Ruben Wiki farewells the Mt Smart fans after the Warriors' win over Penrith. Photo / Greg Bowker
After the final whistle at Mt Smart Stadium yesterday, Ruben Wiki had to keep walking around signing autographs, having his photo taken with fans and exchanging back-slaps with both teammates and the beaten Penrith players, otherwise the emotion the team rode to victory might have overcome him.
Jake
the Muss almost had a tear in his eye.
Almost. But really yesterday's comprehensive win, Wiki's 308th game in the Aussie premiership since 1993, was a celebration. It began with a rousing haka and ended with him hugging his wife, Santa, and two children midfield.
He was moved that his teammates had made so much of his last game on the Penrose turf and lifted to make it a no-contest, 30-4 up at the break. "That was special," he said.
It was the 35-year-old prop, oldest man still playing at NRL level, who "smashed 'em bro" in the first hit-up and his energy showed throughout. Logan Swann also played his last game on the club's home ground yesterday, talking afterwards about the great time he'd had and how much enjoyment he found in watching the development of the young players coming through to take his place.
It was Wairangi Koopu's last chance in a Warriors jersey on home ground but he was the man dropped from the five named on the bench midweek, a decision coach Ivan Cleary said was painful, given his playing and coaching history with Koopu, but was not difficult. "The best 17 I thought took the park. We'd love for him to be able to play but in terms of the selection it was pretty clear cut."
The trio's futures all remain unclear. Swann said he was definitely heading to England as he still felt the drive to play and could not face the Warriors for another NRL club.
Koopu is considering a switch to union - he cannot get past the Super League quota system as can Pacific Island passport holders.
Wiki is as yet to sign anywhere. He still maintains he has the ability and desire and is looking at options.
