*Archives*

#7) Will the Warriors make the Eight in 2002?
  votes perc
 1.)  Absolutley 38   67%
 2.)  Yes 3   5%
 3.)  Maybe 6   11%
 4.)  No 1   2%
 5.)  No Chance 5   9%
 6.)  Why do you care? 4   7%
  
 123456

Total Votes:  57

6) Who was the Warriors best player in 2001?
  votes perc
 1.)  Ivan Cleary 2   3%
 2.)  Richie Blackmore 1   2%
 3.)  David Myles 1   2%
 4.)  Stacey Jones 35   54%
 5.)  Kevin Campion 8   12%
 6.)  Mark Tookey 2   3%
 7.)  Jason 'Doctor' Death 2   3%
 8.)  Logan Swann 3   5%
 9.)  Other 5   8%
 10.)  None, they all suck! 6   9%
  
 12345678910

Total Votes:  65

Jerry SeuSeu has said he has signed to a club offshore at the end of the year. With the NRL anti-tampering laws it is believed he has signed to an English Superleague Club.

World Sevens Preview

The Warriors yesterday trained with the Auckland Blues Super 12 squad at Cornwall park.

The Big Day Out Music Festival at Ericsson Stadium yesterday was a huge success with 55,000 people at the Warriors home ground. The New Stadium is just some concrete pillars at the moment but it seems to be going according to schedule. Being able to see West Auckland Metal group 8 Foot Sativa and the Warriors Logo from the same vantage point, what more could I want? In other news Sione Faumuina was involved in a minor fight in the Hawkes Bay in the Weekend, it is not a Police Matter but the Warriors are looking into it themselves.

Sione Faumuina has withdrawn from the Warriors Sevens side with injury problems. Francis Meli will take over captancy.

Clinton Toopi has re-signed with the Warriors for another two years

The Warriors have named there eleven man squad for the World Sevens. Sione Faumuina is Captain. Sione Faumuina (c), Haami Lauaki, Louis Anderson, Wairangi Koopu, Clinton Toopi, Francis Meli, Brent Webb, Justin Murphy, Karl Temata, Ali Lauiti'iti, Thomas Leuluai.

Another Trial match has been confirmed. This time in Waikato against the St.George-Illawarra Dragons on Febuary 5th. The preseason so far is as follows;

24th & 25th January: World Sevens @ Sydney

5th February: St.George-Illawarra Dragons @ Waikato Stadium

21st February: Parramatta Eels @ Carrara

29th February: Penrith Panthers @ North Harbour Stadium

Brent Webb was today named in the Emerging Queensland squad for 2004. Go Queensland!

Francis Meli was awarded the Pacific Island Achievement award at the Waitakere City Sports Awards.

PJ Marsh has been cleared to resume upper body weight training. He plans to be back within the first two months of the NRL season next year.

The Roos tour is over, check out the subsite.

Ruben Wiki won the NZRFL player of the year award. Thomas Leuluai was named Rookie of the year. Canterbury Coach Phil Prescott was Coach of the year and Bulls and NZ 'A' captain Shane Beyers was Bartercard Cup player of the year.

The New Zealand Team to play in the Sydney World Sevens was named today. It is coached by Brian McClennan and former New Zealand Nines coach Graeme Norton. Robinson Godfrey, Richard Kinkaid, Khamal Ganley (North Harbour Tigers), Remus Gentles (Eastern Tornadoes), Sosaia Makisi, Stephen Matai (Marist/Richmond), Regan Wigg, Daniel Floyd (Hibiscus Coast), Gary Tupou (Eastern Tornadoes) and Misili Manu (Mt Albert Tigers).

The Warriors have secured another pre-season match up. They will play the Panthers at North Harbour Stadium on the 29th of Febuary.

Bill Harrigan has retired from refereeing. He holds many ARL & NRL records and has long been regarded as the games best Referee.

The Parramatta Eels and the New Zealand Warriors will play a trial game next February on the Gold Coast. It will be at Carrara Stadium on the 21st.

Warriors Player of the Year Awards results.

Player of the Year: Francis Meli

Rookie of the Year: Thomas Leuluai

Players Player: Brent Webb

It has been confirmed that Logan Swanns home next year will be in Bradford. He joins a host of Kiwis at the club led by Bulls Captain Robbie Paul.

