The Warriors have become the first team in the history of the UNE Harold Matthews Cup to claim the premiership in their maiden year after defeating the Western Suburbs Magpies 34-16 at CommBank Stadium today.
Report ! M.Naveed
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The Warriors made history by becoming the first team to win the UNE Harold Matthews Cup in their first year. They won the premiership after defeating the Western Suburbs Magpies 34-16 at CommBank Stadium today.
The Warriors’ journey to the finals was nothing short of a fairy tale as they had to win their last game of the regular season to secure sixth place. They then went on to win sudden-death matches against Parramatta Eels and Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs to make it to the decider.
The Warriors coach, Thaine Ashford, expressed that the recent historic victory was just the beginning for pathways programs in New Zealand, as the Auckland-based club is set to join the UNE Harold Matthews Cup for the first time in 2024.
Ashford added that the win was not just about the team, but also significant for the game in New Zealand as it showcased the potential to stay home and build something from where they are. He expressed gratitude for being a part of something special and making history.
The game started with the Magpies scoring two back-to-back tries in the opening six minutes, taking their lead to 10-0. However, the Warriors hit back in the 11th minute with a try from halfback Jack Thompson, reducing the deficit to 10-6. The Warriors continued to put pressure on the Magpies in defence and forced an error in their half.
They capitalised on the mistake and took the lead after Thompson passed to back-rower Militonimolela Sikuvea, who crashed over the line, making it 12-10. The Warriors seized momentum and scored two more tries along with a penalty goal, extending their lead to 24-10 at half-time. The second half saw both teams testing each other’s defence and attack, with set-for-set football being played for the opening 12 minutes. The Warriors were the first to score in the second half, and they eventually sealed the deal in the final five minutes when lock Tuiloma powered his way through the goal-line defence for his second try.
Ashford praised the team’s performance and emphasized that every single one of the boys played their part in getting them to where they are today, not just the ones who took the field. He added that the team believed in each other, and that is what it takes to win.
