SUNCORP STADIUM,BRISBANE,SUNDAY, MAY 19th
Warriors vs. Panthers: Clash of Contrasting Fortunes at Magic Round 2024
Two teams with much to prove, each for different reasons, face off for the second consecutive year at Magic Round, kicking off Sunday afternoon’s action.
Warriors Under Pressure as Panthers Seek Stability
The Warriors, currently winless in their last five games and sliding down the standings, are under pressure to perform. Failing to do so could render last year’s unexpected resurgence a fleeting memory rather than a crucial step toward building their future.
For the Panthers, the three-time defending premiers currently in second place, the urgency isn’t as high. However, injuries to Nathan Cleary and his backup Brad Schneider pose a significant challenge to the renowned system that has propelled Penrith to great heights in recent years.
Injury Woes Compound Warriors’ Challenges
The Warriors, on the other hand, are coming off a disappointing 38-18 loss to the Roosters. Andrew Webster’s team quickly fell into a 22-0 deficit, from which they had little chance of recovering.
To make matters worse, Shaun Johnson (pectoral) and Rocco Berry (hand) sustained injuries in the loss and will join Roger Tuivasa-Sheck (hamstring) and Freddy Lussick (concussion protocols) on the sidelines.
As a result, the dependable Taine Tuaupiki has been called up to play at fullback, with Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad shifting to five-eighth and Te Maire Martin making a timely return at halfback.
Meanwhile, Ali Leiataua will take Berry’s place in the centres.
Panthers Grapple with Injury Concerns Ahead of Showdown
The Panthers have their own injury concerns. Although their list isn’t as extensive as the Warriors’, losing both Nathan Cleary and Brad Schneider in one week leaves coach Ivan Cleary with limited options.
As a result, Cleary will rely on Jarome Luai to take on more responsibility in the kicking department as halfback, with relatively unproven youngster Jack Cole stepping in at five-eighth.
In a welcome boost, Izack Tago returns to the centres from suspension, while Scott Sorensen (knee) is on the extended bench and may bolster what is currently a lackluster bench.
Regarding the interchange, Liam Henry is out due to a concussion, with Matt Eisenhuth replacing him. Additionally, Daine Laurie is the new face on the bench with Jack Cole promoted to the starting side.
Line-ups Announced: Warriors vs. Panthers
Warriors
1. Taine Tuaupiki 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Ali Leiataua 4. Adam Pompey 5. Marcelo Montoya 6. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad 7. Te Maire Martin 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Wayde Egan 10. Bunty Afoa 11. Jackson Ford 12. Mitchell Barnett 13. Tohu Harris 14. Dylan Walker 15. Tom Ale 16. Jazz Tevaga 17. Jacob Laban 18. Zyon Maiu’u 20. Edward Kosi 21. Paul Roache 22. Tanner Stowers-Smith 23. Ben Farr
Panthers
1. Dylan Edwards 2. Sunia Turuva 3. Izack Tago 4. Taylan May 5. Brian To’o 6. Jack Cole 7. Jarome Luai 8. Moses Leota 9. Mitch Kenny 10. James Fisher-Harris 11. Luke Garner 12. Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo 14. Daine Laurie 15. Lindsay Smith 16. Matt Eisenhuth 17. Mavrik Geyer 18. Paul Alamoti 19. Preston Riki 20. Tyrone Peachey 21. Soni Luke 22. Scott Sorensen
Referee: Grant Atkins; Touch Judges. Dave Munro, Ziggy Przeklasa-Adamski; Bunker. Matt Noyen;
Prediction
Unfortunately I can not see the injury hit Warriors matching it with the Panthers. They will compete I believe but the systems Panthers use while not pretty to watch, they work. The Warriors have lost their mojo and gone back to where they were several years ago, playing well in patches, and then making dumb mistakes all to often.
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