Team of the Year Voting is over. The Team is; Webb, Fa'afili, Toopi, Anderson, Meli, Hohaia, Jones (c), SeuSeu, Marsh, Villasanti, Lauiti'iti, Swann, Faumuina. Bench; Betham, Tony, Carlaw, Leuluai/Tookey. Logan Swann was also named the Forums player of the Year.

What an awesome game! Leuluai was great, Faumuina kicked goals, Toopi scored three tries...everything was great. Go the Kiwis!

Former Warrior Paul Rauhihi was named Townsville Bulliten Cowboys Player of the Year in the weekend. Kevin Campion finished second. 

The Kiwis squad for Saturdays game has been announced. Motu Tony, Henry Fa'afili, Vinnie Anderson, Clinton Toopi, Meli, Nigel Vagana, Thomas Leuluai, Nathan Cayless, Monty Betham, Jason Cayless, Jeo Galuvao, Tony Puletua, Ruben Wiki (c). Bench; Awen Guttenbeil, Jerry SeuSeu, Ali Lauiti'iti, Sione Faumuina.

The Womens World Cup has reached the Semi Finals. Head over to the World Subsite for all the news

The Rugby World Cup kicks off tonight. Best of luck to the All-Blacks and Italy, who are coached by former Warriors John Kirwan.

Warriors named in the New Zealand side; Monty Betham Henry Fa'afili, Awen Guttenbeil, Wairangi Koopu, Tevita Latu, Ali Lauti'iti, Jerry SeuSeu, Motu Tony, Clinton Toopi, Francis Meli, Thomas Leuluai, Sione Faumuina, Vinnie Anderson and Richard Villasanti was named in the Kangaroos side.

You can now go vote for the "Forum Player of the Year".

Richard Villasanti has been named in the Kangaroos training squad. This means he is in contention for the Tour of Great Britain and the Test against the Kiwis. He would be the first Warrior to play for the Kangaroos. Only PJ Marsh and Kevin Campion have played State of Origin while at the Warriors.

The Warriors went down to the Panthers 28-20 tonight in Sydney.

Both Canberra and Canterbury are expected to abandon playing the Warriors in Wellington next year.

A Belgian Billionaire is reportedly interested in owning a second NZ Franchise in the NRL. The NZRFL has written to the NRL putting in its support for a second team. David Gallop has stated that expansion is not on the agenda yet but a second NZ side is up there with the Gold and Central coasts as locations.

Tim Mander will control the Warriors/Panthers game this weekend. Walker has luckily signed a two year deal with Sydney City. Eric Watson has put up another 10,000 free tickets for the Warriors match. You can only get them this time at Aussie Stadium in Sydney and at Ticketek in NZ. Each time he does this it costs him roughly $A 250,000!

For reasons unknown the Warriors have offered Chris Walker a contract for next year. He is said to be "seriously considering" the deal.

All of Eric Watson/Vodafone's 10,000 free tickets were snapped up within 25 minutes. Shows how much support there is for the Warriors! In other news barnstorming prop Richard Villasanti has said he wants to play for Australia. He is almost guaranteed to make the Kangaroos Tour at the end of the year if he keeps up his current form.

You can now get to my site via by http://gothe.nzwarriors.com, the usual address http://get.to/Warriors will still work. We will also be holding a 'Forum Player of the Year' poll at http://www.nzwarriors.com, the best Warriors forums out there. Have also just added http://www.nrljewellery.com to the banner links section. Go check them out.

Eric Watson has once again, along with Vodafone, made 10,000 tickets FREE for people with New Zealand passports in Sydney to go to the Warriors/Raiders match. In other news, a plan to fly a Jumbo jet to Sydney for New Zealand fans has been foiled by Sydney Customs who won't allow the plane to arrive and leave on the same day.

I got this great pic today from Christina. Big up to her! In other fan related news I have decided voting will close for Team of the Year on the 19th of October, the day after the Kiwi's test. So get voting!

Meli is the first player to score five tries in the finals series. The Roosters have beaten the Knights 36-8. Tevita Latu did not play because he had pneumonia.

The Warriors have been put in a pool for next year with the Panthers, Knights, Sharks & Western Tigers. We only play these teams once next season while we play every other team twice.

My Predictions for the weekend. Storm, Broncos, Roosters, Warriors. Leaving the Knights and the Raiders eliminated, the Roosters and Storm having the bye and Warriors v Panthers and Broncos v Bulldogs.

