3. Ali Leiataua – 6
Started the match with a hiss and a roar, producing powerful runs and crossing for a try. However, he finished with three errors, including one that led to the Tigers scoring their only try. Overall, it was a much-improved performance compared with the Dolphins clash, but there’s still more to come.
4. Adam Pompey – 5
More good than bad. Missed two of his three conversion attempts.
5. Alofiana Khan-Pereira – 8
Back in the side after missing the past two games with a quad injury, the pacey winger returned with a point to prove. He found plenty of space to showcase his speed, particularly on kick returns, and continued his outstanding try-scoring form by crossing for a double to take his tally to 11 tries in nine games this season.
6. Chanel Harris-Tavita – 5
Overall it was his quietest game in some time. Did the majority of the long-range kicking and stepped up to kick goals in the second half, nailing all three of his attempts.
7. Te Maire Martin – 7
The halfback continues to make the No 7 jersey his own with another composed performance. He looked to run the ball whenever the opportunity presented itself and finished with four linebreak assists in an influential display.
8. James Fisher-Harris – 8
The Warriors have certainly missed their influential leader through the middle. The prop marked his return from a calf injury by scoring the opening try and finishing with 145m from 17 carries. His impact was obvious, with a noticeable drop-off after he left the field.
James Fisher-Harris celebrates his try. Photo / Photosport
9. Wayde Egan – 7
Continued to be a rock in the Warriors’ defence, finishing with a team-high 37 tackles. He didn’t get many opportunities with the ball, but capitalised on a loose ball to score a well-taken try.
10. Tanner Stowers-Smith – 6
Another strong display with ball in hand from the prop, who finished with 123m. However, his seven missed tackles were a slight concern. He also left the field with a potential shoulder injury, although coach Andrew Webster played down the severity of it after the match.
11. Leka Halasima – 6
Looked rejuvenated after spending a few weeks on the sideline with a hamstring injury. Made five strong runs in his 31 minutes on the field, which is an encouraging sign as he works his way back to full fitness. I still maintain he’s at his most impactful when used in shorter stints rather than playing a full game.
12. Jacob Laban – 9
The young forward showed exactly what he is capable of with a coming-of-age performance. He was involved in everything, from contesting high kicks to carrying the ball, finishing with 160m, six tackle breaks and 35 tackles. Without question, it was his best performance in a Warriors jersey.
13. Erin Clark – 8
Back to his best after a few quieter weeks. The return of James Fisher-Harris played a big part, with the pair combining superbly for Fisher-Harris’ opening try. He also made a strong contribution through the middle, finishing with 158 metres and 35 tackles.
Interchange:
14. Sam Healey – 6
Came on for his usual 20-minute cameo off the bench and was again dangerous with the ball in hand. He capped another effective stint by scoring a late try to put the icing on the cake.
Sam Healey does the bow-and-arrow celebration after scoring in honour of Jai Arrow, who was recently diagnosed with MND. Photo / Photosport
15. Eddie Ieremia-Toeava – 6
Another big shift from the young forward, who once again lived up to his “David Goggins” nickname with his relentless work rate and effort.
16. Demitric Vaimauga – 6
Another player who lifted after a few below-par performances. He was a menace with the ball in hand, highlighted by his six tackle breaks, and looked far more damaging with every carry.
17. Marata Niukore – 6
Made an impressive impact off the bench, bringing valuable experience and leadership as the Warriors closed out the game.
Interchange players not used: Luke Metcalf, Luke Laulilii.
Ben Francis is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers breaking sports news.