With just three minutes left on the clock and trailing by eight points, the Storm’s Xavier Coates performed a miraculous aerial stunt to dive over his rival Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, landing a try that snatched victory from the clutches of defeat.
The Warriors were left shell-shocked as they witnessed their lead evaporate in the dying moments of the game. Ryan Papenhuyzen, the Storm’s star fullback, ignited the comeback with a critical try in the 78th minute, setting the stage for Coates’ match-winning moment. The Warriors, who had dominated the second half with three consecutive tries, could only watch in disbelief as their efforts were undone.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring a high-octane blend of skill, strategy, and sheer willpower. The Storm’s late-game heroics underscored their reputation for never-say-die resilience, leaving fans exhilarated and opponents wary.
The Warriors, despite their valiant efforts, were reminded of the Storm’s decade-long hex over them, a spell they were unable to break in this heart-stopping encounter.