The Team for this weekends clash with the bulldogs has been announced, pretty much what you would expect. Logan Swann starting instead of Ali who is on the bench.

congrats to Awen Guttenbeil on 100 games and leading the warriors out for the first time

Website passed 9000 hits on Sunday, yay~! Highlight of running the website since late 1999 is definitely featuring in RLW last year.

A little on Brent Webbs kicking; he took up 10 minutes and 16 seconds of game time or 88 seconds per kick. Chris Walker took up 7 minutes and 28 seconds of game time for only five attempts, working out to be 90 seconds per kick. And Brad Fittlers one kick took 91 seconds!

Former Kiwi and Warrior Quentin Poniga has resigned with the Wigan Warriors for 2004. Another Former Kiwi, Henry Perenara, is out for the rest of the season after injuring his shoulder playing for the Dragons.

Albany Stadium has been confirmed as the venue for the Kiwis Kangaroos clash at the end of the year. The match is on the 18th of October at 5:30 to accommodate Australian TV and NPC. Tickets go on sale on the 1st of September. It will be the 100th time Australia and New Zealand have clashed.

The three Kiwi Development sides were named this week (Junior Kiwis, Schoolboys & 16's). Thomas Leuluai joins five Warriors development players and a handful from other NRL clubs as well as Bartercard cup players. The Junior Kiwis play two tests against the Australian School Boys in New Zealand while our schoolboys travel to Australia and play the Australian schoolboys and the Parramatta 18's. The NZ 16s play three matches in QLD.

The Connecticut Wildcats defeated the Glen Mills Bulls 42-10 after leading 18-2 at halftime. They are only the second team to be both minor premiers and premiers in the same year, and they are a new team this year!

While The NRL is working towards the finals, the Yanks are already there! This weekend at 7pm the Connecticut Wildcats will take on the Glen Mills Bulls in the Grand Final. The Bulls downed the Sharks 22-6 in last weeks Semi with the Wildcats demolishing the New York Knights 58-26 in the other semi.

Greece has announced the dates for its two confirmed matches this year. On the 31st of August they will play NSW Combined Uni's and on the 27th of September it will be the big one, Italy v Greece at Kogrouh Oval. It will be Greece's first International and Italy's first for a while, so looking forward to that!

2003 Kiwi side to play the Kangaroos this Friday:

1.Vaealiki
2.Utai
3.Vagana
4.Toopi
5.Meli
6.Talau
7.Jones
8.Wiki (c)
9.Swain
10.Rauhihi
11.Kearney
12.Puletua
13.Guttenbeil

14.Betham
15.Seu Seu
16.Swann
17.Lauiti'iti

18.Faumuina
19.Galuvao

Well State of Origin is over for another year, and Queensland has finished with a record 36-6 win over the blues. Although they lost the series 2-1 it ended critics who thought Queensland would never win again. I was at the game and must say the stadium is fantastic, efficient and more importantly free public transport took us to and from the game and the food was alright too. Queensland won all three games, winning both the Residents and Police curtain raisers.

English based Kiwis will be unavailible for next Fridays test match against the 'Roos.

Scotland 'A' defeated the first Holland 13-a-side team 22-18. The Dutch side led 18-16 with 12 minutes to go. Scotland Students smashed the Holland 'A' side 48-16.

Russia will tour the South Island next year. The dates are as follows; April 13th v West Coast, April 18th v Southland, April 21st v Otago, April 25th (ANZAC Day) v South Island @ Christchurch. Former Kiwi Coach Bob Bailey will help the Russian coaching staff on there tour.

The New Zealand Combined Services have been confirmed for the 2004 Victory Cup, again to be held in Russia. 2003 featured Russia, BARLA, USA and France with more teams expected in 2004.

Terry Hermansson has been appointed coach of the New Zealand Under 16's team that will play Australia. Former Kiwi and Warrior Aaron Whitaker has joined the New Zealand 'A' training staff.

The Japanese restored some national pride with a 40-12 win in the 'North Pacific Challenge'. The Kagoshima Broncos, Japan Rugby Leagues club champions, defeated the favoured New York Knights, 2002 AMNRL winners.

The USA Tomahawks thrashed the Japanese Samurais 76-6. Last year the result was 26-10 and the last time these two teams clashed it was 28-4.

