Warriors Dominate Titans 32-18, Secure NRL Playoff Spot

The New Zealand Warriors secured a decisive 32-18 victory over the Gold Coast Titans on August 26, 2025, in a match held at the Gold Coast. This win not only marked a significant turnaround for the Warriors, but also reinstated them in the top four of the National Rugby League (NRL) standings.

After enduring a three-game losing streak against the Titans, the Warriors showcased their resilience as they moved closer to the postseason. With just two rounds remaining in the regular season, they have now guaranteed their tenth playoff appearance. The Titans, currently at the bottom of the competition table, faced their opponents at a challenging time, especially after losing earlier in the day to the Manly Sea Eagles.

The match began on a shaky note for the Warriors when captain James Fisher-Harris fumbled the ball from the opening kick-off. This lapse allowed Titans’ captain Tino Fa’asuamaleaui to score the first try within minutes. However, the Warriors quickly regrouped. Marata Niukore responded with a try shortly after, reaching out in a tackle to place the ball on the try line.

It was Roger Tuivasa-Sheck who then propelled the Warriors into the lead, scoring two tries in rapid succession, bringing the halftime score to 18-6 in favor of New Zealand. The second half proved to be a more competitive affair, with both teams battling for dominance. The Titans managed to increase their lead with a penalty kick from halfback Tanah Boyd at the start of the second half.

As the match progressed, Adam Pompey sealed the Titans’ fate with a try, following a strategic play initiated by Tuivasa-Sheck, who challenged a kick and batted the ball back to Chanel Harris-Tavita, who assisted Pompey in scoring. The Warriors then surged ahead, accumulating 32 consecutive points. Rookie Eddie Ieremia-Toeava marked the occasion by scoring his first NRL try.

Despite the Warriors’ commanding lead, they relaxed their grip in the final moments, allowing the Titans to score a couple of consolation tries. Boyd was flawless with his kicking, successfully converting all five of his team’s tries and adding a penalty.

In a noteworthy achievement, centre Rocco Berry marked his 50th NRL appearance with a return from injury, contributing to the team’s overall performance. Historically, the Titans had defeated the Warriors six times in their last seven encounters, making this victory particularly significant as the Auckland-based team gears up for the playoffs.

Looking ahead, the Warriors will host the Parramatta Eels, currently positioned 15th, at Auckland’s Go Media Stadium on August 29, 2025. This match presents an opportunity for the Warriors to build on their momentum as they prepare for the postseason.