Recruitment Warriors 2024/2025 Recruitment & Retention

Warriors 2024/2025 Recruitment & Retention Discussion
​

-​	Player​	2024​	2025​	2026​	2027​	2028​
1	Bunty Afoa	✔	✔
2	Tom Ale	✔	✔
3	Mitchell Barnett	✔	✔	✔	✔
4	The Greatest of All-Time	✔	✔	✔
5	Kurt Capewell	✔	✔	✔
6	Wayde Egan	✔	✔	✔	✔
7	Addin Fonua-Blake	✔
8	Jackson Ford	✔	✔
9	Leka Halasima	✔	✔	✔	✔
10	Tohu Harris	✔	✔
11	Chanel Harris-Tavita	✔	✔	M
12	Shaun Johnson	✔
13	Edward Kosi	✔	✔
14	Jacob Laban	✔	✔	✔
15	Ali Leiataua	✔	✔
16	Freddy Lussick	✔	✔	✔
17	Zyon Maiu'u	✔	✔	✔
18	Te Maire Martin	✔	✔
19	Luke Metcalf	✔	✔	✔
20	Marcelo Montoya	✔	✔
21	Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad	✔	✔
22	Marata Niukore	✔	✔	✔
23	Adam Pompey	✔	✔
24	Demitric Sifakula	✔	✔	C
25	Jazz Tevaga	✔
26	Taine Tuaupiki	✔	✔
27	Roger Tuivasa-Sheck	✔	✔	✔
28	Dylan Walker	✔	✔
29	Dallin Watene-Zelezniak	✔	✔
D1	Ben Farr	D
D2	Etuane Fukofuka	D
D3	Patrick Moimoi	D
D4	Tanner Stowers-Smith	D	D
-	Jett Cleary	-	D	D	D
-	James Fisher-Harris	-	✔	✔	✔	✔
-	Kalani Going	-	D
-	Motu Pasikala	-	✔	✔	✔

key: C = Club option, M = Mutual option, P = Player option, D = Development contract

Confirmed Top 30 2024: 29/30
Confirmed Development 2024: 4/6

Confirmed Top 30 2025: 28/30
Confirmed Development 2025: 4/6

2025 Gains: James Fisher-Harris (Panthers), Jett Cleary (Panthers Pathways), Kahu Capper (Roosters Pathways)
2025 Losses: Addin Fonua-Blake (Sharks), Jazz Tevaga (Contract Expired), Shaun Johnson (Retirement)
2025 Off Contract: Nil

 

[WahsaurusRex]

Warriors 2024/2025 Recruitment & Retention Discussion
​

-​	Player​	2024​	2025​	2026​	2027​	2028​
1	Bunty Afoa	✔	✔
2	Tom Ale	✔	✔
3	Mitchell Barnett	✔	✔	✔	✔
4	The Greatest of All-Time	✔	✔	✔
5	Kurt Capewell	✔	✔	✔
6	Wayde Egan	✔	✔	✔	✔
7	Addin Fonua-Blake	✔
8	Jackson Ford	✔	✔
9	Leka Halasima	✔	✔	✔	✔
10	Tohu Harris	✔	✔
11	Chanel Harris-Tavita	✔	✔	M
12	Shaun Johnson	✔
13	Edward Kosi	✔	✔
14	Jacob Laban	✔	✔	✔
15	Ali Leiataua	✔	✔
16	Freddy Lussick	✔	✔	✔
17	Zyon Maiu'u	✔	✔	✔
18	Te Maire Martin	✔	✔
19	Luke Metcalf	✔	✔	✔
20	Marcelo Montoya	✔	✔
21	Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad	✔	✔
22	Marata Niukore	✔	✔	✔
23	Adam Pompey	✔	✔
24	Demitric Sifakula	✔	✔	C
25	Jazz Tevaga	✔
26	Taine Tuaupiki	✔	✔
27	Roger Tuivasa-Sheck	✔	✔	✔
28	Dylan Walker	✔	✔
29	Dallin Watene-Zelezniak	✔	✔
D1	Ben Farr	D
D2	Etuane Fukofuka	D
D3	Patrick Moimoi	D
D4	Tanner Stowers-Smith	D	D
-	Jett Cleary	-	D	D	D
-	James Fisher-Harris	-	✔	✔	✔	✔
-	Kalani Going	-	D
-	Motu Pasikala	-	✔	✔	✔

key: C = Club option, M = Mutual option, P = Player option, D = Development contract

Confirmed Top 30 2024: 29/30
Confirmed Development 2024: 4/6

Confirmed Top 30 2025: 28/30
Confirmed Development 2025: 4/6

2025 Gains: James Fisher-Harris (Panthers), Jett Cleary (Panthers Pathways), Kahu Capper (Roosters Pathways)
2025 Losses: Addin Fonua-Blake (Sharks), Jazz Tevaga (Contract Expired), Shaun Johnson (Retirement)
2025 Off Contract: Nil

 

[Defence]

Id take twal- excellent defender -98.4% efficiency and averages over 100m per game.
Would prefer a 2 year deal and of course the price would have to be right.

 

[Defence]

Meh, we already have Alex Twal, and his name is Bunty Afoa lol

I don't think we need another tackle bot, and with the young guys we have coming through I wouldn't want him blocking that path.

I hope he finds a good place to land, that dude deserves to win some games, but just not necessarily with us.

Its a fair comparison. The main difference just looking at stats is bunty averages a measly 5.3m per hit up while twal is coming in at 10.4. Also has more tackle breaks and offloads and twice as many post contact meters.
Put it this way-I believe (could be wrong) that if twal was in our squad he'd be playing (and most likely starting) this weekend- bunty isnt...

 

[Cces]

Not what was said in CNK & Niukores interview earlier in the year on One take no clubs wanted them

CNK wasn't wanted at the Raiders. That was blatantly clear.
No way in hell Niukore was getting 625k elsewhere & clubs don't offer that $ to players that "no clubs" want. That would be terrible business. He took his biggest offer available, in 'Nov 2021 for 2023 onwards, less than 2 weeks after he hit the free market. The Eels would've loved to have kept him. Just because a club doesn't lock up a player 12 months early it doesn't mean they're goneski. Pompey is the perfect example of that

 

[Bushman]

Be interesting to see after finals, given the warriors form if some suddenly "homesick" kiwi wants a chance at a premiership with the warriors

 

[Kestrel84]

this is 100% inaccurate btw. he had the injury, signed with us because his mrs returned home with the kids, after signing with us Ricky made a point of not using him in first grade again.

I don't think that is accurate either - the Raiders definitely saw Xavier Savage as their fullback moving forward and was going to be starting over CNK. The injury, his ex and the kids, also true - but he was already being forced out of the Raiders team.

 

[Natural Born Warrior]

The majority of Warriors recruitment 80% should come from junior players/pathways.

This is the Brisbane Broncos model. Game breakers, deep roster.

20% should come from specialist players.

Warriors will need to blood much more juniors from next season to build the depth we need.

Incredible talent is already on the Warriors books so the future is most certainly bright.

The current side I believe is its most boring/conservative version. It will get more dangerous as these talented juniors come through. Particullary in the backrow where the Warriors are stacked for talent right now.

Most likely to get NRL time next 2 years.

Maiu'u Zyon - Prop - In the mold of Moeaki Fotuaika but a little more aggresive and faster.
Jacob Laban - 2nd Row - Tall, athletic and often plays within himself. Has massive potential if unlocked. Eli Katoa-like but more athletic
Leka Halasima - 2nd Row/Centre (May need another year to fill out) - One of the best prospects I have seen in years. Potential to be a massive warriors star. SBW/Sonny Fai level of talent but only 17 years old. Already very hard to handle in NSW cup. Explosive/powerful threat ball in hand. Likely to get NRL time in 2025.
Demitric Sifakula - Lock/2nd Row/Prop - Great up side. Confrontational both ball in hand and in defense. Very versatile forward with a full range of skills. Would like to seem him developed more into a Patrick Carrigan type of player. Certainly has the skillset to be that type of player.
Eddie Ieremia-Toeava - 2nd Row - Sleeper talent. Not many people saw him coming or have raved about him but he looks a classy player with a total skillset. Reminds of another famous Ieremia, the All Black Alama Ieremia, he is tall, rangy, athletic and strong. Another player with a fantastic skillset.
Tanner Stowers-Smith - Prop - Watching Tanner play for most of the year I was concerned he was a dud. Hits the life soft, doesnt carry particuallry strong and is a non threat. Made me think a lot of a prop the Warriors used to have called Matt Jobson. Went nowhere and was a basically a reserve grader at best. Last few weeks something has seemed to click for Tanner. He looks more robust, he is running harder and looks to be bending the line a lot more. Also have to think he is only a kid and props take longer to develop. Nice to see, he is getting better. Would love for him to sit down and watch the panthers James Fisher-Harris who is built in the same mold as him.
Tom Ale - Lock - No longer a rookie but is most talented and threatening/robust in his natural lock position. When he plays at prop he skill set is nullified. He is wasted at prop. At lock he another player. Hits lines and holes and constantly threatens to cause havoc. Hopefully he gets more time on the field in 2024 interchanging with an aging Tohu in the lock position. Warriors will lose nothing if they play him there.
Ali Leiataua - Centre - Absolute gun and as much as I was raving about Leka Halasima, this guy is pretty much as good. Lock him up on a 5 - 7 year deal. What club would not sign this kid? Legit game breaker. Just like his great uncle Ali Lauiititi, he can change a game with insane skills and power. Warriors centre hopefully for the next 10 years. Sooner he is in the team the better for the Warriors.
Patrick Moimoi - Centre - Powerful and aggresive. Needs time to develop but built in the Moses Suli mold. A good talent that may have a lot of upside.

 

[Boats n Hoes]

The majority of Warriors recruitment 80% should come from junior players/pathways.

This is the Brisbane Broncos model. Game breakers, deep roster.

20% should come from specialist players.

Warriors will need to blood much more juniors from next season to build the depth we need.

Incredible talent is already on the Warriors books so the future is most certainly bright.

The current side I believe is its most boring/conservative version. It will get more dangerous as these talented juniors come through. Particullary in the backrow where the Warriors are stacked for talent right now.

Most likely to get NRL time next 2 years.

Maiu'u Zyon - Prop - In the mold of Moeaki Fotuaika but a little more aggresive and faster.
Jacob Laban - 2nd Row - Tall, athletic and often plays within himself. Has massive potential if unlocked. Eli Katoa-like but more athletic
Leka Halasima - 2nd Row/Centre (May need another year to fill out) - One of the best prospects I have seen in years. Potential to be a massive warriors star. SBW/Sonny Fai level of talent but only 17 years old. Already very hard to handle in NSW cup. Explosive/powerful threat ball in hand. Likely to get NRL time in 2025.
Demitric Sifakula - Lock/2nd Row/Prop - Great up side. Confrontational both ball in hand and in defense. Very versatile forward with a full range of skills. Would like to seem him developed more into a Patrick Carrigan type of player. Certainly has the skillset to be that type of player.
Eddie Ieremia-Toeava - 2nd Row - Sleeper talent. Not many people saw him coming or have raved about him but he looks a classy player with a total skillset. Reminds of another famous Ieremia, the All Black Alama Ieremia, he is tall, rangy, athletic and strong. Another player with a fantastic skillset.
Tanner Stowers-Smith - Prop - Watching Tanner play for most of the year I was concerned he was a dud. Hits the life soft, doesnt carry particuallry strong and is a non threat. Made me think a lot of a prop the Warriors used to have called Matt Jobson. Went nowhere and was a basically a reserve grader at best. Last few weeks something has seemed to click for Tanner. He looks more robust, he is running harder and looks to be bending the line a lot more. Also have to think he is only a kid and props take longer to develop. Nice to see, he is getting better. Would love for him to sit down and watch the panthers James Fisher-Harris who is built in the same mold as him.
Tom Ale - Lock - No longer a rookie but is most talented and threatening/robust in his natural lock position. When he plays at prop he skill set is nullified. He is wasted at prop. At lock he another player. Hits lines and holes and constantly threatens to cause havoc. Hopefully he gets more time on the field in 2024 interchanging with an aging Tohu in the lock position. Warriors will lose nothing if they play him there.
Ali Leiataua - Centre - Absolute gun and as much as I was raving about Leka Halasima, this guy is pretty much as good. Lock him up on a 5 - 7 year deal. What club would not sign this kid? Legit game breaker. Just like his great uncle Ali Lauiititi, he can change a game with insane skills and power. Warriors centre hopefully for the next 10 years. Sooner he is in the team the better for the Warriors.
Patrick Moimoi - Centre - Powerful and aggresive. Needs time to develop but built in the Moses Suli mold. A good talent that may have a lot of upside.

Talented as this crop of youngsters are and as we've always had talented crop of youngsters coming through, reality is only maybe 2 (at best 3) of that list will kick on to become regular NRL 1st graders.......the odds arent great.....its just the reality.

The post 2011 season should always stand as a reminder a strong squad is built on a balance of experienced/journeymen/ and promising players.......

The club lost that balance being fooled by all that early Toyota Cup success. After that successful 2011 season we let go of something like 600 games worth of first grade experience with the mistaken belief that crop of youngsters would immediately kick on and fill the gap......something that's probably taken a decade to recover from.

 

[wizard of Tauranga]

Once weren’t Warriors: the bargains, rival rejects and 24 roster moves that revived the Wahs

Covid-19 made the Kiwis nomads for almost three years. Their squad has a ragtag look to it as a result, but plans are afoot to turn the club into a “development powerhouse” once again.

www.smh.com.au

Can anyone post this, please?

They’ve come from all over the NRL landscape, mostly because the Warriors themselves were trudging over the same foreign terrain to keep the competition afloat.

Shaun Johnson and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad had to come home. Addin Fonua-Blake had to find a new one.

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak came with a $400,000 sweetener from Canterbury; Jackson Ford came just looking for a crack and more than 20 minutes a game.

Coach Andrew Webster’s own road to the Warriors saw him captain-coaching at Connecticut and cleaning up rubbish at Hull KR. At the Warriors, he has pulled together a squad sourced predominantly from outside New Zealand, to the point 14 of his starting 17 against the Broncos have been recruited from NRL rivals.

For a Kiwi outfit determined to be a development club, things have been backwards in more ways than one – with around $2.5 million invested in star forwards Fonua-Blake, Tohu Harris and Marata Niukore dwarfing the money spent on Webster’s cut-price playmaking spine.

But then the Warriors know better than anyone, a pandemic means things are done a little differently.

“A lot of the roster has been brought together by circumstances to a degree,” recruitment manager and former head coach Andrew McFadden says.

“For three years there’s been a bit of patching things up. But getting home last year the emphasis was on recruiting proven, quality, experienced players.”

The fingerprints of McFadden’s predecessor, Peter O’Sullivan – now with Wayne Bennett at the Dolphins – can still be seen on a Warriors roster that first came together in dribs and drabs. Harris was lured from Melbourne in mid-2017 as a key building block.

Fonua-Blake and Watene-Zelezniak were both opportunistic pick-ups in 2021 when the former “needed to get out of Sydney” and the latter came with the Bulldogs paying half his $800,000 to ease their salary cap pressure.

Johnson’s two-year homecoming deal – reportedly worth around $500,000 – was sorted relatively quickly in late 2021 when he was all but signed with Canterbury.

And then, no less than 24 roster comings and goings in 12 months turbo-charged the Warriors overhaul, with all but a few taking place before Webster took charge last November.

“We signed Mitch Barnett, Dylan Walker, Marata Niukore and Luke Metcalf all in a big hit,” chief executive Cameron George says.

“Mitch, Marata and Dylan Walker have played a fair bit of NRL, they’re resilient, tough and competitive. That’s what they are above all else.

“They want to win and you’ve seen that throughout their career, and that mongrel, that competitive mindset, was what we set off looking for.

“Luke Metcalf wanted an NRL opportunity and then Charnze, on the back of Reece Walsh going home to Brisbane, it was the same thing for him.”

McFadden, who recommended Nicoll-Klokstad to the Raiders in 2019 before treading the same path back to Auckland last year, adds: “The truth with Charnze is that NZ is the only place he was going to play to his best because he needed to be with his family.”

Ford has proven one of the finds of the season after McFadden originally picked him up on a “modest” deal as little more than back-row back-up.

Five-eighth Te Maire Martin was in the same discussion until a broken leg cost him most of his 2023, his comeback for the finals covering Metcalf’s own season-ending hamstring tear.

Martin, Niukore, Johnson and Nicoll-Klokstad have all made their way back home, just as the Warriors did the same after two and a half years playing out of the Central Coast and Redcliffe.

But the biggest long-term win for the club is the chance to hang onto New Zealand’s best and brightest in the first place.

“We haven’t had a NSW Cup team or any junior rep teams for three years,” George says. “Even when we were in Australia and linked with Redcliffe, we could only play six players there under the system in place, we were sharing players around.

“So we just haven’t had pathways or opportunities for kids to come through in a Warriors jumper. Now we’ve got NSW Cup back and next year, SG Ball and Harold Matthews, Jersey Flegg, and then in 2025 we’re hoping to introduce an NRLW team.

“So what you saw in the NRL – a nomadic team travelling the east coast of Australia – that was all we had, we just didn’t have players coming through below that.

“You have to understand that we have had players being coached over the last year three years in first grade and they were still being coached on how to play the basics. From next year we’re going to be on equal footing with every other club.”

A winning team with a nation behind it helps too. More than 1200 applications landed with the club when trials were held last weekend to fill their expanded junior ranks for next year.
“We want to be a development club. That’s our philosophy and it’s important to us,” McFadden says.

“All our best Warriors teams of the past have been predominantly locally sourced players. We’ll always have to recruit from Australia of course, because that’s where the other 16 teams are, but we certainly want to look after our backyard first and foremost.

“In all honesty, rival NRL teams have used it against us when they’re talking to players, because we haven’t had the same opportunities to offer them.

“As long as we get our coaching structures and pathways right, we can be a real powerhouse in developing a strong contingent of kids. That’s not to say we won’t lose a Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, but we need to be bringing our own quality players through.”

 

[Neo]

As you mentioned about Fords crash plays, he’s been admirable but I think a player like Riki sends us to another level with the threat he poses.

Ford has 8 line breaks this year to Rikis 4. Riki is a very good player but Ford is doing a fantastic job whilst not being overly flashy. Find it hard to believe that people have been death riding him and Niukore all year

 

[Natural Born Warrior]

Jackson Ford has been outstanding this year. He established himself as an NRL player of quality.

Seriously good player because he is competitive and keeps going and going. If they could add a bit more explosiveness to him then his value will explode.

A seriously good find by Webster and his team.

 

[RobRoyMcCoy]

Ford was everything we could want in the Newcastle game. He is not on huge money and is a different animal in our pack, complementary to the others. He is also improving (discipline around penalties). It will be interesting to see how he goes against the vaunted Broncos pack this saturday, but I think he has earned his spot and he fits well in our team system.

 

[Warriorsfan92]

Imagine if he had 10kgs more muscle

He’s not that mobile as it is. 10kg would impact his ability to have a high work rate. It’s not size that’s the issue. It’s always handy having a worker edge and an impact edge. His deficiencies are his missed tackles & line running/mobility. This should come with time. But he’s a grafter, a battler & will do the tough hit ups. He’s also got a motor, and goes and goes. His work rate & ethic has landed him a starting spot in a top 4 team in the nrl, from being a reserve grader for a bottom 4 side. His progress & trajectory is outstanding & im keen to see where he’ll get to over the next year or two under webby.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Poor management motivation by coaches?

Honestly I think it's Ice as a player.
The most meters he had made in 4 years with the Warriors was 135m in a game. Do you know how many times he beat in his first year with the Eels? 17 lol.
That was because he had to be motivated...he left us on a minimal contract and had no other option of he wanted to continue to be an NRL player. Smashed it the next year too as it was contract year. Got the big contract with Tigers and then turned soft again.

Not the kinda guy we need at the Warriors. Certainly not the guy I would be replacing Ford with. Ford has the mentality and drive I want to see from players in our team, not someone who hides on the field

 

[Natural Born Warrior]

Warriors will develop from within. The investment has been large already in that area.

Zyon Maiu'u 100% is earmarked to be introduced as a rotation prop in 24/25.

He has been converted from 2nd row and thrust into a full season in NSW cup. And they have built him to perform in a role similar to the Panthers aggressive and robust James Fisher-Harris. You can see the strategy in the Warriors thinking.

Their sizes are similar too with Zyon just a little more raw boned.

James Fisher-Harris - 1.87cm 104 kg
Zyon Maiu'u - 1.84cm 110kg

He will get one of the prop roster positions 100% and you can expect to see him getting game time.

 

[Old Sid]

Anyone else think Martin’s behind Metcalf and CHT for the 6 role next year

Nope, I don't. TMM's a classy player with great defence that has had a very serious injury for most of the season. Looking at how he was going very early on in the year after a good pre-season he's got first dibs on 6 alongside SJ. We're so much more creative on the LHS with him around.
Metcalf a long way behind in reading the game and defence. So far he's only got speed and a lot to learn about setting others up and creating.

 

[Defence]

I get the feeling we might be in for a bombshell or two this off season- possibly tohu retiring, jazz to super league or Curran back to Sydney.
Just a hunch.
Could also see a couple of kiwi boys getting “homesick” after the season they have missed out on- who wouldn’t want to be part of that.
Will be interesting to watch it all unfold but wouldn't be surprised if there was a bit of movement yet.

 

[Noitall]

Rumours over knights forum is Daniel Saifiti being shopped and several teams interested. Was a bit of a murmur regarding this earlier in the year with bulldogs linked, surprise surprise. Barnett certainly seems pretty chummy with him, could be able to lure him over. His brother could also get the pip with the knights if they let his brother go.

 

[Defence]

Rumours over knights forum is Daniel Saifiti being shopped and several teams interested. Was a bit of a murmur regarding this earlier in the year with bulldogs linked, surprise surprise. Barnett certainly seems pretty chummy with him, could be able to lure him over. His brother could also get the pip with the knights if they let his brother go.

Yes please .
Old man’s a warriors tragic too.

 

[Makasene]

I think the talk of shelving TMM is unwarranted.

He took time at the start of the season and was building nicely when the injury happened.

He looked like he needed that time again and what a tough ask to come back and play finals footy.

Defensively solid and nice link play. No surprises Montoya starts scoring trys again once TMM came back to the left.

 

[JaggedJ]

Kayal iro is Kevin’s son
That means his whanau support will guide him towards success
If a trade of Ali for Iro comes up I would take it

Da fuq???

 

[Natural Born Warrior]

Not sure what to make of him not getting his debut this year with even the likes of Roache and Going getting theirs. Likely needs to have a big preseason and impress in the trial games.

Pretty simple. Webster moved away from a prop driven game plan.

No Bunty. No Ale and no Zyon at the end of the season.

Came back to bite/hurt us as we couldn't shut down the Broncos pack in the semi. We struggle quite a bit in the forwards towards the end of the season.

Expect Zyon to get a bit of game time in 2024.

 

[Noitall]

Johnson out of Kiwis squad for Pacific Championships

Shaun Johnson says Knights captain Kalyn Ponga was a worthy Dally M winner while indicating he will miss the Pacific Championships.

www.nrl.com

Disappointing for the Kiwis but great for the Warriors that SJ won’t be joining the them for the upcoming tests. Interesting when he says in the article that when he signed they said they’d look at it again next season, sounds like if he had another one like this he’d sign again. Feels to me that he’s targeting a title rather than playing for the Kiwis.

 

[tyrael]

I'm really off Jazz. I don't think Webster's style of play suits him.

I can't even remember a line or tackle break from him.

We really need another big bopper.

 

[JaggedJ]

Promoting from within.

Makes sense. If all our grades are learning to play the same system then for continuity there's nothing wrong with hiring coaches from within that same system.

 

[Canadian_Warriors_Fan]

 

[Defence]

All the best Sirro.
He stuck with us through the tough times and I’m glad he got to enjoy some success at the end there.
Solid contributor and all round good guy.
Warrior #253

 

[WahsaurusRex]

Just a note that if anyone is looking for it at any point, I am keeping the first post in this thread updated with all of next year's confirmed signings, as well as a list of signings that are yet to be fully confirmed by the club

(e.g. Webster has said that Taine will be the backup fullback next year, but we are yet to have an actual announcement that his option has been activated)

 

[Inruin]

I'm failing to see how playing Tohu at prop solves the issue we have. We can rearrange the deck chairs as much as we want, the reality is we are misisng one extra hard running prop that can make his tackles and make an impression on the opposition defense with ball in hand.

 

[Damo]

They can pay Reece less
He showed he is worth less in the GF

Come on mate, the saltiness at Reece Walsh from Warriors fans is embarrassing now.
He is one of the best players in the competition, even with all of his current flaws.

 

[Levonsnow😝]

Man i dont like losing curran.

 

[snake77]

I know it says he's been given permission which typically indicates the club has initiated it. It could also be Curran and his manager thinking he could start at another club or he wants to return to Australia so he's been allowed to check what offers he could get.

It could also be management reviewing their season and how they want to re-balance the squad or finding a spot to promote someone.

Hopefully, if he moves on and they sign someone else, it strengthens our squad.

For a guy who came here for an opportunity and didn't start too well, he turned things around especially once he got his fitness sorted. We often joke or deride how players come here and get worse. Here is a good example of someone coming here and improving to the point he'd be a good pick up for a number of sides.

 

[WahsaurusRex]

I think losing Josh will hurt me wee heart even more than when SJ left, seriously.

I reckon I could make myself cry if I think about it too much

So much fucking heart.

Outside looking in, he didn't even have a bad season outside of losing his starting spot, but he has still publically said that he was disappointed in his personal performance. To me that is good thing.

Signed with us before COVID, and even extended during COVID. Came to NZ without any complaints. Love it.

Gets under the other teams skin better than even the bald brothers can.

Is the chargedown GOAT.

Oh god, here come the waterworks.

 

[Lance155]

Curran was a great advocate for us, a young Aussie who came over here and openly loves NZ. With all the shit bagging we cop from some Aussie players we sign I think that message was really important to hear. Will miss the bloke

 

[Natural Born Warrior]

Warriors will be looking to develop and debut/give time to at least 3 - 5 development players into the NRL next year.

This is the Brisbane Broncos model and Panthers established their team off this model too.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Really relieved to see that, Marata is the only one that never lived up to expectations IMHO.
Josh got a rev up and then came back better, Marata just seemed to be doing as little as he could to keep his spot.

Really?
I thought he was awesome for us this year, gave us a real hard nosed approach, hit like a truck in attack and defence.
He had some REALLY good games this year, and some where he was quieter. I don't recall him having a bad game or 'doing as little as possible' though.

Imo very much in the mould of Melbourne Storm's Jeremy Smith in the early 2000s, real professional and hard guy who does the basics well, won't set the world on fire, but is a vital cog to his team's success

 

[nzwarriorsfaithful]

I think the warriors have fired all the people in the club who where “leaks” or good mates with prominent media members. We would also hear news of signings etc in 2022 and before. 2023 we have heard nothing from signing rumours etc and only hear about signings when the warriors finally announce them. I think this is a massive positive as a club

 

[Cces]

Jumping into the Ale discussion.
He's 15 months back playing from a ruptured ACL, got through a combined 28 games (includes x2 preseason) this year & started at Prop on 7 occassions. Prior to this season he had played 33 games (x7 NRL & includes x1 preseason) since 2017 & just started at Prop once.
His best is yet to come & has room for growth even if playing predominantly in NSW Cup because he's never played more than 8 games of reserve grade in a year before.

 

[tajhay]

We all know what we know from the reports however accurate they are but I think the club did the right thing in paying him to leave.

I hate to keep saying this but...paying out for a player option extension year, which the player has no intention of taking up is one of the dumbest things the club has ever done. It reeks of recklessness and ego.

 

[ndp26]

All clubs he’s being linked to are Sydney clubs which makes me think he may have been keen to go home.

Randomly ended up talking to Josh Curran's dad at the Lord Alfred before the Brisbane game - sounds like Josh is very much enjoying his time at the Warriors (although wants more game time). However, his dad made it pretty clear that even though he enjoys it, when him and his partner look to start a family they'll be eyeing a move back to Sydney.

 

[Noitall]

I could see a world where a Curran, toaf Sipley deal could be benefit all parties.
Both players get to go home with an upgrade and extension.
We get our prop, manly gets currans mullet- damn I’ll miss that mullet.

When I look at Sipley’s numbers this year, he’s exactly what we need and coming into his peak years. 97% tackle efficiency and made 100m+ in nearly all games, some more than 200m. Warriors junior and connection to AFB already from their time at manly together.

 

[waipiro]

TMM please we don't need him love is passion especially on defence but he gets stifled in attack most times, Please if your running 22m in a prelim you shouldn't be near the team, Metcalf would of made double that if not triple

I don't think the last few games were a fair reflection for TMM coming back from that injury. He was playing well at the start of the year and had been good at the boncos last year.
Will be interesting which way Webster goes if both guys are fit start of the year. Metcalf definately better on attack but needs to work really hard on improving his defence.

 

[Teets]

Volkman has played a grand total of one NRL game at halfback in a weakened side.

Writing him off based on that sample size is a bit premature.

 

[Christchurch_Warrior]

Volkman still not the answer proved it in the test match just gone as two the previous 3 games he played this year for us

He may not be but he has played 5 FG games and 1 test match out of position. Seems a small sample size to just write him off.

 

[tyrael]

If we ejected players based off 5 games, there would be so many players that would have never gotten decent. Berry and Kosi come to mind. Manu Vatuvei didn't score in his first 5 games, definitely pass on him.

 

[Riz]

I like Josh Curran but he's not a game breaker and I think we can get similar output out of a guy like Kalani Going for less coin. There will something brewing behind the scenes for sure.

 

[Tragic]

Was always one of the first to come over to the fans after a game and get photos etc. Was a good dude, I wish him well.

 

[Tonbridge(aka Swanley)]

This is what happens when you are a successful club.

When was the last time we released a player, a good player and it has nothing to do with him wanting to leave, but for us to accomodate players coming through the system?

I'm struggling to remember anyone like this.

Will I miss Curren as a Warrior? Yes I will. Do I think the club has made the wrong decision, no I don't.

Do I have faith that the juniors coming through are good enough replacements? Yes I do.

Do I have faith in Webby and Cappy - bloody oath I do.


Curran won't be the last this happens to.....

Good luck to him and I hope he enjoyed his time at the club.

 

[Noitall]

New Zealand Warriors - Mid-level front-rower

Braden Hamlin-Uele
(Getty Images)
Analysis

After going from the bottom-four to the top-four in the space of 12 months under Andrew Webster, there aren't too many areas that need addressing for the Warriors, who find themselves in a strong position roster-wise. If they need to bolster one area, it might be in the engine room, with the likes of Addin Fonua-Blake and Tohu Harris perhaps needing a little more support.