Greece is now looking likely to tour New Caledonia later this year, this is alongside one of matches with Italy and NSW Universities.

The USA Tomahawks/Japanese Samurais clash is tonight (Friday) USA Time

Former Kiwi Prop Quentin Pongia has been named on the Bench for Wigan this weekend as they take on the Castleford Tigers. It marks a quick rise for Q as he was a player/coach for a French Club only a few weeks ago! Since then he has been bought in to the Dragons side as State of Origin cover and has now signed for the rest of the year at Wigan. The Castleford Tigers have been linked to buying Kiwi Prop Jason Cayless next year. Fellow Roosters Kiwi Prop Andrew Lomu has also been released and is expected togo to the Sharks.

Queensland made a disappointing effort as NSW ran out to a 17-0 lead at halftime, the biggest ever lead for the Cockroaches in a State of Origin match. Queensland in the end lost 27-4. The result gives New South Wales a 2-0 lead and the series. The Third match is on the 16th of July.

State of Origin Squads, Game Two:

Anthony Minichiello (Roosters) Darren Lockyer (Broncos)
Timana Tahu (Knights) Matt Sing (Cowboys)
Matthew Gidley (Knights) Brent Tate (Broncos)
Jamie Lyon (Eels) Tonie Carroll (Broncos)
Michael De Vere (Broncos) Shannon Hegarty (Roosters)
Shaun Timmins (Dragons) Ben Ikin (Broncos)
Andrew Johns (Knights) (c) Shaun Berrigan (Broncos)
Luke Ricketson (Roosters) Shane Webcke (Broncos)
Ben Kennedy (Knights) Michael Crocker (Roosters)
Craig Fitzgibbon (Roosters) Steven Price (Bulldogs)
Jason Ryles (Dragons) Gorden Tallis (Broncos) (c)
Danny Buderus (Knights) Petero Civoniceva (Broncos)
Robbie Kearns (Storm) Travis Norton (Bulldogs)
Luke Bailey (Dragons) Dane Carlaw (Broncos)
Craig Wing (Roosters) Andrew Gee (Broncos)
Bryan Fletcher (Rabbitohs) Scott Sattler (Panthers)
Phil Bailey (Sharks) Matthew Bowen (Cowboys)

The Lancashire squad for the English Origin series has been announced it is as follows; Andy Farrell (Wigan, captain), Steve Prescott (Hull), Paul Wellens (St Helens), Brian Carney (Wigan), Martin Gleeson (St Helens), Paul Sculthorpe (St Helens), Paul Deacon (Bradford), Sean Long (St Helens), Barrie McDermott (Leeds), Danny Sculthorpe (Wigan), Mark Hilton (Warrington), Keiron Cunningham (St Helens), Terry Newton (Wigan), Mike Forshaw (Bradford), Kevin Sinfield (Leeds), Paul Johnson (Wigan), Gary Connolly (Leeds)
 

York Nine Results: French Club FC Lezignan won the York Nines (Fairfax Cup) with a 18-10 win over the York Ironsides in the Final. Zuid Holland won the York City Knights Shield defeating Leeds Akademics. Russian Club Strela Kazan made the semi finals. Unfortunatly the West Indies Exiles did not take part as expected because of low player numbers. Clubs from Ireland, Wales, England, Scotland, France, Holland and Russia all took part with clubs from America and other parts of the world keen to take part next year. Amatuer Four Nations Cup Results: England 28 df Scotland 20, Irish Wolfhounds 32 df Wales 28.

The First stage of the Amatuer Four Nations Championship will be held the weekend of the York Nines. England will take on Scotland in York while Ireland and Wales battle it out in Dublin. This is only the second year of the Championship.

Japan will play the Tomahawks on the 27th of June in the second Annual East-West Challenge. The Challenge was meant to be held in Japan earlier in the year but security scares stopped it happening. It will be held in Jack Pearson's Stadium in Glen Mills. The first 'North Pacific Club Challenge' will also be held that day in Manhattan. It will feature last years AMNRL Champions the New York Knights up against this years Japanese Club Champions the Kagoshima Broncos. Russia will also tour in July with dates to be announced.

New South Wales defeated Queensland 25-12 in the first State of Origin Match. It was played at Lang Park. Match Two will be held at Stadium Australia while Match Three will be back at Lang Park.

