Warriors v Sharks: What we learned from first NRL pre-season trial for Auckland club

Luke Metcalf of the Warriors runs the ball during the NRL Pre-Season Challenge Round 1 match between the Cronulla Sutherland Sharks and the New Zealand Warriors at Shark Park in Sydney, Friday, February 7, 2025. (AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts/ Photosport)

Middle of the road

Friday was a fruit salad of a performance from the Warriors; some tasty morsels but nothing to rave about to your friends, or make you regret opting for the tiramisu. This wasn’t the emphatic statement that coach Andrew Webster might have desired from a strong line-up but there was enough to build on, in the circumstances.

The most pleasing aspect was the defensive intent, especially in the first hour or so, along with the way they fronted up on their goal line. A concern was the inaccuracy and decision-making, though trials are not ideal barometers for those areas.

Metcalf moves up

Luke Metcalf showed good signs, in his first match at No 7 since the retirement of Shaun Johnson. Sure, it’s only a trial, against an understrength Cronulla side but the 25-year-old was heavily involved. He kicked well, including a 40-20, and looked sharp on the ball. Though he has mainly been seen as a running half, Metcalf seemed comfortable in a playmaking role and appears to have the edge for the halfback spot in round one.

Erin Clark. Photo / Photosport

Clark catches the eye

Erin Clark wasn’t the most high-profile off-season arrival, overshadowed by Kiwis icon James Fisher-Harris. But he will be a vital pick-up. The 27-year-old showcased his attributes on Friday night, with his powerful runs through the middle. He is not the biggest lock – but his timing and speed makes him highly effective, as he hits the defensive line earlier than most. Clark is also a handy ball player, which we will see more of as the season develops.

Dynamic Dylan

In a match where few players shone brightly, Dylan Walker gave another reminder of his importance. His ability to provide momentum off the bench is almost unmatched in the NRL and he was key to the Warriors’ improvement in the second and third quarter. Demitric Vaimauga had some powerful plays – showing why he is highly rated within the club – while fellow youngster Ali Leiataua was solid.

Medley of mistakes

The mistakes and poor decision-making that blighted the 2024 season were again evident on Friday. There were 16 errors and several moments where the wrong option was taken. A lot of that can be excused in pre-season – and so many players used – but coach Webster would have hoped for more composure.

Handy Healey

There was a lot to like about the first glimpse of new hooker Sam Healey. Playing at the ground where father Mitch made his name, the 22-year-old ticked a lot of boxes during an extended stint. He directed play well, exhibited a good passing range and chose the right moments to run. Healey adds depth in an area that has been problematic over the past few years.

Six again rule frustrates

This might be a personal crusade but the six again rule needs to go. It is far too subjective, shown again on Friday night as the Warriors were found guilty of infringements on half a dozen occasions, while the Sharks were apparently flawless. It’s simply too difficult for one referee to make consistent judgments with everything else they have to police and becomes far too random.

Play-the-ball puzzle

The latest NRL crackdown was in evidence on Friday night, with four players (three Warriors and one Shark) pinged for incorrect play-the-balls, as they made no attempt to touch the ball with their foot. It was fairly blatant – just rolled between the legs – but how will it continue to be policed? It’s certain to become a flashpoint, when it decides a big game and it feels like there are many more important issues to sort out around the ruck, which remains a mess.

Michael Burgess has been a sports journalist since 2005, winning several national awards and covering Olympics, Fifa World Cups and America’s Cup campaigns. He has also reported on the Warriors and NRL for more than a decade.