Options

Braden Hamlin-Uele has been a consistent fixture for the Sharks over a number of years, but remains off-contract heading into November and could be tempted to depart the club. The 28-year-old is originally from Auckland and with the Warriors now a premiership threat, it could be an enticing decision.
Francis Molo has the power game that a club like the Warriors desire, but his current stay at the Dragons hasn't showcased his best football on a consistent basis and Shane Flanagan is unlikely to retain him.
Max King is reliable and would add a point of different to the rest of the middle-forward rotation, with his no-nonsense approach and big-minute output likely something Andrew Webster could look to explore.
Coen Hess is a player who could thrive from a change of scenery and take a back-seat role to some of the higher-profile forwards across the ditch.
Terrell May is a raw talent that would be a welcome addition to the Wahs, with his presence off the bench becoming a vital part of the Roosters' late-season success in 2023.

 

[Warriors4eva95]

The way I see it, nek year as it stands we probably look like:

AFB
Egan
Barnett
Ford
Niukore
Tohu

Walker
Jazz

And then 2 of:
CHT
Ale
Bunty
Sifakula
Maiuu

It does feel to me that were one more consistent first grade prop away from really making a push for a premiership in 2023.
It's hard - do we throw all our eggs in the one basket and try to get a 600k prop over for next year to make a charge? Likely SJ and Tohu's last year, and with a lot more experience from this year and Roger, CHT and a big prop, we could really go close next year.

With all the promise of our youngsters, were still probably 3 years away from seeing the best of players like Metcalf, Volkman, Berry, Sifakula, Maiuu ect so I think we need to go hard and get a 120m + big bopper with an offload and decent defence.

Braden Hamlin-Uele, Taniela Paseka or Tof Sipley would be my best bets for around that 4-600k mark, not sure we could get any of them for nek year tho

From what I've been hearing because my uncle's pretty close with SJ, he won't be hanging up boots till 25 or 26 maybe even longer depending on how his body holds up and wether we want to keep him longer which is pretty much what Webby has said they will reassess every year where he is at, looking at he's past year compared to his last 12, he's stats are almost double times better in this last year than in he's whole career, so for me he is in he's prime and should get even better with age, game slows down for halfbacks around he's age can't wait to see what he dishes up next year with hopefully Metcalf

 

[Tragic]

Jazz getting written off and I can see the logic round size but when he was fit and in form the uplift in tempo he brought along with Walker early in the season was epic. You ain't seen the last of the junkyard dog you unbelievers.

 

[juju]

DWZ signs an extension

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak signs new deal at Warriors to keep him at club until end of 2025

The Warriors have been able to secure the long-term future of the 2023 Dally M winger of the year.

www.stuff.co.nz

 

[Damo]

 

[JustVisiting82]

On AFB, I'm thinking a reasonable compromise could be offering to release him from the 2025/2026 part of his contract with the potential for an earlier release if the right swap deal comes up. Gives us time to plan without screwing up next season, puts us in position to bargain for a good trade, and still shows good will to AFB so that hopefully he stays motivated to perform on the field while knowing it's not that long before he gets to move closer to family.

 

[mt.wellington]

His mother isnt well. I'd say he's as good as gone based on that alone. He's already one of the best paid players and thats for any position so I dont think its a question of money. Gutted to say the least...

 

[Barty]

I do feel there will be some positives to come out of this - if we handle this right. I think the majority on here acknowledge something was up with AFB in the last few games of the season. Webby reduced his minutes substantially, and AFB's body language was interesting to say the least. You would assume AFB had an end of season review before departing with Tonga. I would've loved to have been a fly on the wall for this interview!!! I believe the club, either had an inkling this could happen, or thought this would happen. We all acknowledge we were already a middle short for next year - even Cappy said they had a bit of money for one. Well, now we are in a good bargaining position with the club/s in AFB's ear. We are likely to land two reasonable players. I would be happy if this happened. And we did indeed get two reasonable middles.

 

[MrFrankWhite]

There’s some great Kiwi players at some Sydney clubs that might be keen on a return home and the mind boggles at the possibilities. Could be ruthless and let CNK go and let AFB go to roosters for Manu and then use the money we were going to use for an experienced forward and CNK for Taumalolo with cowboys picking up some of the cost. Would imagine any club would make room for AFB, so we should see what we can get that semi fills his void as there’s very little that can, and add somewhere else in the squad.

Letting CNK go (again) would be the 2nd dumbest warriors move in a decade.

 

[defensivebomb]

Stepping away from the cliff edge for a bit, we haven’t been this attractive as a potential club to join for a long time. Hopefully that resonates with a few players

 

[Tragic]

2nd November announcement. This isn't all about anyones health, timing for when contract discussions for others open up, dodgy asf

 

[Cces]

I'm usually pro player. Short term careers & all that but this hits different.
AFB gets done for domestic abuse as a youngster & rightfully gets cut by the Dragons. Manly give him a lifeline & he then leaves them in the lurch 2 seasons early to move out of Sydney & "get away from bad influences from his past" whilst simultaneously getting a huge pay increase from the struggling Warriors. Now he wants to return to Sydney 3 seasons early?? Blokes a turncoat Kiwi too. Loyalty to clubs is now officially a rarity

 

[1995warriorsfan]

Can we please move all further discussion re AFB to his own page. He doesn't deserve to be discussed on our recruitiment and rention page.

I am so pissed off he has done this to our club after signing until 2026.

I blame his manager and ??. $$$

 

[Riz]

Am I the only one not stoked on the thought of Ice Pappy coming back to the club?

 

[Noitall]

So even if AFB goes to the Dragons or Dogs, I'm looking to replace him with players who have had rumours around them leaving ie Saifiti, Taumalolo, Utoikamanu, Papalii etc. Could also be someone completely out of the blue if the right circumstances come up

Think Taumalolo is the best possibility of getting anything close to what AFB offers. Has had a form slump and still offering good numbers but obviously hasn’t healed, the dramas between him and Payten. Webster has got the best out of so many of the squad this year, if he could get Taumalolo back to his top form then he could be as valuable as AFB.

 

[wizard of Tauranga]

As a marque player on marque money with a recently signed long term contract, I think we have a right to expect more to allow a release as its impact is way betond a non marque money. With the high salary comes higher consequences..

We shouldn’t stop him going, especially if it’s for family reasons but we should demand:

- we choose his club as we did for Walsh
- he doesn’t get a pay increase and matches his Warriors contract (same as Walsh)
- he doesn’t play against the Warriors for the term of his contract
- he reimburses (chips in) $200k from his future 2024/25/26 contract to compensate the inconvenience he’s caused us as a marque leaving at short notice and detrimentally impacting our long term planning. This would allow us to pay a premium for a replacement at unplanned short notice.

If it’s truely compassionate grounds this would be a good deal for AFB to buy out his contract. If it’s really only about what’s best AFB, we make sure we are fairly compensated and put in a position where we’re not disadvantaged.

 

[Hman]

BREAKING MADE UP NEWS

The Manly Sea Eagles and NZ Warriors have come to a player swap agreement, allowing AFB to return home to Manly to be closer to his parents, with NZ’er Tof Sipley returning to his roots at the Warriors on a 3 year deal.

And in a double announcement, with the Warriors now cashed up, and the North Queensland Cowboys needing to free up cap space to keep Dearden, the NZ Warriors have announced the signing of enforcer Jason Taumalolo on a 3 year deal.

It’s a win win for all parties, the cowboys up their offer to keep Dearden, JT looks to freshen up his game under coach Webster, and the NZ Warriors get wrecking ball JT at a discounted price with the Cowboys chipping in some of his salary.

NZ Warriors fans can now wipe away their tears as the window to premiership glory which slammed shut with the AFB news is now open once again.

 

[Riz]

Stuff

www.stuff.co.nz

 

[LeagueJunkie]

Win for the club. Gives them more time to plan their next move.

 

[Lance155]

Now a club statement. Honestly I am very impressed how the Warriors handled this. A brief statement acknowledging the request while respecting all parties and a reasonable solution in 24 hours. Wow, no wonder we are never on NRL360 haha

 

[The Warrior Waka]

Taumalolo is a bad idea for me, I would rather Neame!

Right now, With SJ possibly in his last year. And playing like he deserves to be a Daily M Medal Winner. Tohu the glue of this team may or may not be around much longer, Hoping his body holds up. Addin sticking around for one more year. This is our window of opportunity- 2024. I'd take Taumalolo to Partner Addin right now. He is a game breaker. Neame is good for the future. But time is not on our side. Taumalolo all day.

 

[ndp26]

Pretty epic embrace between CNK and JFH - you reckon CNK was asking if JFH is keen to jam for the Warriors in 2025?

 

[afakasi247]

Pretty epic embrace between CNK and JFH - you reckon CNK was asking if JFH is keen to jam for the Warriors in 2025?

“You think this feels good kuz - I know you got 3 of em already, but nothing will mean more than the one we get for the Wahs in 2025”

 

[Noitall]

This is why warriors need to recruit away from fringe aussies… just look at young kiwis. Just recruit players from the kiwis team

Couldn’t help but notice how many of the Kiwi players interviewed after the game mentioned how there’s something special happening in NZ rugby league, some like Neame even referencing the Warriors as apart of that. Not sure if the special thing is just a throwaway line but I definitely think it’s worth targeting Kiwi players.

 

[Sir Arrow]

This might explain why I was sad to see Curran leave, he always gave the vibe that he wanted to be here..

 

[Tookey 2.0]

 

[Billyspleen75]

Article about Dragons making a play for AFB in 2025.

Fonua-Blake, 28, is currently holidaying in Bali after representing Tonga in the Mate Ma’a’s Test match series against England in the UK.

All the players deserve a holiday, but.. how serious does this family reasons compassionate release look now ?

https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nr...AL2s6XSRIEY8gg8I8YY0AjdKKhJORq8KtV60PnWnkNRK8

 

[Blain]

RFM is an average injury prone player past his best, who has been only a part of a losing culture, and being cut as the Dogs are trying to change their culture. He's done in the NRL, ESL is his only option.

He's not a guy to spend a roster spot on, considering our need to develop juniors. Kalangi Going for example is a far better guy for the club to give a spot too, a hungry younger player with footy experience, who is a leader in the high performing NSW cup squad.

I'm hoping we see some Pre season pics and news shortly, there are always a few interesting prospects who pop up.

 

[Up the guttz]

I can’t believe people are even mentioning a 30 year old, injury plagued, average as hell player who can’t make the Bulldogs team, in a position they are short on.

Guys we finished 4th, not last. We are not desperate!!!

 

[Noitall]

That's the thing.
We're in the rare position of not looking for players turn is into a good team, where a good player but a bit of a git (Lodge-type players) might be worth a shot, but players who can keep us a good team. At minimum.
Maybe the decision to make RFM club captain is one that wouldn't be made now given whatever''s happened since he was made club captain (and the Bulldogs haven't gone public about any conflicts etc so far as I know.)

From what I understand of the situation is he’s guilty of taking some players gripes to the coach, I presume he had the same gripes regarding training. Not sure if it’s due to training in poor weather already sick but he himself was hospitalised with pneumonia and lost 6 kg. There were other players such as Joseph Topine, who the club also took exception to but there’s been no reports of any of the other players being told not to return to training which would indicate this is about RFM himself. I would imagine he’s had a run in with Ciraldo and it’s untenable going forward. From what I read on the bulldogs forum and watching their recruitment over the past couple of seasons, I’m not sure RFM is the problem. He didn’t appoint himself captain.

 

[cock_o]

Looking at the updated signings tracker on the NRL app looks like Zyon Maiu'u and Jacob Laban confirmed in the top 30. Also Tuaupiki confirmed for 2 more years and Sifakula extended by 1 year.

 

[Brightman]

I don't think I've seen anyone mention it on here, but are we having a sneaky look at Jarome Luai?

Connection with Webby - check
Strong Kiwi connections - check
Probable SJ retire in 2024 - maybe

It would look ugly on paper - currently Metcalf and TMM are running 6s, so wouldn't be a perfect match for what we need, but I'm surprised his name hasn't been mentioned at least a little.

Kinda crazy to think we probably have to pay 500k+ for Metcalf, when a 3x premiership and one of the top halves in the game would likely only be an extra 5-600k...

No dickheads please..

 

[Tookey 2.0]

950k on his last year of he's contract ? You think he's worth less ? but his stats alone speak for themself ? We could potentially lose him by offering him 750k a year when Roosters no doubt Storm & maybe Sharks, Raiders, Panthers e.g Luai leaving they could offer him more & Sharks or even Tigers maybe even Dragons ? You don't think theyd offer more I think your kidding yourself bro, you keep telling yourself that when in reality you know you're wrong

I thought you were taking the piss earlier but see that you're quite serious here. Thank f**k you're not negotiating Tohu's contract lol.

1. No way any team - much less the top teams - will offer Tohu anything over 700k. And no team are going to offer him 3 years

2. Tohu does not have 3 more years left in his legs after 2024 (4 years total from now). You said he is showing no signs of slowing down...mate please put your glasses on, he's deffo slowing down significantly, he looks like he's held together with sticky tape and bubblegum. The actual hassle of moving country, uprooting his children and partner having to find new schools and jobs, not to mention the cost of everything. He's not doing that for a 1 or 2 yr contract at his age.

Some of the lower teams would offer him something no doubt, but I'd be more than happy to put up a friendly wager that he resigns here for less money than what he's on now, for less than 3 years.

 

[Christchurch_Warrior]

The RLPA are watching how the Bulldogs are treating unwanted club captain Raymond Faitala-Mariner. But more is at stake for those in charge at the rebuilding club, writes Brent Read.

The Bulldogs returned to training on Friday and there was plenty to like. Big-name recruit Stephen Crichton wasn’t there as he finally gets a well-deserved holiday but Bronson Xerri was front and centre as he works his way back from a four-year drug ban. Xerri could be anything. He could disappear into the ether. It will be a journey worth watching and it doesn’t end with a player looking to reclaim his lost years.

There are high hopes that the club can unearth some stars as they did last season with back rower Jacob Preston. Preston came from the clouds to become a fixture in the Bulldogs side. He trained the house down, got his reward and now serves as an example for other players emerging through the ranks.

As the faces old and new were being put through their paces, one significant figure was absent. Raymond Faitala-Mariner was named club captain back in January. At the time, he was regarded as the type of player other Bulldogs aspire to become. The sort who would set an example that others would follow.

As of Friday, he was no longer welcome at Belmore and the Rugby League Players Association was seeking further information on his treatment. Faitala-Mariner has two years remaining on a deal believed to be worth in excess of $400,000 a season. His management has been attempting to find him a new home ever since he was told he was free to leave a few months back, but it has been hard going given the way things have panned out at the Bulldogs.

If reports are to be believed, Faitala-Mariner is seemingly paying the price for being the conduit between some of the players and the coaching staff. Coach Cameron Ciraldo wanted to toughen up the club after years of failure and it didn’t sit well with everyone. One player, who took mental health leave after being made to wrestle a conga line of teammates as a training ground punishment, is yet to return and has likely played his last game for the Bulldogs.

Ciraldo rocked the boat, Faitala-Mariner raised some concerns and was apparently cut adrift as a result. The new coach wanted to put his stamp on the club and there was always going to be casualties along the way. Few expected it to include the club captain. It was a high price to pay given the damage that has been done to his reputation, leaving him playing a game of patience as he waits to resolve his future. Clubs in England have reached out but Faitala-Mariner believes he still has something to offer in the NRL.

His isn’t the only future that hangs in the balance. Chair John Khoury will know in a matter of weeks whether he faces a challenge for his position at board elections next February. The sense is that Khoury will be safe, although there have been rumblings for months that support is being rallied and numbers are being counted. Bulldogs supporters have been patient to this point but at some stage, it will run out. Things need to change and change quickly. Head of football Phil Gould is calling the shots and has largely lived a charmed existence given the stench that has often emanated from the playing field. Khoury, however, is the man with his hands on the wheel and the buck stops with him. Fans will eventually turn if results don’t. Bulldogs supporters have been patient, happy to put their faith in Gould and Khoury, but they will only accept failure for so long.

At some point, they will want to see some results to match the promises. Khoury will know soon enough. By then, one can only hope Faitala-Mariner has found a new home. His story is a compelling one given the way he overcame serious injury to become an NRL player again. He could barely contain himself when he was named club captain earlier this year, having been hand-picked by Ciraldo to be a guiding light for others at the club. At the time, Faitala-Mariner spoke about how his injuries had helped him build patience, character and resilience. They had made him grateful and appreciative of the little things, he said. They were the words of a footballer who was willing to spill blood for the Bulldogs. ‘The culture here is mad’, he added. ‘The big thing is togetherness, and to achieve that we need to stay connected and trust one another’.

Those words must seem like a lifetime ago

If this is true then I am glad we had no chance of getting Ciraldo. What type of team culture are they building if the club captain gets this treatment just for doing his job as captain. Who would want to play for a coach that throws his players under the bus like this. So glad we have Webster.

 

[MurrayTD]

Just finished watching a highlight package of RTS what a superb player, nearly cracked a chubby with immense pride for RTS himself, but more importantly that he is back to the Warriors in 2024!. If he plays close to 75% of his old ability, coupled with our current packs go forward he has the skill/determination/fitness/character to be the best signing of 2024! I would presume/hope he would be given a roaming role around dummy half in attack, with quick play the balls and a retreating defence RTS could be unplayable, coupled with no captaincy worries, less metres to cover from fullback, and another attacking threat in SJ you would hope he has more gas in the tank and possibly less defenders to inject himself more often in attacking plays and own our attack. Let's not forget his outstanding defence either.
Regardless of what pans out so excited and proud to have a true Warriors/NRL legend back. 2024 shaping up to be a big year, coach locked in, AFB playing, RTS back, confidence high, young talent coming, huge support at Mt Smart and depth across the field. Very exciting.

 

[Makasene]

If he gets us to a premiership who tf cares.

I'm in the camp that Luai is a bit of a myth.

Penrith definitely lose the Grand Final if he stays on the pitch. Cogger the unsung hero there.

Luai dumped from Origin too and probably won't see him back.

I don't see how he improves us so it's a big no for me to shell out a million bucks a year on him.

 

[Billyspleen75]

Essential listening for everyone here. Andrew Webster interviewed by Devlin
It's on Spotify too but I pasted a free link.

Recruitment.. makes it seem like signing a back rower isn't out of the question.

Says Addin's grounds for release are legit. That's good enough for me

"Rugby players have come to me about playing league" more a throw away comment so don't expect a Barrett to sign, but interesting.


https://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-i...ndroid_share&sc=android_social_share&pr=false

 

[Up the guttz]

Another great interview with Webby!

Loved the mention of not panic buying and they would rather leave a spot or two open than just sign for the sake of it. Also only players that add value will be recruited.
Judging by those comments I would be very surprised if we ended up signing RFM. He would be a definition of buying someone just cause they are available and we have a spot open.

 

[Defence]

@Defence not sure why you deleted your post where you said I was probably wrong about the NRL not registering cheaper contracts and you'll check with someone in the know, but here you go mate.

Sounds like u were right but there’s also ways around it.



That’s from a player agent.

 

[Raygz13]

Hi peeps. Been reading for years but finally bit the bullet and registered. My personal opinion on tupouniua is no. We have an abundance of gun 2nd rowers coming through. If they come good we'll be screwed with purchases like that. Toni Tupouniua is a prop at least and let's see if webby can work some magic on him, if, he has been signed. Prop/front row(whichever) is far more concerning. Does anyone seriously think of a union player, oz or nz, that could make the transition and is willing to? With the exemption, it's worth a look I'd think? All in all, I'm slightly disappointed that we haven't signed a big body to help AFB. Oh well, beggars can't be choosers I suppose....

 

[LeagueJunkie]

Stuff

www.newshub.co.nz

Flanagan really is a piece of work
New Dragons coach Shane Flanagan reportedly enlisted the help of his side's Tongan players to convince Fonua-Blake to sign, while on international duty earlier this year.

Should be sanctioned by the NRL for trying to entice a player while under contract.

 

[Canadian_Warriors_Fan]

 

[Bippidydoodah]

I'm not sure why the Warriors are letting there be a "race" for AFB. He's contracted until 26 and will play for us next year. They should make it clear there are to be no discussions until the end of the 24 season, and if he doesn't want to stay, then we can talk about negotiating with other clubs for a release.

If we allow this circus to play out over the season it'll be a huge distraction for the team

 

[BuntyAppreciationSociety]

Hi team. Long time reader, first time poster.
A lot of the chat seems to be about how we're going to replace AFB. Looking around the comp, I don't think there's anyone that we could get who could fill the role we need up front, and – more importantly – the style of play Webby is developing for us. So I think we need more than just an experienced big bopper like Klemmer. We need someone with good hands and footwork. Someone with a good motor. I think it's time we utilised Agar's connections to lure a top English middle to our shores. The next Burgess, Ellis or Thompson. I feel like there could be more of that kind of talent available to us there, than in Australia at this point in time. Does anyone know of someone who could fit that bill?

 

[Defence]

14 kids picked up professional contracts from keebra this year which is pretty amazing.
We got 3 of them…

 

[Worried2Death]

I'd love to see Ice 2.0 come home, exactly the kind of smaller ball playing forward with big motor Webby seems to favour. He looked a different player for the Kiwis than he did hiding out in the backline at the demoralised Tigers. All these other suggestions are Aussies, too hard to get them to uproot their families and stay here.

 

[Ever Hopeful]

If AFB is meeting teams right now, you'd have to think that the motions are being made to move for this coming season. There's no wating to see how things pan out in 2024 before making a decision going on here. To me it seems as if he is bound by the club to commit to this season unless an equitable trade can be made imminently.

 

[Defence]

Would’ve rather kept Curran tbh.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Capewell's earning 550k at th Broncos currently. I loved Curran's enthusiasm but if we were able to get Capewell for about the same money, that's a massive upgrade to our team at this point in time.

An experienced pro who's won multiple titles, 9 Origins, played in last year's grand final and is versatile enough to play in the centres....he would be a huge get.

I don't think he's 'out of favour' at th Broncos, they've just got 2 young guns who they need to lock up. Could be an absolute steal of a move if we pull that off. Would have to be for 2024 tho, that's when we need him most

 

[Ozwarrior]

NRL signing news: New Zealand Warriors favourites to sign Broncos forward Kurt Capewell | Daily Telegraph​

The Warriors have emerged as shock favourites to sign premiership-winner Kurt Capewell — and the New Zealand franchise are aiming to sign the Broncos forward immediately.
In what would prove a major coup for the ever-evolving Warriors, Capewell is using his off-season holidays to tour the club’s facilities this weekend in Auckland.

The Queensland State of Origin forward remains contracted to the Broncos until the end of next season, but the Warriors would want him to gain an immediate release to join them in 2024.

It’s understood the Warriors are willing to offer the 30-year-old a three-year deal.

The eager pursuit of Capewell by the Warriors has been made available due to the departure of Josh Curran to the Bulldogs.

A key member of the Panthers 2021 premiership, Capewell was spotted having dinner with Warriors coach Andrew Webster at Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour on Friday night.

Webster’s relationship with Capewell dates back to 2021 when he was the assistant coach at Penrith.

Kurt Capewell could be on his way to the Warriors. Picture: Getty Images
Capewell boasts a winning reputation having experienced success at each of the three clubs he has played for.

The strike backrower played a role in the Sharks 2016 premiership season, went all the way with Penrith in 2021, before playing in last season’s grand final with the Broncos.

Off-contract at the end of 2024, Capewell’s chances of staying at the Broncos have diminished due to the club’s recent re-signing of rising backrowers Brendan Piakura (2027) and Jordan Riki (2027).

The Broncos are also in the process of attempting to re-sign star fullback Reece Walsh and outstanding young half Ezra Mam.

It’s anticipated that the Warriors would be willing to offer Capewell a three-year deal to play in the back row.

His signing would also enable the Warriors to push Marata Niukore from the edge of the forwards and into the middle of the field, where the latter could be used to fill the void of Addin Fonua-Blake, who has requested a release for 2025.

The Warriors also view Capewell, who has played 139-games and nine Origin matches, as the perfect leader to aid the club’s development of their younger forwards.

The acquisition of Capewell would also allow the Warriors to boast one of the strongest leadership groups in the NRL with Shaun Johnson, Tohu Harris and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck considered three of the game’s most experienced and respected figureheads.

Originally published as New Zealand Warriors favourites to sign Broncos forward Kurt Capewell

 

[JaggedJ]

The interesting thing is that both Ford and Capewell generally play left and Niukore plays right so does Capewell slot in or Ford move over?

A middle of AFB, Harris, Barnett, Niukore is pretty strong and if Niukore works out it might ease the pressure on us to replace AFB with 2 players and free up space to strengthen other positions.

 

[Falcon]

Capewell's earning 550k at th Broncos currently. I loved Curran's enthusiasm but if we were able to get Capewell for about the same money, that's a massive upgrade to our team at this point in time.

An experienced pro who's won multiple titles, 9 Origins, played in last year's grand final and is versatile enough to play in the centres....he would be a huge get.

I don't think he's 'out of favour' at th Broncos, they've just got 2 young guns who they need to lock up. Could be an absolute steal of a move if we pull that off. Would have to be for 2024 tho, that's when we need him most

Here’s my Hot Take - if anything comes of the Capewell sighting it would be to join from next season and not 25 due to his age. His experience and leadership would be valued.

 

[Bevosa]

100% the Broncos would be keen to make this happen, their cap must be under extreme pressure.
Adding RTS and Capewell to our core squad from 2023, yes please.

 

[Falcon]

called it.

Marata to graduate from the school of Reuben Wiki - start as a centre, move to the back row then to the front row …. Nek minute off the back fence ‘Spaaaaartttaannnnnn’

 

[Tragic]

I like it. When the going gets tough we get rolled, more mental and physical toughness in the middle is what we need. Our youth can bring the flair while the experience holds us together

 

[Fizurg]

Capewell gives me massive Hoffmann vibes. Best years are behind him and the game demands youth and speed just slightly over experience these days. I’d rather go with RTS and the guys whose name runes with ferry in centres and Ali “let’s eat” leiutua and ford as edges and move Marata to the middle.

People forget Hoffman was coming off a massive season where he was the origin player of the year. I feel it’s hard to act like he underperformed. He wasn’t exactly the problem with the team those seasons.

 

[CHWAH]

Anyone think CHT has a real chance to become a decent 9? I know we have Eagan, but his health worries me, and CHT has good d, runs enough and can pass.

Thoughts?

 

[hornbybrown]

I thought we were gonna focus on our young guys hence getting rid of Curran? Capewells been average since about 2020-21. Make it make sense

Relationship with Webby, has been in three grand finals and got to have a balance of young players and experienced.
I trust Webby

 

[Tookey 2.0]

I thought we were gonna focus on our young guys hence getting rid of Curran? Capewells been average since about 2020-21. Make it make sense

While we have all of these experiences guys around - SJ, AFB, Tohu, Roger, DWZ, Walker and now hopefully Capewell you can splash a few newbies in to the team and you can cover for their mistakes and inexperience.

We tried to playing with lots of rookies last year and we went shithouse. 7 players (8 if RW was available) started Rd 1 with less than 40 games to their name. We got absolutely pumped. We've still got quite a few younger guys like Berry, Ford, Ale, Metcalf and CHT in the team, but then in the next 2 years were probably hoping players like Maiuu, Laban, Leka, Volkman, Sifakula and Ali all come through. Getting 5 juniors to play 20+ matches in 2 years is quite the challenge, especially when you have 5-6 guys who barely have 40 games to their name too. That's a whole lot of rookie, so we deffo need some experience for sure

 

[WarriorDave]

Gotta say, it's a nice turn around on the forum when we have people upset at a high chance of signing a current Origin forward and premiership winner with a wealth of leadership experience.

 

[JaggedJ]

I thought we were gonna focus on our young guys hence getting rid of Curran? Capewells been average since about 2020-21. Make it make sense

Curran gone, Sironen gone, AFB about to go, Niukore moving to the middle to compensate.

It would be very bad to replace all those guys with rookies or minimal experience at the same time.

Injuries will happen. If you already have 2-3 rookies/youngsters in the playing 17, what happens when injury hits?

Squad needs to maintain a balance until these youngsters come of age.

 

[Defence]

I was amazed just how big the guy is when I saw him in the stands after a game. Huge frame.

He’s not small

 

[Worried2Death]

I reckon he’ll back his squad largely as he did this year, there’s a few playing for contracts too. When considering props and locks are both middles, we have AFB, Bunty, Ale, Maiu’u as our props, we then have Tohu, Barnett, Jazz as locks which can fill prop too when Walker comes off the bench at lock. If Capewell comes over we then have Niukore who can fill prop too if desired. I’d like us to get another prop too, but I just feel like he might back the squad he’s got.

How good is it having a coach we can have 100% faith in, sometimes I still can't believe it's real.
I love you Webby, there I said it.

 

[Makasene]

Capewell gives me massive Hoffmann vibes. Best years are behind him and the game demands youth and speed just slightly over experience these days. I’d rather go with RTS and the guys whose name runes with ferry in centres and Ali “let’s eat” leiutua and ford as edges and move Marata to the middle.

I think you have to consider the environment. Could you imagine the culture shock for Hoffman to go from Storm to 2017 SK Warriors!

I would love to see that same Ryan Hoffman turn up today into an actual Warriors system.

I really like this signing if it comes off. Ironically an important part of a youth / development policy is ensuring there is adequate experience and leadership for the young guys.

Capewell brings what Curran doesn't.

 

[sup42]

Capewell is way better than Hoffman. Good pickup if we get him, guys a winner and will instil good habits on the youngsters.

I too like the signing if it comes to pass.

People too readily forget that even players like Hoffman were not bad players, the inconsistent no resilience, no clear game plan Warriors ruined the end of Hoffman's career.

Hoffman was the leading forward try scorer in the NRL when he came to us. That died right away because we were the wrong fit for structured players.

If Hoffman's Warriors were the 2023 side which is well coached with a clear game plan, lots of structure, lots of resilience, he would slot straight in.

If Capwell joins us, the key is the present, this current side, under this current coach it is a good fit.

I am sure Capwell has no end of options in the game outside the Warriors, and therefore if he comes here it will be a vote of confidence for the Warriors and Websters credibility.

I know Capwell is mature and not an explosive super star, nor is he a massive work rate guy, but he is comparable to Curran and can at least dig in when the game gets hard and handle the pace...unlike the younger guy who needs more time to age.

 

[JaggedJ]

Hoffman was foolishly brought here to fix the large amount of problems.

Capewell would be brought here to help maintain the standards.

Two very different situations.

 

[Up the guttz]

Love this!!!! Thought we might play this one a bit harder due to the long term deal and being such a high paid player….

Stuff

i.stuff.co.nz

 

[Warriorsfan92]

I haven't seen much from Laban that screams 1st grade to be honest. He looks handy but lacks a bit of x factor.

He’s 19, has gone from SG ball to NSW cup & kiwis A team in 18 months. He’s a big unit, clearly works hard & has impressed those who matter. I’m backing him personally.

 

[tyrael]

Getting Capewell is a huge upgrade to Curran. Those that were doubting, hope you've seen the light.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Still not too late for Bunty, we could see more offloads next year with Webster wanting everything faster. I think offloads are within him rather than developing footwork.

I'll never say never, but f**k me the love Bunty gets around here does my head in lol.

The blokes played 7 seasons and has had 0 improvement in him for about 5 years. Many players had career years under Webby and imo Bunty went backwards.

