LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In tonight's Rugby League clash in Hamilton, the Wests Tigers will be considered the "home" team, but it will be the NZ Warriors who have the crowd support as they strive for a top-four finish.
Currently sitting in third place, the Warriors have a favorable schedule ahead, with their remaining four matches against teams outside the top eight, positioning them well for a double chance in the finals.
However, history is not on their side, as they have previously struggled in Hamilton, losing to St George Illawarra in 2017 and suffering defeats to Canterbury-Bankstown in 2014 and Parramatta in 2005 and 2006.
The match holds special significance for Hamilton-born players Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and Taine Tuaupiki, who both have strong ties to the Waikato area and will have a significant number of family and friends in the crowd.
With star player Shaun Johnson in exceptional form and Addin Fonua-Blake dominating in the middle, the Warriors have secured an impressive 13 wins this season, setting them up for their first finals appearance since 2018.
On the other hand, the Wests Tigers still have a slim chance of avoiding last place if they can secure a couple of victories in their remaining matches and if the Dragons lose all four of theirs.