Luck Needed for Warriors Recruit

The in-form Warriors have picked up a good one in Englishman Morgan Gannon for next season - but he will be hoping for a change of luck in the NRL. Still only 21, the Leeds forward has had a nightmare run with concussion - so much so that he sat out the entire 2024 season. Gannon appears to have overcome the problem but is still being closely monitored by medical staff. Leeds were upset to lose the rising forward, who played for England Knights in 2021 - the British equivalent of the Prime Minister's XIII in the NRL. The Warriors are hoping he will fill the void left by the mid-season departure of ball-playing forward Dylan Walker to the Eels.

Metcalf masterclass turns critics' attitudes

Two words can be used to sum up the Warriors' charge into the top four after 10 rounds - Luke Metcalf. The Warriors' halfback is a player reborn in 2025, playing the best football of his career. Many critics - myself included - thought Te Maire Martin would have been the best fit to replace the retired Shaun Johnson this season. But coach Andrew Webster went with Metcalf and the Warriors haven't looked back. On form, Metcalf is going as well as any halfback in the league and could well take the Wahs all the way this season.

Signing of the Season for Warriors Emerge

Over the summer, Warriors coach Andrew Webster decided his pack needed more grunt in 2025 after the disappointments of last year. Enter Erin Clark, the former Titan and one of the most under-rated hard men in the NRL. The 27-year-old journeyman, who began his career with one solitary game for the Warriors in 2017, has been a standout for the Kiwi club in his return to arms. Clark topped the Warriors' tackle count in the easy win over the Knights on Friday night and also ran for over 150 metres. With James Fisher-Harris missing, Clark has become a key man in the Warriors' forward armada, and he led the troops in fine style in Christchurch.

Younger Cleary excited to step out of Panthers shadow

Jett Cleary has affirmed his intent to carve out his own rugby league identity with the New Zealand Warriors, stepping away from the Penrith Panthers system and older brother Nathan's shadow to do so. The 19-year-old, who came through Penrith's junior ranks, has been training with the Warriors' first-grade squad but is expected to feature in the club's under-21 side as he continues his development. "Obviously, there's Nathan and Dad that got their own thing going in Penrith," Cleary said, speaking with 1News. "I could've easily stayed there and rode what they're doing now because they are pretty successful, but I thought this was a good opportunity to step out of the limelight a bit and do it my own way and try succeed on my own." Cleary's decision to move across the Tasman on a three-year deal wasn't just about forging his own path, it also marks a return to his childhood club. Born in Auckland in 2005 while his father, Ivan, was an assistant coach at the Warriors, Cleary lived in New Zealand until he was seven and has long held ambitions of representing the club. "Most of the time I was in the creche in the little kids section. That was always fun," he recalled. "It's so weird because I used to joke with my mates and my mum that I'll go play for the Warriors one day." "I always joke with Mum that I kind of spoke it into existence I think, I love the Warriors and I've always wanted to play for them."

'Never know': Coach's hint on late Warriors switch

Could the Wahs be set to pull a late switch on the eve of the massive clash with the Raiders in Sin City? Coach Andrew Webster certainly floated the possibility in an exclusive chat with Wide World of Sports in the lead-up to the game. Webster has the luxury of three top-class halves in his 23-man squad that got on the plane for the USA last week. He's named Luke Metcalf and Chanel Harris-Tevita as his starting halves and left Te Maire Martin out of the 17 men down to play the game. But Martin, while filling in for the injured Shaun Johnson last year, was the architect of some of the team's best wins in a disappointing season. "Whoever is playing the best will be in the starting side," Webster told WWOS before actually revealing his squad. "But one could also be on the bench - you never know." Webster has named two young relative unknowns on the bench in the current 17 - second-rowers Leka Halasima and Demitric Vaimauga - who have played just 11 top grade games between them. Will he roll the dice and drop one for the unpredictable Martin to give him more creative power? Watch this space…

Warriors shock looms after star outshone in trial

Warriors coach Andrew Webster looks set to spring a surprise in naming the retired Shaun Johnson's replacement for the start of the premiership next month. Most critics expected Te Maire Martin to fill Johnson's sizeable boots - but Luke Metcalf was given first crack in the No.7 jumper on Friday night. And Metcalf shone in the 12-all draw against his former club Cronulla, having a hand in a try, kicking a 40/20 and using his pace to make several darting runs. Martin also played in the scrappy trial - but wasn't as impressive as Metcalf and the versatile youngster now looks the favourite to start the season at halfback.