Solid, reliable player but we won't win a premiership with him in the 17

 

[~Navigator~]

I’m not sure why people are remembering CHT as anything but a vanilla average player, hope Webby can unlock something in him but he’s not better in any position to what we had this year

I love him just for the hit on cheese

 

[Makasene]

I’m not sure why people are remembering CHT as anything but a vanilla average player, hope Webby can unlock something in him but he’s not better in any position to what we had this year

He was solid and that is something you can build on in the right environment which he never had.

Played with more heart and guts than most.

Was able to make some clutch goal kicks too, not to mention a tough defender.

Peronally I couldn't give two shits about the player he was, only interested in the player he will be under Webby - and if he's not upto it he won't be playing.

 

[Blain]

Getting Capewell and losing Sironen and Curren is a win for us, certainly for the next couple years. The guy is known winner, is talked up everywhere he has played, and offers a point of difference to our second rowers. Ford and Niuokre are not great ball players, run first sort of guys who get cut out of any going wide plays. Capewell is more skillfull and can unlock his centre, Farnworth has been very well fed the past coupe of years and he's a big reason. Him and RTS together will be be really dangerous. Has an offload too. He is 31 next July, so you have to think there is plenty of life left in him. He will help fill the experience/leadership gap AFB will leave for sure.

Nuiokre hopefully will be moving to prop. Certainly has the frame and mongrel for it.

 

[Neo]

From round 21 this year

Based on top speed reached

In addition to being the second-fastest player in the NRL last weekend, Watene-Zelezniak finished in the top six for both sprint and high speed distances.

 

[Noitall]

Warriors CEO Cameron George:

“Kurt is interested in what his future may look like and at this point in time, he is weighing things up. He was here on the weekend, he had a look around and he is contracted to the Broncos. Once we understand where he stands with the Broncos, then we can have further discussions. If we can be a part of that, we would love to talk with him further. That’s where we are at. We are waiting to understand what his thoughts are and we’ll go from there. A key attribute is Kurt’s leadership and experience. He is a quality footy player, he has won a premiership."

“We haven’t got to the point yet of any deals. The first thing we need to do is understand whether a player wants to relocate and if they are, then we move forward. Being in New Zealand has its challenges for signing Australian players, but there’s also a lot of upside too. We have a much better taxation system here, we don’t pay stamp duty for houses, it’s a great lifestyle and a great opportunity to raise a young family in such a great country. The footy world in New Zealand is a lot of fun, we have a lot of unique things to offer and hopefully Kurt wants to be a part of that.”

 

[Defence]

Hard to see where Klemmer fits at the panthers with Leota and jfh there the dream scenario would involve one of them boy’s coming home.

 

[WarriorsForever]

Contract extensions for Laban and Maiu'u

Highly-promising forwards Jacob Laban and Zyon Maiu’'u re-signed until end of 2026 season.

www.warriors.kiwi

 

[Wah's Up]

Shame the old board got taken down but I remember the recruitment thread last year and we are virtually having a repeat.
We need a big forward, we need this we need that.
Webby comes in and says "I will work with what I have".
The board erupted with negativity.

What did Webby do?
Took us to the finals by working with what he had.
Have a look at where he came from "Penrith", there were no big stars there.
Uncle Ivan worked with what he had and made many of them big stars but mainly (like Webby) he got them to play as a team.

In Webby we trust.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

The problem with all this swap talk is that it is fanciful with no basis in reality.

What kid in Sydney who knows they are on a trajectory to be the next 'it' in the NRL would entertain having to go live in NZ because the Warriors have a problem retaining one of their own.

This ridiculous thought experiment is like say....Benji Marshall decided he wanted to leave the Tigers because he missed NZ....ergo Tigers fans start meaningless day dreams about getting a rising star Shaun Johnson for Benji as a swap.

Using that analogy (a good one if you ask me) why would the Warriors damage their attempts at being a development club by sending away their best prospect? A player who has been loyal to the club? A player that is more likely to stay than an incoming sell sword?

And why would a Young Shaun Johnson (proxy for Utoikamanu bear with me) agree to go where his disloyal employers are going to dump him at a club with a checkered history?

Why are people not seeing the fault in this swap argument i.e. Utoikamanu asks for a release not a swap if they want AFB and gets a pay rise after shopping himself to a half dozen NRL clubs in his home city?

I know running up sand hills in Huia is fun....but ahhh strolling onto white sand beaches after training with a Latte in Sydney is maybe as good as trainning in industrial Penrose.

Yes, fans will speculate. That's hardly a shocker.

Also, in the last few years we've signed Reece Walsh and Addin Fonua Blake - 2 of the best players in their positions. Yes, it didn't end well and both had specific situations attached (RW getting butt hurt Broncos wouldn't play him and AFBs 'get outta Sydney ultimatum) but I think there's your answer....because we have had some success in the most recent years bringing top players in.

The reality is we have no idea what's going on with players. Last week none of us would have had an inclination State of Origin superstar Luke 'Cage' Capewell would ever entertain a move here. But guess what, when you start winning you look like an attractive club and your options increase.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

I don't know why you keep going on about swaps?

AFB has asked for a release, were going to want a replacement for him before releasing him.

A swap would be great but I think most people are aware that A. Were not going to get a like for like replacement for AFB and B. We will struggle because we're based on another country.

I really don't get what the big deal is, were allowed to have a bit of fun and talk about this, but I don't know why you keep going on about swaps. Who tf cares if it's a swap, a trade, a release, or if we fooking kidnap a player. You're getting bogged down in details when we're all just throwing up possible scenarios.

You seem to be quite pedantic about wording, ease up big fella

 

[Falcon]

From what I've heard about him, Laban until 2026 seems a bit bold

Some houses must have been trained down the past couple weeks lol

It’s hard not to be hopeful - a back rower at 188cm, 110 kgs , 19 years old and debuting for New Zealand A.

 

[Noitall]

How's this for a scenario.
Luai to the Tigers,
Klemmer and Galvin to Panthers,
Blake to Panthers and Fisher Harris to the Warriors.
Panthers can then flog Klemmer off if they don't need him

Starting to wonder if JFH is a possibility in 2025. His instagram page shows him home in the last couple of weeks, probably just to catch up with his family but he’s done pretty much all there is to do at panthers. Proud Kiwi so you never know.

 

[Defence]

Starting to wonder if JFH is a possibility in 2025. His instagram page shows him home in the last couple of weeks, probably just to catch up with his family but he’s done pretty much all there is to do at panthers. Proud Kiwi so you never know.

It’s one that u really don’t wanna throw out there because it just sounds too good to be true but he’s probably a more realistic option than most because he does strike me as the type who would want to move back to nz one day- maybe wants to bring his kids up there with their cousins…. Parents/ grandparents couldn’t be getting any younger etc…
He’s already done everything in the game- 3 premierships, odds on for the golden boot, kiwi captain…
How much does he like the captaincy role? Yeo will pass it on to cleary- tohu would hand it to him…
We could offer a pay rise.
Would Penrith release him? Well I can’t see Cleary being spiteful considering everything he’s done for the club and his relationship with Webby.
Really it’s no different to the situation we’re in with afb and getting afb in return would go some way to softening the blow.

Well as a wise man once told me- dreams are free

 

[Makasene]

Nothing beats the off season threads.

Come for the recruitment nuggets. Leave with a sound overview of Aus real estate / weather / societal-cultural nuggets by region.

 

[Makasene]

It's great to see the forum engaged in the off season, usually a dead zone. Everytime I do check though, I wish I saw a post about a good prop signing.

RE Australia, it's always going to be uphill, but a winning culture will go A LONG way to helping. Our recent recruitment I think has been very strong too, before we had a winning season. Ideally we'll be seen as a heads down no nonsense club that plays regular finals footy. Being out of the spotlight of Aussie media will definitely be a positive to some.

I agree - don't get me wrong we are all desperate for a premiership...

But a lot of me would settle for 8 straight top 6 finishes and no title.

 

[Cces]

It'll be interesting to see if this gets confirmed. Ben Farr is on an official Development contract for 2024, unlike this guy, and has a similar skillset

 

[Damo]

Wonder if Dean Whare is coming back to the NRL, would be a handy centre. https://www.totalrl.com/london-broncos-hit-with-high-profile-departure-ahead-of-super-league-2024/

Maybe 10 years ago!

 

[Warriorsfan92]

Hurry up and announce the Capewell signing I reckon. You’re either coming or ya not. Club on the rise, you’re not getting offered an extension at existing club, 3 year deal on the table for a 31 year old.. don’t be stupid mate. Take the cash & get your ass to the sand hills pronto

 

[miket12]

Harris has re-signed until the end of the 2025 NRL season!!!!

 

[WarriorsForever]

 

[Defence]

Yuss! with afb leaving I feel like we need that stability in the middle of the field- hes an amazing player- hopefully his body holds up.

 

[Noitall]

Funny how we worry about Tohu lasting and here he is signing another contract.

The best back rower in the Clubs history.

Being a NZ side we are spoiled.

Something in the milk here produces back row forwards, real greats, consistently, more than any other position by some distance.

Kearney was the first of the Warrior greats.

Ali by most fans calculations eclipsed that, not mine, I liked the way Kearney was a mongrel that a lot of forwards feared, people like Adrian Morley are scared of him. And he still looks like a Psycho.

Then the GOAT defender Simon Mannering who fairly could be called the greatest till Tohu signed with the Warriors.

Tohu has a bit of all those greats I named, he can defend like Mannering, is as tough at playing on one leg, he can ball play better than both Kearney and Ali, because he has half backs hands, he can lay on conventional passes unlike the magic hands thing that Ali and Kearney etc relied on.

He is the new GOAT of Warriors back rowers, hell he was even better at the Storm, and is in the conversation for greatest Warrior, certainly he has proved one of our great Captain....and greatest player.

Happy days.

Absolutely love his speech in the video on the Warriors instagram page, he stood up and addressed the team and said “there’s only one reason I’m playing on, that’s to win a title with you boys”. Will go down as one of the Warriors best, if not the best by the time he hangs his boots up.

 

[MurrayTD]

AFB -> Tigers

Utoikamanu -> Dragons

Su'A and Ice -> Warriors

Get it done already Cameron!

Please don't!

 

[WA Warrior]

Doesn't look too promising,

Warriors CEO “not confident” in securing Capewell for 2024 despite long term offer

“The option is there if him and his Brisbane want to look."

www.sen.com.au

Oh no, please don’t sign him for a 3 year deal from next year!
I’m fine missing out on him rather than wasting cap on an older veteran.

 

[UpTheWahs]

He's been offered job security for 3 years compared to the 1 year he currently has. If he has to think so hard about it, I'd rather pass on him. What's to say he doesn't pack a sad and play the homesick card a year or two into his 3 year contract seeing how reluctant he is to even move here in the first place?

Going forward, we should not go after players who needs this much convincing to move to Auckland to play footy and earn a nice $500k plus TPAs! FFS. We don't want another Walsh, AFB scenario or our recruitment team will forever be playing catch up

 

[LeagueJunkie]

Oh no, please don’t sign him for a 3 year deal from next year!
I’m fine missing out on him rather than wasting cap on an older veteran.

Agreed. Capewell can't have his cake and eat it too. If he wants the job security, he comes to us this year otherwise he can stay at the Broncs and risk not getting a deal for 2025.

 

[PNG Kiwi]

My feeling with Capewell, is that if he doesn't agree to come now, then the offer will be pulled.

 

[Mr. Brownstone]

Taumalolo waaay past his best. Unless the Cowboys we’re willing to pay for a minimum 40% of his current salary then no thanks.

 

[Up the guttz]

View: https://www.instagram.com/p/C0gEewyvMfq/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

 

[~Navigator~]

Just released in the courier mail brisbane newspaper.
Kurt Capewell set to join the Warriors effective immediately
The Broncos are preparing to lose the fourth player from this year’s grand final team, with a former Queensland Origin star on the verge of walking away from the club.

The Broncos are bracing for ex-Maroons forward Kurt Capewell to quit the club and join the Warriors immediately.

 

[Blain]

I find this really interesting that this is being reported as a possibility with where this is at. Interesting because I’m wondering if there’s a tactic the Warriors are employing? They’ve done all you could ask a player in AFB’s position wanting a release by granting it if a player presents itself that has upside and for 2025. The 4 players the club publicly stated would be who they would accept to gain in order to be a front runner in negotiations for AFB’s signature all came from lower teams that aren’t in a premiership window any time soon. The only club that is on the list of clubs potentially in a window that are interested in AFB are the sharks and no players were mentioned from there that the Warriors would accept. Surely AFB still has aspirations to win a title, the club could be saying the only options we are willing to release you is to go to a team that has limited chance of success anytime soon and we are the best option if you want to win a title in your career?

You've been sucked in by the media reports - The Warriors have not stated 4 players they would want for a AFB. That's all media speculation with no back up.

George is playing a straight bat, nothing has been confirmed, he hasn't been released yet, everything is still to be confirmed.

Great to get Capewell this season, adding RTS CHT and him to last seasons squad with the loss of a couple bench second rowers is pretty massive.

 

[Jonno13]

RTS for Williame
Capewell for Curran
CHT for Sironen

You’d definitely have to say we’ve had a top notch off-season recruitment drive

 

[Blain]

Love to read this on Foxsports..

WWOS is reporting Capewell’s early exit has been with anger by a group of senior players who believe the former Panther was instrumental in their finals charge in 2023.​

Kevin Walters outfit came desperately close to lifting the trophy, before superstar halfback Nathan Cleary delivered a second half masterclass.​

​

Senior figures reportedly believe his cool head and experience played a big role in the Broncos success.​

Therefore, they were shocked that club powerbrokers were even considering cutting him loose for the 2024 season.​

There is a lot more to a player than just what they put out on the park, and he is a good player, but extremely highly rated off it.

 

[Riz]

 

[Inruin]

Berry and Ford re-signed​

Author Richard Becht​

​

Centre Rocco Berry and second rower Jackson Ford have earned contract extensions following their outstanding contributions in the One New Zealand Warriors’ watershed 2023 season.
The 22-year-old Berry and Ford (25) were both off contract at the end of 2024 but in the wake of their career-best campaigns they’ve been re-signed, Berry through to 2026 and Ford to 2025.

After making a total of just 15 appearances in 2021 and 2022, Berry more than doubled his career tally to 31 with 16 games this year.
Similarly Ford blossomed from an irregular first grader with St George Illawarra to a first-choice starting back rower in his debut season in Auckland, appearing in 24 of the club’s 27 games.
“Rocco and Jackson both thrived in the new environment created this season,” said One New Zealand Warriors general manager recruitment, pathways and development Andrew McFadden.
“Like so many players in the squad, their games went to a new level this year and there’s every confidence they’ll improve further next year and beyond.”
One New Zealand Warriors head coach Andrew Webster said he’s thrilled to see the players rewarded for their performances.
“The terrific thing about Rocco and Jackson is their drive to become better each and every day,” he said.
“They’re great examples of what we want to see in our players with their commitment and their passion.
“Rocco made tremendous strides throughout the season, gaining in confidence as he was able to string a number of games together and show the ability we all know he has.
“Jackson hit the ground running the moment he arrived here, demanded a starting spot in round one and never let his standards slip.”
Berry formed a potent combination on the right edge with winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak as he finished his third NRL season with three tries, eight try assists, 10 line break assists, four line breaks and 31 tackle breaks while he averaged 75 metres and 17 tackles a game (with a 91 per cent efficiency rate).

He capped his 2023 season with a standout display for the New Zealand Kiwis A in their 36-26 win over Mate Ma’a Tonga A at Eden Park in October.
Used as a starting second rower in all but one of his 24 games, Ford was on the field the full 80 minutes 15 times and all 82 minutes in the golden point win against the Raiders, while in two other matches he played 77 and 78 minutes. He scored four tries and made nine line breaks and 73 tackle breaks while averaging 103 metres and 35 tackles a game.

JACKSON FORD​

Born: February 17, 1998 Birthplace: Shellharbour, NSW Junior club: Gerringong Lions Position: Second row Height: 187cm Weight: 101kg Previous club: St George Illawarra Dragons (2019-2022) NRL debut: St George Illawarra Dragons v Gold Coast Titans, Netstrata Jubilee Stadium, Sydney, August 10, 2019 (Rd 21) One New Zealand Warriors No: 276 One New Zealand Warriors debut: v Newcastle Knights, Sky Stadium, Wellington, March 3, 2023 (Rd 1) NRL games: 57 (2019-2023) St George Illawarra Dragons: 33 appearances (2019-2022) One New Zealand Warriors: 24 (2023) NRL points: 24 (6 tries) Representative: 2020 NRL Nines

ROCCO BERRY​
Born: May 17, 2001 Birthplace: Masterton, NZ Junior club: St Patrick’s Silverstream College (rugby union) Position: Centre Height: 191cm Weight: 94kg One New Zealand Warriors No: 258 NRL debut: One New Zealand Warriors v Melbourne Storm, AAMI Park, Melbourne, April 25, 2021 (Round 7) NRL games: 31 (2021-2023) NRL points: 24 (6 tries) Rep honours: New Zealand Kiwis A (2023), NRL Nines (2020)

Berry and Ford re-signed

Rocco Berry and Jackson Ford have extended their time with the One New Zealand Warriors.

www.warriors.kiwi

 

[WahsaurusRex]

The GOAT babyyyy!!



The haters are punchin the air right now Board Man gets paid

 

[Canadian_Warriors_Fan]

View: https://twitter.com/badel_cmail/status/1732576524774289888

 

[cero_stars]

View: https://twitter.com/badel_cmail/status/1732576524774289888

Quitting immediately? sounds like he saw the news of the berrysiah staying longer and couldnt contain his excitement and had to be apart of it all

 

[Up the guttz]

View: https://twitter.com/badel_cmail/status/1732576524774289888

Perfect, will get almost a whole preseason in to get up to speed with the team.

Also very happy with 2024!! I was bloody nervous at a 3 year deal from 2025

 

[WarriorsForever]

View: https://www.instagram.com/p/C0iMZghv-ly/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

 

[snake77]

Nice checking the social media feed and seeing it listed as Just Now.

 

[Warriorsfan92]

Man this place is fun to be around. Tohu, ford, berry, maiu’u, laben all re-signed, & then getting Capewell in the space of a week. To go along with DWZ getting extended & Webster with us for the next 6 years. Up the fucking wahhhs

 

[cero_stars]

just saw on reddit someone mentioned that the panthers, sharks and broncos all made the GF with capewell in their team. im not saying we are bound for the GF but im telling you all that its time to get on the GF train!

 

[RobRoyMcCoy]

OK, this has tipped me over the edge. DWZ, Berry, Ford, Ali, Laban and Miau, Tohu. RTS & CHT returning. Retaining AFB for 2024 and now Capewell. Well done Recruitment team and I JUST BOUGHT 2 SEASON TICKETS IN BAY 39!!!

 

[miket12]

AFB for next season, RTS and CHT returning, Tohu, Berry, DWZ, Webster and now Capewell.

Merry Christmas and a friggen HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!

 

[Nakiproud]

Been a while since the positivity around the club has been so high... Looking at Sydney accommodation now for next October...

 

[Inruin]

I must say I am enjoying this version of Cameron George and the Warriors versus the 'The phone is running hot' version.

 

[marv.]

Man this place is fun to be around. Tohu, ford, berry, maiu’u, laben all re-signed, & then getting Capewell in the space of a week. To go along with DWZ getting extended & Webster with us for the next 6 years. Up the fucking wahhhs

we just need @Bruce back and it could be the greatest off season of all time.

 

[Noitall]

View: https://twitter.com/brisbanebroncos/status/1732585882375561458

Good it gives us another option than SJ.

 

[WarriorsForever]

5 hours after the announcement and the bro already has up the wahs in his bio. You love to see it

 

[WahsaurusRex]

“Definitely no bad blood. I love the club and have had a great time since I’ve been here. I still love everyone here as well. Luckily I’ve got the opportunity to go to the Warriors for the next three years. It was an opportunity too good to pass up. I’m just grateful for the time I’ve spent here and for the Warriors and the offer they’ve made me.”

“I’m very proud of the Broncos rise and they’ve got a lot left in the tank too. They’re going to be a powerhouse for the next few years. The Warriors are a powerhouse also with the team they’re putting together. I definitely think we’ll be giving the competition a shake next year. Webster is a massive reason I’m going there. He’s a great bloke and I really get on with him, on a personal level as well. It’s tough to be leaving but exciting as well.”

 

[sup42]

The Warriors just keep winning on and off the feild.
Cappy and co bloody well done. A good player in good shape.

 

[Makasene]

It might still be too early to say but I'm not far from considering Webby to be the most important signing in the clubs history.

The club has never been so settled. Not even our most important player in the team throwing an immediate release request could knock them off course.

Everything is handled so professionally and that's never happened before.

Credit is due to other management aswell but I just get a sense Webby is the glue for all of it.

 

[Chchfanatic]

Bloody great signing. We are a serious threat next year. We have lost no one of great note. Gained RTS CHT and Capewell.
Broncos lost Flegler , Fainsworth and Palasia and gained Fletcher Baker
Panthers lost Cogger Crichton and leniu and gained Daine Laurie.
2/3 of each teams losses are key players to their grand final teams.
Yes if we lose AFB or Johnson we’re probably buggered. But if the Broncos lost Reynolds/walsh and Haas they not winning either.
Same as if Penrith lost JFH and Cleary/Luai. That’s the unlucky part of injuries. They can ruin your whole season no matter how well you’ve recruited.
From a chch point of view it’s great to see most of our good kids being signed by the warriors juniors and not heading overseas. Yes there’s a couple going but not the 5-10 we normally lose every year.

 

[Day-Walker]

While it may sound cute lining up players for seasons 2025 and beyond, the warriors have their eyes set on winning the comp next year.

Our teams sprinkled with belief and attitude, the ingredients you need to win a comp. I mean they finished 4th this year and made the semi final with an "on paper" a less star studded team than next year's. With Dodge and KC joining next year there's leadership right across the park. Buckle up brothers thats us we on

 

[Defence]

Mays running meters the last 6 games- all coming off the bench…



He also defended at 98.5% for the season.

 

[JaggedJ]

Or it could just be another number in a very large number of wannabe influencers who take a random celebrity, a random quote, and post it together in the hope it makes them look "profound".

Don't read into it, there's nothing to see there other than basic beige thinking.

 

[Stalefish540]

Reckon he's signed for his organisation, communication and reading the opposition's set moves and defence than his own physical prowess, could be invaluable for our edges who've look clueless at times.

Ikin signed him at Donkeys because hes the ultimate professional ala RTS. Was brought in to show Carrigan etc. how to be a 7 day a week pro footballer.

Can never have enough of those in your team.

 

[Juno]

That post from AFB's wife could be to do with the Warriors or could be completely unrelated - we have no idea and it just seems pointless anyone reading into it or feeling annoyed at her over it in the meantime.

Agree. I speculated a while back that Addins wife might be questioning whether he's valued etc and doing the jabs on social media about that but I think there are other things at play here that none of us can maybe guess at so best it stops.
Young couple, young family, most connections back in OZ means close family support back in OZ.
Someone said it is around his Mother being not well but that also was speculation.
We're all good at going from A to Z real quick...cut them all some slack, in particular his wife.
We might have some sort of expectation on all players because they're paid to do what they do but we don't own them & we certainly don't own their partners or kids so leave those parts of their lives alone.
If they put a cryptic poston social media stop guessing and leave them alone - this is a public forum and I'd hazard a guess a few of the players and family members visit it.
Respect their private life & families.

 

[FormerlyJamesW]

Personally I think the club is handling the AFB situation bang on. About time we treated contracts seriously and stopped getting pushed around.

The warriors currently have his contract. He leaves if they're happy to let him go. Simple.

 

[Defence]

Seriously though- I don’t blame her - or him if they want to head home- especially if there’s a family illness involved.
Damn shame though- there was nothing better than watching him dot down under the posts and throwing the arms up like “how easy was that then?”

 

[Noitall]

Must say I’m liking the pictures of Zyon Maiu’u in the preseason pictures and intrigued to see what he can bring.

 

[Tonbridge(aka Swanley)]

CHT is a back. He is there primarily for depth and competition in the halves and centre. We got good backs.

yet played hooker for Samoa in the world cup and killed it.

 

[Hatchet Harry]

yet played hooker for Samoa in the world cup and killed it.

He will be a hooker and sit on bench covering halves, hooker and even lock. Metcalf or TMM will play off for the 6 role. I reckon he takes over from Sironen.

The recruitment of Capewell is interesting as to how Ford’s role evolves. Instead of playing 80, he may play 60 - he tired in the back end of games.

Volkman will be groomed to take over from SJ from 2025 with defence being his work on.

Metcalf needs a kicking game if he wants 7 in 2025 so if he gets the nod this year, I expect more variation on fifth tackle plays with him doing some kicking both for field position and in the attacking third.

I’m picking that Webby wants us to be a threat on both sides of the field and can come at teams from any angle.

Think total football. We are building towards total league where all players are ball playing, fast, powerful and multi skilled.

Niukore and Barnett will play in the middle with Tohu and AFB (or his replacement), Zyon and probably Tom Ale (who has really been forgotten about)

I suspect Tom Ale may well have a break out year after dropping away last year to work on some things. I personally think he may be our starting prop.

We have a great looking side and if anything, Jazz may struggle to make the bench with the talent we have.

I’m excited. All in all our recruitment has been solid. The only question mark is AFB and a potential replacement. But we have 12 months to sort that.

 

[WarriorsForever]

View: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C02WKENS5nk/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

 

[The Warrior Waka]

View: https://youtu.be/otU0USwmQzc?si=AdmKk33ofGbYQdA4

 

[Defence]

View: https://youtu.be/otU0USwmQzc?si=AdmKk33ofGbYQdA4

How good was that.
Really strikes u the quality and amount of leadership at the club now.

 

[Hatchet Harry]

How good was that.
Really strikes u the quality and amount of leadership at the club now.

We can win it this year. There is enough quality, leadership, fitness, grit and determination in this group to go all the way.

It really is exciting. I love what we are building here. It’s got Crusaders vibes.

 

[Worried2Death]

View: https://youtu.be/otU0USwmQzc?si=AdmKk33ofGbYQdA4

View: https://youtu.be/otU0USwmQzc?si=AdmKk33ofGbYQdA4

Can understand how Chanel could lose perspective growing up in a pro sport-focused bubble from a young age, and start questioning why he was bashing his body and pushing himself to extremes every day without the context of experiencing life outside the bubble.

A year watching it from the outside to gain that personal insight could be invaluable for the kid, looking forward to watching him in '24 and hopefully see him reach the new levels of mental resilience Webby is after, kia kaha leshgo lil bro.

 

[juju]

The Dragons will be gutted !

I can't feel sorry for them.

Flannegan was trying to manoeuvre this way too publicly. Not very classy

 

[tajhay]

Warriors CEO Cameron George confirmed the arrangement included a yet-to-be-announced player swap and said the club had been in discussions with the Sharks for some time.

2025 NRL Signings Tracker: Broncos poach Dolphins forward; Warriors snare lethal Lofi

Titans flyer Alofiana Khan-Pereira is on his way across the Tasman in 2026 after being granted a release from the final year of his contract to join the Warriors.

www.nrl.com

 

[1995warriorsfan]

The Warriors wouldn't have agreed to this unless this has worked for the club.
"Considering options " per Cam George, means we are not stupid anymore !

 

[Defence]

The Warriors wouldn't have agreed to this unless this has worked for the club.
"Considering options " per Cam George, means we are not stupid anymore !

Exactly- we could’ve dragged this out another 6 months if we weren’t happy with the terms.
We’ve obviously come to an arrangement we’re happy with.
I’m at peace with it.
In fact it’s kinda exciting- like having a present under the tree we’re not allowed to open yet.

 

[Hatchet Harry]

That poster from the panthers is very much in the know at that club, will be interesting to keep an eye on that Luai rumour. Would be crazy if we got JFH for 2025 and that gives them the money to keep Luai. Likely nothing there but lots of possibilities.

We would not have let AFB go without something in place for a replacement from 2025. If that poster suggests Penrith might throw a twist for Luai, then just perhaps, we may be on for JFH if he wants to come to NZ.

Let’s see how this plays out. I’m fairly certain we will have something come out soon.

Options… hmmm.

 

[The Warrior Waka]

Interesting he’s pulled his instagram page, wouldn’t necessarily mean he’s leaving the panthers but he’s seemed super connected to NZ in recent times.

I remember at the end of the Kiwis vs Roos match, Him & Charnze were in a long embrace & were in deep conversation. My brain at the time translated that conversation as follows

" CNK - Cuz, Keen to come to the wahs my maori? - JFH - Yeah bo! One more premiership with the pahs and I'm keen as. CNK - Don't be a build-ups kieent, we'll need you! Cos AFB's missus wants out. No one likes her kaka biscuits in Auckland. JFH - Oh truuuue cuz, Tell Andy Wahbster I'm keen as. I'll have to change my insta name to James Fisher Wahrris then ....Huhuhuhu.

Yeah. Something like that.

 

[Worried2Death]

It sounds as though there may be agitating from the sharks behind the scenes to get him for 2024.

Then they better get agitating to find us another prop somehow, preferably one that rhymes with Flames Fishwah Farris

 

[Makasene]

It sounds as though there may be agitating from the sharks behind the scenes to get him for 2024.

Ofcourse there will be.

To which they can read our middle finger that has a tatoo on it saying "get fucked"

Karma for Metcalf

 

[BabylonPink]

Just going to wait and see how Zyon and the other juniors go before jumping at names

 

[Worried2Death]

Leo Thompson and Hamlin-Uele? Someone like Johnson is irreplaceable too, hadn't considered the cap around that area either

Leo and his bro are locked in at Newy.

Haas is doubtful to leave Queensland with his family there and mum incarcerated.

Joe Tapine would be a dream come true. Wasn't his Mrs on social media complaining about him being under-appreciated by Ricky, and no one was paying for her brownies? Wait a minute... is this some secret WAGs code? Could be wrong about the biscuits. Come home Joey.

 

[j_p]

We should only sign single players.

Or start doing background checks on the partners.
On a related note nice to see how Montoya and his Mrs have settled in to life here. Was an article about them a little while back.

 

[Cces]

CHT has great tackle technique & when he times it right he can stop the opposition dead in their tracks.
The information got wiped from this site from the cyber hackers but in 2022 the side conceded less points per game without CHT in the team. Lots of things to factor in such as cohesion on the edges & strength the opposition, but they were the facts. Personally I see him as Walker's understudy although his kicking did improve markedly in his last season & he's our only lefty so wouldn't be surprised if Webby thinks he a legitimate option at #6

 

[Christchurch_Warrior]

Based purely on stats, and I appreciate they can be misleading in isolation, that is not correct. Metcalf has a superior tackle efficiency. However my comment was CHT relative to playing in the forwards, which a couple of posts have suggested. I’m not saying he can’t improve & play a role for us there, however his defence would need to improve to do so.

You are comparing apples with oranges when looking at tackle efficient. Metcalf in a top 4 side got 85.89% this year. CHT in a bottom 4 side got 84.38 in his last year. The year before that and still a crap side he got 89.57. Put him in the same defensive structure as Metcalf and defensively he will be better than Metcalf. As an attacking threat CHT will not beat Metcalf.

