The Warriors, bouncing back from a tough tussle with the Wests Tigers, shifted into high gear, leaving fans electrified and the Dolphins swimming in their wake.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, especially for the Dolphins, who are biting their nails over the fate of their star forward Tom Gilbert, who left the field with a grim suspected ACL injury. Meanwhile, the Warriors, with their forwards in beast mode, showcased a masterclass in league with Mitch Barnett and Marata Niukore bulldozing paths and Tuivasa-Sheck turning the field into his personal playground.
The game kicked off with a bang 14 minutes in, as Luke Metcalf, using Tuivasa-Sheck as a decoy, set Marcelo Montoya on a mission to crash over the corner. The Warriors’ onslaught didn’t stop there, with Barnett capitalizing on a Kurt Capewell line break to further dent the Dolphins’ defense.
Dallin Watene-Zelezniak turned thief, intercepting a Kodi Nikorima pass and dashing 50m to the delight of the roaring Go Media crowd. Despite the setback, the Dolphins managed to claw back with Jake Averillo notching his first Dolphin try, narrowing the gap by halftime.
The drama intensified in the second half, with Gilbert’s departure on injury clouding the Dolphins’ spirits. Yet, Shaun Johnson, the Warriors’ star halfback, showcased his magic, weaving a pass to Rocco Berry to extend their lead. Nikorima, not to be outdone, set up Jack Bostock for a spectacular aerial score, keeping the contest heated.
The Warriors’ forwards refused to let up, with Niukore smashing through to widen the breach. However, the Dolphins, led by the electrifying Herbie Farnworth and Valynce Te Whare, fought back valiantly, slicing the lead to a tantalising 30-22.
But the final act belonged to Tuivasa-Sheck, whose wizardry set the stage for Leiataua to seal the deal, ensuring the Warriors roared to a 34-22 triumph as the clock ticked down. The Warriors’ pre-season saga ended on a high note, with fans and foes alike marveling at the spectacle of sheer rugby brilliance.
