff too Barry; at least the players can defend themselves. Hard to do that with both feet off the ground.
Warriors see yellow, fans see red
The NRL has some amazing fullbacks – Tedesco, Ponga, RTS, Papenhuyzen, Trbojevic to name a few. Human highlight reels. The game is far better with them in it. The NRL have clamped down on grapple tackles, pressure tackles, introduced concussion tests etc, but yet it’s still ok to take out the legs of their most valuable talent while completely vulnerable 5 feet off the ground? It’s inconsistent and It’s dangerous. I hope they don’t wait until someone is seriously hurt before protecting those guys.
Warriors see yellow, fans see red
I thought Melbourne got the rub because Cam Smith is currently an extra on-field official. But when they played the warriors they got whacked 7-3 in the penalty count. It went unnoticed as Melbourne still won 50 – 6. Ouch. So maybe the top performing teams do get rough calls but it’s less noticeable as they still get the result? But I hear you, sure feels like there is sub-conscious bias in there somewhere… surely..
Warriors see yellow, fans see red
Cheers Dutski, it was a soft call. I would’ve enjoyed watching Tevaga and Brown going at each other over the next few sets, but we were robbed of the spectacle by weak officiating. But can’t fault the boys effort, it’s been the biggest improvement this year, they just don’t give up. Agree, hopefully it will continue to improve with stability. Very pleasing.
Warriors see yellow, fans see red
I guess it would need to be considered along with NZ fans and sponsors who want home games too. But I think theres definitely scope for the NRL to better manage the travel aspects. Some good suggestions in this thread.
Warriors light up through lockdown
I agree with pretty much everything you’ve said. Cutting 7 – 8 hours travel time out of the road matches has to help. Maintaining form is certainly the challenge, particularly with more change ahead for the club and uncertainty around what next year might look like with Covid.
Warriors light up through lockdown
I was disappointed Payten declined the opportunity, which seemed a clumsy process tbh. Nathan Brown’s NRL coaching record doesn’t read well, but if you include his results while in the U.K. super league It looks much better. He built a good roster at Newcastle, but didn’t get results. They have improved since – how much of that was his influence? really hard to know, but Brown is experienced and seems a safe choice after Payten’s last minute withdrawal. Here’s hoping he can continue the improved efforts.
Warriors light up through lockdown
If they hadn’t achieved the results they have so far this year, the usual doom and gloom merchants would be calling for more hardened aussie players etc. Its been satisfying to see senior players step up and I agree the junior talent coming through is very promising. In my view Katoa has been the find of the season for the warriors Harris-Tavita has played well above his weight and with a maturity far greater than his experience. Great stuff.
Warriors light up through lockdown
Thanks SP. Perhaps if the Warriors had Benji or players who could match his consistency in their performance and attitude they would enjoy more success.
Redefining the career of Benji Marshall
Fair enough Tazz, couldn’t agree more re the frustration.
Another Knight to forget for Warriors
Have a look at my earlier articles, plenty of optimism about the Warriors. But right now they are playing poorly. Its frustrating because they showed last year they can compete. I’d love them to turn things around and if they do, you can read my article about it.
Another Knight to forget for Warriors
Great read Tim – this should be a cracker.
Storm vs Rabbitohs: The ultra definitive stats preview
Thanks The Barry, I take your point.
I don’t think the bunker will get everything right, every time.
For me, I think there needs to be balance between accuracy and ensuring the game is enjoyable to watch.
Union has gone too far with technology. The game has become disjointed and at times painfully slow while players and fans wait for tv officials to review endless replays from a hundred angles.
With a captains challenge, the refs can have confidence in their calls, knowing if the players don’t like it and are convinced they’re right they can put a challenge on the line.
Or make it a coaches call – they have TVs, replays and the best view of the field.
You’re right, we may still see the occasional howler, but personally I’d rather accept that happens sometimes and have a game that is great to watch.
What I wouldn't give to see this before the NRL season's out
Nobody wants to lose to a team that was once skittled for 26.
A sporting dilemma: To cheat or not to cheat
Brutal – nice burn, the Barry. And noted re: Smith.
A sporting dilemma: To cheat or not to cheat
Great response, I would love to know more about the Warriors forum.
I agree with pretty much all you have said – Lino, Paasi and Afoa are still learning their trade. Wayne Bennett said many players take 100 games to understand the demands of the game and become consistent performers. Some kick on, some don’t.
Hiku’s defence is a real concern, which I expect is causing head aches for the coaching team; offensively, that right side has been as good as any in the comp. I was surprised they have named him as back up in the halves, haven’t seen much of him in that role and assumed they might push him back to fullback. But can’t argue with Fusitua taking that role, he is class.
The Warriors can't afford a slip up against the Eels
They are Jacko, and have been since they started. I picked the Eels mostly for emotionally insurance. If the Warriors lose, at least I’ll get a point in the tipping comp, so not a complete loss. If they win, I’ll still be stoked they got up despite dropping a point.
I think that makes sense. But it might help explain why my picks have been mud this year.
The Warriors can't afford a slip up against the Eels
They were named to play, but both have been carrying injuries. Lino has performed well this year when called on and Luke is playing the best he has in a Warriors jersey. But I agree, If they are fit the Warriors should win.
The Warriors can't afford a slip up against the Eels
I have struggled with the influence of the whistle blowers and rules in union of late, but played well and unmolested by officials it is still a great game.
I love league and the current season has been fantastic. So hard to pick. But I quite like the suggestions on NRL360 around reducing the number of substitutions to make fatigue a bigger factor and give the ball players more chance to show their skills as the big boppers slow down.
In a different league
Agree Paul, the games or codes I enjoy most are those that best demonstrate the skills, or sometimes effort, on show. Add in history, rivalries and those moments of sports theatre and I’ve got my beer and popcorn ready to go.
In a different league
Love the passion Frank E. Ten years is longer than most marriages. In any case it’s irrelevant as I have been following Warriors since day one also, held season tickets and been through the emotional meat grinder that their fans all know.
But that’s not my point. What is the point of enduring the lean years if you can’t enjoy their success? Your comment about the train wreck is absolutely spot on; which is why I consider the current run to be a success.
It’s true 5 matches might not be considered a success for some clubs, but for the warriors (and many other clubs who have struggled in recent years), and particularly the lows they have come from, I think it’s an achievement that deserves credit.
I understand your guarded approach, and I know I wear my heart on my sleeve. If they fold this year, I’ll have to deal with that.
Def got the pun too.
Top tip: Don't Warrior, be happy
A lot of emotion on show there Steel Panther – could you show me on a teddy bear exactly where the Warriors hurt you?
if I didn’t know better it sounds like you’re a closet Warriors fan.
A bitter, lonely one, who ran to the most successful club they could see at the first sign of trouble, but there’s still a Warriors fan in there somewhere.
You know it’s true.
Top tip: Don't Warrior, be happy
Niukore’s deal was reported as $2.5m for 4 seasons, which is $625k a year.
The Bulldogs were still paying half DWZ salary as part of the early release deal. However, to be fair to him, he’s earned his coin this season. Reduced the errors, runs hard as anyone out of his own end and has shown some spectacular finishing for tries.
Not sure you can underestimate what Tohu brings to the Warriors either, tackles like a machine, does his share of tough stuff and links with the spine. All on one leg. Great leader. Worth every cent in my view.
Webster has worked wonders with the Warriors - now they can't let him wander