 

[j_p]

CHT is Thomas Lealuai from Wish and considering the weekly lamenting of TL when he played for us it's weird how much we try to find ways to wedge CHT into any position we can to get him into the 17 like he's too good to be left out.

Bookmarking this so we can all laugh at you at a later date .
I think some of us me included see a lot of potential in him that may come out under webby and finally in a stable team.
He's shown a lot of heart in the past which is a metric that can't be bought when it comes to fan following

 

[Bevosa]

When I first saw CHT, he was playing for the Junior Kiwis in 2018. He did a back heel kick to score a try and dominated that game, I remember saying to myself at the time, this kid is the future of NZ rugby league.


View: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=2123260601099799

I think he has a massive celling and feel his x-factor was coached out of him under Brown. Let's hope Webby can bring him back.

 

[Zaggo]

Surely this means dominos are falling for some moves from us. I can't see us letting Volkman go immediately and AFB without a swap next year unless they've got a plan.

 

[PrinceOfPenrose]

Steve price worked really well as his missus is a kiwi - Brent tate was his brother in law? So when they were over here had a good crew and support. It’s easy to bag the missus and guys wanting a release early/not fitting into the scene. It’s a hard one, especially with kids/ or without and no family / friends to support and first time away from Oz. Webby done the hard yards in the north of England and understands the ups and downs and that it’s different but in a good way. This can be a career defining club. Look at Egan and Jacko ford. Making the most of it. We just gotta take a chance until we can build a club from the juniors up

I just read the NZ herald article of Marcello and his partner and how they loved living here and how he wanted to finish his career here with the club. Very refreshing.

 

[Riz]

Big Wraps on Jesse Soric

I'm bloody excited to see these young fellas play, how good is it to have these pathways in place now!

 

[dean]

RV wont be a loan. Webster could have played him toward the end of the season when we had injuries but went for other options, Walker.
Webster had seen enough that he felt RV was not the heir apparent, moved him on after signing the young bloke from the Panthers who is alittle further away than RV probably. I am sure Webster has his halves sorted.
Good that he makes a call and gets on with it, best for us and RV.

 

[Cces]

It was understandable that Webster chose Walker ahead of Volkman in 2023 because Volkman isn't a #6! He's a player than needs to be on the ball. His finest moment in a Warriors jersey was his match winning Field Goal against the playoff bound Raiders, albeit this was in NSW Cup, where he received the ball over 50 times.
Webster knows a whole lot more than me but if SJ was to retire at seasons end then I can't see a natural successor that's currently on the books. Metcalf is off contract & has just 7 games at Halfback (1W-1D-5L), all in reserve grade, to date. TMM isn't a dominant half nor does he possess a long kicking game. CHT hasn't shown he's the guy you want to give the ball to with the game in the balance. Luke Hanson is yet to play against men & is by all accounts a run first player who is a #6/#1. Jesse Soric is like 17/18 & played off the bench for his high school in 2023.
I repeat, Webby knows way more than me, but I can't see a genuine #7 at the club apart from SJ

 

[redpowergod]

Sifakula will.be ready for round 2/3

 

[Worried2Death]

Volkman has a good kicking game. Great organising half. Great footy brain for a young man. Cht is a great defender, good hole runner, Always in support of his ball playing forwards. .Above average short kicking game.
Metcalf, Awesome speed.........

Winner - Metcalf....Cos hes fast?

Gtfoh

Hope they all crack it. But for now, I fail to see how Metcalf has the most upside? Upside down cos he gets run over all the time maybe.

I hate xmas. I hate the crowds & i hate ending up broke at the end of it. The cranky pants are pulled right up the anuks. Don't mind me..
I'll love Metcalf after xmas is done.

Having a think about Chanel's last stint, he had Mooks for most of it, hardly the most innovative halves coach, then bloody Browny tinkering around with a makeshift nomad squad struggling for players. Then Stacey for 6 weeks trying to put some pride back in a demoralised jumper.

Hasn't been the best environment for CHT to excell, so it's hard to judge his ceiling. He could surprise us all, Webby appears to see something in him a lot of us don't. I know less now than I did before I started thinking, happens every time.

 

[Warriorshopeful]

Some pretty big movement with the roster this year. Wiliame released, both Kepus released, Vailea released, Curran and Volkman released, Berry, Sifakula, Laban and Maiu'u given contracts/extensions, RTS, CHT and Capewell signed with SJ, Harris, Pompey, Montoya all extended too. as well as Ford Cappy and Webby making some pretty significant changes, seems they've got a good idea of what they're after.

Seems to me a bit more of a focus towards Kiwi talent and players who want to be here. Professionalism and guys who want to win but also have to be good blokes, really like what they're building.

 

[Blain]

He asked for a release, and we granted it. Dragons were not allowed to even talk to him without our permission. Bit of a shame, he was probably the 2nd best kicker in the squad. But it's the best for Volkman. After being overlooked for Walker last year, writing on the wall with where his development is. With CHT basically taking the back up 7 with Metcalf and TMM at 6, it makes sense for him to go. Hopefully one of the 2 young Aussies half's shine this season and lock in a Volkman like role for 2025.

 

[sup42]

I don't accuse them of not doing anything, it's just our depth at prop, probably the worst in the NRL or close to it, is a symptom of the unique challenges our club has faced. Combined with some shit luck between Lodge and AFB. The club has done amazing work and we have depth across the park at pretty much every other position. We literally have one superstar prop, then Bunty who is reserve grade, and a rookie.

Our 2024 team IS better than our 2023 team. RTS+Capewell are fantastic adds. We're just going to need some luck when it comes to AFB staying healthy, which is a problem given how much work he's going to need to do. He managed it last year though, so fingers crossed.

It feels as though the club are very confident that they have one maybe two potential future Props, but they don't have a crystal ball, so they are hanging onto a big bunch of Junior forwards to ensure they grow the next AFB rather than tie up two million dollars in imported props.

There is this gap, between AFB and whoever out of the Star Juniors in time, and it is hard to estimate when a young forward will start to bloom.

I do like the patient approach, because if our club is truely headed in the right direction, then they should be able to grow a Super Star Prop in house with the pool of talent they have.

 

[sup42]

Joey Manu at fullback is not even as good as CNK, quite similar players, both high running meters, both are not the best ball players in an NRL spine.

I would not have said that a few years ago, but CNK has made gains every season, especially this year with his ball playing, Manu peaked ages ago and while a game winner in his own right, not needed here.

Our fullback cover is deep.

And then if you look at signing him for his better position at Center, you might have gone there had we not signed RTS to play center.

With Berry coming along, ALi in the wings, RTS to play center, it would be nuts to spend large on another Center.

 

[sydneywarrior92]

CNK at FB is non-negotiable for me. He was an integral part of our sweeping edge attack last year with SJ. Webby is clearly behind this because CNK never exhibited these skills as the Raiders FB. RTS can develop into the strike center we are currently missing. The backline is not where we need to be investing our cap space.

 

[Brightman]

Sharks forum also speculating sharks are after AFB for 2024 and Toby Rudolf on the table as a player swap. Not sure what would have changed Rudolf attitude after shitting on us a few years?

Dreamers, have they forgotten how they withheld Metcalf..

 

[Mr. Brownstone]

This BHU chat concerns me. I genuinely think he’s closer in ability to Bunty than he is to AFB.

 

[snake77]

If we continue to win then Auckland will become more appealable.

If we keep filling out Mt Smart like this year creating a big event every week it would also help in a small way as well.

A new stadium would also help as well. New facilities centred in the middle of the city would be appealing to potential recruits.

The main thing is winning a premiership or premierships will mean players will come here not talking about potential but know they are a chance of winning a premiership.

The weather we can't control. Some years will be better than others. We had a lot of success in 2023 a year where the weather was terrible. In the past the club has done things to sell Auckland. That should continue. Win and Australian players will likely talk more highly of their time here.

 

[Fizurg]

Really like Max King, recently married and a newborn could see him want to head over for an adventure?

As someone who recently had a new born. The last thing you want is an adventure.

 

[sup42]

I think it’s unlikely we’re going to be able to replace afb with one player- we’re probably gonna need to recruit 2 props to strengthen the position (Even with afb we really need another one).
I’m thinking bhu could be one of them.
Looking strictly at the off contract guys I’d be pretty happy with any combination of bhu/ Tyrell may/ max king for example.

What say ye?

Quite honestly I Smh at all the dissing of NRL potential signings by Warriors fans, are they history blind or something? do they not realise we are lucky to sign anyone halfway decent?

Go back through twenty seven years of signings. On the one hand a longitudinal look at the Warriors signings should tell anyone with two memory cells to rub together that we have bloody struggled more than any other franchise to sign players from Aus.

BHU might be from an imperfect pack that we smashed up last year, but hey, if you are losing AFB then why would we magically sign someone of a similar ilk?

Can anyone remember when we lost one of our best ever imports and immediately found like for like?

No?



Happy to eat humble pie when we sign JFH....like fuck that is gonna happen LOL

 

[Up the guttz]

We don’t need to replace AFB with a like for like (none around anyway)
He will be replaced and we will adapt accordingly.

We replaced Walsh with CNK who was playing cup and he turned out great. We will be fine.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

But what is reality? My reality of BHU is that he is not mid-tier and is not worth $500k. He’s a below average NRL prop and part of a middle rotation that has failed. Why as Warriors fans should we show any enthusiasm to signing him?

Yeah mate it's easy to say that and then not offer any other alternatives...more than happy to hear your thoughts on who we should get, or are you one of those ones that just pokes holes in everyone else's thoughts and not offer any up on your own

I've got heaps of answers for your last question! Why should we be enthused?

1. Bigger body prop - something we don't have
2. Experienced prop with over 100 games - something we need
3. Across his career when playing over 40 minutes he averages over 100m
4. I think like 15 players had career years under Webby last year, there's a good chance that he'll improve on what he's delivered thus far.

I think we're all in agreement that we can stop going on about 'not getting a like for like replacement' for AFB. We all know this now, and if you don't, you're an idiot lol

 

[Cces]

BHU might be from an imperfect pack that we smashed up last year

It must be noted that whilst we did smash the Sharks pack in Auckland, they were without BHU, Royce Hunt & Dale Finucane. When they were at full strength earlier in the season we struggled to contain them.

 

[Fizurg]

I think the main thing is the team doesn’t pay overs for him. At 300k he’s a valuable addition to our pack. At $800k he’s just ruined our pack. The question isn’t whether he is the answer. The question is what is he worth?

 

[Ref]

AFB was tearing it up for Manly and when we signed him I couldn’t believe our luck.
Much the same as the Wade McKinnon signing. He was lethal for the Eels and not on big coin and they thought they had a better full back in Luke Burt so let Wade go.

We still have him for 2024 and IMO we have strengthened our roster with RTS and Capewell. We have freed up cap space by releasing players who IMO again we will not miss.
And we have a bunch of up and coming forwards who are being perfectly primed by Webby.

I know lots of posters have theories about when players “should peak” in their respective positions and are guarded about introducing our young guys.
But it’s simple for me.
If they are good enough, play them.
Especially in this system that Jesus Webster has created.

 

[Makasene]

Reality is that when we signed him he was not the best prop in the comp and to be honest I don't think any other team wanted him. Good coaching and systems made him great. Lets see how he does at the sharks before we get too carried away.

He was elite and the forum response was pretty unanimous that he was a great signing.

Keep in mind he was not allowed to sign with another Sydney team which heavily reduced his options.

We were in an advantageous position having cleared significant cap. The public release request and confirming signing with us were 6 days apart.

We got friggen lucky, that's the real reality.

He like all players under Webby has improved but he was top shelf when signed.

 

[Falcon]

We don’t need to replace AFB with a like for like (none around anyway)
He will be replaced and we will adapt accordingly.

We replaced Walsh with CNK who was playing cup and he turned out great. We will be fine.

I’d suggest a few of us need to change our mindset.
There is a bit of a narrative of over reliability on one (very good) player.
We can’t replace AFB but as many have correctly suggested, sign a good player, with a great mentality and a will to win and watch the magic happen … as a team.

 

[Noitall]

18 minutes ago

• 
  
• #18,421

Rumour in the Shire Hamlin-Uele will be the swap for 2025.

That Rumour is Bullshit as Hamlin-Uele is Off Contract at the end of 2024.
He may well go to the Warriors, but as a free agent & not as a part of any swap deal.

 

[Fufu]

Yeah just seems kinda strange.

Young player with big wraps comes over here on a big contract for an unproven teen (300-500k) for 3 years.

Not allowed to negotiate with other teams, however asks for a release from his longer, higher wage contract with a good, upcoming team to then sign with a rabble team for probably far less money, and a one year contract?

Unless he's home sick as fuck, or he's been told he has no chance with us but who the heck is advising Volkman? He's now signed as a back up half where he will be lucky to get game time this year, and if he does, the Dragons look pretty poor so he'll be extremely lucky if he gets enough quality game time to earn a contract for 2025 worth as much as he had here....just seems baffling

I think he was a big Brown and POS signing. They saw something in him that Webby probably doesn't. Webster seems to prioritise defence and defensive effort, whereas Brownie kind of didn't. And I'm not 100% but I do recall reading somewhere that Nathan Brown was doing some work with the Dragons too, so he might have had a part in it.

Volkman is in a weird position where he is clearly too good for NSW cup but not quite good enough for NRL, and the only way to get good enough for NRL is to play games. With us he is not assured of any games and is competing with TMM, Chanel, SJ and Metcalf. At the Dragons he is basically assured of playing 3 games at 7 when Ben Hunt is with QLD. Beyond that he is only competing with Kyle Flanagan for the 6 jersey, who, if we're being honest doesn't hold a candle to the halves he's competing with here. And on top of that, Hunt has been vocal about wanting to leave the Dragons at any opportunity he gets. Its a pretty positive move for him in my opinion, especially with a new coach in Flanno who isn't afraid to give young blokes a go eg Jack Bird at 6 in the sharks premiership year.

 

[Cces]

I'm probably in the minority in here who's disappointed with Volkman leaving but I can understand it from his perspective of trying to find a regular gig sooner rather than later.
By all accounts he was more of a prospect in Rugby Union but the Waratahs didn't offer him anything out of school so he chose League & made an immediate impression by scoring twice & leading the Roosters to a preseason win in 2021 as an 18 year old. He couldn't nail a NSW Cup spot initially but from Round 11 wore the #7 for 4 consecutive games before the season was cancelled. 2022 rolls around & he gets another go in preseason, kicks a 40/20 & 2/2 at goal but only gets 3 NSW Cup appearances, all at #6, in the first 2 months. Then he signed for the Warriors for 2023 so the Roosters wash their hands & no longer even pick him for U21's. Just over a month later he's playing in the Warriors homecoming at Mt Smart. A little over a year later he makes his Test debut vs NZ at Eden Park.
Obviously he hasn't shown a lot in first grade but I'm in two minds as to whether it's all happened too fast for him or the past 3 seasons have set him up for a successful career.
Time will tell.

Volkman steers Roosters to trial win over Wests Tigers

Halfback Ronald Volkman starred with two tries as the Roosters gave a better-credentialled Wests Tigers side all it could handle and more in a 28-22 win at Kirkham Oval in Camden on Saturday night.

www.nrl.com

 

[wizard of Tauranga]

On Volkman, he’s performed well in NSW cup and given time I think he has a career in first grade.

More than any other position, a controlling half is all about combinations. A grubber kick through where your outsides are hitting the line as you kick makes you look lethal. The same kick where your outside don’t have a clue looks directionless. You have to put more weight on NSW cup rather than the limited opportunities in top grade to judge if his skill set is transferable.

Defence is another matter and he does struggle but playing on with the finger shows he has heart.

I see him having a 1st grade career somewhere down the track and wish the guy well. We’re fortunate to have lots of options and it’s best for both parties if he goes hunting for opportunities elsewhere.

 

[Brightman]

All this talk about Volkman not being good enough is rubbish, the kids got lots of talent. It's said the step up to 1st grade playmakers have less time to make decisions, naturally because the defensive line is also a step up but, given time the talent does adjust..

Lots of people also bagged SJ's defence too when he started in 1st grade, he's been a terrific defender for many years now. Volkman just needs solid time in 1st grade and that's why he's been released..

 

[Fizurg]

My only real worry I have about CHT is he chose to bail when things got rough. How invested is he in his career? He came back, like RTS because it got good here. Does he have the hunger to keep improving? He missed a whole year of coaching.

its interesting because i feel the other way about it. He wasn't happy and took some time to reassess what he wants. He then came back, seems like must really want to be here.

 

[Billyspleen75]

its interesting because i feel the other way about it. He wasn't happy and took some time to reassess what he wants. He then came back, seems like must really want to be here.

Agreed, I don't think anything that happened during covid should be used to try and determine anyone's character. It was a fkkd up time for everyone. In hindsight, i feel we were collectively a bit rough on Fus, Ken etc that wanted to come home early.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Also says Brown and Peter O Sullivan didn’t rate him which was part of his decision to leave. Interesting CHT’s time away seems to have brought out his doubters again after he had largely won them over before he left. It’s amazing what belief does and with Webster apparently seeking out CHT to return, that’s an indication to me that he sees something too. Especially being Samoa assistant coach at the World Cup with CHT in his team. I get the feeling that defence is always going to let Metcalf down, wasn’t able to make the manly 1st grade team where he went to the sharks for the same result. I hope he does come right because he’s been regarded as someone to watch for the last couple of seasons but he’s a 6. I do agree with those that see potential in Metcalf 6 and CHT 7.

I've always been a harsh critic of CHT. I loved his attitude and D, just thought he didn't have enough it as an NRL starting half given the way he performed.

Obviously there's been a lot of water under the bridge since then, and with how everyone seemed to I prove under Webby I was quite excited to see CHT in that utility role and see what he could bring under Webby.

However with Volkman leaving and the assumption that CHT has shown improvements under Webby, I have a sneaky feeling that he could finish 2024 as our starting 6 next to SJ.

CHT looked poor in a poor team with a poor coach, but had a great attitude and awesome defence... surely that improves.

If CHT goes well this year I'll eat my humble pie and have him as my display pic for the offseason

 

[WA Warrior]

That's pretty f'd up. You'd think the medical would be done before being released and signing the new contract. Suprised the players union hasn't pushed for that in the past. I can see it from both teams pov but poor guy is essentially unemployed.

Totally agree, so because we released him he loses 2 years of pay and now Dragons won’t sign him and he’s unemployed.
Someone needs to step up out of us and the dragons and at least pay him for this year.
Volkmans management should also dip into their pocket with shit advice.

 

[Playdaball]

Volkman and his management team went in knowing that he had a major injury.
Meantime, I hope that his salary wont stay with the Warriors for 2024 and beyond.

 

[Zaggo]

Someone needs to step up out of us and the dragons and at least pay him for this year.

Why would we? The bloke asked for a release knowing that he had this injury.

If I quit my job and a new employer then backs out of a contract because it turns out I wasn't suitable, should my former employer be on the hook to keep paying me? Absolutely not.

 

[Inruin]

View attachment 4866

Given he was at Dragon training then I'm saying he is effectively a Dragon player and not our responsibility.

You start work, that's a contract in itself.

 

[tajhay]

He/His management asked for a release. He was banking on getting release out of his 2 year contract with the Warriors to sign on with the Dragons for only a year to prove his worth. He was already taking a big gamble and by all accounts was already looking for a move away from the Warriors and not intending to stay on for the 2 years. Given he was already training with the Dragons and had sought the release himself, IMO it goes into the unlucky basket. I dont believe the Warriors should be held to account for his salary on our books given his release was already signed by both parties.

 

[Defence]

 

[Noitall]

I floated this one at least a year ago but fair to say I didn’t get much support- I think their reputation proceeds them but sounds like they’ve all grown up a bit….
Don’t know if they’d all wanna leave Sydney and not that fussed on Tyrone but Tyrell and taylan are guns and it sounds like they’d be willing to take unders to play together- look at it as a buy 2 get one free kinda deal.

He can go back to Penrith and they can release JFH on compassionate grounds.

 

[WarriorsForever]

 

[Mr. Brownstone]

I hope for our sake and ronnies we find an amicable way to sort it out. If we aren't liable to cover it paying for rehab costs and giving a minimum wage wouldn't be a bad shout and an opportunity to get out and say while it was unfortunate for the dragons they needed to do better for the player. Would bode well for future recruitment If everyone sees we look after our own. Put some meaning behind the once a warrior slogan.

Sorry but no way. If he asked for a release, which the Warriors granted, and the Warriors have no remaining contractual obligations, then no way do we provide any compensation. It’s the Dragons and Volkman’s problem. Any goodwill from helping out wouldn’t extend beyond Volkman & any suggestion otherwise is fanciful.

 

[WahsaurusRex]

RLPA needs to send someone to his manager's office or the Dragons HQ to deliver a hiding because that is fucked for RV

I hope for our sake and ronnies we find a amicable way to sort it out. If we aren't liable to cover it paying for rehab costs and giving a minimum wage wouldn't be a bad shout and an opportunity to get out and say while it was unfortunate for the dragons they needed to do better for the player. Would bode well for future recruitment If everyone sees we look after our own. Put some meaning behind the once a warrior slogan.

I wouldn't put him back on a playing contract, but I do hope the club offer him a job working with the Warriors Foundation or something like a coaching intern, and maybe even allow him to work with the club physios to rehab the injury on the side.

The team isn't a charity, but to put something on the table for him is the right thing to do.

He’d probably be better off staying in Sydney with his support network, but I can imagine him being in a pretty dark place right now; being able to stay in a team environment, around guys he has worked/played with for the past 12-18 months could be good for him.

 

[Fonzie]

We were to Matt Lodge effectively and gave him $500K last year for nonsensical reasons.
At least a salary to Volkman would have more justification than the Lodge payout

Not that I am advocating for it. I think both St George and Warriors should go even stevens on like $40K each and give him a living wage for the year.

If he has been left with no income this year due to bungled timing on the paperwork I would suggest his agents insurer might be the one who will be giving him a living wage

 

[Mr. Brownstone]

It's not, but damn.. We're talking about a 21-year-old that, in the span of three weeks, gave up two years making guaranteed 6 figures, to a one-year deal to take a bet on himself, and is now without a job, and his career could potentially be over.

It's not like he kicked up a huge fuss about wanting out, we signed players ahead of him and he was on the bubble. Nor is he a Kepu or Otukolo who apparently had a shit work ethic.

I don't suggest we put him back on 300 grand or so to just sit around on his PlayStation, nor are we going to be liable for any money in any way whatsoever, but just put a hand out so, if he wants, he can come and be back around the building; I don't even think he would accept it, but there is no downside to going to him and letting him come back to do school visits/clinics with the Foundation and have the run water for the Cup games, something down those lines

If you live in Auckland then take a drive out to one of the poorer suburbs and have a look around. Then decide if Ronald Volkman is really doing it tough. Seriously, it’s 1 season. If he’s as good as some of you think then he’ll be back earning good coin once his shoulder has healed. In the meantime, tough break for the kid.

 

[snake77]

A bit more on the Volkman situation. Written by Andrew Webster. No not that one the one that is pretty irrelevant now everyone got on the Warriors train. That was funny last year when he commented every time the Warriors won his Twitter would get flooded.

The start of the article makes it sound like the Warriors knew of an issue. They provided a report he had a bit of a complaint. Has some quotes from Cameron George that the Warriors contributed financially.

Later on it mentions the RLPA got added to the CBA uncontracted players cannot train with teams. Also after you announce a signing you have 5 days to register the player. Also lists some examples of players being announced and the signing not going ahead. Says how the smart clubs operate.

A few interesting parts.
RLPA chief executive Clint Newton urged the NRL to look into the Dragons’ actions.
“One of the many obligations of a club is that no player is to train without a registered contract,” he said. “We know that training still carries significant risk, none more so than what we saw with Corey.”

The NRL’s response? “The NRL will liaise with the relevant parties to understand the circumstances,” a spokesman said.
Head office might want to ask how Volkman’s management signed a “deed of termination” on December 24 before the contract had been registered with the NRL.
Again, several clubs spoken to said the accepted practice is to lodge the deed of release and the new contract within minutes of each other. As one head of football said: “If you were joining another company, would you not make sure you’d signed the contract before you resigned?”

Stuff

www.stuff.co.nz

 

[Billyspleen75]

Hmm "significant payout"
Unfortunate that we are paying towards it, but I trust that Cappy and co are happy with the outcome and have a youngster ready to fill the spot.

On the other hand, Volkman is now being paid for the next two years, surely at least 100k+ (since it is a "significant payout" out of a contract that has been estimated to be $300k+).
End of concern for him imo. He can rehab with this coin in his back pocket.

The NRL and RLPA can do their investigating and find out where it went wrong. But Volkman getting that money takes a huge amount of the sting out of the story.

 

[Blain]

If we're contributing still that's our duty of care in this scenario I reckon

And you would think due to the circumstances we shouldn't need to include Volk in our roster of 30.

Good on the club for getting involved from a welfare perspective also.

We're contributing money for him not to be here. No obligation for us to do anything, reaching out about welfare is about all we can do. But no way he is going to move to NZ to recover, or to be given a new contract to re join the playing squad. If he was a player the club thought was worth holding to develop then he might, but us contributing money for him to go would suggest that isn't the case.

This all comes down to his manager not getting the order of events correct, and trusting the inept Dragons.

 

[Hatchet Harry]

Posted by Snake77 earlier, CG suggested at the bottom of the article NZW paid "considerable part" of his last 2 years… which is kind of weird for sure considering they asked for a release.

Stuff

www.stuff.co.nz

Then we wanted to move him on to free up a spot. He had 2 years, he knew he’d only play cup. They negotiated a settlement to release.

From then on, Dragons screwed it up.

I think we played with a straight bat.

 

[Makasene]

Any chance we did actually try to do the dirty on the Drags knowing the screws had fallen out of his shoulder and they're desperate? Nah perish the thought, I refuse to believe it.

None whatsoever.

And even if we did, that isn't even the issue.

1. His manager diverted from standard by signing a release before the Dragons completed their medical

2. Dragons had him training before being registered - against the RLPA agreement

3. Dragons promoted the signing before completing their due diligence

All of these stuffed Ronnie more than anything else

 

[LeagueJunkie]

Stuff

www.stuff.co.nz

Very interesting read here. Looks as though it was floated that Volkman was a loan to dragons at one stage and to come back in 2025, where it’s mentioned it’s unlikely SJ and Metcalf will be with us. Would say Metcalf is definitely gone after this season for which there could have been scope to bring Volkman back as the replacement 4th halve. Now sounds as though he is finished at the Warriors and won’t be offered to come back with his shoulder now an ongoing concern. Sounds like this isn’t going to settle quickly with dragons accusing Warriors of dirty tactics

Rich that the Drags are accusing us of dirty tactics. But I would not expect anything less from Flanno Snr. The wanker should not have been allowed to return to the game after his shit with the Sharks.

 

[watcher]

Metcalf has a lot to offer with his acceleration, anticipation and backing up, but to me he is not a playmaker and has barely adequate defence. Same as his kicking game. TMM has a more all round game imo.
the his
What will Webster want from SJ's Hallves partner. I think defense iis his priority. That puts CHT up there. He has combined with SJ before and has a good left boot.

A defensively solid Halves pairing has a lot going for it with SJ, TMM/CHT

 

[tajhay]

Personally im ok with the Warriors part in the release...except the fact that we paid out some of his contract. If a player comes for a release from their contract, we should not be contributing a cent.

 

[finsup11]

I see this guy Toby has been training with us since December and I think he joined us to play for the Jersey Flegg Cup. Keep an eye on him

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=puEvbVzYshs

 

[Wrighty]

I see this guy Toby has been training with us since December and I think he joined us to play for the Jersey Flegg Cup. Keep an eye on him

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=puEvbVzYshs

Upper Hutt Boy from my neighbourhood. Turned up with over 1000 other people in open try outs for the warriors age group side and scored three tries and made it in. Didn't get selected for the Hurricanes because the Rams lose so often and players don't look good when they lose. Named captain of the Rams senior mens prem team at 19 years old. He is a loss to union and a gain to league. He will end up in first grade.

 

[Wrighty]

From what I understand, he played for a poor secondary school so didn't get picked for many schools/rep teams due to their results. This is secondary information though and haven't bothered to check if this is true

Went to St Pats Siverstream which is a good sports school

He didn't get noticed as he was the best player on the worst wellington premier division side and players look better when they win.

He was in the wider Hurricanes squad at 19 but probably better than some guys in the squad and got frustrated at being over looked. The warriors solid performance in 2023 and better coaching attracted a lot more applicants this year including Toby.
There has been some zero tackle articles about one or two lesser known super rugby players switching to league this year and being heralded as stars in the articles. Toby is probably a better signing than them.
If you really want to get pumped by having him then consider that some of his closest supporters thought he had it in him to make the All Blacks if he got the right breaks. He could turn into anything for the Warriors in terms of his ceiling.

 

[Akula]

Here is a more recent Youtube compilation of Toby Crosby over the last couple of years. As he is a Greytown boy who boarded at St. Pats Stream - suspect Rocco Berry had a role in getting him to trial. Top tryscorer in Wgtn Club Rugby last season, but just couldn't get a look into the provincial side.


View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vt3Jbqwj6_Q

 

[MrFrankWhite]

This is catastrophic, with it being his ankle he is going to come in underdone and likely be very much behind the pace. Also this time of the year is when teams usually start implementing and refining their game plan and style of play, so not having our general out on the training paddock is really going to mess things up. Could be quite a rough start to the season.

I disagree. The warriors must prepare for life after SJ/AFB etc. Replacements must be identified early and be ready at a moments notice. Also much prefer SJ on ice at the start of a season, than at the end.

 

[Sammyw]

why the panic?? a high ankle sprain at this point is completely manageable, id be shocked if SJ isnt starting round 1. also, at this point of his career, missing a good chunk of pre-season is not a bad thing tbh. i have zero concerns about him slotting straight back in

 

[PhilsySH35]

Kia ora whanau, please note, FYI, due to eye sight problems, it's not worth it for me to go to a live game, can't see worth a dam, so instead of buying any tickets online through warriors website, I've just signed up for the fan pass to support my beautiful team, anyway long story short, and I realise this isn't the forum thread to post it, but thought someone might want to do it... when I purchased the fanpass for 2024 (2023 cost $25) cost now $35, but lo and behold this came with a $50 credit???, which I promptly spent on a warriors cap and keyring - cost $48.50 which is now being posted to me as I type. so not sure how this came about??? totally blessed!!!!

 

[Wrighty]

BHU 2023 highlights


View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWYxhunH9RI

 

[Cces]

750k today is about what 565k was this time last year before the new CBA was signed

 

[marv.]

BHU 2023 highlights


View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWYxhunH9RI

i can see how webster would back himself to get BHU to another level.
plus it’s not as though there’s a buttload of props available let alone good ones, and then out of the ALMOST ZERO good ones who would actually come here?

i’d be happy enough with BHU and young zyon.

 

[hornbybrown]

Not a big fan at that price tag, but I trust the Andrew’s

 

[Defence]

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhku87VUoKw

Runs over reece walsh and rocks the wwf celebration- what’s not to like?
That was actually a pretty brave effort from Walsh tbf.

