LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a strategic move for the match against the Newcastle Knights, New Zealand Warriors head coach Andrew Webster discussed the reasoning behind reshuffling his forward pack.
The team secured a 26-12 victory in front of a sold-out crowd in Christchurch, with significant adjustments made due to player absences and injuries.
Webster noted that the return of Rocco Berry allowed Kurt Capewell to shift back to the second row, a change implemented the Tuesday prior.
Initially, Jackson Ford was set to start in the front row due to James Fisher-Harris's absence.
However, just an hour before the match, the Warriors confirmed that Marata Niukore would take on the prop role, while Leka Halasima was given his first starting opportunity in the second row.
Webster emphasized the decision-making behind these changes: "With Fish [James Fisher-Harris] being out and Kurt [Capewell] going from centres back to the back-row, we just thought it was a really good opportunity for Marata [Niukore] to play front row, and I just think Jacob Laban deserves to be in the team, and Leka [Halasima] deserves an opportunity to start."
This tactical lineup demonstrates Webster's confidence in his players and his strategic adaptability in response to challenges faced by the team.