A late winner from Ryan Hoffman has seen the New Zealand Warriors consign the Newcastle Knights to their 19th straight loss.
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Final score
New Zealand Warriors 26
Newcastle Knights 22
Premiership dark horses the New Zealand Warriors host 2016 NRL wooden spooners the Newcastle Knights in what should be a high-scoring match-up at Mt Smart Stadium. Join The Roar for live scores and commentary from 2pm (AEDT).
Both the Warriors and Knights head into the new season with renewed optimism after shocking campaigns last year.
Newcastle, of course, finished 2016 in last position, while New Zealand finished tenth – a below par finish for a squad that was widely expected to challenge for the premiership.
Indeed, pundits are more cautious this season about the Warriors’ chances. The talent is certainly there, but the jury is out on whether the Kiwi outfit truly possesses the discipline and steel in defence required to become a true premiership contender.
Kiwi halves Shaun Johnson and Kieran Foran could strike up a lethal partnership if both players play at their best consistently. Foran however will miss the opening two matches of the season, meaning that young half Mafoa-aeata Hingano will partner Johnson.
The return of former Roosters fullback Roger Tuivasa-Sheck from injury should boost the Warriors’ attack to no end. If he can rediscover the form that made him the game’s most devastating fullback in 2015, his side should have no problems scoring points.
New recruits Jamie Buhrer, Josh Starling and Ken Sio meanwhile should strengthen Newcastle. Halfback Trent Hodkinson remains a solid player, but he needs adequate support in the halves if he is to elevate Newcastle’s play in attack.
Prediction
Overall, the Warriors start warm favourites, but they have too often in the past fallen because of hubris and can ill-afford to underestimate the Knights. Newcastle should improve from last season’s dire performances and have a point to prove away from home.
The Warriors at their best should win this, but anything less and Newcastle could spring an upset.
Warriors by 14
Sleiman Azizi
Roar Guru
Newcastle never gave up last year and I think that this result shows that mindset. They'll come good sooner rather than later, me thinks.
Zedman
Roar Rookie
They would have lost without Hoffman on the field.
Stu
Guest
Warriors would have lost that last year. Will be stoked with the 2 points but not the performance. Luke and Mannering are vital to the warriors playing well this year
Alan
Roar Guru
Well the Warriors get their season started with a win, but once again they will have to address certain issues if they hope to challenge for the premiership. The Knights toiled hard in the second half and responded very well after trailing 20-8 at halftime. The Warriors though eventually rediscovered their mojo and got the job done. Good signs for Newcastle fans heading into next week despite the loss. The Warriors meanwhile will need to improve if they hope to beat Melbourne next week. Warriors 26 Knights 22
Alan
Roar Guru
FULLTIME Warriors 26 Knights 22
Dean - Surry Hills
Guest
All over red rover - Knights looked likely there - big effort from them
Alan
Roar Guru
80' - What a game! Newcastle with the footy. Do or die! Warriors scrum as Newcastle lose the footy down the left edge! Warriors 26 Knights 22
Alan
Roar Guru
79' - Hoffman goes close! Six more but Newcastle get possession as the Warriors lose their heads! Warriors 26 Knights 22
Alan
Roar Guru
Scrum to go down. Warriors in prime position.... Warriors 26 Knights 22
Dean - Surry Hills
Guest
Sun buns - love that Kiwi accent
Dean - Surry Hills
Guest
Whoooaaaa - looks like the fine system is taking effect
Alan
Roar Guru
78' - Newcastle with an error and that is vital. Now both teams exchanging christmas cards! Its all happening here! Warriors 26 Knights 22
Alan
Roar Guru
77' - Game in the balance. Can the Warriors hold on? Johnson finds Fusitua who knocks on after the Kiwi half split Newcastle right open! Knights dodge a bullet.. Warriors 26 Knights 22
Alan
Roar Guru
Hoffman leading from the front here. Superb catch under pressure before charging through to score the match winner it seems! CONVERSION SUCCESSFUL Warriors 26 Knights 22
Alan
Roar Guru
TRY WARRIORS Warriors 24 Knights 22
Alex L
Roar Rookie
Lamb has just had a few terrible terrible minutes, it's almost like both teams have no idea how to win.
Alan
Roar Guru
72' - Warriors right on the attack! Hoffman very well tackled but he still crashes over! Video referee Warriors 20 Knights 22
Dean - Surry Hills
Guest
Great finish coming up
Alan
Roar Guru
70' - Knights right on the attack. Most important set of the match. Warriors holding on. Tuivasa-Sheck with a superb counter attack as he gathers the grubber and races away before finding Johnson who passes to Lolohea who kicks ahead and earns the line drop-out!!! What a play! Warriors 20 Knights 22
Alan
Roar Guru
Forward pass and the Knights with an opportunity to perhaps seal the deal.... Warriors 20 Knights 22