BHU 2023 highlights


View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWYxhunH9RI

Gets over some of the big dogs there- hass, tino, afb….

I quite like him but he can’t play big minutes- he’s a 40 minute man- $700 seems a bit rich but not totally outrageous in today’s market I suppose.

I too trust the Andrews.
(And who’s to say that figures accurate anyway).

 

[Makasene]

You have to look at his contract in its entirety.

If we are reliant on BHU being the leader of our pack in 3 years time then we are definitely a mid-table team, no two ways about it.

But, if he is being supported by the likes of Marata, Zyon and co next year and the years after then $733k of the salary cap in 3 years time going to him and having that available to dish out to the young bucks the year after - then I'm all for it.

 

[BangBro's (still banging)]

I guess any prop we sign after losing AFB will not compare.

All and all we know we will welcome him with open arms.

 

[Riz]

Re: BHU, I would bring us back to pre 2023. How many of those players did we think we were paying overs for?

As memory serves, there were similar conversations around how much AFB was getting paid?

I think people often forget how much talk there was about AFB's output pre 2023 or more so his influence in games. Webby definitely brought the best out of him. I have no doubt that we would see similar improvement out of a guy like BHU.

 

[Dantheman]

I'm all for the signing, realistically who else are we going to get? I'm sure we will go after some decent players for the 2026 season - as it stands the options are pretty slim for next year.

 

[Roons75]

We need Tapine.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

If Penrith win it again this year, what the heck does James Fisher-Harris have left to do in league, with the exception of coming to NZ and helping us with our maiden premiership?

Contracted until the end of 2026, I would see if we could bring him home a year early and get him when he's 30 for the beginning of 2026, give him 3 years, the captaincy and a whole heapa money

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Can someone investigate plox how many minutes per game EXACTLY BHU played for his 19 games last season...or tell me a site where I can deduce this....I am just to wrap my mind around whether 94 running metres is a good effort or not per game.

https://footystatistics.com/index.php?p=500213

Thats the one I use, it's more NRL fantasy related but breaks down all of the stats.

BHU had a few games just under 30 minutes last year, so if you filter all games over 30 min he averaged 40 minutes a game and bang on 100 meters.

For me, looking through his stats he has some good games of 140m +, but then let's him self down where he has a week or 3 where he runs for 50-60 meters, so essentially there is quite a massive difference between his best and worst games.

This is where it gets interesting for me. Having a quick look at AFB prior to last year, he still had lots of good games each year but he would also have 3-6 games a where he would struggle to make 100m. Last year he was waaaay more consistent, didn't have a game below 100m. So not only did he close the gap between his best and worst games, his ceiling rose significantly and had about 10 games where he ran for over 190m.

If Webby can work his magic on BHU and close the gap so his worst games (running meters wise) is much closer to his good games, we could have an absolute unit on our hands averaging 140m a game...

 

[Neo]

Getting BHU for 2024 would provide us with a formidable pack up against anyone in the comp. BHU to offset AFB , only from 2025, will likely see RTS return to a battering ram role to take up some of the slack. Not sure that that's what we want an aging RTS (as fit as he is) to be doing.
Ale has shown, albeit in the #13 role in NSW Cup, that he can play extended minutes but Bunty can't & Maiu'u hasn't shown this yet either

Yeah I’m a bit surprised by the Maiu’u hype on here. He made some nice line breaks when I watched him play NSW Cup but he didn’t seem like a guy who could get in the grind in the NRL as yet. Hopefully he can start to produce some big numbers in Cup and get a few minutes off of the bench in first grade to help his development. I think an experienced guy like BHU is definitely required until the younger guys can prove that they belong

 

[tajhay]

To be fair Marata is supposedly on 840k a year and has cracked over 100m once in his career which was in 2020. Just for comparisons sake for a second rower, Jackson Ford was over 100m a game last year. Granted he brings more physicality with his game, but his stats are fairly low for what he was brought here on. We seem to be paying overs not just on Aussie recruits, but also for kiwis returning home.

His eventual transition to prop will be interesting. Needs to bring a lot more to the table for what is close to elite player cash.

 

[Makasene]

From what I've heard, it's a done deal and in the cooling off period.

Sharks have also requested and been denied an immediate swap.

 

[Fizurg]

Probably not exactly recruitment news but anyone else noticed in the last few weeks the Warriors social media has been heavily focused on Metcalf. Makes me think he’s likely to play a bigger role with the team this year.

 

[Wrighty]

He's been a bit of a let down so far. Hasn't done anything Josh Curran could have done and he would have been on less than half the salary.
Hopefully he doesn't miss as many games this year and gets to show us some consistent impact in the middle.

I think he, marata, has been very good
1) he is our enforcer. I happen to be a fan that thinks every team needs one. His intimidation of Fifita was captivating
2) he may have only 6 or 8 hit ups pet game but they all to the eye were momentum changing and got us on the front foot in that set
3) he scared the shit out of every stand-off in the comp big running just at them
4) he follows instructions. He has a specific set of instructions and follows them
5) he expects to win and came from a winning culture at the eels In 2022 we were a losing culture he and the other added players last year plus Webster changed that culture.

I do agree for that money he can’t go around getting himself suspended and missing games but just quietly he is close to being my favourite player in the team and I know other warriors faithful fans dig him as well.
I am sorry for putting you on the spot by quoting you as you may very well agree with all my points. I just wanted to respond to the last post on him.

 

[Blain]

If Sharks offered BHU $550 that makes me wonder if the $750 report is accurate…otherwise it could be just higher than what other teams were offering like others said, which means he is in demand and we generated enough in the tank to outbid and get our guy

Both those figures are 100% not correct. They could be in the ball park best case, but every figure talked about is a guess/rumour through word of mouth. The manager could have dropped a big figure to media to try and get Sharks to up their offer, or a Journo has spoken to someone who knows someone who has heard a number of $XX etc..

I really think the NRL needs to have salaries known to all like NBA, it would solve a lot of cap cheating and rumours of it. But RLPA wouldn't even entertain the thought - too much power.

 

[Mr. Brownstone]

When on the field last year I thought Barnett was superb for us, obviously not in the elite bracket of props however I’d have him comfortably in the next tier down. Would be a big loss to see him leave.

 

[Horriors2013]

Retired Blues enforcer set for shock NRL return as secret Broncos meeting revealed

Retired Blues enforcer set for shock NRL return as secret Broncos meeting revealed

www.foxsports.com.au

TPJ apparently seen meeting with Broncos powerbrokers about a potential return to NRL.

He's the biggest humbug in the league. A drama queen. I wouldn't touch him. Not good for team culture.

 

[scottyb]

I was in st vincents hospital early january and the person in front of me in the queue looked just like Mitch Barnett, i asked him are you Mitch Barnett and it was. He went on to tell me the off season was going really well. I said to him that Webby seems the perfect fit for the Warriors and he replied that he had been so good for him, he had learnt so much from him. In hearing he might be leaving really surprises me because after talking to him he seemed really happy at the Warriors. But you never know what goes on in someones private life. He seemed like a great guy, was polite and gave me the time of day. I was really happy i met him, it made my day. Will be sad if he does leave but will be supporting him while he is here. After all while he is still here he's a Warrior, and they get my 100% support as long as they are wearing the Warriors Jersey.

 

[Billyspleen75]

Taumalolo and Townsend no longer Cowboys captains. Replaced by Dearden and Cotter.
Wonder if it adds any weight to Payten not having JT in his plans
I'm still keen on getting a subsidised Taumalolo here for a couple of years

 

[Defence]

Jazz is an interesting one- is it time to trade him in for an outright prop? he just seems so important to the culture of the club.

 

[BangBro's (still banging)]

Unsigned for 2025 are: AFB, SJ, Jazz, Lussick, Metcalf.

AFB is gone and SJ can re-sign as he wished. We all know their situation.

But I would say if the other 3 haven’t already been extended, then they are not in the clubs future plans as we’ve locked in who we want.

I’m picking all 3 either move on or we snap them up cheap as only a fill in. I wouldn’t be surprised if all 3 are in their final season with us.

I think jazz stays, he's more than a reserve prop, he's a clubman and a guy who bleeds the warriors. He's got more to give the club over the next few years.

 

[Defence]

Brilliant cheap forward is Jazz. A bloody bargain. When you have an injury mid game....how many NRL clubs can say the have a hooker/Prop/edge/ cover in one guy off the bench who earns less than 600k?

None.

Does he really do that though? Don’t think I’ve ever seen him play on an edge and it’s hard to imagine- he’s a terrible dummy half tbh- would be better off moving walker or cht there.
He’s an out and out middle forward imho.
Is he good enough to hold a spot there? Idk.
Can we get anyone better? Idk.
Are the young guys likely to overtake him in the next couple of years? I would hope so.

 

[Up the guttz]

Ale played 80 minutes the weekend prior in NSW Cup & ran for 242m. Bunty played 48 minutes that day too, scored a late try & was on the field at fulltime.
Ale didn't make the 22 man squad for the prelim but Afoa did. Nothing to suggest any injuries, just a tactical choice to play Jazz

I think Ale is the forgotten man when we talk about how dire our middle depth is. After a little slump last year I’m hopeful he really kicks on this year.

 

[Defence]

Just some stats on Ale.
Last year he averaged 25 minutes for 74m and 96% tackle efficiency.
He played over 40 minutes only twice and over 30 minutes 5 times. In those 7 games he averaged 112m.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Wow quite surprising. Those are bloody good considering he’s had alot of injuries, still just getting started and little mins.
I think we all just get blindsided by a couple of negative plays.
He could really kick on still

To be honest I'm really surprised at all how many are unimpressed by Ale. Imo he's essentially a 22/23 year old - COVID and that ACL has meant that before last year he had only played a handful of games in the last 3 years so his development has been staggered.

One full year under his belt last year, he should be coming in to his prime physical condition at 25 yrs old and could finish the year with over 50 career games.

I'm hoping he builds towards having a consistent 35-40 minutes a game by the back end of the year and smashing out 120m a game. He's already been really good on D and minimal errors/penalties (7 total for last year combined), so I think a bit more game time and we'll see him carve up

 

[Brightman]

All this chatter about JT should be directed at Griffin Neame, let the cowboys figure out salary stresses for themselves..

 

[CWC]

AFB - $1.2M
Mrs AFB’s brownies - $40
Niukore - $850,000
Niukore Thug life on David Fifita - Priceless

 

[Defence]

I find it strange people don’t rate Klemmer- not just on here but the nrl community as a whole- maybe I’m missing something but it’s got me beat how they don’t pick him for origin anymore- his stats are top 5.
Doesn’t help he’s never played in a winning team I suppose.
He's also one of those guys that were so highly rated as a junior/ rookie that it was always gonna be hard to live up to the hype.
He’s no mug though- I think he’d be a great leader for our younger forwards.

 

[Bay39er]

The Sifakula sin bin was the main wtf decision I remember last year, although I suppose it might have looked like he was taking swing at Nathan Christ.

Nuikore’s sin bin after his tussle with Fifita was laughable as well

 

[Billyspleen75]

Dragons chasing BHU also now. Have a look on the sharks forever site under the AFB and BHU threads, there’s still some posturing going on for sharks to get AFB early. Says we won’t budge but they think if we have a slow start to the season, he could be negotiated for an early release.

Smashing the Sharkies by 20+ in round 1 will nip that in the bud then.

 

[Up the guttz]

WARRIORS NAB RISING STAR​

The Warriors have picked up rising Knights forward Toni Tupouniua - for peanuts.

The younger brother of Roosters star Sitili Tupouniua, Toni was a standout for the Knights' NSW Cup team last season.

Roosters back-rower Sitili Tupouniua celebrates one of his two tries in the Tricolours' win over the Knights. (Getty)
He was set for a top 30 spot with the Knights this season before the club needed to free up cap space and allowed him to look around.

The 24-year-old - who was born in New Zealand - did a deal with the Warriors which the Knights are funding the majority of and will play in this weekend's trial against the Tigers in Christchurch.

 

[Jonno13]

What position does he play? I heard prop?

Listed as 24yr old 195cm 2nd rower but played couple games NewC NSWL Cup starti g at prop and rest off bench. Interestingly was in Penrith system until end of ‘22 season. Moved on same time as Webster did, so have both worked together before

 

[Cces]

I've read some media assuming Toni Tupouniua is a clone of his brother in that he's an out & out Backrower. Reality is in his 17 NSW Cup games he's never started there. 2 starts as a Prop & 15 off the bench. In 8 of his appearances from the bench he wore jersey #15 so that shows to me he's more than comfortable in the middle

 

[Worried2Death]

Already in the club are Maiuu, Laban, and Stower-Smith. I reckon we wait before panic buying. We still have AFB for this season. AFB will not be replaced in a 1 for 2 basis. Let's cool the jets and see how the young guys go.

Since none of them have even played nrl yet we'll still need to replace AFB with experience I reckon.

 

[Completion Rate]

All you need is one Payne Haas out of 50 attempts of this body shape, of course not everyone has the engine to go with this. You can build your club around this.

Target 20 of them from around the country and fly them in for a 2 week holiday prop training camp. Show them what your looking for, load them up with merch and send them back to club comps keeping tabs on them. Surely that wouldn't be too difficult.

 

[WarriorsForever]

From Penrith to Penrose: Egan brothers loving life as Warriors

As Wayde Egan enters his fourth season with the Warriors this year he’s been joined by his younger brother Tallan.

www.1news.co.nz

Great story, Wayde’s younger brother Tallan has joined the U19 team to kickstart his footy career.

Also mentioned were hints of Wayde one day potentially donning the kiwis jersey.

 

[3rdstriker]

From Penrith to Penrose: Egan brothers loving life as Warriors

As Wayde Egan enters his fourth season with the Warriors this year he’s been joined by his younger brother Tallan.

www.1news.co.nz

Great story, Wayde’s younger brother Tallan has joined the U19 team to kickstart his footy career.

Also mentioned were hints of Wayde one day potentially donning the kiwis jersey.

Wayde's the man be awesome to have him in a kiwis jumper.

 

[nzwarriorsfaithful]

Boooo

Thank god

 

[WarriorsForever]

Throw the chequebook at Xavier willison now. Off contract at the end of next season, surely he would be keen on an early homecoming..

 

[Blain]

Jeeze maybe we're all over the show with how much a contract is worth these days. We all baulked at how much we offered BHU, but Dragons ended up offering 12 game NRL player Kulikefu Finefeuiaki 600k, before getting Luciano for around 900k...

Crazy times

The cap increased by 25%, which I think many on this forum have forgotten about. $700k is the old $550k, $1 million is the old $800k etc.

 

[Defence]

THOMPSON’S NRL FUTURE UNCERTAIN

https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nr...n/news-story/5596094c3f970f7fcf2270b2328917c3
Rugby union gun Tyrone Thompson has put to be reports he has signed a contract to join his brother Leo at the Knights, but did reveal he was considering the move.

Reports surfaced last season Thompson had signed a development deal ahead of the 2025 NRL season, turning his back on the 15-man code.

However, speaking to Stuff NZ, Thompson explained he is yet to settle his future with his current New Zealand rugby contract ending after the 2024 season.

“Well, we’re still trying to go through it all,” Thompson said.


“I’m considering it, I’ve definitely got interest in it. But I’ve still got aspirations here as well. So I’m seeing how it plays out. There’s nothing set yet.”

Tyrone’s brother Leo was one of Newcastle’s breakout players in 2023, joining the Saifiti brothers in a dangerous front row rotation.

Thompson’s coach at Super Rugby outfit the Chiefs said he was happy his player was being honest about his aspirations.

“The good thing is that he’s been very open and transparent about his desire to give league a crack, and there’s a lot of appeal, particularly to go and play with his twin brother, and I get that,” Clayton McMillan said.

“But we’re working really hard at our end to give him confidence that he’s highly-valued in our environment.”

Newcastle are offering him a development deal? Fark that- give him a top 30 spot and his brother a massive pay rise if he gets homesick…
Those boys should be warriors.

 

[Defence]

Makes sense . Would love to see both them at the wahs. Here Leo can be our main Prop and not behind the Siafiti Boys.

I’d have no problem giving them all the afb money- $700,000 for Leo- $400,000 for his twin.
Newcastle could not match that.

 

[JaggedJ]

If it meant Cronulla paid a little more then I'm good with it.

 

[Leon Black]

FIVE potential landing spots for David Klemmer

Could Klemmer find a new club?

www.zerotackle.com

Still think there could be something around this guy when you read this and consider the tigers will go all out to keep Utoikamanu I would imagine? I’d take Klemmer for a couple of years with tigers chipping in and Kaufusi. There’s also Josh Papalii who admittedly is 31 but just last season averaged 95% tackle efficiency and 120 odd metres a game so still has some gas in the tank. When you consider we’re after a forward leader I reckon that’s the caliber of player we’re after.

In the words of Gus Gould, NO, NO, NO, NO, NO!!!!

I don’t get how anyone thinks Klemmer is half decent. He moves slower than time, error prone and gives away mindless penalties. Football IQ of Lodge.

Fuck stats it’s watching these guys live that counts. Too many SuperCoach fans out there.

Hard pass from me!

 

[Defence]

We would have been paying him more... had he wished to remain in NZ.

Dodged a bullet there then. Cnk has been fantastic at a fraction of the cost.

 

[MrFrankWhite]

I’m still on the JT bus until it crashes and burns…

 

[MrFrankWhite]

He’s playing like he’s struggling with the speed of the game or somethings up over there.

I’d say he’s struggling with giving a fuck. He hates Payton, Payton hates him.

2023 stats averages *16 games played
48mins
143m
21 tackes
2.5 missed tackles
2 tackle busts

Nothing to sneeze at if Cows pay freight.

 

[Defence]

You forgetting that irrelevant game last year, otherwise known as the prelim final? CNK has been great however Walsh is in a different stratosphere.

How could I forget- I've never seen such a blatant forward pass let go.
If u want to judge them on 1 game though lets compare their most recent one- walsh stunk up the gf (has been said he cost them the game...) while cnk carved up the kangaroos...
Walsh is a rare talent but cnk is a better fit for us and imho if someone pays walsh north of a mil theyll live to regret it.

 

[Noitall]

Stuff

www.newshub.co.nz

 

[BangBro's (still banging)]

Man all this talk about who will replace AFB, I say sit back and enjoy this season, 2024 is going to be epic!

 

[Rizzah]

$700-$800k for the remainder of his contract or for each season left on it?

If we were willing to pay $750,000 a season for BHU, JT is surely worth at least that.

 

[Horriors2013]

Man all this talk about who will replace AFB, I say sit back and enjoy this season, 2024 is going to be epic!

RTS, SJ, Harris, Capewell, AFB, Niukore, Barnett. Let's go!

 

[MrFrankWhite]

RTS, SJ, Harris, Capewell, AFB, Niukore, Barnett. Let's go!

Capewell and RTS are our missing pieces I think.

 

[Fonzie]

Capewell and RTS are our missing pieces I think.

They are good additions, but against the Broncos and Penrith in the finals it was our middles that got absolutely reemed.

I agree with this - but I think of it as Niukore is the addition as sort of a Spencer Leniu type middle, and capewell backfills him

 

[BangBro's (still banging)]

Just a quick thought on retention.

I think AFB moving on is going to give some room for a crucial upgrade to Wayde Egan. There is no way in hell im letting him go to november 1, im sure you will all think I'm nuts but I would upgrade him to 4 years at 950k.

He's critical to our team! And is without doubt in the top echelon of hookers in the game right now. Just my opinion but man I actually can't imagine our team without him anymore! What a fucken legend this guy is!

I think as we get to the back end if his contract the team could be very different and he's going to massive fir the kids coming through, that means a lot more to the club I think.

With the possibility of having no AFB, No SJ, No Tohu, wayde is the guy they will look to.

 

[Five&Last]

We havent got any 6'5 props to replace AFB, Zyon reminds me of a young Ukuma Taʻaii but he's still a pocket rocket at this stage. Still reckon we need to go to market for that veteran pack leader.

Zyon was 2-3 years younger than Ukuma Tai but he's never going to be even 80% as good as AFB is right now. He's just not big enough. I could see him being at a similar level to Spencer Lenui by the time he's like 25 (ages away) if all goes well in his development.

I think this thread has been too focused on replacing AFB at prop when we could more than make up for that loss in talent with our upgrades at second row over the next year or two. Halasima could be the best second rower in the entire comp by the time he's 21 imo. Jacon Laban seems to have come from nowhere over the offseason, looks to have really improved his speed work (looked quite sluggish last year imo) and looks like a genuine first grader now.

I think if we're waiting for the next AFB in terms of size, Rodney Tuipulotu Vea in our SG ball side is probably the best bet - would be about 6'2 and a large hulking prop. But props that are the size of AFB with his footwork are almost impossible to find and we currently don't have one in the wings waiting to step in for him.

 

[marv.]

A risk in a Warriors 2021-22 team.

Could have been anything under an Andrew Webster Warriors team and with SJ and Egan in the form they are in

does he pass the no dickheads test though?

he’s too far up himself for our team i reckon. i was glad to see the back of him. absolutely ZERO doubt he will become an all time great but i think charnze is a better fit for us.

i love to hate walsh, but there’s no denying his skill, speed and x factor, that’s for sure.

 

[Jamie]

I just don't see what the wankfest is about over Terrell May.
Watching the Vegas game , Nothing special. No big metres no big hits. Just, Meh.

167 metres in 54 mins is pretty solid. 93 post contact

 

[j_p]

Just need an excuse to post this video but I remember people complaining about how much we would presumably be paying RTS.
Anyone want to put their hand up and chime in on how they feel now?


View: https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSFD8Nb5G/

 

[JaggedJ]

We need to stop looking at replacing AFB like it's a single player signing because it's not.

What we're looking at is signing/developing two guys, one that can provide 75/80% of AFB and then another guy who can provide the other 20/25% on top of whoever they replace (Bunty/Ale etc).

There will be no single signing solution.

 

[Five&Last]

People bagging the Walsh extension as a gamble but then want us to sign the May brothers???

 

[SJ2k]

With respect to Jazz, this seems like a pretty easy and convenient way to clear cap for the young brigade or multiple outside signings.

Would also support a one year extension. If it's good enough for SJ should be good enough for Jazz

Stuff

www.stuff.co.nz

Jazz played his ass us for us every year through our long journey of mediocrity, so I will always have love for him. This makes me feel a bit bad for him. It's tough because does he have a starting spot in a top 4 squad? I think they really should have persisted with his training out of dummy half, he needs to bring some utility.

Happy to keep him around as depth on the cheap though, can't feel too bad for him if he's earning $200k+

 

[sup42]

With respect to Jazz, this seems like a pretty easy and convenient way to clear cap for the young brigade or multiple outside signings.

Would also support a one year extension. If it's good enough for SJ should be good enough for Jazz

Stuff

www.stuff.co.nz

Shit happens eh.

Hope his Whanau recover well and thrive.

Jazz is the kind of guy that is too good for NSW cup, he will carve up and force his way back.

In the mean time players like him that play more on heart than skill (he has skills, he needs cup time to hone them) will get long minutes in Cup instead of the bit part in fg, which will make him a better player.

A fiery guy like that needs a reset every season, he needs it to come back stronger and focused.

Jazz will be back.

 

[WarriorsForever]

Breaking news: Luke Metcalf has agreed to a multi year deal and will remain with the warriors for at least the next 2 seasons. The contract is reportedly worth $500,000 per year. More to come.

 

[Stalefish540]

Breaking news: Luke Metcalf has agreed to a multi year deal and will remain with the warriors for at least the next 2 seasons. The contract is reportedly worth $500,000 per year. More to come.

Given the salary cap has gone up, and we used to pay Nikorima $500k then have to pay him for each run he made.

It isn't a bad deal cap wise.

 

[Commonsense]

Not true. Just a realist who thinks at this time he is our best option.
Obviously with a new contract Webster thinks the same.
Perhaps my fault is being a fan of the club and not liking our own players being dissed.

The disrespect here shown to Metcalf is so unwarranted, if he was a local everyone would be all on his dick.

The bloke scores a try no one else could score in the team, sets up the other by nearly snaking through and getting an ultra quick play of the ball, also nearly put Jackson over the line as well.

He also gave RTS more than a couple opportunities with early ball but he just couldn’t break through.

He also defended hard and people cry cause a couple passes hit the ground which wasn’t his fault to be fair the whole backline was out of sync Johnsons passes hit the turf a few times too.

Yet people calling for him to be dropped is laughable.

On another topic I think letting go of Sironen was a huge mistake, he is a better hooker than Lussick and I think we are really going to struggle to score points with him on the field, he does’t engage the markers at all and his passing is slow, it allows the opposition to rush our line and we lose all our shape,

 

[WahsaurusRex]

If Metcalf isn't even attempting a tackle because he is out of position or just beat straight out, then that doesn't count against his tackle efficiency.

If the percentage is the be all end, then by that metric Luke Metcalf is also the best conversion kicker in the comp because he made 100% of his attempts last year

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Hey good news guys, I'm pretty sure we have a Metcalf v TMM v CHT thread.

I keep thinking we've signed someone else and it's just more of the 'can Metcalf tackle' debate lol.

 

[Cces]

Where are our big units? We are New Zealand, we must be able to develop some or do all the other australian clubs nab the biggest teenagers first?

We have the luxury of watching a brilliant big man like NAS most weeks but finding someone that is his size & has anything above an average career is like finding a needle in a haystack. Ben Te Kura hasn't achieved anything. Sam Lousi had the same physical dimensions as NAS & was a huge underachiever. Isaac Matalavea-Booth is another monster who has had big fanfare at the Titans & Dogs but is yet to debut at 22 years old. Franklin Pele (albeit 10cm shorter at 1.90m) has already been shipped to Super League by an NRL club devoid of decent middles.
Rodney Tuipulotu Vea is our genuinely big guy coming through but, as shown by the Panthers, bigger isn't necessarily better

 

[Tookey 2.0]

https://www.zerotackle.com/three-clubs-interested-in-ex-origin-forward-207006/

Warriors interested in Francis Molo

As long as the price and length of contract is right I wouldnt be baulking at this signing...

6.0ft, 112kg, over 120 games and experienced Origin.
Has averaged over 100m the last 3 years when playing over 30 minutes, has minimal errors and penalties (less than one a game combined) and minimal missed tackles.

On paper, waaaay better then the BHU signing, and likely will be on less than what we offered BHU.

Has played in a shit team for the last few years too, so hard to look very good in that rabble.
Can't really see a problem with this if it's around the 600k mark (half of what we're paying AFB)

 

[chrisnz]

All the molo hate cracks me up the forum nearly had a meltdown with all the users including myself when we signed dwz a while back and look how that turned out Montoya another pleasant surprise. Nobody predicted papa's rise at para and I think majority of us expected katoa to be doing better at the storm moral of the story guys a professional athlete who was talented at a young age and managed to navigate through a highly competitive system to get to where he is now and under a new coach and system in a new country guy could be anything.

 

[The Warrior Waka]

Supposedly NAS walking tight rope with storm. Don’t think he’s actually injured he’s just been dropped. 25’

Straight away my head says - He's asked for a release to Join us. They said ok. You can go. But, Not until after the warriors game. So you don't play against us. Then it can be announced., Then we can sign Utoikamanu. Something like that lol

 

[WahsaurusRex]

Looks good in the kit lol


Credit: @sionetuigamala on insta (pretty good warriors shit posting account, worth a follow)

 

[Fonzie]

NAS is on record 3 to 4 years as saying words to the effect, if the Warriors were the last NRL team on earth he would not sign with them. It wasn't as blunt or as colourful as that but not far off.

We’ve got hotter and he’s got uglier since then though..

 

[1995warriorsfan]

Hooker Freddy Lussick has been signed on a new two-year contract locking him in with the One New Zealand Warriors until the end of the 2026 NRL

 

[Lets Eat (YeahNah)]

Hooker Freddy Lussick has been signed on a new two-year contract locking him in with the One New Zealand Warriors until the end of the 2026 NRL

Needs improvement in service, thought I read he was super fit which shows dedication.

Plus he’s happy to stay NZ and knows the boys and the systems. Assume he’s cheap, so sounds like smart business.

 

[Christchurch_Warrior]

I am happy with Lussick being resigned. People here myself included have given him shit at times but he has only played 35 FG games. He will only get better with more game time. I remember when Egan started with us and many gave him shit but now we talk about him being in Origin. If Lussick can get at least as good as his older brother in the Eels I would be happy.

 

[sballer7]

I think people bagging Lussick and his resigning need to remember that Egan was bagged left and right around here for the best part of 2 or 3 seasons. Im not saying hes going to be one of the best hookers, but the kid is 23 and has 35 games under his belt. Hes durable, fit and has shown he can hang in 1st grade. Give him some time to develop while Egans body can hang in there.

 

[tajhay]

Remember Lussick was brought into provide competition and light fire in Taniela Otukolo. Club apparently felt that he needed to increase his intensity in trainings and increase his approach to be a professional player. Shows how soft our developed players are when the player asks for release at seasons end and loses his place to a loan player. Taniela was talked about as some elite player in waiting. Maybe he listened to his own press too much. Never added to his list of nrl games after he left. Such a waste.

Well done to Freddy. Gets lots of heat unfairly. He played well yesterday. He is only going to get better from his extended game time.

 

[1995warriorsfan]

2 year extension for Metcalf confirmed.

 

[Five&Last]

Where did I say you couldnt have an opinion?

The negatives people see in Lussicks game are the exact same faults that Egan was blasted for for 3 years.

Tbf Egan has showed more potential than Lussick ever had at every stage of his career.

Can’t really compare the two.

Most people bashing Egan knew sweet fuck all about him and we’re just venting due to how badly the team was performing over there in QLD.

People hated how he never ran from dummy half. Yet he he scored a hat trick against our under 20’s a few years prior. Dude can run just never had the platform with us or was carrying injuries. Lussick isn’t capable of doing that.

Freddy Lussick’s game reminds me of his boxing match against Taylan May. He’s a punching bag. Which is not horrible to have in defense because he can absorb some good contact for his size. But in attack he has absolutely nil creativity. And that’s not going to come with experience/coaching, at his age you either have it or you don’t. The one thing he can work on and absolutely needs to is his service. Was mostly good in the weekend but still prone to some absolute lollipop shockers.

I don’t hate the signing because I don’t actually think Roache has any real NRL potential. Fukufuka needs to prove himself in NSW cup and I feel like he could go down the Otukolo path if given special treatment (even though his kicking game for a hooker is exceptional). Kaawyn Patterson is an absolute star in the making but only 17

 

[WarriorsForever]

 

[juju]

Taylor May re-signed with Penrith

Maybe his bro should go back to their and we get JFH... dreams are free

 

[Wellington Warrior]

No loans or swapsies for TMM. We are a single injury away from either a guy with a history of hammy issues, or an aging SJ from needing him in first grade!

 

[Tookey 2.0]

News Corp are reporting Jack Gosiewski has requested an immediate release to join the Broncos.

On top of the likely Tevita Pangai signing at some point, I think they may as well hand over Xavier Willison or Ben Te Kura right now....

 

[Damo]

Wingers should be players we are able to develop and pay (relatively) cheaply, I wouldn't want us to sign Mulitalo as he'll be expecting decent money.

