The New Zealand Warriors have had enough of losing. They are looking to return into the top four of the National Rugby League (NRL), risking that with beating them over St George Illawarra Dragons. The preliminary final is scheduled for this Sunday at the Warriors home, Mount Smart Stadium. Whichever team wins will be one victory away from an undisputed title!
For the Warriors, they’ll be without their fullback coming into this match after he wasn’t named to play in this one. At the other end of experience, in the fullback slot for the Dragons it is Taine Tuaupiki, named to wear jersey one. On the wings, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak represents the Warriors in the number two position while Corey Allan dons the number five for the Dragons.
Adam Pompey is the Warriors’ starting centre, wearing the three jersey. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad will play alongside him in the middle, sporting the number four with pride. In response, the Dragons go with Hayden Buchanan and Mathew Feagai, both of whom wear those identical jersey numbers for their club. The war in the midfield looks set to be the biggest focus of this match.
Key Player Matchups
The halfback spot is really important for both squads. Meanwhile, the Warriors can’t make it happen without Kyle Flanagan. Their failure with Kyle Flanagan has certainly been key in their backplaying. Flanagan is expected to lead his team from the field as they seek to regain momentum. Running back Tanah Boyd has been Mr. Crenshaw for the Dragons. His awareness will help him take advantage of any big play chances that come his way throughout the game.
It’s a terrific five-eighths head-to-head, too! Chanel Harris-Tavita to wear the Warriors jersey, Lyhkan King-Togia runs out with the Dragons. Both players have displayed their ability to turn games on their head with their play, making their play crucial to their respective teams’ championship chances.
If the Warriors don’t have Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, to what extent is the whole game plan built around him? At the same time, incoming Fijian international Christian Tuipulotu will be looking to leave his mark on proceedings from the 22-jersey for the Dragons.
Team Strategies and Expectations
The Warriors face a different type of pressure, one to reverse their recent record of faltering on the big stage. We know what coaches and analysts have wanted to do, fortify their defensive line. They’ll be looking to capitalize on any cracks in the Dragons’ armour.
St George Illawarra Dragons are looking to build on their recent successes and maintain their position in a competitive league. Given their recent matches, it seems they are finally prepared to combine that stiff defense with some cunning, even brilliant, offense. This prudent approach will put the Warriors on guard.
