1. Hard road begins for Warriors
The Warriors have already struggled to start this NRL campaign, but their journey is only going to get more difficult over the next two months. In the first four weeks of this season the Warriors faced teams that are considered only fringe finals contenders (Bulldogs, Tigers, Sea Eagles and Titans) but the big guns are about to arrive. Ahead of their bye in the first week of June, coach Stephen Kearney's team will cross the Tasman to play the Rabbitohs, Storm, Dragons and Panthers. They also have home games against the Cowboys, Knights and Broncos.
2. Titans out to avoid unwanted history
The Titans are on the brink of the worst start in the franchise's history. If they fail to claim the two points at Mt Smart tonight, they will become the first Gold Coast team to drop their opening four matches in an NRL season. Their prospects of ultimate glory this year already look bleak, as only three teams in NRL history have recovered from a 0-3 start to win the premiership (Newtown, 1933; Rabbitohs, 1953; Cowboys, 2015). However, the Titans have been boosted by the return of halves Ash Taylor and Tyrone Roberts for the clash against the Warriors.
3. Papali'i building a future
Back rower Isaiah Papali'i is one of several Warriors enrolled in carpentry courses this year. Although he seems to be have a long professional career ahead of him, the 20-year-old is already looking at future interests outside the game. He's also been inspired by teammates Agnatius Paasi and Lachlan Burr, who are qualified builders. "There are a couple of other boys on the course," said Papali'i. "We try to work together, helping each other with the answers. It's about working smarter not harder."
4. New Warriors jersey
The Warriors have unveiled a special one off jersey for the Anzac Day clash in Melbourne next month. Predominantly white, it features poppy fields at the base of the jersey which represent the fields of remembrance. The North and South Islands are also represented by the distant maunga (mountains) — Aoraki Mt Cook on the front of the jersey and Taranaki on the back. "We feel incredibly privileged to be playing once again on Anzac Day this year," said captain Roger Tuivasa-Sheck said. "We will wear this jersey proudly and want to acknowledge all the Anzacs, both past and present, and thank them for their service."
5. Pirates pick up Pewhairangi
Former dual-code professional Api Pewhairangi is a big signing for Pt Chevalier in the Auckland first division in 2019, after returning from the United Kingdom at the end of last year. A capped Irish international in league, Pewhairangi helped the London Broncos gain promotion to the Super League last year and he also previously played for Connacht in the 15-man game. The 26-year-old, who could also see some game time for the Warriors' reserve grade side this year, is a big boost for the Pirates.