 

[Boats n Hoes]

Im hoping that if we time it right, we will likely have 2 or 3 years of Laban, Maiuu, Sifakula, Halasema and Ali all on modest coin prior to them all become superstars, maybe the 2025-2028 window.

Not necessarily aimed at you but there seems to be a natural assumption en masse around here that this group of promising talent are all going to go on to be first grade quality and have long established first grade careers. I hope they all do but the odds are and as history has shown us if one of this lot kick on to that (2 at the most) then we're probably doing well. We've had groups of talent throughout our history (some with more obvious talent than this current class) but shes a hard road to kick on to a week on week NRL player......think some expectations need to be tempered here.

Will say however the factor we never had in our past developing players is Webby so im certainly not ruling any of these guys out......and there are some upcoming gaps in our roster we're going to desperately need a few of these guys to be instant hits in if we want to remain a title threat.

 

[Billyspleen75]

CG getting 2 points and making deals all in the same night

 

[LeagueJunkie]

CG getting 2 points and making deals all in the same night


View attachment 6447

That's quality investigative journalist skills bro

 

[Makasene]

What would be more advantagious for the team, meaning the 17. CHT to Half. Who is taking his Bench spot?. Is it Lussick to protect Egan and provide DH rotation. Or even TMM to provide Utility value. Does Jazz provide DH cover. Or start with TMM and CHT to provide Utility and DH cover. I admit I am torn.

CHT was selected at 14 (utility) on the weekend and we saw how valuable that was.

It is obvious to me that TMM should be selected at 6 and CHT remains the utility.

 

[Five&Last]

Personally there are only two people who could replace AFB - whichever saifiti bro was talking to CG or NAS. Can’t see their being any other options pop up this season

The answer is we’re not going to replace him.

NAS is so far off AFB’s level it’s not even funny.

 

[Wellington Warrior]

There’s just no opening for him to start and he doesn’t have much impact when he comes on.

I think he’d have a Jackson Ford type effect if he started and went about his work.

I tbought Ale was really good when he came on yesterday. Made 100m from his 9 runs. Granted 40 of them were from kick returns.

 

[Beastmode]

Fifita has some of the best highlights of any forward but he doesn’t have the substance of most decent forwards. His highlights don’t justify his $$$. Big waste of money for mine. Just doesn’t have the drive or work rate as yet to justify my interest. I hope he finds the right spot where he may turn the corner but I would hate for us to take that risk.

No work ethic
Would have been perfect for the Old Warriors though

Him
Manu
Konnie
Bam bam Lisone
Packer

What a group?!

Feel so bad for Simon Mannering. Imagine if he was still playing with this group ?!

Ranting…

 

[Playdaball]

Can we now sign Tof Sipley for 2024?
He is class and will be a cheaper buy than AFB and remaining funds can be put toward Egan.

 

[Fonzie]

Twitter is full of talk about a big signing to be announced today. I have no reason to think the source is credible, but the talk is getting traction.

 

[WarriorsForever]

BREAKING JAMES FISHER HARRIS IS COMING HOME ON A 4 YEAR DEAL

 

[giffy]

Oh me! Oh my! Welcome Fish!!

 

[defensivebomb]

Elite signing

Official

 

[WarriorsForever]

 

[snake77]

Damn and people were joking about him being back for a wedding and the coach should take him out for dinner.

Looks like they learnt their lesson and everything has been kept quiet.

If you listed the best replacements for AFB he'd be on the list. I would have thought he would have been unlikely but it worked out.

 

[Buzz Killington]

The window stays open!

 

[nzwarriorsfaithful]

Well I’m eating my words rn. BIGGEST SIGNING EVER

 

[Completion Rate]

Unreal the professionalism by the club to get this done with no leaks yet again.

 

[juju]

He ticks a lot of boxes.

Position
Quality
fit so can play decent minutes
Winner
Professional

On the last one Great listening to Michael Mcguire on the Matty Johns Podcast how the Penrith boys would go off and do extras or work on little details.

Leadership also.

Did a great job with the Kiwis

 

[Dantheman]

WHAAAAAAAAAT. Fucking unbelievable, im crying, laughing and having a stroke all at the same time.

 

[Rizzah]

HOLY SHITTTT!!!!!!!

 

[1995warriorsfan]

That's what happens when you are winning, the best want to come home.
Incredibly signing, well done NZ Warriors !

 

[Stalefish540]

BREAKING JAMES FISHER HARRIS IS COMING HOME ON A 4 YEAR DEAL

Just dropped to my knees in Chemist Warehouse.

This club is going in a vertical position.

 

[Rizzah]

Wow, how good!
Well done recruitment team and Webby. Esp keeping it quiet.

 

[davidmckay1974]

The next Warriors Captain after Tohu Harris retires?

 

[juju]

Did Ivan do us a solid too?

 

[Zaggo]

I really cannot believe this. We've signed the Kiwis captain at the peak of his powers coming off a three peat.

How the F have we somehow upgraded our prop rotation despite AFB leaving.

If I'm dreaming do NOT wake me.

 

[Te Arai warrior]

I just spat my pie out and had tears in my eyes.. my missies asked if the pie was too hot… showed her the post and signing announcement and she fist pumped at the bakery we are sitting at … this is awesome news

 

[defensivebomb]

A big part of this has to come down to how good Webster is

 

[Warriorsfan92]

This actually feels like a joke. This is HUGE get for the club.

 

[juju]

I've never experienced such a staggering signing.

I literally stared at my phone for 10mins in disbelief

 

[davidmckay1974]

Kiwi prop James Fisher-Harris will depart the Panthers at the end of the 2024 season after the premiership-winning club agreed to release their star forward from the remaining two years of his contract.

The Panthers revealed in a statement on Wednesday that the 2023 Golden Boot Winner approached the club this week with a request to return home to New Zealand following the 2024 season on compassionate grounds.


Out of respect to the three-time premiership player, Panthers saw it only fitting to grant this request and release the 28-year-old for the 2025 and 2025 season.

“Fish has been exceptional for the Panthers, both on and off the field,” Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said in the statement.

“The leadership and cultural impact he has displayed since coming into first grade has been outstanding. He’s evolved into one of the game’s elite players, and coaching him has been a pleasure.

“While we would have loved him to stay at the Panthers, we wish him, his partner Natalie, and children Tahira and Deon all the best for their next chapter.”

Since making his NRL debut in 2016, Fisher-Harris has played 183 NRL games for the Panthers, four matches for the Maori All Stars and 15 Test matches for New Zealand.

 

[Tohu’s_Knees]

Griffin Neame also liked the post on instagram. Dare to dream lads.

 

[cero_stars]

its pretty obvious another high quality player wanting to come play along side the BERRYSIAH

ALL HAIL BERRYSIAH

in all seriousness we got a marquee replacement for AFB. blown away.......

 

[Cces]

Can we just please take a moment & give a HUGE thank you to BHU for brushing us

 

[Defence]

How many Kiwi captains are in the team now! Four?

3 golden boot winners too.
Tomorrow should be a national holiday!

 

[RobRoyMcCoy]

Now we need to re-sign Barnett, Capewell and Walker and what a team.

And Egan. Don't forget Egan.

 

[Loztralianz]

How many of us have had to back track our thoughts on our CEO?
He's been the premier CEO in the comp for the last two years. So many good things happening under his watch.

 

[sup42]

Cappy must be so hard to say no to when he takes his little hat off and clutches it like a hopeful looking dwarf

Him and his mate Cam with one ear missing...just a hole in his head with burn scars in the imprint of a phone.

Who could say no to that.

Jokes aside Cameron George just surpassed all before as the Warriors greatest CEO, all the great signings have been under his administration.

McFadden has been brilliant, I take it that missing the ole Kina dive and boil ups is what really did it but.

Fuck me, this thread has gone looney in seconds.

Well we all know what this means, we lose our top Prop and gain another from the top five in the comp.

I prefer JFH, he has the hearty Maori thing going on, him and Marata make a fearsome pair.

 

[VB89]

My dream signing from when AFB annouced he was going. Didn't think it would be possible. and for 4 years is awesome.

Timing couldn't be any better, after that win last year as captain, winning golden boot and cementing himself as a Kiwis legend, to come home to the Wahs is so good.

 

[Te Mana-wah]

Mean Maori Mean!

I mean my eyes are seeing it but still can't believe it - can someone please hurry up and photoshop the bro in a warriors jersey, I can't wait that long until next year LOL

 

[tyrael]

Waiting for SJ to sign for at least another year.

 

[juju]

The Panthers have been extremely classy about this also.

 

[RobRoyMcCoy]

I am rewatching the Kiwi's V Kangaroos test. Number One target should be JFH. He is the epitome of a Warrior.

Fuck this feels good. He has Mana. Him and Tohu together, sheesh!!!

 

[FormerlyJamesW]

I would wonder if this is a bit of a blessing.

Love AFB, seriously.

But JFH just seems like a better team player, from a system that ours is heavily based off.

This is the perfect replacement.

 

[WA Warrior]

The Panthers have been extremely classy about this also.

I think if Cleary had to lose him to anyone he’s happiest about him coming here.
Cleary has a big soft spot for us.
I still think he loves this club.

 

[Loztralianz]

This also adds more massive momentum to the League movement in NZ. Currently dominating Union. Hell, even my 78 year old mum and dad who live in the deep south are fully converted now. I have waited a few decades to see league fully kicking union's a$$ and I am enjoying it.

 

[Zarjaz]

Holy shit!! They actually did it!! Replaced elite with elite…
When they said "we won't sign anyone unless they are as good as, or better than who we are replacing" I thought, well yeah okay, but AFB is a tough one… and they only went and DIT IT!! Phenomenal signing.

 

[BangBro's (still banging)]

Man this signing is good on so many levels! It's a spiritual signing!!! How much mana this guy has, hes a true warrior in all aspects. Cam George, Andrew McFadden, Andrew Webster.... FUCKEN NAILED IT!!!!!

 

[Popdukes]

Wow….my daughter called to tell me with fervent excitement and I called BS on it in my head so made her wait while I googled it. Incredible news

 

[UpTheWahs]

Came to Victoria Park for a breather. Chilling on a bench went on Foxsports.com.au to checkout news as I do at least 5 times a day. Could not believe the headline and started yelling omfg omfg. Scared all the joggers. Thought I was having a stroke.

OMFG.

WHAT.

NO FKN WAY.

YES FKN WAY.

Need a week to process this.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Lordy. JFH and Barny lining up next year. Opposition teams are going to hate that.

Chuck Niukore in there and if Halasima or Zyon have a bit of agro about them we could absolutely have a mongrel squad in 18 months

 

[davidmckay1974]

Barnett
Egan
JFH
Niukore
Capewell
Harris


How does that forward pack look for next year?

 

[WahsaurusRex]

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Great signing! Came out of nowhere.

Comparing his stats to AFB though, AFB still comes out way on top.

Lets look at last 3 years running metres. Last record is career ave.

JFH
View attachment 6707

AFB
View attachment 6708

Still stoked about the signing.

So im assuming we take over his 25,26 contract at around 800k and then probably gave him a rise to around 1m for the final 2?

Easily explained!

When Webby was at Penny, JFH was averaging 150m, 165m and 178m a game in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

During this time, AFB averaged 150, 160 and 166m per game for those years.

Webby leaves Penny last year, JFH dips to 130m a game, while AFB goes through the roof to 177m a game once Webby turns up.

I'm guessing JFH bounces back to his old form, can't wait

 

[Aman 2.0]

You gotta tip your hat to Penrith. Releasing JFH Harris without any issues but also losing 7-8 of their best players in a couple of seasons and still being the best team in the comp. I mean true game changers not just up and comers. The list of players they’ve lost is huuuuge.

Truely marvellous

 

[sup42]

View: https://youtu.be/nu7KRvMKdQs?si=YtfPKqTi__kklpwH

 

[BangBro's (still banging)]

Nah but honestly, if your Leo Thompson, Griffin Neame, and Xavier Willison, are you thinking about it?

 

[The Warrior Waka]

I'm still gonna miss Addin. But this softens the blow a little.

 

[The Warrior Waka]

Thank fuck we didn't sign BHU lol.

 

[Peachey2023]

How good best like for like replacement we could get and proud kiwi too

 

[WA Warrior]

How does this signing compare to getting Steve Price's signature?

Personally Pricey will always be my number 1 signing of all time.

 

[Stalefish540]

How does this signing compare to getting Steve Price's signature?

It has a more personal feeling because he's the current Kiwis captain and would die for that jersey

 

[Spence]

With AFB leaving I was worried about our hyphenated surname player quota - couldn’t ask for a better three letters!

Amazing job Cam and Cappy, I’m flabbergasted.

 

[Ever Hopeful]

Everyone can deny it, including the man himself, but nothing can convince me that Ivan Cleary doesn't still play for the Warriors!

 

[sballer7]

SEN Sydney reporting the deal to be $675000 a season. If thats the case then hes an absolute bargain, AND there will be money left over from AFBs deal. Crazy stuff if true.

 

[Aman 2.0]

I love AFB but he always struck me as somewhat as a very proffesional
Mercenary. Felt as if he always played for himself rather than the team. JFH is more our type of guy like CNK, Montoya, Harris, SJ, CHT etc guys that are warriors! but obviously in the elite category of players.

 

[Fonzie]

View: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5p5ujg7fLfPdJdjfg9SUB6?si=4iaz7XXgTQStLLbyWe7bkw

 

[sballer7]

either upgrading the likes of existing players or someone else is coming.

No doubt Egan will be upgraded with the rest, provided he doesnt want out. Cant imagine either him or Barnett wanting out at the moment given theyre both in career best form and the club is a chance of a maiden tilt.

 

[ToiletDuck]

Massive signing.

Says a lot that he was one of the guys Penrith had locked up for the next couple of years, given the quality they've let go. Huge loss for them and huge gain for us.

Personally I think he's better for the club overall than AFB. If you listen to James speak about his younger days, developing his work ethic to become an elite footballer - he will be someone the younger guys will learn a lot from.

 

[KPWarrior]

This to me is just crazy isn't it! Since when we're the warriors able to be like this!

Since Cappy and Webby

2 sharp shooters!

This club is going places we only dreamed of.

 

[Mr Drag]

Webby caught the big fish!

 

[FormerlyJamesW]

How good is this going to be for the development program?

The up and coming front rowers now have JFH to learn off.

 

[Rick O’Shay]

Amazing news and a credit to the management of the club. Bet the boys will be stoked and put a ton on the Drags this weekend.

This to me is an indication of where we are at in the NRL, somewhere now where top echelon players are happy to be. (except AFB's wife)

If we keep this up with successful seasons, I might get to see a premiership in my lifetime

 

[kiwileaguefan]

Thank God Braden Hamlin-Uele turned us down

 

[The Warrior Waka]

About to dress head to toe in Wahs gear and visit my local Butcher. He has Panthers flags all over his shop windows.

 

[Jonno13]

Up there with best signing ever.
My boy msgd me this today on seeing the JFH news “I’m sitting in the lounge Fkn exploding with excitement and only have mum to talk to abt it”. Poor fella. Pretty much chewed my ear off when I got home. Good times.

 

[Makasene]

Waking to this news is unreal.

I've read every single post on here about it, the excitement is wonderful to see.

It wasn't possible to replace AFB with anyone available, well... someone became available!

It's a credit to the org from the top down, who would have thought we would be one of the best run clubs 3 years ago!

As I stated last season and feel the same this season, this is the beginning of a long and successful period for the club

 

[Makasene]

Don't have to look too far about the magnitude of this

It is the leading story on Sydney Morning Herald

 

[Inruin]

So, perhaps the wrong thread but is everyone over the old Warriors PTSD, victim mentality yet? And if not what will it take?

I mean....

Team happy and performing well, always with effort and commitment for the whole game. Great structure, resilient and a clear game plan that is bought in to.

World class coach who is calm and makes sure we focus on what we can control and doesn't use the other stuff as an excuse.

Stable head office and recruitment delivering quality players and without leaks. Our development pathways in place and it's only time until we see more of our juniors coming through.

A merchandising company on top of it's game giving us a cohesive colour way and identity with a good variety of apparel options.

A groundswell of public support and up the wahs across NZ and Australia. We are most other teams fans second team to support.

Sold out games, great social media posts, merchandise sales through the roof, sponsors.....

The only thing that could make it better is a premiership and a new covered stadium IMO

 

[FormerlyJamesW]

I think the most impressive part is how setup this club is for the future.

We've got the hero's, we've got the incentive to come back/stay in NZ.

NZ league is looking pretty shiny for the future.

 

[KPWarrior]

So, perhaps the wrong thread but is everyone over the old Warriors PTSD, victim mentality yet? And if not what will it take?

I mean....

Team happy and performing well, always with effort and commitment for the whole game. Great structure, resilient and a clear game plan that is bought in to.

World class coach who is calm and makes sure we focus on what we can control and doesn't use the other stuff as an excuse.

Stable head office and recruitment delivering quality players and without leaks. Our development pathways in place and it's only time until we see more of our juniors coming through.

A merchandising company on top of it's game giving us a cohesive colour way and identity with a good variety of apparel options.

A groundswell of public support and up the wahs across NZ and Australia. We are most other teams fans second team to support.

Sold out games, great social media posts, merchandise sales through the roof, sponsors.....

The only thing that could make it better is a premiership and a new covered stadium IMO

The PTSD still raises it's ugly head every other gameday depending on who we're playing.

But these days you just know we're going to give it 110%, no dropped heads or hung lips, as evidenced last week, and thats all we can ask for.

The transformation of the club has been quite unbelievable.

 

[sydneywarrior92]

I'm going to jump the gun: Jarome Hughes is the next one who'll want to come home and play for the wahs. Natural replacement for SJ when he eventually retires. The dynasty we've been waiting for is just around the corner.

 

[Makasene]

It's happened so quickly too...

I've posted this before but will post it again

The collapse against the Titans at home in the final game of 2022 had me wondering about the future of the club. Where to from there?

Within 400 days we were hosting Newcastle in a home final

Within about 600 days we've just signed the Kiwis captain in a major coup with all and sundry suggesting a Premiership is in reach.

It is an ascendency not seen before in this country or in the NRL I don't think

 

[afakasi247]

I've posted this before but will post it again

The collapse against the Titans at home in the final game of 2022 had me wondering about the future of the club. Where to from there?

Within 400 days we were hosting Newcastle in a home final

Within about 600 days we've just signed the Kiwis captain in a major coup with all and sundry suggesting a Premiership is in reach.

It is an ascendency not seen before in this country or in the NRL I don't think

I was legit done after that titans game. Barely kept up with Warriors news that offseason. Didn’t really care about the Webby signing, just another hopeless fool chasing a dream that’ll never come true.

Something looked different in the 2023 trials though. Then the 2023 season rolled on.

None of us could’ve imagined the turnaround that’s happened. But we all dreamt it.

And right now it’s coming true, finally.

 

[Makasene]

Can we give a shout out to Penrith who asked for nothing in return.

Imagine if we were required to give them one of Halasima, Laban, Zyon or Ali in return for this.

We would almost certainly have done it

 

[Makasene]

What if there is another secondary reason. What if JFH is an astute judge of Rugby leauge and thinks Panthers run due to salary cap is coming to an end and that we are higher on the power rankings. I know dumb comment but their dynasty can't go for ever and we are on the up surge.

Three premierships, potentially a fourth - it's not inconceivable to think he may feel he has achieved all he can at Penrith. He is unlikely to captain them.

He will absolutely take over the captaincy from Tohu, no doubt about it.

There will be huge appeal to be part of the Warriors first premiership

 

[Stalefish540]

agreed maybe he has really compelling family reasons. Like a sick parent he needs to support. Is his partner a Kiwi? Maybe she indicated she would really like to move back here and he is being a good family man.

He was extremely close with his grandfather, and JFH was back in NZ for his funeral in February. He spent a couple of weeks in NZ as was injured with his shoulder.

Complete guess work, but if he was already feeling a bit home sick. That's the sort of thing that could tip you over the edge.

 

[Short Dropout]

On the day SJ re-signed with us I had family in town and took them to Australia Zoo for the day. It was on the way up from the Gold Coast that I received the Warriors website notification on my phone with the news.

On Saturday just gone I had different family in town and again I took them to Australia Zoo. On the way up I made the joke that I now expect a huge signing every time I head up there. To my dismay there was no signing news (and I was forced to watch the Manly game on delay once I got back home).

Fast forward 4 days.
Better late than never.

Already buying tickets to the zoo again for this weekend to test the theory

 

[Five&Last]

Shut down the thread.

Best signing ever.

Our window stays open and as long we keep a steady production line of home grown talent coming through the grades, we are sorted.

The biggest thing is we are out of that desperate position of needing to pay overs to get players here.

 

[dean]

Credit and thanks to the owners and CG for what they have done over the last few years. They could have gone for an establish FG coach but went for AW which has proved a master stroke. The signings since have been excellent, beyond our expectations.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Have to laugh at Kenty - he can go and get fucked.

We've evidenced how much we give a shit about our players, consistently letting players out of contracts for compassionate reasons- Walsh and AFB are two of the biggest names in the game and we let them walk. Also let our COVID boys go home when they were too homesick in Australia.

Now this prick is saying we should get fined for signing JFH, even tho it sounds like he's approached us and there's no evidence the Warriors have done anything unjust?

Absolute tool bag.

 

[Victor_Radley's_Scrotum]

Have to laugh at Kenty - he can go and get fucked.

We've evidenced how much we give a shit about our players, consistently letting players out of contracts for compassionate reasons- Walsh and AFB are two of the biggest names in the game and we let them walk. Also let our COVID boys go home when they were too homesick in Australia.

Now this prick is saying we should get fined for signing JFH, even tho it sounds like he's approached us and there's no evidence the Warriors have done anything unjust?

Absolute tool bag.

Isn't funny how nobody bats an eye when the Warriors let players go on compassionate grounds (Addin, Walsh) but as soon as it goes the other way the Warriors are public enemy #1. Where was this outrage when the Walsh and Addin situations went down? I know Kent does this fake rage performance to generate attention but this is embarrassing.

 

[juju]

I posted this article earlier when it broke.

It has been updated with a lot of detail about how this happened.

The big one is that Webby contacted Penrith before the AFB news went public. Webby asked if they had any intention of releasing JFH, he did not mention the impending AFB news. They logically said 'No' and it was left at that.

The report states that had they known JFHs intentions it would have been a done deal and AFB would be a Panther.

Overall, I think we got bloody lucky, their recent dominance may have softened them.

In less than 72 hours, the Panthers agreed to release the best prop in the NRL. Here’s why

Six months ago, Warriors coach Andrew Webster rang the Panthers and cheekily asked if they would be willing to release James Fisher-Harris. He’s finally got his man.

www.smh.com.au

It's quite amazing how Penrith have managed this situation.

Contrast that with the Sharks or how Flannegan would handle it.

Say alot about that club and the standing JFH has with them too.

 

[Falcon]

I posted this article earlier when it broke.

It has been updated with a lot of detail about how this happened.

The big one is that Webby contacted Penrith before the AFB news went public. Webby asked if they had any intention of releasing JFH, he did not mention the impending AFB news. They logically said 'No' and it was left at that.

The report states that had they known JFHs intentions it would have been a done deal and AFB would be a Panther.

Overall, I think we got bloody lucky, their recent dominance may have softened them.

In less than 72 hours, the Panthers agreed to release the best prop in the NRL. Here’s why

Six months ago, Warriors coach Andrew Webster rang the Panthers and cheekily asked if they would be willing to release James Fisher-Harris. He’s finally got his man.

www.smh.com.au

This quote from Ivan Cleary sums up not just the player we are getting but the person. Leadership and respect is earned and can’t be bought.

Panthers coach Cleary said: “The leadership and cultural impact he has displayed since coming into first grade has been outstanding. He’s evolved into one of the game’s elite players, and coaching him has been a pleasure.”

 

[Cces]

Cam George responded indirectly to Kent on the radio earlier & summed it up well.
When JFH decided he wanted to move to a city that he already knew, with only one team to choose from, and the fact he's been coached by Webster & Jones before there ain't much to discuss so you can seal a deal very quickly

 

[Tonbridge(aka Swanley)]

Nothing to add, everything has already been said. It's good reading all the emotional posts.

The This Warrior's Life emergency podcast is a good listen.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

First point - the only person that has mentioned the $675k x 4 figure is a listener texting in to Denan Kemps show.
The delusion to grasp to that figure by a few on here is absolutely nutty for something not very credible.

Second point - look at the evidence pointing would have the worst manager of all time to accept that deal when 1. representing the golden boot, kiwis captain, 3 x champ
2. Knowing what other elite props get paid (Tino, Hass, AFB)
3. Knowing the salary cap hole left by the Warriors & offers thrown out to other lesser players.
4. Knowing the salary cap is set to rise each year over the next 5 years
5. Knowing how many Warriors players are contract beyond 2027

It's incredible we've signed - but $675k because somebody text the Kemp show. Cringe.

Third point we made the bet and you were wrong. Donate it to the site.

Agree fully mate. Deffo the voice of reason.

Even if we had signed BHU on 700k, if JFH came to us saying he wanted in, we would clear the decks for this guy. If Penny asked for Laban and Halasima, we'd probably have taken it.
The current kiwi captain, golden boot winner, all of those accolades - he would be absolutely key recruitment wise and to build the club around for the new few years.

It's a nice thought that we snagged him on unders but that's most likely fabricated.

Let's just celebrate the fact that he's with us now. He's a million dollar prop, at worst we paid the correct price for him. At best, we got a fucking steal. Both are huge wins for us

 

[Rizzah]

View: https://www.instagram.com/p/C54WEboyERb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

 

[Wellington Warrior]

Love ya work Charnze. Keep fighting the good fight!


View: https://www.instagram.com/p/C54WEboyERb/?igsh=bWhnOGFoZ2Nxajdj

 

[Ever Hopeful]

View: https://www.instagram.com/p/C54WEboyERb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

And you get the feeling CNK is exactly the kind of team mate that players would like to come and play with. In fact, we have a few of them - salt of the Earth, grafters with a growth mindset.

 

[Ozwarrior]

NRL news: What James Fisher-Harris signing really says about New Zealand Warriors | Matty Johns​

James Fisher-Harris leaving a four-peat-chasing Panthers side to join the Warriors is a scary proposition for rival teams for more reasons than they realise, MATTY JOHNS writes.
Matthew Johns

NRL

Don't miss out on the headlines from NRL. Followed categories will be added to My News.
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The Warriors entered the ARL competition in 1995 to enormous fanfare.
By now, they should’ve won a couple of premierships but have been hurt, hindered and smashed by various challenges; the financial collapse of the Auckland Warriors, enormous coaching instability, Australian clubs not just pinching New Zealand talent, but also having a greater presence in the Pacific, and, of course, the pressure that New Zealand rugby union has exerted.
It was predicted the Warriors would rival the powerhouse Brisbane Broncos in size and stature, yet in 30 years they’ve barely had enough clear air to get close.
But that’s changing, the potential is being realised.

Soon-to-be Warrior James Fisher-Harris. Picture: NRL Photos
The James Fisher-Harris signing from Penrith is probably the biggest in the club’s history. The fact the New Zealand skipper is leaving a club shooting for four successive NRL premierships says everything about the Warriors and where they are heading.
Speaking to former New Zealand Test coach Michael Maguire during the week, he described Fisher-Harris as close to the best leader with whom he’s ever worked.
This club is booming.
WHY WAHS ISN’T A FAD
They’ve had plenty of false dawns but this feels different. You see the ‘Wahs’ have had an erratic existence, boom years are normally followed by a bust.
The big test of coach Andrew Webster’s Warriors was going to be if they could double up on last year’s success.
They’re better than last season.

The Warriors had the potential to manage the Broncos when they joined the competition in 1995.
People are saying the Warriors are a smoky to win this year’s title. Just a smoky? They’re better than that.
But it’s not just the Warriors who are booming, the code in New Zealand has never enjoyed anything like the support it’s getting.
SILVER LINING OF GOING THROUGH HELL
If we go back to those enormously difficult Covid years, they were numerous factors which lifted the respect and profile that rugby league got across the ditch. Out of all the clubs, the Warriors were by far the most dramatically affected, but there’s been a substantial silver lining.
The sacrifices and the class in which the Warriors club and its players dealt with their circumstance drew praise and admiration from all. The Warriors were, at one point, based in The Central Coast town of Terrigal, where the locals fell in love with the team, through the respect and kindness the players showed to the people of the community.
All this while those players were experiencing great emotional hardship, dragged away and kept away from their families back home.

Across Australia, rival supporters took on the Warriors as their second team, while a neighbour of mine abandoned the club he’s supported his whole life and can now be seen most weekends in his ‘WAHS’ T-shirt and hat.
In New Zealand, the Warriors, once a symbol of underachievement, were now a symbol of national pride.
And there was also the fact that the NRL was close to the first sport in the world to restart its competition. The code was given a whole fresh set of eyes, people who were desperate for any respite and entertainment while enduring lockdown.
In Las Vegas, I spoke to Americans and Canadians who first saw the game during these times and quickly became diehard fans. One young American fellow told me and Gorden Tallis that he actually wrote a book on the rules of rugby league and distributed it around his town. Likewise at Magic Round last year, there were a large groups of travelling supporters from Dunedin, in New Zealand’s South Island, an area renowned for its rugby union fanaticism, and potentially the NRL’s next expansion destination.

Six straight sellouts for the Warriors. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images
One of the group, a large fellow with hands like baseball mitts told me: “I’ve packed into a few rugby union scrums in my day”. His nose gave that away.
“The only reason I started watching rugby league was because it was the only bloody thing on, now I’m hooked.”
PROOF WEBSTER’S WARRIORS ARE DIFFERENT
All that could’ve wore off quickly if the Warriors didn’t deliver.
Boy, deliver they have. Too often the Warriors’ wins and successes had been built on sand, relying on offloads and high-risk passing to attack and get results. When the passes stuck, they won. When they didn’t, they didn’t.
Talented, flamboyant, erratic, inconsistent. The Warriors are now the most deliberate team in the competition; every player knows their role and what the team is trying to achieve on every play, in every set.

The Warriors fought their way back into their match with the Sea Eagles. Picture: Hannah Peters/Getty Images
The foundation of their success is attacking discipline and high-energy defence. The balance of the squad is close to perfect, with two key men the glue.
KEYS TO SUCCESS
Grand final-winning coach Chris Anderson would say “give me a great front-rower and a great halfback and I’ll win you a title.”
I bet Anderson would like his chances with Shaun Johnson and Addin Fonua-Blake.
Fonua-Blake is the competition’s best front-row forward, barely have we seen a big man with such speed and delicate late footwork.
And Johnson? What more can be written … Amazing.
Losing Fonua-Blake could have been a major blow for the Warriors. In proof of their new-found status, they got the best possible replacement in Fisher-Harris.
DRAWN TO A TITLE-WINNING CONCLUSION
The Warriors could easily be undefeated this season. Their only poor performance in 2024 came against Manly in Round 6.
Ironically, it’s that performance which has me convinced this team can greet the chequered flag.
For most of that game, the Warriors were completely out of sync and had no rhythm. High on errors, low on energy. It clearly wasn’t their day. Yet, somehow they were able to pull themselves together with only minutes remaining and snatch a draw.
Title-winning teams do that.

https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?te...s/news-story/7999c36ee892bb205ce040d5d798e03f

 

[CWC]

Should we just hire Matty Jones as our ambassador, with Jack Black?