NRL skipper’s retirement shock

The Warriors have been dealt a major blow on the eve of the new season, with workhorse skipper Tohu Harris announcing his retirement effective immediately due to a wrist injury that plagued him last year and left him “dealing with pain in everyday life as well as footy”. Harris turned 33 earlier this week but won’t return for a 13th season due to ongoing problems following off-season surgery on the wrist injury that limited him to just 14 appearances last year. “I had high hopes of returning from the injury this year but I’m devastated I won’t get the chance to pull on the jersey again,” he said. “I’m dealing with pain in everyday life as well as footy. My body has been feeling good in training but the reality is I can’t perform as a player with this injury. “While it’s not easy finishing like this, I’m so grateful to the One New Zealand Warriors for the opportunities they’ve given me, for the chance to wear the jersey and to lead our great club, and also for the support we’ve had as a family.” The Warriors will settle on their new skipper closer to the start of the 2025 season, with Dylan Walker likely to replace Harris at lock given he played 13 matches in the role last year. It’s another blow for the club given star halfback Shaun Johnson has retired and try-scoring machine Addin Fonua-Blake has joined the Sharks, although former Golden Boot winner James Fisher-Harris is a key signing and could take over as captain. “It’s shattering for Tohu and his family as well as for our club and fans,” Warriors chief executive Cameron George said.

'Scared' Warriors slammed after 'ridiculous' expansion call

The battle for a second New Zealand team has got nasty, with legendary Kiwi coach Graham Lowe slamming the Warriors' claims that the country should not have a second team for 10 to 15 years. In a story in the News Limited press on Sunday, Warriors owner Mark Robinson and chief executive Cameron George declared it would be "devastating" if the NRL added a second franchise anytime soon. That drew an angry response from Lowe, who is behind the Christchurch-based Orcas franchise's bid to join the NRL competition. "It's ridiculous for them to say that New Zealand isn't ready for a second team for at least 10 years," Lowe told Wide World of Sports. "I don't even know why they would say that - they have to realise it would be a massive boost for the game in this country. "For years we got the rough end of the pineapple compared to rugby union but now things have changed. League is making huge inroads here. It's like having two supermarkets in town instead of one - the consumers benefit. "Maybe the Warriors are scared - there could be a bit of fear there. What if the Orcas turn up in their first year and are an immediate success? We have grand plans and are confident of making an impact. Our model will be different to Warriors. "We want to be a development club, not a recruitment club."There are so many good players here just waiting for a chance. We've never had this chance in my lifetime - imagine how great the local derby will be twice a year. "This is why we need a second team here and soon - even if the Warriors don't like it." Lowe held talks with NRL boss Andrew Abdo last week. "It was great to touch base and he assured me that we would be given serious consideration," he said.

NRL world rages over 'ridiculous' detail as Shaun Johnson completes fairytale farewell

The Cronulla Sharks were left fuming over the officiating on Saturday night as Shaun Johnson produced a magical finish to his NRL career to guide the Warriors to victory. Johnson had three try assists - including one in the dying seconds - as the Warriors stunned the Sharks 30-28 in the final game of the halfback's career. But the fairytale farewell was marred by controversy after the Sharks copped a contentious sin-bin in the second half that turned the whole game. Cronulla led 22-4 at the break, but the Warriors scored five second-half tries to snatch victory. Two of those tries came after Kayal Iro was sent to the bin for a high shot on Dallin Watene-Zelezniak - a call that sparked controversy. Watene-Zelezniak slipped into the tackle, and Iro appeared to be powerless to prevent making contact with his head. "They need to sort this out before September (finals), because it's got to ridiculous proportions," Phil Gould said in commentary for Channel 9. "This has been going on for a few weeks, but it's got ridiculous. Coaches, fans, players are all frustrated, and they don't know how to get themselves out of it."

Warriors Cult Hero on the Move?

