JFC Match Report: Close loss after improved effort

Despite producing a vastly improved effort the NZ Warriors had to settle for a close loss to Manly Warringah in Saturday's round two Jersey Flegg Cup (under-21) clash at Navigation Homes Stadium in Pukekohe.

The Warriors, hurting after a disappointing 4-50 defeat by Canberra in round one, pushed the Sea Eagles all the way before going down 28-32.

They had the early lead through centre Sefanaia Cowley-Lupo's sixth-minute try - which would be the only time they were in front - before Manly surged to a 20-4 lead with four unanswered tries in just 10 minutes.

Needing a quick remedy to halt a rampant Sea Eagles side, the Warriors responded with a try from dummy half by hooker Jaydee Auloa in the 28th minute and then a wonderful strike right on halftime.

From a scrum on halfway, the Warriors went right freeing up winger Brandon Norris who broke downfield before nudging through a grubber which fullback Motu Pasikala gathered to score.

With both tries converted, the home side went to the break only four points behind at 16-20.