6:00 pm FRIDAY, AUGUST 23rd,2024 Shaun Johnson Stadium, Auckland NZ
Shaun Johnson’s Final Game at Mt Smart Stadium
Shaun Johnson will take the field at Mt Smart Stadium—temporarily renamed “Shaun Johnson Stadium”—for the final time as the Warriors face off against the in-form Bulldogs.
Warriors Seek Redemption in Johnson’s Farewell Match
The Warriors, who’ve struggled with consistency all season, are set for their biggest match of the year. They’ll be determined to give Johnson a victorious farewell at home, but they’ll have their work cut out for them against the league’s most improved team.
Bulldogs’ Resilience Shines Amidst Heavy Travel
Despite a heavy travel schedule in recent weeks, the Bulldogs have consistently shown professionalism and resilience, a testament to both the coaching staff and the players.
As the top defensive team in the competition, they’ll aim to neutralize the larger Warriors pack and dominate the match.
A Special Farewell for Shaun Johnson
As the Warriors approach the end of a challenging season, they have a chance to relish a special moment with their loyal fans on Friday, as Shaun Johnson plays his final game at Go Media Stadium, temporarily renamed in his honour for the occasion.
The atmosphere is set to be electric as Johnson takes the field for his 223rd appearance in Warriors colours, determined to finish his NRL career on a high, despite the club’s finals hopes having faded weeks ago.
Warriors’ Fall from Grace and Injury Woes
After being just one point shy of the top eight midway through the season, the Warriors have dropped seven of their last nine games, slipping out of contention.
Injuries to key players certainly haven’t helped but it’s a huge fall from grace for a side that made it all the way to the preliminary final last season.
Warriors
1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Adam Pompey , 4. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck 5. Marcelo Montoya 6. Luke Metcalf 7. Shaun Johnson 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Wayde Egan 10. Mitchell Barnett 11. Marata Niukore 12. Kurt Capewell , 13. Dylan Walker, 14. Freddy Lussick 15. Tom Ale 16. Jazz Tevaga 17. Demitric Sifakula , Chanel Harris-Tavita 20. Leka Halasima 21. Taine Tuaupiki 22. Edward Kosi 23. Bunty Afoa
Bulldogs Aim for Top-Four Finish with Strong Recent Form
The Bulldogs, on the other hand, are on an upward trajectory, with six wins in their last seven games putting them within reach of a top-four finish and a double chance in the finals.
After seven seasons out of finals contention, the Bulldogs are set for a September return and are eager to build momentum in their final three games against the Warriors, Sea Eagles, and Cowboys.
Bulldogs
1. Connor Tracey 2. Jacob Kiraz 3. Bronson Xerri 4. Stephen Crichton 5. Josh Addo-Carr, 6. Matt Burton 7. Toby Sexton 8. Josh Curran 9. Reed Mahoney 10. Samuel Hughes 11. Viliame Kikau 12. Jacob Preston 13. Kurt Mann , 14. Bailey Hayward 15. Kurtis Morrin 16. Harry Hayes , 17. Jaeman Salmon, 19. Jeral Skelton 20. Lipoi Hopoi 21. Eli Clark 22. Drew Hutchison 23. Max King
Referee. Wyatt Raymond ,Touch Judges, Jarrod Cole, Michael Wise, Bunker, Liam Kennedy
Key Stats and Predictions
The Warriors have dominated their recent matchups against the Bulldogs, winning six of the last seven encounters.
The Bulldogs haven’t claimed victory at Go Media Stadium since 2012.
Warriors winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak is just two tries away from reaching the milestone of 100 NRL tries.
Bulldogs five-eighth Matt Burton is set to make his 100th NRL appearance.
Warriors centre Roger Tuivasa-Sheck has been a standout against the Bulldogs, scoring seven tries in his last nine games against them.
Prediction.
The Warriors were outclassed in wet conditions by the Sea Eagles last week, while the Bulldogs extended their strong form, keeping the Dolphins scoreless in the second half of their 30-10 win. The Warriors have been underwhelming this season, yet they remain a threat to any team when fully focused. Although a big day is planned for Shaun Johnson, it’s difficult to confidently back them. I’ve supported them multiple times this season, but no more.
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