LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The NZ Warriors took a crucial step towards finals football by defeating the Balmain Tigers 22-12 in the Harold Matthews Cup match.
Despite a shaky performance, the Warriors now have a 5-1 record and are in third place on the ladder with 12 points.
They have won all their regular season away games and have two matches left at home.
The Tigers, with only two wins, were considered underdogs but put up a tough fight.
The Warriors fell behind early in the match, trailing 0-4 in the first minute.
However, they quickly responded with a try from hooker Dreytin Marriott, taking a 6-4 lead.
It wasn't until 12 minutes from the end that the Warriors managed to secure a comfortable lead, with prop Krushil Koteka scoring another try to put them 10 points ahead.
Despite the Tigers' efforts, the Warriors held on to their lead and claimed an important victory.
"The victory improved the Warriors' win-loss record to 5-1, lifting them to 12 points and third sport on the ladder."
"With the Tigers going into the contest with just two wins, the NZ Warriors were heavily-favoured to win but the defending premiers didn't make it easy on themselves."
"They were down 0-4 in the first minute before striking back four minutes later when halfback Ashton Ulaula-Ieremia's last tackle grubber ricocheted off legs, hooker Dreytin Marriott picking up the loose ball to score for a 6-4 lead."
"Again it might have been the cue to finish the job but it wasn't until 12 minutes from time that the Warriors created the buffer they needed, another powerhouse try - this time to prop Krushil Koteka - putting them 10 points clear, a margin they protected to nail two vital points."