There’s always something going on with the Warriors.
Coach Nathan Brown stated ahead of their encounter against the Penrith Panthers in Brisbane on Sunday that there was always something keeping the side from putting on a complete performance during their five-match losing streak.
Within the first 20 minutes, the Warriors were reduced to a one-man bench as Tohu Harris (knee), Roger Tuivasa-Sheck (failed head injury assessment), and Wayde Egan (shoulder) were all declared out of the game. Their bench was empty by halftime after center Rocco Berry was taken out of the game with a hamstring injury.
With fewer players available, the Warriors were unable to match the Panthers in the second half, with the final score of 30-16 reflecting the team’s effort.
The Warriors fell behind after only two minutes when a Chas Townsend clearance kick was charged down by Penrith second rower Viliame Kikau, who took advantage of a friendly bounce to run past the try line.
But that’s when the Warriors’ fortunes began to deteriorate. Harris exited the field after receiving two leg knocks in rapid succession, and Tuivasa-Sheck was knocked out moments after while making a tackle.
The Panthers took the lead again, and while the Warriors responded through Berry before he was dragged off the field, the indications of exhaustion were already visible.
Despite plainly weary in the second half, the Warriors maintained a high level of effort and, for the most part, their defense was excellent, with several try-saving tackles.
The Panthers, on the other hand, were patient and exploited the gaps as they appeared. Winger Charlie Staines scored twice in the second half, taking advantage of gaps in the Warriors’ defensive line, while second rower Liam Martin, who was returned from representing New South Wales on Wednesday, also scored.
The Warriors continued to ask questions of the Panthers’ defence though, and Walsh showed there was still life in the Warriors when he scooted over late in the game, although it would be the final scoring play.
The Warriors have now lost their last six games – their last win coming in round 11 against Wests Tigers on May 21 – and they remain four points adrift of the top eight with seven rounds left in the season.
Panthers 30 (Viliame Kikau 2, Charlie Staines 2, Brian To’o, Liam Martin tries; Stephen Crichton 3 cons)
Warriors 16 (Wayde Egan, Rocco Berry, Reece Walsh tries; Walsh 2 cons)
HT: 16-10.
