LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
In a thrilling clash at Cbus Super Stadium on Friday, the New Zealand Warriors emerged victorious against a courageous 12-man Gold Coast Titans team, winning 28-18.
The game, witnessed by a crowd of 20,877 fans, kept everyone on the edge of their seats, with the outcome uncertain until the final 15 minutes.
The Warriors secured their 12th win of the season, thanks in large part to an exceptional performance by Shaun Johnson.
Despite being reduced to 12 players following Moeaki Fotuaika's send-off, the Titans staged an impressive comeback after trailing 18-6 early in the second half.
However, their efforts fell short as the Warriors sealed the victory in the dying moments of the match.
The Titans' resilient defense, despite being a man down, forced the Warriors to commit 12 errors, while the home side maintained a superior completion rate.
Ultimately, a lapse in defense allowed Tohu Harris to score the crucial try that put the Warriors in the lead, with Dallin Watene-Zelezniak sealing the win with another try in the 75th minute.