Seriously though, coming out of the pandemic, the Warriors are the ones that united the nation

Not the heroes we deserve, but the one we need right now

 

[sydneywarrior92]

Leo Thompson is off contract in 25. Given how influentialJFH has been in his professional development, I can see him being persuaded to come here.

 

[Beastmode]

Penrith been a good feeder club for us aye?

Egan
DWZ
Capewell
JFH
Webby

Is this the transition from Yawion to League as the #1 sport in the country… it’s coming

 

[sup42]

That's a pretty shit list. Maybe a list of the biggest fanfare of signings.. Stacey coming back as a back up is no where near the top 10. Same as Foran, he was a short term risk by the club, he was here for a lifeline. Isaac Luke and Brent Tate were higher than both of those by far. Even AFB.

Best signing list is a different one altogether I guess and be more interesting, guys like Michael Luck, Jacob Lillyman, Brent Webb etc would make that list. Guys who gave amazing service to our club, without all the glitz and glamour. Even Wade Mckinnon, PJ Marsh etc.. That would be a great list.

All those.

Kevin Campion is the one that turned the club around from gutless clueless wonders to playing for a first low scoring courageous win over our bully boys the Broncos.

 

[Noitall]

The man's so good, he's just doing side missions in his career.

Think the Warriors have a special place in his heart

 

[FormerlyJamesW]

I remember Ivan being pretty gutted when the club didn't want to commit.

Pure speculation, but what if one of the reasons is that he genuinely loved living here?

Conspiracy theory;

Ivan to retire.
Sets up Webby (his favourite assistant coach) with the tools for a premiership.
Whole family to move over.
Clearys are all assimilated into the club and go down as NZ league legends.



I'm not crazy, you're crazy.

 

[Noitall]

Imagine thinking that Cam would ever be spotted by the press.

He's far too sneaky for that.

Must be plenty eating humble pie on this guy. Must admit I was pretty dark on the whole SJ debacle coming into the 2019 season but he’s more than redeemed himself to date

 

[hornbybrown]

Corey Parker on SEN in Queensland has said he has heard rumblings that Jahrome Hughes wants to come home

 

[Chchfanatic]

I love how after a draw and a loss our players are suddenly shit. Relax guys.
The dragons played really good on a Friday night in the gong. We gave away a few dumb penalties and they got a roll on. Lomax had one of those unbelievable games also.
We will be fine. We have Titans on Thursday after a 5 day turnaround and then a 10 day break into a Knights team without their Dally M winning superstar.
We’ve had a ton of injuries also.

 

[Canadian_Warriors_Fan]

What does any of this have to do with recruiting???

 

[Ever Hopeful]

I doubt very much that Albert Vete is the answer to anything.

He has been constantly injured, and loaned by the third worst team in the ESL to two 2nd division sides in the last few months.

 

[Makasene]

Lodge?

Lodge played well for us.

Just a shame how it all went down. By the looks, we had some of his best footy.

 

[Chchfanatic]

So in the last day people on here have talked about maybe signing Issac Liu , Albert Vete and Josh Schuster.
These are not Webby standard Warriors players.
Yes we have a few middles injured at the moment. It’s not like that every year though. Next year it might be wingers and centres. We have plenty of decent middles in the club now JFH is coming.
Jazz is almost done. Little body is catching up with him. I’d replace him with a TSS or someone of similar age.
The future is bright. Half the battle in the NRL is injuries. Look at both Newcastle and Canberra. Both will struggle this season without Ponga and Fogarty.
That’s why Penrith is so good. Lose Cleary and they just roll on.

 

[WarriorsForever]

Broncos fans are worried about Xavier Willison requesting an early release from his contract after the signing of forward Jack Gosiewski from the cowboys and impending signing of Luke Garner from the Panthers. He seems to have finally cracked the bench, but may be on the lookout for a larger role somewhere else.

Walters is known for overlooking young talent, to only then attempt to re-sign them later on in their career.

I feel like we could definitely afford pickup his current contract from next season and then upgrade it at the end of the 25 season.

 

[WarriorsForever]

Multi year, multi million dollar deal!

Source: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/s...k=c0657768583f3a4e43688d7aa41fb121-1713921478

 

[Christchurch_Warrior]

View attachment 6779

Multi year, multi million dollar deal!

Source: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/s...k=c0657768583f3a4e43688d7aa41fb121-1713921478

Fuck me! Our recruitment is just absolutely amazing! Is this really for real?

 

[John Nick]

Man that's another amazing signing again,
We must look so attractive for younger and older players alike, very very good signing this especially with Sj hanging up the boots soon.

Sounds like Webster has been held in very high regard by the Pennies

 

[WarriorsForever]

Not biting until something's official. But I'd imagine having Egan Jr and that Hansen boy would make it a bit easier to lure. The kid has all the opportunity to forge his own path and legacy

It’s official.


View: https://www.instagram.com/p/C6IN7oqxTHg/?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

 

[tajhay]

Good signing but i think we should temper our expectations. He is pretty young and still a fair bit away from reserve grade let alone making it to first grade.

Nathan recently did an interview where he spoke about Jett. Was mentioning that he doesnt try to give him too much advice and wants him to be himself. Also spoke about that the level Jett plays at, they arent so much strategical i.e. looking at numbers on sides of the fields but rather what they have been conditioned to do. Fair enough as its at a few rungs below NRL standard.

Would be awesome for him to develop into a first grader here and develop into a decent player and can play against his bro and dad.

 

[tajhay]

Apparently won 2023 Panthers Junior Best and Fairest. Fair rap that!

 

[#robbiemears]

Awesome signing. Having seen him play a fair few times, he's a younger, smaller (for now but you can see already that he will bulk up just like Nathan), clone of his brother: same high footy IQ and natural on-field instincts, precise kicking game, fearless (in both attack and defense), always backs up and finds himself around the ball, and looks hyper competitive. You never know how these things will play out of course, but for me, it feels like we've signed a young Nathan, just 8 years later than we should've!

 

[Tookey 2.0]

At the same age Nathan had a year of first grade under his belt & Australian Schoolboys/Junior Kangaroos on his CV where as Jett is yet to play Jersey Flegg. Have injuries slowed down his development to date?

I know you're not saying it in a negative way, but most young guns are going to pale in comparison to what Nathan was doing at that age. Nathan will likely go down as one of, if not the greatest half of all time.

If he becomes half as good as Nathan has, we'd have an Origin (or Kiwi) star at about 24 or 25 years old

 

[1995warriorsfan]

Thank you to Ivan for letting Jett come back to NZ. His dad would have given the final approval for him to come here.

 

[Inruin]

Good move by Jett. Gets out from under big brother and dads shadow. Prove he has earned it not just cause dad coaches the first team. Gets to experience living in his home country. Be part of the warriors culture and learn under Webster, Jones, Johnson. Ultimately if he is good enough and wants it enough there is a 7 spot that is going to be available in 2-3 seasons.

 

[Beastmode]

It’s official.


View: https://www.instagram.com/p/C6IN7oqxTHg/?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

This is nuts!

The fact you have kids wanting to come here long term is incredible

Speaks volumes about the reputation of this club.

It’s always been the other way round

This plus getting into the Harold Matthews GF in the first year

Take my hat off to you CG and Robson for what you have achieved

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Did anyone see how much Jetts contract is worth? Haven't seen that anywhere so far.

I get how there's a lot of talk of Jett pulling a Walsh down the track, or that his return is pre-planned to return back to Penrith. But at the end of the day what are we meant to do? The younger brother of arguably the best half of all time has agreed to come to your club, of course were going to take that.
As far as I'm concerned, we've got 3 years to convince him to stay. He's here with his old halves mate, I'd be doing everything in my power to get him connected to the culture, get him a beautiful long term wahine, and the keys to the Warriors (who should be playing consistent finals footy the next few years) on top of a massive bump in pay...it's gonna be hard to turn all of that down.

He's ours to lose imo

 

[Sam Wahpira]

The thing with Jett signing, is that we have several avenues of recruitment and this is one: young potential. JFH is the other: star marquee signing of established talent. I believe these are connected but also separate - and that Jett was an ongoing convo whereas JFH was random out of the blue. Wanna tip my cap to Cappy - he is managing this cap in a way that is so impressive.

To the point of potential marquee signing, we are probably done BUT knowing Cappy there is room to wriggle with for next year (and definitely a long-term plan)

For the young talent, wow, how fortunate are we to have the ability to recruit ON TOP OF the ridiculous talent that is now wanting to be part of the Wahs. Adding a sprinkling of aussie talent (especially in spine positions) seems like a very astute move.

All up, recruitment-wise, we are FINALLY on a part that seems sustainable and potentially fruitful. Up the Wahs, Up Cappy, Up Webby and even... Up CG haha.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Imo it's pretty easy to see where we need to improve.

Last week at the 17 minute mark we had 0 errors or penalties and were up 12-6.
From that 17 minute mark to the 42nd minute we had 5 penalties and 6 errors. In 25 minutes we made 11 errors, gifting them 17 points. Let that sink in.

The week before against the Dragons it was similar - 2 errors in the first 18 minutes and were up 6-0 before giving away 4 penalties, 2 errors and 3 ruck infringements up until the 45th minute with the game essentially over at 22-6.

I think the first person to make an error or give away a dumb penalty in that 2nd 20 min of the first half needs to br dropped the following week. This is where we are killing ourselves and there needs to be accountability

 

[Dantheman]

Every team except us seem to come up with golden signings.
Is it our recruiting staff. We end up with everyones castoffs and think we have done great

JFH says hello!

 

[The Warrior Waka]

Underpreforming........RTS, CNK, DWZ, Capewell, TMM,

U added CNK in that?? Da fuq! He was a bit off this weekend gone. But he gives a hundy percent effort every game. Reliable as fugg.

 

[Christchurch_Warrior]

Ivan Cleary asking for compensation for the loss of locally developed players at Penrith - and they have let go of a few cracking players due to cap restraints, raises the discussion of some type of cap exemption/ allowance for players brought through the grades.
Is this in the form of their first top 30 contract or while they stay contracted to the club?
The Warriors clearly want to be a development club and at some point this could be a relevant issue retaining rostered players.

If they get cap exemption then they will never be out of the top 8. There should be monetary compensation outside of the cap which is to be used for their pathways. Means that the pathways will not be as expensive but makes the comp more fair.

 

[tajhay]

Probably because we didn't have RTS last year.

i dont think anyone would have preferred swapping RTS for CNK at FB based on last years form.

Lets face it fans are only contemplating this move because RTS has been a failure at centre so far, not because of his own play, but moreso based on how we play.

I cant see Webby giving up on this, and rightly so. Anyone made to play outside TMM would struggle. Also does anyone remember RTS linking into the backline? Nowhere near as good as CNK. Might as well just put a target on his back as opposition knows he wont pass to berry/dwz if he gets the ball of SJ. RTS will try. And his efforts are all individual based by being the prop we dont need, or trying to do the hero plays running away from everyone so he can sidestep a few. No diss on RTS i love him, but still yet to see how he fits into the TEAM based on how we play.

TLDR; Not sure why CNK has to be made the scapegoat for the coaches, gameplan and Rogers failings.

 

[WahsaurusRex]

 

[Canadian_Warriors_Fan]

Why Wayde Egan didn't entertain rival Aussie offers to stay with Warriors

'I don't even want to look anywhere else.'

www.nzherald.co.nz

 

[Jonno13]

Tobias Crosby. Anyone seen the YouTube footage on this kid? Playing off the bench in Cup this weekend. His 1st season in league after turning up at a Warriors open trial last year. Just 19 yrs old. School boy rugby stand out as #8. He’s listed at 6’1 and playing prop. Looks to have speed, good hands and even a legit kicking game. Could be a good one

 

[Makasene]

Yeah, that was my impression with the SJ stuff, but the Webster/Moses link is a weird thing to concoct.

From an article about his extension - direct quote from Mohawk

‘Deserves reward’: Warriors kick off fresh talks to extend rookie coach Webster long term

‘Deserves reward’: Warriors kick off fresh talks to extend rookie coach Webster long term

www.foxsports.com.au

 

[BrisbaneWarrior]

Fuck the Sharks. They wouldn’t release Metcalf early, we owe them nothing

 

[BangBro's (still banging)]

I want McFadden to promote Graham Taufa to the top 30 for next season.

Release Kosi early from his contract for this space, Taufa slots into Centre wing Depth.

 

[Zarjaz]

Think Jazz will be a victim of timing, or maybe get 1 more year. With all our injuries this is his chance to make his case. Real shame he hasn't been available for the previous five weeks.

It's early days but Capewell seems to be a dud signing that is really going to hurt us for a few years. Does anyone have a more optimistic view on this?

I might be one of the lone voices but I thought Capewell was looking promising in the trials and early games, then the rib injury hit, really felt like he was carrying that into games and just lost all impact. Keen to see how he go's after an extended break.

 

[BangBro's (still banging)]

Where does he play? He could take Jazz Tavaga's place if he leaves? Otherwise I'm struggling to find a place for him.

Besides! We have some kids called Jacob Laban, Eddie Iremia Toeava, Sifakula, and Halasima!

I don't know how I would feel about him coming back.

 

[Riz]

No thanks, let's look to the future rather than the past.

 

[WarriorsForever]

Breaking: SJ is reportedly set to sign a 1 year extension worth $700k.

 

[tajhay]

Barnett?

Id be pissed off if we released Barnett to sign Papali'i.

 

[Noitall]

Interesting quote I saw on the eels forum on the Dylan Brown to Warriors rumour thread. Someone said Brown developed a real friendship with JFH in the last Kiwis camp. Was plain to see a friendship between JFH and CNK in the game against and after aussie. Wonder if the talk about NZ players wanting to return and turn out for the Warriors is correct?

 

[Damo]

Sometimes it is better to let someone who is leaving, go straight away and just move on.

Disagree, it's not like he has been throwing the towel in. He has been our best nearly all season.

 

[Dantheman]

Thats certainly one way to get the rest of the league to be upset at the Warriors - causing everyone to miss out on AFB for a whole half a year.

Even tho he's contracted to us, and we've released him early I reckon most would give us a load of shit.

It's actually a massive no win for us - either let him go and get nothing (or nothing that makes up for his loss).
Or gardening leave where we STILL pay him and he doesn't play.

Sheesh, were screwed either way. I hope it's just a beat up and this isn't happening.

Also, a bit out of left field....maybe we ask for a loan of Oregon Kaufusi to get the AFB trade over the line and then pay Ice 300k of AFBs refund for this year? Probably the best outcome I can think of

Fuck the rest of the league, who cares what they think. We have been shafted by this shit so many times, he stays or like someone else said we release him but he can't play for the sharks the rest of the year.

 

[Fonzie]

On AFB

1. Don’t really believe it - he’s been our best player this year, one game doesn’t change that.

2. Would rather pay him to sit on the sidelines than play for the sharks, or base himself in sydney and FIFO to mt smart, skip training at times.

Anything that is not we let an extremely valuable player play for a direct competitor in exchange for a vastly inferior player and/or cap space that can only be used in 2024 and is largely useless.

Agree

Unless we can spend his money elsewhere there is zero reason to release a top 3 prop to play against us

 

[Noitall]

Hmmm I hear you. He still seems to make decent metres and his tackling around the middle has been pretty important. I’m open minded, especially if we were to sign someone.

I see J’maine Hopgood has turned down the eels offer of an extension. Pretty handy player. Would have been at panthers when Webster was. Interesting reading that apart of JFH’s decision to come to Warriors was partly because of his trust in Webster

 

[Hoolioh]

All this crap happening at the moment make me even happier we getting JFH. A true alpha pack leader thats going to elevate our young forwards not turn them into mercenaries. Webster often speaks of walking towards adversity nows the time to do it.

 

[The Warrior Waka]

Bit of a rumour for ya's (Source - friend of a friends friend who is friends with someones friend)

Who was the guy on here that said they saw a big dude with leg tattoos in a bar talking to Mohawk?

So, Apparently Mohawk was with Mark Stewart of Rise Sports Management that night. Who manages several NRL Stars.
Later that weekend Mohawk & Cappy are seen shaking hands with Reagan Campbell Gillard(No leg tatts ) Just a howzit mate? Probably is. Guess who manages Reagan? Mark Stewart of Rise Sports Management

Would we be keen? Or?

Anyway,, Back to talking about Addin.....

 

[Warriorsfan92]

Drums beating louder for dylan brown to warriors

 

[Defence]

Browns 23, played 100+ games, test matches, grand finals.
I’d take him in a heartbeat.

 

[Cces]

Katoa and Papalii share a pedigree of being singled out by the Warriors as being the next thing....both were offered contract extensions, both were facing struggles, both walked out.

I think that should be the red flag of no return, i.e. if you have come from our juniors, been groomed for an age, struggled through the teething problems of difficult Warriors performances, and personal form slumps, if the club despite those things offers you an extension and you walk.....you are not Warriors material because even if you come back home a star, you will probably never dig in and stick in the underdog-verse that is the battlers of the NRL....the Warriors.

What the Warriors need to improve on though, where they are to blame in player retention, is to properly give a player like Sio Siua Taukeiáho an opportunity over other more vaunted names in their Junior ranks.

A good read Sup. The thing though is that the players you focused on are all unique & have very different stories.

Papali'i was off contract, offered less $ at 21 then what he was on at 18, looking at a 3rd coach in 9 months & living out of a suitcase for the foreseeable future. Instead he chose even less money to go to a club that had stability & a coach who had a history of getting the best out of his Second Rowers (Manu Ma'u, Shaun Lane).

Katoa didn't decline any extension. A month after Webster signed, which was to be his 5th coach at the Warriors, he was granted a release from his final 2 seasons for more opportunities. Was he told he wasn't part of the plans? After going through all 3 seasons of the covid era he'd lived in Australia longer than he ever had in NZ.
Covid restrictions got the better of good clubmen like Ah Mau, Maumalo & RTS so you have to take that into consideration too.

I'd love to hear Taukeiaho's story on becoming a middle. He spent an entire season in NSW Cup after leaving the Warriors so I wonder if he got there & their coaches thought he wasn't going to have a much of a career on the edge so they began his transition. Would have much rather that switch took place at the Warriors but compared to the Roosters both our players & coaches are more impatient.

Nigel Vagana, Thomas Leuluai & SJ all show we shouldn't completely close the door to players wanting to return from other clubs

 

[SouthernWorrier]

Got to say I thought Ford was massive yesterday - I know he has an error in him, but if it's because he's giving 100% for 80m I can live with it, and they seem down on last year. I think calls to trade him out are nuts. He's really stepped up when we've been down on troops and looks like he's filling out a bit -looked like his assignment was to keep Bromich & Nichols quiet, did well. Big effort player with big motor - just Webby's cup of tea, must be due for an early extension!

 

[Five&Last]

Id like to see our replacements before making that call.

Who's next in line after Lussick? Surely not just Roach and CHT - we've hardly seen CHT there and Roache has less than 100 minutes in first grade.

Same as Kosi...if I'm honest I'm worried that Dallin takes up a contract somewhere else in 2026, so really we only have Montoya, RTS and Graham-Taufua on the books who have played fg and would go alright at winger, so I think that's something we probably need to address before dropping Kosi.

Moala Graham-Taufa is already better than Kosi imo. I'd be happy to dump Kosi promote MGT to top 30 as back up winger, then have Sio Kali/Motu Pasikala and 4th and 5th string wingers from the development list.

Kosi's time is up in my opinion. It's painfully obvious he's on the Ken Maumalo pathway if you take into account his age and lack of improvement over the past two years. He still goes well in reserve grade, but the reduced ceiling is not worth the investment any longer.

On Lussick, I'd be happy for him to stick around another year but he's on borrowed time with Jacob Auloa/Makaia Tafua/Kaawyne Patterson coming through.

You're right on Roache, I'd need to see more than a two game sample size to know if he's top 30 worthy. Helluva game against Penrith but hasnt been a standout at NSW cup level.

I'd be fine with Dallin taking a contract elsewhere in 2026 if we can't afford him, 30 year old wingers don't tend to be elite. I think we will need to revamp our wing stocks by then anyway Montoya included. Again we have Sio and Motu coming through who should hopefully be top 30 in 2026 (with almost 1.5 years NSW cup experience under their belt ). Then probably the next crop coming through getting the odd NSW cup reps in 2026 like Siale Pahulu etc.

 

[Defence]

Wouldnt touch taumalolo. Cant believe I'm saying this but id rather re-sign jazz.

 

[run_it_str8_again]

Murderer for a mum, drug dealer for a dad Payne Hass?

Your point is very well made and I fully agree. One thing about him recently is his in camp for origin interview where he acknowledged what's going on with his parents (or particularly his Dad) and said that his focus is on looking after his younger siblings so essentially while he has a murderer mum and a drug dealer Dad he is fulfilling the roles of both Mum and Dad for his siblings while being 24 and representing NSW. So I have respect for him in light of his response to having said mum and dad.

It reminds me of an anecdote I heard once that told the story of two brothers whose father was a rotten to the core violent abusive drug dealing scoundrel of a man and father.

30 years passed and the two brothers where interviewed about how their lives had turned out.

One was in prison for a whole bunch of bad stuff and said "with the father that I had what else could I do?"

The second was happy, "successful" by whatever measures and living a great life. He said "with the father that I had what else could I do?"

 

[j_p]

Murderer for a mum, drug dealer for a dad Payne Hass?

In what way has that effected his character on or off the field bro?
We don't get to pick our parents. The fact he's been able to make a successful career and has taken his younger brothers under his guardianship should tell you everything about him as a person. He's been a success in spite off them and should be given all the credit rather than having who his parents are held against him as a person.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

I don’t even think there’s an immediate drop off. Sifakula should have Jazz’s bench role full time next season anyway, regardless of whether Jazz was still under contract.

I dunno man. I know we have some great juniors coming through and we've had two great backs against the walls victories with a few of our younger players present, but imo I think a few people are getting carried away, picking these juniors to replace seasoned vets after a handful (or sometimes just one) game where they have played to NRL standard. They're not even having GREAT games, it seems that as long as they didn't suck, quite a few are shouting about how they should get the call up over the more seasoned players.

Let's look at all of the young guns who have played this year - Laban, Zyon, Roache, MGT, Ali - they've all looked decent, but you can't say any of these guys have had an exceptional game. Even Roache, who I thought had the best game out of all the juniors this year - he completed his tackles and had good distribution, with limited errors or mistakes. Thats not worthy of getting rid of the incumbent, that's just him doing the basics of his role really well, which should be a minimum standard.

Imo there's very little chance that Sifakula is coming back from an ACL, and within a year of returning, he's going to make more meters than Jazz, while creating the tempo on defence that he often does.

Look at Ale. Webby's been PAINFULLY slow with his development, he's played 29 of the 36 games over the last two years and only now things are looking like they're starting to click for him. Same as Berry - he really only started to show how good he can be in his last 20 or so games. I cant see how any of our other rookies are going to get significantly more game time than that, unless it's through injury. And even then, they have to perform exceptionally well to keep their spot.

With the amount of injuries in today's game, over the next 18 months I think a lot of those above named players, including a few more like Halasima will deffo get a run and will probably be 10-30 games in to their career and are able to meet the week in/week out requirements of the hardest competition in the world, ready for 2026 when Tohu, SJ and co are all finished up

 

[#robbiemears]

With regards to Jazz, you can't re-sign everyone. As it stands, the club only has a couple of potential roster sports open for 2025. These young kids coming through NSW Cup look awesome and a couple of them (Halasima and TSS most notably) will need to be upgraded from development deals onto a full contract for either next year or the year after. Jazz had been a solid contributor over the years but his impact has declined noticeably. It's time now to give Sifakula or Zion a regular bench spot in his place. Jazz can ride off into the sunset as he deserves to with a longer deal in the UK.

Sifakula is an absolute beast of a player. Not only is he MASSIVE - and evidently still growing - he is so agile and aggressive. He did one run yesterday where he was just toying with the defence: side-stepping, knocking players over. It was epic. With the way his frame is developing, I'd imagine he'll slot into the front-row before long and be an impact weapon there in the mould of Leniu - albeit a much bigger version.

Halasima is freakishly athletic. There was one play yesterday where he was being bent over backwards by 2-3 defenders and somehow still managed to slip a pass out. He'll be a genuine strike weapon on the left edge with Laban acting as a battering ram on the right. In a few years, it'll be the most lethal backrow in the comp.

These are the guys we need to push forward with. Which means Jazz will likely go. And perhaps they'll also whisper quietly in the ears of a few others off contract at the end of 2025 who aren't shifting the needle for us but might now be able to get longer deals elsewhere (Ford being the obvious one).

Between TMM, CHT, Metcalf and SJ, the halves are locked down. Then you have Cleary arriving to add to the log-jam in the lower grades. Hanson looks tidy and organised but lacks spark and speed. I don't know if he'll kick on. But the Flegg half Jesse Soric looks a solid prospect.

Elsewhere in the backs, Pasikala looks like a really exciting prospect. And he's a clutch goal-kicker too, which is handy. His footwork and work-rate for a kid who has only just turned 20 is awesome. He'll be the longterm fullback successor. And then there's the question of how to fit Ali into first grade because he just has to be there. I wonder if Webby might discreetly encourage Roger to chase that Japanese Yen after all.

 

[mt.wellington]

Not sure if its been mentioned here but heard that the club only offered Jazz minimum salary extension. Said he'll be looking at Super League if they cant bump it up. Was told from a well known source who spoke to him personally but ICBF asking him if I can name drop him but take it as gospel...

 

[Beastmode]

Haha hey man I was responding to you saying that Sifakula will be taking Jazz's spot nek year - imo that's not super feasible as most people take 18 months to get going after the ACL. Eh, some are different and maybe he recovers quicker, but generally speaking I'd be surprised injury wise if he was back to his best before the end of rd 20 or so nek year.

I still think my point is valid tho - I don't think we promote juniors to a full time bench spot until they're proving that they can play better than what the current incumbent is providing.

You kindly pointed out what you thought my issue was, so I'm happy to point out what I think yours is...it sounds like you don't rate Jazz or what he provides the team. There are 12 players in our current team with the same or more errors than him so it's unreasonable to say he has the worst hands. In the last year there's been a marked improvement with the tempo of our game once the bald bros come on. When Jazz is on, he lifts the team. I doubt many rookies - especially an 18 year old with no NRL experience or a 20 year old with 3 games, returning after an ACL - are going to perform week in/week out and offer what Jazz does consistently.

For what it's worth I rate most of the juniors that everyone's talking about. I don't watch all of the NSW cup games so I'll never pretend to know each players game inside and out, but I think there's been enough evidence in the last 5 years to see that while youth is super important and key to your clubs future, if you don't do it well you can stuff someone's development or set the team back, which is something I'm sure none of us want when our window for a premiership with SJ is closing fast.

Either way, I hope I'm wrong and Sifakula is named tonight, goes on a rampage and helps us to the title this year. You will see me over in the humble pie thread when that happens

Jazz came back after a one month lay off and when he wasn’t dropping the ball or giving away our challenges I thought he was FANTASTIC. The energetic battery the team needed. He was cutting down forwards left right and center. Very impressed with his performance last two games. And I thought he was washed up when he walked off injured last time…

 

[Falcon]

I think Tohu is a pretty awesome player who we will be thankful he’s back in the side for the 2nd half of the season.
I’d like to see AW manage his minutes a touch, - possibly coming on first interchange to half time, playing the first 15 of the 2nd half snd then coming on for the last 15 of the 2nd half.
His interlinking ball play is great, he’s a fantastic tackler and never shy taking a hit up,. He does currently play massive minutes in the middle and that’s going to sap the energy levels and possibly dilute the great qualities he offers the team.

 

[Dantheman]

Marty Taupau on the outski

Possible cheap contract for a big boy off the bench

No thanks, would rather re-sign Jazz than go down that route.

 

[Defence]

I don’t think we’re buying anyone unless someone retires or gets homesick. They have to trust the pathways. Which position do we not have competent depth in? Pure front rower maybe but Bunty is still here and can do a job. Out and out winger as well, but you really should be able to develop one of those.

After losing afb I was so worried about our prop stocks but with the signing of jfh, the performances of Barnett, niukore and ford in the middle, the return to form of jazz and Bunty, along with the development of ale and Laban and the promise of zyon and Sifakula I think we’re covered there.
It’s hard to see a real weakness in the squad now- this last month has really highlighted our depth across the field- although it would be a bonus if we could improve the top end.
There’s really nothing of interest on the market at the moment so retention and development looks like the way ford unless another elite player becomes available (homesick..).

 

[Tookey 2.0]

After losing afb I was so worried about our prop stocks but with the signing of jfh, the performances of Barnett, niukore and ford in the middle, the return to form of jazz and Bunty, along with the development of ale and Laban and the promise of zyon and Sifakula I think we’re covered there.
It’s hard to see a real weakness in the squad now- this last month has really highlighted our depth across the field- although it would be a bonus if we could improve the top end.
There’s really nothing of interest on the market at the moment so retention and development looks like the way ford unless another elite player becomes available (homesick..).

Jeeze Ford going to prop would REALLY solve a few of our issues - essentially means we're not a total log jam on the edges and we strengthen a spot we weren't uber strong in.

Ford won't play that well all the time, but if he was able to hit 120m + consistently from prop, have minimal errors and penalties and keep his defence as it is, that's a huge problem that's solved moving forward

 

[nzwarriorsfaithful]

Moses is Webby’s manager

Webster is his own manager

 

[cock_o]

Mitch Barnett locked in for 2 more years. Till the end of 2027.

 

[WarriorsForever]

Mitch Barnett makes decision on future

“Mitch absolutely epitomises toughness, resilience and leadership,"

www.zerotackle.com

 

[Inruin]

So we can cross Mitch off as a potential home sick candidate I guess

 

[Defence]

So we can cross Mitch off as a potential home sick candidate I guess

He is home

 

[Leon Black]

Don’t understand how Zero Tackle only source of Barney re-signing. Is it just me being paranoid waiting to see it on the Warriors site?

If true fkn unreal news! He and JFH will be bashing guys for fun next season. Barney gives off Dirty Harry vibes with his intensity!

 

[Defence]

Super stoked, we had quite a few of the senior players coming off contract the nek 2 years on top of losing AFB (Jazz, Tohu, SJ, Mitch, Walker) so for me it's awesome that we've signed him on for a few years.

Hope we didn't pay that NSW Origin premium tho, hopefully we got in just before he gets selected to start after this weekend

He strikes me as the kinda guy that money wouldn’t be his first priority.
The comments around his relationship with Webby are telling.

 

[WarriorsForever]

Official

 

[BangBro's (still banging)]

I am so fucken happy Barnett has committed!

 

[Up the guttz]

Barney’s wife and kids must have settled in well. Good shit!!! Not all Aussies hate NZ

 

[BangBro's (still banging)]

Barney’s wife and kids must have settled in well. Good shit!!! Not all Aussies hate NZ

Jackson Ford loves it here also! I hope he stays!

You think of what Mitch Barnett was like at the Knights and what he's become here at the warriors, just think of what Ford could be like in a few more seasons!

