The New Zealand Warriors took on the Gold Coast Titans to kick off Super Saturday of round 1, 2021.
Both sides were tipped to improve heading into the season and had a point to prove on the day.
In some hot conditions that were causing the players to struggle, the first half was low scoring.
On the back of an error by Titans prop Moeaki Fotuaika, Bayley Sironen crashed his way over the line in his Warriors debut.
With some sturdy defence, the Warriors would head into the break up 6-0.
The beginning of the second half was dominated by the Titans with possession and field position.
However, a dropped ball by Corey Thompson gave the Warriors field position and Leeson Ah Mau crashed over under the posts.
Kodi Nikorima added the 2 for a 12-0 lead.
With 11 minutes left, the Warriors would seal their victory.
After a knock-on by the Titans and a forced dropout, Bunty Afoa busted through and offloaded to Nikorima to race away.
Nikorima converted his own try and the Warriors lead 18-0.
The Titans would finally get their first points on the board.
After repeated penalties and a spread to the left, AJ Brimson threw a cutout ball to Corey Thompson to score.
Jamal Fogarty converted and the score was 18-6 to the Warriors.
To put the icing on the cake, Chanel Harris-Tavita slotted a field goal from 10 metres out, right in front for the final score to be 19-6.
The Warriors put on a strong performance to begin their campaign before they host the Knights next week.
Meanwhile, the Titans have a lot to improve, especially discipline-wise, before they host the Broncos in round 2.
NRL News Player of the Game
3. Kodi Nikorima (WAR)
2. Leeson Ah Mau (WAR)
1. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui (GLD)
