League: Warriors should be happy with progress

Andrew McFadden
Andrew McFadden
If trials are an accurate barometer, Warriors coach Andrew McFadden will be satisfied with his team's progress a few weeks out from the start of the season.

The scoreline isn't particularly important, although the home side will bank yesterday's 18-4 win over the Panthers, but there were plenty of boxes ticked in Rotorua.

The big guns made successful returns, some of the backline play was crisp and sharp, and youngsters such as Solomone Kata, Sam Lisone and Albert Vete got game time.

But the most pleasing aspect was their defence. Penrith were limited to one try, despite plenty of possession in attacking areas and an 83 per cent completion rate.

Typical of a trial, accuracy was lacking at times, but neither team were helped by some over-zealous officiating. Just as was seen in the

All Stars match on Friday, the referees were whistle-happy yesterday, allowing a minuscule amount

of time for tacklers to release.

There were 15 penalties in the first half alone, which made for a disjointed match at times.

After absorbing sustained Penrith pressure, the Warriors opened the scoring in the 24th minute with young winger Ken Maumalo diving over after a trademark Sam Tomkins tip-on. The momentum had been created by a long-range break by Kata, who produced some impressive touches.

Penrith drew level in the 31st minute through Robert Jennings, who made the most of a precise Jamie Soward cut-out pass.

Maumalo, who has been labelled the 'Junior Beast', added to his tally early in the second half, finishing

off a strong Warriors set of six by forcing his way over in the corner.

Local product second rower Marata Niukore (Howick Hornets) extended the Warriors lead before Shaun Johnson finished off some wonderful lead-up work from young props Vete and Lisone.


Warriors 18 (K. Maumalo 2, M. Niukore, S. Johnson tries; C. Townsend goal) Penrith 4 (R. Jennings try). Halftime: 4-4.


By Michael Burgess of the Herald on Sunday

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