3. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck – 8
Another strong showing in the centres, where he looks far more comfortable than on the wing and poses a greater attacking threat. He finished with two try assists and four tackle breaks. With Adam Pompey due back from suspension next week, it will be interesting to see whether coach Andrew Webster keeps him in the centres or shifts him back out to the wing.
4. Ali Leiataua – 6
Made the most of his limited touches, including a powerful early carry that put the Warriors on the front foot. Produced one of the game’s standout moments with a bone-crunching tackle on Keano Kini. Was forced off for an HIA midway through the second half but returned to finish the match.
5. Alofiana Khan-Pereira – 7
He was able to showcase his speed in open space and was rewarded with a brace against his former club, taking his tally to 55 tries in 56 NRL appearances. There were a couple of handling errors in an otherwise lively performance. Whether he holds his spot in the side may depend on the status of Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, as noted above.
6. Chanel Harris-Tavita – 7
Scored a sensational – if slightly contentious – try, dragging three defenders over the line and somehow managing to ground the ball. He also took control of the kicking game at key moments. Brought real physicality on defence and underlined why he is the Warriors’ first-choice five-eighth, although a role change could be on the cards with Luke Metcalf’s impending return.
7. Tanah Boyd – 7
Controlled the game well and had a hand in four of the Warriors’ five tries. His overall kicking game was strong, despite a few wayward efforts. A very impressive performance.
8. James Fisher-Harris – 7
A strong presence on defence from the skipper. Finished with 128m and 43 tackles, along with a silky pass to Erin Clark for his try.
9. Wayde Egan – 5
Overall, a quiet night by his high standards, but he still provided strong control around the ruck and got through 28 tackles.
10. Jackson Ford – 9
Running out of superlatives to describe his form, which was once again magnificent. He finished with a team-high 226m with the ball and a game-high 46 tackles. There will be no denying he remains atop the Dally M standings after this week.
11. Leka Halasima – 6
After a couple of quiet games, he looked to get his hands on the ball more – and did so effectively. He was arguably unlucky not to score on a couple of occasions. Finished with six tackle breaks, but also missed four tackles.
12. Kurt Capewell – 6
In just his second game of the season, returning from a calf injury, he showed plenty of skill on both sides of the ball, underlining the value he brings to the team moving forward.
13. Erin Clark – 7
Having re-signed during the week, he marked the occasion by scoring his third try of the season. He showcased his skillset, continuing to develop into an elite ball-playing lock. Finished with over 100m and 31 tackles in an impressive all-round display.
Interchange:
14. Sam Healey – 5
Despite playing just 23 minutes, he was very busy and involved in everything during his time on the field. His running game remains a real strength.
16. Demitric Vaimauga – 6
The stats don’t fully reflect his overall impact on the match. He finished with 73m and 21 tackles, but it felt like he was everywhere. He brings an energy and impact the Warriors really need.
17. Jacob Laban – 4
Made an immediate impact by forcing an error early. He was busy on defence with 15 tackles, although opportunities with the ball in hand were limited, with zero runs.
23. Mitch Barnett – 8
Back with a vengeance after missing the past fortnight with a broken thumb, he made his presence felt immediately. He ran for 161 metres with the ball, and the Warriors looked noticeably more dangerous whenever he was on the field.
Ben Francis is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers breaking sports news.
