NRL, SEMI FINAL 2, SEPT 9TH, 2023 NZ WARRIORS v PENRITH PANTHERS
BLUEBET STADIUM, PENRITH,SYDNEY
In a highly anticipated NRL semi-final on September 9th, 2023, the NZ Warriors are making a triumphant return to the finals for the first time since 2018. Coincidentally, they face the same team that eliminated them that year with a 27-12 victory. However, the Warriors of today are a different breed, undergoing a transformation under rookie coach Andrew Webster, with the highlight being Shaun Johnson’s evolution as a player this season.
On the other side of the field, the Penrith Panthers have undergone their own transformation since 2018. They are on the cusp of making history, with a chance to secure a spot in the preliminary final and move closer to a third-straight premiership. The Panthers bounced back from an unexpected loss to the Eels by dismantling the Cowboys 44-12 last week to claim the minor premiership.
However, the Warriors have had their share of challenges, with a depleted squad comprehensively beaten 34-10 by the Dolphins. While this loss doesn’t define their finals aspirations, it does raise concerns considering their performance in the closing stages of the regular season.
Before the Dolphins defeat, the Warriors were on a seven-game winning streak, although their victories against lower-ranked teams like the Dragons, Sea Eagles, Tigers, and even the Raiders left much to be desired. The points differential tells the story, suggesting room for improvement.
Nonetheless, the Warriors have shown growth by finding ways to win even when not playing at their best. The key now is to rise to the occasion against a full-strength Panthers side, with the exception of Jarome Luai at five-eighth.
As for the team lineup, Mitch Kenny and Scott Sorensen return, and Tyrone Peachey seems to be the favored utility option over Soni Luke. Luke Sommerton is on standby to provide cover for Kenny’s injury. Tohu Harris is named despite concerns about his back, and Jazz Tevaga returns from a hamstring injury.
Unfortunately for the Warriors, Shaun Johnson is out, and a replacement is yet to be named.
The winner of this match earns a week off, while the loser will face either the Knights or the Raiders in the next round.
PANTHERS 1. Dylan Edwards 2. Sunia Turuva 3. Izack Tago 4. Stephen Crichton 5. Brian To’o 6. Jack Cogger 7. Nathan Cleary 8. Moses Leota 9. Mitch Kenny 10. James Fisher-Harris 11. Scott Sorensen 12. Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo 14. Tyrone Peachey 15. Lindsay Smith 16. Spencer Leniu 17. Zac Hosking 18. Jaeman Salmon 19. Matt Eisenhuth 20. Luke Sommerton 21. Luke Garner 22. Thomas Jenkins
WARRIORS 1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Rocco Berry 4. Adam Pompey 5. Marcelo Montoya 6. Te Maire Martin 7. Shaun Johnson 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Wayde Egan 10. Mitchell Barnett 11. Jackson Ford 12. Marata Niukore 13. Tohu Harris 14. Dylan Walker 15. Jazz Tevaga 16. Bayley Sironen 17. Josh Curran 18. Freddy Lussick 20. Taine Tuaupiki 21. Bunty Afoa 22. Tom Ale 23. Edward Kosi
Referees: Adam Gee; Sideline Officials: David Munro, Chris Sutton; Video Referees: Ashley Klein;
Game Prediction:
The Penrith Panthers, heavy favorites at 2.40 odds, start their Premiership defense in the 2023 Finals Series against the resurgent NZ Warriors at BlueBet Stadium. While the Warriors will put up a fight, they are likely to concede hosting a finals game in New Zealand next weekend. Expect the Panthers to maintain relentless pressure and eventually break open the game, winning by 13+. However, the game may start slowly, keeping the total score under 40.5 points. Keep an eye on Stephen Crichton, who is expected to cross the Warriors’ weaker defense line.
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