LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The New Zealand Warriors' Harold Matthews Cup team will be missing two key players for their finals clash against the Sydney Roosters.
Standoff Christiano Elia is out due to concussion protocols after a brutal late shot by Roosters captain Jeziah Papa, while second rower Tusi Fanolua is suspended.
Elia had to leave the field for a head injury assessment and will not be able to play this week.
Despite the setbacks, Dougal Grant has been named to replace Fanolua for his seventh outing.
The Warriors, with only two players from last year's playoffs, are entering unfamiliar territory in the finals this season.
Only Jeremiah Lemana and Tyson Hansen have experience in the playoffs, including last year's grand final win over Western Suburbs.
The team will have to adjust to the absence of Elia and Fanolua as they face the Roosters in a crucial match on Saturday.