The Warriors have lost marquee man Shaun Johnson after his decision to hang up the boots this week - and another fan favourite could also be headed for the door. There are whispers that take-no-prisoners prop Bunty Afoa is being sounded out by several Aussie clubs for 2025. The 27-year-old front-rower, who charges into the defence with no fear - is under contract to the Warriors next season but there are rumours that the club won't stand in his way if he decides to leave. Afoa made his top grade debut in 2016 and has played over 130 games for the Warriors - but only nine this season.

Clubs 'desperate' to lure Martin back to Australia

Several Aussie clubs are trying to snare in-form halfback Te Maire Martin away from the Warriors. Martin, who has done a great job leading the Kiwi team around the paddock in the absence of marquee man Shaun Johnson, is under contract until the end of 2025. That means rival clubs can't talk contracts with him until this November - but Wide World of Sports has learned he has had a couple of "informal chats" with Aussie-based teams. But the 28-year-old has told the clubs he has no intention of leaving the Warriors, despite having to play second fiddle to Johnson whenever the face of the franchise is fit. Ironically, the Warriors, who have had a patchy season, have won all four games when Johnson has been missing and Martin has worn the number seven jumper. Last weekend, Martin was outstanding as the Warriors got their finals challenge back on track with a win over the Broncos. Johnson, who has played well below his best this season, has yet to sign on with the club for next year.

Finals race heats up after wahs win

The Warriors are right back in the hunt for finals footy after a win over a weakened Broncos side - and boast arguably the most destructive bookends in the race for the eight. Props Addin Fonua-Blake and Mitch Barnett were outstanding as the Wahs won the battle up front in heavy conditions, combining for 337 metres between them. The pair will prove a handful for any team in the crucial games to come and both have size, speed and the ability to offload. They set the stage for a desperately needed win after last week's disaster on the Goldy, coming up with 248 metres in the first half. That gave the Wahs the momentum - and it was enough to ensure they claimed a vital two points.

Warriors flyer Dallin Watene-Zelezniak chased by 'cashed-up' Super League club

The NRL is in danger of losing one of its biggest personality players in 2025 - The Flying Mullet. Speedy Warriors winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak is the number one target of cashed-up Catalans Dragons in France. The Kiwi cult hero is a favourite with the fans in Auckland because of his fearless charges with the ball, his spectacular diving for tries - and THAT distinctive hairstyle. The 28-year-old - who began his NRL career 10 years ago with the Panthers - still has a year to run on his contract with the Warriors. But the Auckland team may well let him go if he can pick up the lucrative three-year deal Catalans are prepared to offer. "We were looking at Watene-Zelezniak and Daniel Tupou," a Catalans source told Wide World of Sports. "Now Tupou has re-signed with the Roosters, we will be going all out for Watene-Zelezniak."

Warriors Main Man Found Out

The Warriors have hit the wall with three straight losses - and rival teams appear to have found a way to blunt the brilliance of Shaun Johnson. Johnson has produced just three try assists in those three games - all in the 27-24 loss to the Titans. In slippery conditions not suited to creative halfbacks on Sunday, Johnson could do little to get his side up as the Knights scored an upset 14-8 win. The Warriors rely too heavily on Johnson's playmaking skills - and need more players to step up and take the heat off their star number seven or it will be four losses on the trot when they meet the in-form Roosters next weekend.

Smokey Emerges for Origin

Michael Maguire will be looking for new blood for the Blues to turn the tide against Queensland in a couple of months - and Warriors hard man Mitch Barnett fits the bill perfectly. While fellow prop Addin Fonua-Blake gets most of the headlines, Barnett does plenty of the heavy lifting for the Wahs and came up with some massive plays as they came from behind to beat a determind Raiders outfit on Friday night. Strong and tough, Barnett has 'Origin' written all over him and would not let the Blues down.

