Warriors Face Sea Eagles in Crucial NRL Clash on September 5

The NZ Warriors will take on the Manly Sea Eagles at 8 PM on September 5, 2023, at Brookvale Oval in Sydney. This match holds significant implications for both teams as they vie for postseason positioning in the National Rugby League (NRL).

Historical Context

Historically, the Sea Eagles maintain a dominant 28-14-1 head-to-head record against the Warriors. However, at their home ground, Brookvale Oval, that advantage narrows to 8-6. In their last five encounters, both teams have secured two victories each, including a thrilling 22-22 draw at Go Media Stadium in 2023. This match was notable for Roger Tuivasa-Sheck‘s 200th NRL game, where Dallin Watene-Zelezniak‘s late try and Shaun Johnson‘s conversion leveled the scores, ultimately leading to extra time without a winner.

The Sea Eagles’ most significant victory against the Warriors came in 2008, when they triumphed 52-6 at Brookvale. Conversely, the Warriors’ largest win occurred in 1999, when they defeated Manly 36-10 at the same venue. Earlier this season, the Warriors also claimed a convincing 36-16 victory at Mt Smart Stadium, showcasing their potential.

Current Form and Stakes

Entering this fixture, the Warriors have experienced a turbulent season. They lost three consecutive matches before winning two in a row to secure a playoff berth, only to lose last week at home to the Parramatta Eels in a 26-22 match. The outcome was controversial, marred by a decision that ruled forward Demitric Vaimauga had knocked on, denying the Warriors a potential equalizer.

Recent results have pushed the Warriors to sixth place in the standings, and they are unable to reclaim a spot in the top four following the Brisbane Broncos‘ victory over the Melbourne Storm. A win against Manly could elevate them to fifth if the Cronulla Sharks lose their match against the Canterbury Bulldogs.

On the other hand, the Sea Eagles have shown resilience after a four-match losing streak. They have bounced back with two consecutive wins, keeping their slim playoff hopes alive. Currently, they sit just two points outside the top eight, needing a significant win against the Warriors, alongside favorable results in other matches, to secure a postseason spot.

The teams for the match have been announced. The Warriors will line up as follows:

1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad
2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak
3. Adam Pompey
4. Rocco Berry
5. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck
6. Chanel Harris-Tavita
7. Tanah Boyd
8. James Fisher-Harris
9. Sam Healey
10. Tanner Stowers-Smith
11. Kurt Capewell
12. Marata Niukore
13. Erin Clark

Interchange: Te Maire Martin, Eddie Ieremia-Toeava, Demitric Vaimauga, Leka Halasima
Reserves: Taine Tuaupiki, Kalani Going

Coach Andrew Webster has opted to rest hooker Wayde Egan, who is nursing a hip complaint, while Jackson Ford is serving the final week of his suspension.

The Sea Eagles’ lineup includes:

1. Tom Trbojevic
2. Jason Saab
3. Clayton Faulalo
4. Tommy Talau
5. Lehi Hopoate
6. Luke Brooks
7. Daly Cherry-Evans
8. Matt Lodge
9. Jake Simpkin
10. Siosiua Taukeiaho
11. Corey Waddell
12. Ben Trbojevic
13. Jazz Tevaga

Interchange: Joey Walsh, Caleb Navale, Ethan Bullemor, Aaron Schoupp
Reserves: Simone Laiafi, Navren Willett

Clayton Faulalo replaces the injured Tolutau Koula in the centres. The Sea Eagles will also aim to honor veteran Daly Cherry-Evans, who is set to depart the club after an illustrious career spanning 350 matches. Meanwhile, Jazz Tevaga will conclude his NRL tenure as he heads to Wakefield Trinity in 2026.

As the match approaches, all eyes will be on Daly Cherry-Evans, known for his knack for clutch performances against the Warriors. His recent form suggests he may still have a match-winning display left before departing the league. Similarly, Jazz Tevaga will look to leave a lasting impression against his former team.

The outcome of this match could significantly impact both teams’ playoff aspirations. The Warriors hope to secure their position, while the Sea Eagles will fight for their postseason lives. Fans can expect an intense and emotional battle at Brookvale Oval as both teams strive for victory.