 

[BangBro's (still banging)]

Because Brown has pace as well and no broken leg.

And has played 100 nrl games already at 23 years old!

Metcalf hasn't strung one season together and hasn't played 27 games! And is 25 no?

It's not even a contest.

Then you have the Stacey Jones and kiwi factor.

The warriors would be extremely fortunate to secure his services.

 

[John Nick]

Seems like you need 4 good halves as depth and I’d love Brown, TMM, SJ and Metcalf. If SJ is costing $700k, I’d let him walk. I see his him worth 400-500k and agree on the Brown 6 and TMM 7. Think if SJ wants a title with the Warriors, he might have to consider doing it as a potential depth halve? Definitely not writing him off though. Agree CHT 14 too

Watching tonight's game its very obvious that our major problem is speed.
We are seriously lacking it.
We need to promote our younger guys to add more speed, enthusiasm and strength.

 

[Zaggo]

Everyone sees it except Webster.
We are just to slow.
Experience yes but that doesn't cut it
It is so obvious I'm not sure if Webster even watches these other games or he is just stubborn

Well good to see the SACK WEBBY brigade are back in force after a single defeat to the top ranked side in challenging conditions.

Anyone saying they wouldn't take Brown is delusional. Young with a lot of games under his belt, great pace, skill and defence, and a Kiwi who has played a big role in our recent string of success.

 

[cock_o]

Dylan comes home to Whangarei as much as he can. Has a heap of childhood friends still there. And 2 that moved in with him last year but got homesick & returned home recently.
He also catches up with Fish frequently when they're home together. I remember watching a insta clip of Jazz's with Dylan, Fish & Temaire pig hunting together.

Edit - Hopefully the wah boy's got into him about coming home. Worked with one of them? Lol

Yes i watched that clip of them pig hunting aswell. Thing Xavier Willison was in it too.

 

[Cces]

Jett Cleary made his Jersey Flegg debut today in a 62-nil rout of the West Tigers, who'd beat them earlier in the season

 

[Billyspleen75]

Watching the post game interview with Xavier Willison.. he's Te Maire's first cousin!! Get on it Agent Te!

 

[Blain]

i dont get the Walker move.
He was recruited as a utility, on the tail end of his career, now all of a sudden he's a starting #13...?
Blood in one of the NSW Cup guys to take that spot and leave Walker at 14 is my view.

He has far better ball playing and speed than any of our other forwards, while being solid on D.

Harris has regressed this year unfortunately, Sifkula looks to be a prop now, Laban and Leka are edges, Ale or Tevaga no way should start instead of Walker, Going is probably the closest but doesn't have the speed or ball playing of Walker. If Harris is moving to prop Walker is easily our best option?

 

[sballer7]

Havent seen a lot of him this season but Saifiti looks to be going fairly average. Gotta say though a lot of people here thought Barnett would be a bust too, but a new environment only revitalised his career. He's only 28, played close to 200 nrl games and 7 origins. Reckon for the right price, he'd be a good signing to pair up with JFH.

 

[Billyspleen75]

Has Leka resigned until 2027??

I just seen it somewhere…..

On Jordan Friends Facebook page. He is an agent I think?

 

[Up the guttz]

Was interested listening to Webster yesterday saying that when SJ returns, there’s a place in the team for him, TMM and CHT. All they can do now in my eyes is TMM as dominant half and SJ five eighth to be what’s different from what they’ve already tried so far?

Yeah I wasnt happy when I sore that. It means CHT getting 10mins off the bench - huge waste of talent!!

It doesn’t matter what number SJ has on his back. He will run 90% of the plays. In the titans and storm games TMM was meant to be dominant but SJ couldn’t do it.

I’m worried we will be in the cusp of finals, SJ will come back and we’ll lose our last few games. Hope I’m wrong!!

 

[BabylonPink]

TMM I think is very comfortable in NZ with his boat and getaway hunting lifestyle.
NQ could compete in those terms but family over here is a big draw card I imagine.
We would be fucking stupid to let him leave imo.
Him and CHT could be a gun halves combo for the next 3 to 5 years. Two genuine kick pass and run options.

 

[Vancent]

He keeps making statements about what he will do like he made up his mind about every scenario in January. It's like he has no capacity to assess and make a decision based on what's happening in front of him now and everything is preplanned.

Gee I feel some of us are jumping hard and early on Webby - too soon FFS.

Exceeds all expectations last year, is dealing with the second year syndrome this year and for us - that’s a change to becomng the hunted.

He’s figuring out what’s working, not just now but potentially longer term, he’s open about making changes (TMM to lead ball player, RTS to Wing, Ford to prop etc) and we have time.

We may look like 13th this week but beat the Dogs (and we will), wash through the Bye and move into a far more forgiving run home and into the 8, as 5th or 6th.

Then it’s a new comp.

Chillax boys, we’re good.

Now save this fkn post - I’m sure it’ll age beautifully…

 

[tyrael]

Only forward I want is Willison. I want something with a point of difference not just a good mid range prop.

Willison provides height, offloads, drive and youth.

If we don't get him then we just bring up our juniors. Please buy a left winger.

 

[Brightman]

Why are we so keen on other clubs caste off than promote from within?

I agree, we have a bumper group of rookies in the NSW Cup team that are ready.
It's up to the coach but there were a few to side players looking over their shoulder and preseason 2025 will be very interesting!

Demetric Sifakula is going to be force in the NRL and will establish himself in short time, more so than Zyon Maiu'u who I imagine will benefit the most from playing under JFH. Next Moses Leota.
Leka Halasima is an impressive unit, the best version of Ukuma Ta'ai. Laban reminds me so much of Stephen Kearney, one of the Kiwis greatest.
From the backs Ali Leiataua makes it look easy and only after 2-3 games in the top side!

There will be others but these kids are standing out now..

 

[Tookey 2.0]

How does a medical retirement work?

Does it mean the player gets their contract paid out but it doesn’t count against the cap?

Yeah I'm pretty sure that's the case, you need to evidence it's a new injury and not one from before you were signed with a club too, I think. Which would be fine for Tohu as he's been here for ages.

Obvs would be good for the club money wise, but man I'd be gutted if he was medically retired and didn't get to go out on his own terms. He'd be in my all time Warrior team for sure

 

[Defence]

Funny one with our hookers- we always seem to have these boom juniors who get talked up a treat but never arrive.
Maybe need to look at the type of athletes we are trying to develop in that position.

 

[Wellington Warrior]

Haven’t seen it mentioned anywhere, but zero tackle saying Setu Tu has been upgraded to the top 30 by the warriors for 2024.

 

[Riz]

I'd be stoked to have him back in the mix, one of my favorite ever Warriors!

 

[Damo]

I'd be stoked to have him back in the mix, one of my favorite ever Warriors!


View attachment 8384

31 years old, been out of the game too long, and playing Union in Japan is not the best preparation for an NRL outside back.
We need to go younger in the backs, not older. No from me. Unless it's a budget NSW Cup depth contract.

 

[Damo]

Seems like a strange thing to post from the official team account.

 

[Christchurch_Warrior]

Not sure why we need to be a retirement option for aging Rugby players? I know that is harsh but we need some speed in our backline and signing backs that are 30+ is not going to get that for us

 

[Tookey 2.0]

That is guts re: Walker. loved the bromance between him, Jazz, and Te Maire lol



Ali should have been resigned yesterday. Kosi I would actively be trying to find a new home before next season.

Everyone else is varying levels in between that. CNK, DWZ, and TMM would be closer to the Ali side of the spectrum in my book. Bunty, Montoya, and Ford, closer to the Kosi side..

Ali
CNK, DWZ, TMM
Ale, Pompey, Tuaupiki
Afoa, Ford, Montoya
Kosi

I'm not ready to give up on Ford yet.
Only turning 27 nek year, plays multiple positions, has a big engine. He's one of those toilers that every team needs. If he cleaned up his penalties and errors he'd be fantastic imo. I have an inkling under JFH and Barney hell tidy up his game and go to another level.

Also for me, yes we have good young players coming through but I don't think they'll all be ready to be full time, week in week out NRL players by the start of 2026. Some will, but most won't be.

We have massive player movements over the next 2 years with AFB, SJ, Tohu, Jazz and potentially DWZ a s Walker all leaving at the same time, I don't know if we can the look at scrapping many more than that, or were going to be rookie/newbie heavy which will really impact the team.

Losing players like Montoya, Bunty, Pompey and Ford on top of those key players were losing would have a detrimental impact on our team imo

 

[Five&Last]

31 years old, been out of the game too long, and playing Union in Japan is not the best preparation for an NRL outside back.
We need to go younger in the backs, not older. No from me. Unless it's a budget NSW Cup depth contract.

Not even that bro.

We need to be developing Sio Kali and Ali Leiataua in the centers next year in NSW cup.

Nganatatafu Vake has progressed from SG ball to Flegg to NSW cup this year as well and needs cup minutes next year.

Patrick Moimoi will also be coming back from injury needing NSW cup minutes

Hiraka Waitai-Haenga will be fresh out of school and probably gets a game or two taste of NSW cup next year.

Absolute no to any contract for Laumape

 

[kos]

Jazz leaving

Stuff

www.stuff.co.nz

Been a good loyal tough employee / player
If you are reading Jazz - thank you for those 133 games with a few more to come
Effort gritty

 

[Christchurch_Warrior]

Jazz leaving

Stuff

www.stuff.co.nz

Wow some what torn by this. Love what he has given over the years to this club. I have said this before but there were times it seemed like he was one of the few that gave a shit about the club when were really bad. Hopefully this means our young guys get more time.

 

[Damo]

Love Jazzy, but time for the young fellas to fill that bench spot.

 

[The Warrior Waka]

Will miss the little junkyard dog. Good luck with your future endeavours Jazzy!

 

[Spence]

It’s a logical business decision, for both parties - but still I follow this club with my heart not my head, and I’m sad to see our little scrapper depart. He was one of the only ones that gave a fuck during the covid years and I’ll always remember that. Go well Jazz, we’ll miss you.

 

[juju]

If only every player played as wholeheartedly as Jazz has for us.
i'm sad he's leaving - he's represented his people so well.

 

[watcher]

WHen Ronald Volkman badly injured a finger playing FG, he wondered what he dhould do and thought, what would Jazz do? He played on and was brilliant. that was what Jazz brought to the Warriors.

 

[Completion Rate]

Cap space? Need middles?

W I L L I S O N

 

[Jonesy69]

Thank you for everything SJ. It’s unfortunate you couldn’t go out on a high, but you will go down as one of the clubs greatest players. I still remember my first away game that my pops took me to as a kid, and it was the 2011 prelim vs the storm. Watching rookie SJ carve up against the likes of Slater, smith and Cronk still gives me goosebumps to this day. One of the best SJ moments I’ve witnessed in my time supporting the club.

 

[Defence]

Greatest highlights package ever- any code.


View: https://youtu.be/6PNR18e8Gxg?si=tXGLY0yFaPg23rkm

 

[Makasene]

The club is in an interesting position. Our short premiership window has now obviously closed, so do we go into full rebuild mode, or try and salvage a top 8 finish while many of our players have a year left on their contracts?

As much as I want to see our youngsters come through, I’m not sure I’d be able to endure another year of mediocrity and missing the 8. Hopefully the club can find a balance between the two and not end up in a full rebuild similar to the tigers.

The club has made the finals 9 times in 30 seasons.

Talk of Premiership windows for a club like us is really quite ridiculous.

Even if it takes another 20 years there should be one goal and one goal only - to play finals every single year. Occasionally you will miss

If you play finals most years (like the Storm, or Roosters, or Penrith etc etc) then inevitably one of those years you will go good.

We made the finals 4 out of 5 years between 2007 and 2011 - one of them we got the GF.

It's why I asked the question that no one answered in the new thread - the question being "What does our year even mean"

Will we win the premiership next year? No. Will we make the finals next year? That is the only question that matters and should ever matter.

It takes 4 weeks to win a Premiership and 24 weeks to make the finals. Our focus needs to be on what we can do in the 24 weeks. Play enough finals series in a row and grand finals will come....

 

[Blain]

Bang for buck, why would we need to dump Bunty? There are 30 spots we need to fill, not everyone can play NRL every week. He's an experienced forward who can plug a hole in the middle if required, guys like him help our squad balance.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Bunty only can plug a hole in the middle if he is in the mood to. Unfortunately he has not been in much of a mood this year. If the coach doesn't want to play him then he just takes up a spot. Why not give his spot to Tanner Stowers-Smith if he is showing promise. We as a club need to get better at who is in the thirty. At the moment we have an aging roster with underperformers and a lack of speed.

I think I'm one of Bunty's harshest critics on here but I think the reality is, you need a few club men on little coin that can come in and do a job when necessary.

Imo there's almost no one in the NRL who has 100+ games experience that would be willing to come to NZ that would cost less or the same as what Bunty is on.
If there's a serious injury in the front row, we can bring Bunty in to do a job and rely on him, whereas there is no way we could rely on Sifakula, Maiuu, Stowers or anyone else to walk in to the front row and play consistently for 5+ weeks.

And as someone else pointed out, moving Bunty on for someone else isn't going to move the needle for us in either direction so I'm not too bothered about him remaining there for the time being. Too much movement for no real gain is only going to create headaches down the track imo

 

[Wahs Up TV]

Im half sold on Roache being a fast running from marker hooker. Able to get offside penalties or just break defences with youthful speed. It brings defences in and opens space out wide. As he's a half as well here's hoping he can kick for distance

Roache could be a starter next year imo. Quick service. Very active hooker. Physical in attack. His tempo specifically in the Penrith game lifted the team up a couple notches.

 

[Damo]

Just been reading about the Parramatta Leagues Club investing $350000 into Parramatta junior league for 2024.
No wonder recruiting/developing over the ditch is far ahead of our systems

Are we just ignoring how much Mark Robinson is pumping into development?

 

[hornbybrown]

Lock up Tobias Crosby!!

 

[Tohu’s_Knees]

There are just so many issues with AFB leaving at the end of the year. He’s a gun, attitude seemingly a bit meh sometimes. But you really can’t fault his output over the last couple of seasons.

I’ve stated in previous posts, JFH is not like AFB. Not at all. There’s certainly a case that JFH is a better player over all. But there’s definitely a case that JFH benefits from a superior system.

When people suggest “he’ll sort out the dressing room”. What does that actually mean? Really?
JFH’s stats are certainly good, Ivan Cleary heavily fluctuates his minutes though. Anywhere between 45-70 mins.
AFB barely ever goes below 60 minutes. Webby almost runs him ragged. And they’re losing, no wonder he’s pissed.

Will Webby consistently use JFH like that?
How does this affect the bench?
Do we have to go back to a proper 4 prop rotation?
Can we consistently rely on the young guys?
So many questions…….

Of all the players in the NRL, JFH is certainly a good replacement for AFB. I guess after the RTS and Capewell (who’s actually playing ok now) signings. I guess my confidence has taken a hit that maybe he might not be the “right” signing.

None the less, I am still extremely happy we’ve signed JFH.

 

[Boats n Hoes]

He was on pretty decent money for what he was putting out (for us). I'd say he was like Ice Papali'i where he needed the change in environment to truly thrive. Under Webby he may have been a bit more successful

Substitute "change of enviroment" for coach. Brown was an idiot. An attacking wide running backrower with size, speed and footwork who was playing big minutes when he first came to grade and scoring tries running off (of all people) Kodi regulary.....Brown shifts him to the opposite side and reduces his time to basically a 10 minute stint it seemed.....nuts.

Choice between Brown and Bellamy (when he comes calling).....i know which one im taking.....but yeah i think he wouldve prospered under Webby's (last years) structure as well.

Hurts to watch Storm games now,

 

[Kav1]

I'll be sad to see him leave. Hopefully someone does him a bitchin' haka to farewell him. RTS I'm looking at you after that amazing one Jazz did for your Daly M!

I'm sure it won't be a huge issue, but it looks like we'll be losing a few of the boys with that OG Warriors vibe - SJ soon, Jazz and Dallin can't be far behind, I'm hoping that we have a few more of those boys coming through who personify what being a Warrior is all about

I look back on that Dally M award for best bench player of the year. Such a humble guy - couldn't believe he won it, stood up, sat down, leaned back on to Bully's shoulder in embarrassment before the latter told him that the award was his. I will always have fond memories of his resilience, toughness and wholehearted efforts for the team. Jazz you will be sadly missed. Hopefully, one day, the Warriors will recognize your contribution to the club and offer you a role within the coaching structure as guys like you are difficult to find.

 

[Warriorsfan92]

This post gives me huge hope for the future. What Penrith have done took 6 years. People made a mockery of Phil goulds 5 year plan, now look at them. They’ve got the best junior pathways in the competition, if not ever. The bulldogs are only going well because they’ve benefited from an external pathway program, the panthers. Kikau, Burton, Crichton, and their head coach. The dogs would still be cellar dwellers without the Penrith system.

That top post has seven future starters, all under the age of 22. Whilst some are not quite NRL ready right now, give them a year or 2, and look out. Our nsw cup side are sitting 4th, with all the chopping and changing going on at first grade due to a variety of reasons. Many of these players are jersey flegg eligible yet are playing against men.

We all want instant success, but this is only due to the lack of success we’ve experienced the last decade. We’ve tried to recruit our way to premierships, this has been short lived. Our seasons have yo-yo’d from top 8 to bottom 8, almost every year. The head coach is locked in for the next 5 years+, we have a full developmental system aligned with other major clubs. Our 17s are the reigning champions, and the above players are on the path to future NRL players.

Unfortunately we will need to wait a few more years to see success at the top grade imo, whilst our pathways are set up to provide long term consistency.

The reality is, what we’ve been doing hasn’t been working. we now have the model for success, however we now just need to wait for these future first graders to develop.

This might seem like another ‘just be patient’ post, but when you actually stop and reflect on the organisational changes the club is making, you can start to see the plan they’re deploying & the future is extremely bright for the warriors

 

[RiceOwl]

View attachment 8649
This post gives me huge hope for the future. What Penrith have done took 6 years. People made a mockery of Phil goulds 5 year plan, now look at them. They’ve got the best junior pathways in the competition, if not ever. The bulldogs are only going well because they’ve benefited from an external pathway program, the panthers. Kikau, Burton, Crichton, and their head coach. The dogs would still be cellar dwellers without the Penrith system.

That top post has seven future starters, all under the age of 22. Whilst some are not quite NRL ready right now, give them a year or 2, and look out. Our nsw cup side are sitting 4th, with all the chopping and changing going on at first grade due to a variety of reasons. Many of these players are jersey flegg eligible yet are playing against men.

We all want instant success, but this is only due to the lack of success we’ve experienced the last decade. We’ve tried to recruit our way to premierships, this has been short lived. Our seasons have yo-yo’d from top 8 to bottom 8, almost every year. The head coach is locked in for the next 5 years+, we have a full developmental system aligned with other major clubs. Our 17s are the reigning champions, and the above players are on the path to future NRL players.

Unfortunately we will need to wait a few more years to see success at the top grade imo, whilst our pathways are set up to provide long term consistency.

The reality is, what we’ve been doing hasn’t been working. we now have the model for success, however we now just need to wait for these future first graders to develop.

This might seem like another ‘just be patient’ post, but when you actually stop and reflect on the organisational changes the club is making, you can start to see the plan they’re deploying & the future is extremely bright for the warriors

Fantastic post and absolutely bang on. As disappointed as I am with this season especially after last years season I am still well and truly on board knowing the foundations are in place and it is now a matter of time.

 

[Warriorsfan92]

Clarke is a younger, better version of jazz imo. Runs for more metres, makes less errors/missed tackles and actually grew up as a hooker so can cover hooker/lock very well. His ball playing is better than jazz too, I’ve been a fan of Clarke for a while. He would’ve got the ‘come home’ paycheck too. A great signing imo & a very good 14, impact forward.

 

[Cces]

After 10 rounds he was Titan fans public enemy number 1, no one wanted him at the club, dumb penalties, lazy defence, dropped balls and stupid off loads. I'm not sold on the signing because like Jazz, he's a player that can cut those mistakes out for a few rounds when the teams going good but then they always come back into their game.

Titans fans must be more ruthless than ours. After 10 Rounds he had 1 Ruck Infringement (in Rd 1), zero Inside the 10 & ZERO penalties.
Funny how perceptions & reality don't always align

 

[Dantheman]

I'm all for the Clark signing, all aboard!

 

[Ever Hopeful]

I like that our pack is becoming more abrasive. When teams see Barnett, Sifakula, Clark, JFH and Niukore facing them, they know they are going to be sore the next day. We haven't been intimidating for years. It used to be our DNA. It disappeared with the shoulder charge.

 

[kos]

At Wendy's?

You are too cruel.
Bunty has played more games than Jazz.
Not appreciated by many on this forum.
But I m a fan and will watch how he goes at Parra.

 

[Noitall]

Interesting to see Simon Mannering at the Warriors training on their instagram page in all Warriors gear and looking apart of directing drills. Is this just a visit for the SJ occasion or is he getting involved?

 

[Ever Hopeful]

Interesting to see Simon Mannering at the Warriors training on their instagram page in all Warriors gear and looking apart of directing drills. Is this just a visit for the SJ occasion or is he getting involved?

It would be great if he has had the break he so desperately needed and is now back in love with the game. It has been quite the week for the 'heart and souls' of Warriors folklore. Mannering is second to none for that - I'd love for him to instill it in others via coaching. I'd like to think him and Webby would work well together.

A true one-club man.

 

[SJ2k]

Kick the ball 50 metres.........the fullback runs it back 20 metres before the defence catches up
TMM kicks it 40 metres..........the fullback runs it back 10 metres before the defence catches up
What have we lost....... first tackle at same point 30 metres out

You need to watch DCE manage a game. There is a massive difference in a good long kicking game vs what TMM is able to put out. If our kick chase is so shit that's our problem. Seriously, watch DCE get Manly out of trouble over and over and over. Every prem team for the last ?? years (a lot) has had a strong long kicking game. But seriously, DCE is the master of this. We aren't making the top 4 without it. SJ handled it for us in 2023 but just wasn't able to in 2024.

Give us a goddam zombie that can kick a ball well to put next to TMM and i'll take it at this point. If they can kick goals too that is.

 

[Jonesy69]

View: https://www.instagram.com/p/C-_uIbozghH/?igsh=YmV3ajNwM2tsYWo4

 

[Christchurch_Warrior]

I'm all in for Jackson Hastings. We need a game manager.

Guy is slow as and can't make the Knights FG side. Lots of rumours about him having punch ups with team mates. Seems toxic.

 

[Noitall]

Halfback: Boyd, Hastings, Ilias, pezet, sexton, walker

Think we could do a lot worse than bringing Volkman back too. Only out of the game for a season but has a good knowledge of our new cup players about to make the step up in the next season or two. Good boot and game manager. Could spend a season behind TMM to get back up to speed? Have to see how chocolatey his shoulder is now

 

[Tony Martin]

Our next half is right under our nose. Just watched the replay of the nsw cup. Taine tuapiki is a jahrome hughes clone.

 

[John Nick]

Daliin has been off the mark of late with his risk vs reward plays. I think it's down to his lack of communication with team-mates and trust in his insides. Get that right, And his risk vs rewards comes off in the positive instead of the negative.

One thing that I like is Dallin never stops trying.

 

[BlackToko88]

Seems like Leo Thompson is going to test the market on November 1. https://www.zerotackle.com/knights-forward-weighing-up-bombshell-contract-call-213716/

 

[Boston Boy]

It's a possibility...

But I just can't shake the thought that it will be hard for the coaches not to roll out the red carpet at 1 for him, especially after the disappointment of this year.

They are looking for an improvement and moving him to 1 statistically would achieve that.

Also think CNK to centre this week is an indication of that as well. If CNK was a stone cold lock for the 1 jersey then you either bring Kosi onto the wing and move Montoya to centre or you bring MGT into centre in my eyes.

Moving CNK to centre tells me they want to have a look at him there...

Truth is RTS is a poor centre. His defence is poor at centre and it hasn’t worked and I don’t think it will work. Back to full back, the problem with that is that he doesn’t pass and set up people as much as CNK we he injects himself from the back. The RTS experiment has really not worked and now we get lots of metres but reduced ball playing from the back. CNK in 2023 gave some crucial under pressure passes and was very good. That’s why Webby wanted him at 1. To be fair it would be better to let RTS go to Japanese rugby and we use the $750k to strengthen an area that is needed, like speed or a genuine strike centre or another spot.

 

[Noitall]

RTS has never been in the top echelon of fullbacks and to compare him to Teddy is pure make believe. In the modern game an ‘out & out’ fullback links into the backline to create an overlap - they’re a 3rd playmaker. RTS will never be that, & I’m certain that moving him to fullback would set our team backwards. I’m not suggesting CNK is the solution either - he had a brilliant 2023 & a good first half of 2024, however he’s now well down on that form. However I just can’t rationalise how RTS is still being discussed by anyone for fullback.

As for the talk on Ilias - what have those of you keen on chasing him seen to make you think he can succeed as an NRL number 7? I’ve seen very little so far, although he is young still.

He’s beaten out Tedesco to win overall dally m at fullback in the past? Not sure how you can say never has been in top echelon?

 

[Whooshka]

Truth is RTS is a poor centre. His defence is poor at centre and it hasn’t worked and I don’t think it will work. Back to full back, the problem with that is that he doesn’t pass and set up people as much as CNK we he injects himself from the back. The RTS experiment has really not worked and now we get lots of metres but reduced ball playing from the back. CNK in 2023 gave some crucial under pressure passes and was very good. That’s why Webby wanted him at 1. To be fair it would be better to let RTS go to Japanese rugby and we use the $750k to strengthen an area that is needed, like speed or a genuine strike centre or another spot.

"Truth is RTS is a poor centre. His defence is poor at centre and it hasn't worked and I don't think it will work"

Hell of a statement to make about a bloke that has returned to the game in a new position, of which he has played no more than 3/4 consecutive games at a time, with a revolving door of 2nd rowers, halves and wingers around him, in a season where so little has worked for the whole team.

A quick look at the team lists and games this year, by my rough count, RTS has started:

• 13 at centre
• 2 at fullback
• 2 on the left wing
• 1 on the right wing

And of his 13 games at centre (of which he has bounced between both the left and right side of the field):

• Twice moved to fullback after 40ish minutes
• Once moved to fullback after 8 minutes
• Once leaving the filed injured/HIA after 40ish minutes
• Leaving only 9 games where he has played the full 80 at centre (in blocks of only 3-4 games at a time)

I admit that I love the idea of RTS at centre - he's an elite player, and at his best could trouble defenses both with and without the ball. Is there enough to suggest he is our best centre option, or can become an elite centre? Or is his best position elsewhere? I don't know, but to write him off as a "poor centre", and the much quoted "failed experiment" after a handful of games on each side of the field, in a side that just has not delivered this year?? Seems overly harsh to me.

 

[chrisnz]

Boys a few things to note

- last year's success was out the blue and sj had a dally m year after the entire fan base wanted him gone in first few rounds / pre season games

- just as sj flicked a switch on and off for a season rts can do the same and is a noted work horse and effort man has every chance being one of the form centers or any position he gets put in also have some very good young center options that will have another pre season under the belt

- contracts and signings can happen in an instant and out of the blue just because no good options are " available " dosent mean that cappy isn't working some magic behind the scenes we could land Hughes as soon as storms campaign is over for all we know whoever I very much doubt it

But moral of the story is it's not always as dire as it seems there's plenty of news to come yet !! And we could run out the same team next year and have a totally different result this shit is ever changing.

 

[WahsaurusRex]

Once kiwis camp comes around, surely Fish is in his ear to get him to come home

It really couldn’t be any better- the timing of the Tonga game

Leo, Griffin Neame, Dylan Brown and bunch of other boys will be having captains run, on the opening day of free agency, literally 50 metres away from Webby, Cappy, and CG’s offices lol

 

[WA Warrior]

Warriors v Sharks: Nicoll-Klokstad’s centre switch not permanent as Tuivasa-Sheck’s shadow looms over fullback position

Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad’s move to centre is not an indication of what’s to come for the Warriors, even as the club looks to find balance with Roger Tuivasa

www.newstalkzb.co.nz

Would seem like Webbys preference is still to have CNK at FB next year or could just be some smoke snd mirrors to end the season

Webby, don’t elaborate man.
You already put yourself into a corner this year with the FB chat.
No need to keep doubling down.

 

[Falcon]

I think if we play smarter the missing speed factor volume gets turned down.
Smarter means not one dimensional.

It’s always been said defence wins comps, and this year our D has been rubbish. Have we missed Rocco Berry more over the back half of the season than realised?

The Roger positional debate is a distraction. His assets are running the ball back and beating the first defender.
I think a season on the wing next season could bear fruit.

 

[Tookey 2.0]

Man how lucky are we that Braden Hamlin-Uele turned us down earlier this year. He's only played a handful of games and his output has been Bunty Afoa levels.
And then we go on to sign JFH for only a few 100k more.

Probably the highlight of the year for the Warriors really

 

[Aman 2.0]

Might be reading too much into this but bunty confirmed leaving now? Jazz reposted a story from buntys partner (?) that she wished bunty was running out with jazz today as well.

If that’s the case it’s but fucked not to give Bunty a farewell game when our season is done and dusted.

He’s not a game breaker but I’ve never seen him let the team down.

Pretty fucking shit from the club.

 

[Warriorsfan92]

If that’s the case it’s but fucked not to give Bunty a farewell game when our season is done and dusted.

He’s not a game breaker but I’ve never seen him let the team down.

Pretty fucking shit from the club.

Bullshit mate. It’s a business. I love bunty as much as anyone else but unfortunately he’s shown nothing to deserve a place in the 17. No favours around here.

 

[Warriorsfan92]

After listening to the post match, it’s extremely clear that SJ will be involved in a coaching role with the club.

Likely as a halves/spine coach & likely as soon as this off season. He’s also expressed interest in setting up a system or academy of sorts coaching up and coming halves.

He’d be a huge asset to our club moving forward. Hope he stays on board in some capacity.

 

[JaggedJ]

After listening to the post match, it’s extremely clear that SJ will be involved in a coaching role with the club.

Likely as a halves/spine coach & likely as soon as this off season. He’s also expressed interest in setting up a system or academy of sorts coaching up and coming halves.

He’d be a huge asset to our club moving forward. Hope he stays on board in some capacity.

Setting up an academy would be huge for young up and coming halves. Might also help with recruitment.

 

[Aman 2.0]

Damn we just blew up a top 4 team to make sense of RTSs fat contract.

No wonder there was no harmony this year. Players must have felt a bit jilted having to move over with Webby trying to fit RTS in somewhere.

Will miss you Monty. Played like a true warrior

 

[Wrighty]

Especially one without the pace of a winger.

RTS played round 5 vs Rabbitohs on the wing and scored a try and ran for 165 metres - Zero missed tackles
RTS played round 20 vs Raiders on the wing and scored a try and ran for 256 metres - one missed tackles

He will be an upgrade on Montoya at wing from a try scoring perspective and most importantly defensive perspective - look at those startlingly low missed tackle counts (small sample size notwithstanding)
He also in those games played cover defence and assisted the full back to clean up in goal grubbers