Slater's bold call after watching Tuivasa-Sheck return

It was with the Roosters he announced himself, but it was with the Warriors he cemented his name as one of the best in the game. Now after two years in the 15-man code, prodigal son Roger Tuivasa-Sheck is back in the NRL. The 2018 Dally M winner has been picked as a starting centre for his official league return against the Sharks in front of a home crowd in Auckland on Friday. Tuivasa-Sheck has made 112 of his 196 NRL appearances to date for the Warriors, and was skipper from the start of 2017 until he departed league late in the 2021 season. But despite being on the wrong side of 30, Billy Slater says Tuivasa-Sheck is the man he's looking forward to watching the most this season. Speaking on Wide World of Sports' The Billy Slater Podcast, he said the pre-season challenge showed he's still got it, despite moving from fullback into the centres. "I watched him closely and he's the number one player that I'm looking forward to watching this year," Slater said. Earlier in his career, Tuivasa-Sheck had a reputation as having some of the fastest feet in the game. Slater reckons they're still there. "He's still got those … he makes people look silly and he's not very young anymore," he said. "I think he's going to be a wonderful addition."

'Massive dilemma' that could decide Warriors' fate

If the Warriors are ever going to win an NRL premiership, fate seems to have decided that 2024 will be the year. Last year's grand finalists Penrith and Brisbane have both lost key players, while the Warriors have prodigal son Roger Tuivasa-Sheck back in the fold. And for Addin Fonua-Blake, the game's most devastating prop, he's got one last season before he moves back to Australia. Add the return of the talented Chanel Harris-Tavita and the signing of a tough pro in Kurt Capewell (Broncos) to the mix and the Warriors will field arguably their best-ever squad in the coming campaign. Most of the team picks itself, but Dally M Coach of the Year Andrew Webster has a big decision to make. Who will partner golden boy Shaun Johnson in the halves? Te Maire Martin and Luke Metcalf both showed touches of class last season before suffering long-term injuries. Both were rarely fit on the same weekend after that. But the pair start 2024 fully fit, leaving Webster with a difficult choice. It's a massive dilemma because Johnson is so important to the smooth running of the team's attack. Martin is the steadier of the pair, Metcalf the more explosive. Weighing it up, I think Webster will start with Martin – the safer option. But Metcelf will get his chances in a long season and would make an excellent No.14 off the bench. In the forwards, Josh Curran is a big loss, but the Warriors gave him permission to negotiate so they feel their young up-and-coming big men have his position covered.

Warriors NAB Rising Star

The Warriors have picked up rising Knights forward Toni Tupouniua - for peanuts. The younger brother of Roosters star Sitili Tupouniua, Toni was a standout for the Knights' NSW Cup team last season. He was set for a top 30 spot with the Knights this season before the club needed to free up cap space and allowed him to look around. The 24-year-old - who was born in New Zealand - did a deal with the Warriors which the Knights are funding the majority of and will play in this weekend's trial against the Tigers in Christchurch.

Concern Over Returning Star

Can Roger Tuivasa-Sheck rediscover the magic after two wasted years in rugby union? RTS is now 30 and will have lost some of his speed and edge playing a slower, inferior game. Warriors fans will be expecting the inspirational fullback/centre to take right up where he left off in 2021 - but it may not be that simple. Returning to the most competitive league in the world after such a long time is no easy thing. It may take him a while to get back to his best - if indeed he is capable of doing it at all. With Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad playing such brilliant football at fullback in 2023, RTS is likely to begin the long road back in the centres - but that may actually help him. Less running and less pressure should enable him to ease his way back - and hopefully rekindle the class that made him one o the game's most exciting players throughout the 2010s.

Major concern for star after 'two wasted years'

Two players likely to be playing their final seasons for the Warriors hold the key to the club breaking its long premiership drought. Veteran halfback Shaun Johnson - who turns 34 this year and is uncontracted for 2025 at this point - has the brilliance to get the Warriors to the promised land. And prop Addin Fonua-Blake, who is quitting the club next year to return to Australia with the Sharks for personal reasons - has the grunt up front to subdue rival packs in the big games. Johnson was superb last season, scoring and creating tries, but is entering his 14th season in the big league. Few players hit 15 years - but he has the professionalism and dedication to go the extra mile despite the wear and tear on his body… time will tell. Fonua-Blake is rated among the premier front-rowers in rugby league and was a big factor in the Warriors' shock rise to the top four last season. His decision to return to Australia next year is a body blow and he will be difficult to replace.