Important trial match in Rotorua for Warriors

Vodafone Warriors are expected to field their best side when they take on Penrith Panthers in Rotorua next Saturday.

The Vodafone Warriors will be fielding their best players when they take on Penrith Panthers in Rotorua.

The Valentine's Day match next Saturday will be held at the Rotorua International Stadium and is expected to be their most testing match in their pre-season trial programme.

"The match in Rotorua will be our most important trial," coach Andrew McFadden said.
"We'll be fielding our best side there as we look towards the opening round against Newcastle. It's the only major NRL trial we have this season and also the only one in New Zealand.

"It's going to be a great opportunity for people from the Bay of Plenty and Waikato region - and also for those travelling from Auckland - to see top NRL players including internationals."

The night before the Rotorua trial, winger Manu Vatuvei is due to make his third appearance for the All Stars in Robina, Queensland while a football-packed weekend will be rounded out on Sunday, February 15 with a special day in Glen Eden in honour of young Glenora player Luke Tipene.

Tipene, who had been contracted to the Vodafone Warriors' 2015 NYC squad, died after being attacked early on November 1 last year.
The day will feature a number of trial matches and other events to be announced later this week.

Tickets for the Rotorua Warriors' game are now available at Ticketmaster, in the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre or via www.ticketmasater.co.nz.
General admission prices are: Adults $20, children $7.50 and family tickets for two adults and up to three children $45.