Six teams will take part in the Eastern European Cup to be held in Serbia in July. They are; Scotland Amateurs, Scotland Students, RC Cavallion (France), Maroc XIII (Morocco), Serbia and a Serbia Students team

State of Origin sides are to be named later today. Mark Robinson scored in the Barbarians win over the yawnion Wales side. The Barbas also defeated England. AMNRL Results: Philedelphia 22 df Media, Glen Mills 42 df New Jersey Vikings, Connecticut 34 df New York 20, Washington DC 56 df New Jersey Sharks 26.

A New Zealand Combined Services side is expected to tour Russia in 2004. Rugby League Ulster is holding a Nines competition with the support of the Belfast City Council. The teams are: Dublin Blues, Coleraine, Antrim Bulls, London Lions, Antrim Steelers, Ballymena Knights, Belfast and the Bangor Knights.

The York Nines now have recognition from the European Rugby League Federation (ERLF). This will be the first competition in England with recognition from the ERLF. A amateur international between England and Scotland will also feature. Group One: York Ironsides, York RUFC, East Coast Eagles (Eire), Carlisle Centurions , Liverpool Buccaneers, Bridlington Bulls, Group Two: London Koogas, Les Hussards de Paris, Bristol Sonics, Glasgow Bulls, Royal Air Force, Group Three: Avignon, West Indies Exiles, Leeds Akademiks, Worcester Saints, The Army, Group Four: Strela Kazan, Zuid Holland, Durham Tigers, Belfast Bulls, Royal Navy, Group Five: FC Lezignan, South Asia Bulls, Edinburgh Eagles, Cambridge Eagles, Lancaster

The American AMNRL kicks of in two weeks. The Lincoln Conference will contain the New York Knights, Glen Mills Bulls, New Jersey Vikings and the Connecticut Wildcats. The Washington DC Slayers, New Jersey Sharks, Philidelphia Fight and Media Mantarays will make up the Franklin Conference.

Wellington and former Canterbury coach Gerald Stokes has been named coach of the New Zealand 'A' side to tour Great Britain later this year. They will be named from Bartercard Cup players including Warriors playing in the Bartercard Cup. They will play a full Great Britian side in Leeds.

City have defeated Country 17-16 in the NSW Selection match.

France has won the Victory Cup by defeating hosts Russia 29-12. The USA team got totally thrashed in the Bowl Final 70-10 by BARLA.

The ARL board has approved Golden Point Extra Time for State of Origin Clashes. Queensland was apposed to the move but New South Wales had the numbers to push it through.

A West Indies Exiles side will play in the York Nines, The side will be made up of British players with WIndies heritage. The idea is to use this to introduce League into the nations like Lebanon used the World Sevens.

The Victory Cup has started in Russia. France defeated BARLA 30-24 while Russia defeated the USA 44-10. The two winners will take on each other in the final while the two losers will contest the Bowl.

PJ Marsh has been named in the 22-man Queensland Side. Marsh is an almost certainty to fill the Queensland hooker role for all three matches with only injury or a massive form loss looking likely to rule him out. He is the only Warrior in the Squad.

NSW have named a 30 man squad in preparation for the State of Origin. No Warriors players were named in the squad. Only John Carlaw is from NSW in the Warriors Squad.

The USA under 23 side that was planning to tour Japan has cancelled its tour because of current world events. French Club Villenueve has been denied admittance into the British Rugby League premership.

Quentin Pongia has signed with the St George Illawarra Dragons. He will join the squad in July to cover for the props who are expected to be on State of Origin duty. He is currently a player-coach in France.

The USA Tomahawks have defeated the Irish Woolhounds 20-12 in there annual St. Patrick's Day Clash. This is the third year the Tomahawks have won in a row with Ireland winning the first two clashes

The Two new AMNRL Teams have been announced. They are the Washington DC Slayers and the Connecticut Wildcats. The NZ Ambassador to the USA is the Washington DC's club patron. Both will soon have NRL partners announced. The AMNRL will also be split up into two conferences. The Lincoln Conference will contain the New York Knights, Glen Mills Bulls, New Jersey Vikings and the Connecticut Wildcats. The Washington DC Slayers, New Jersey Sharks, Philidelphia Fight and Media Mantarays will make up the Franklin Conference.

Lots of International News Today. Daniel Anderson was officially confirmed as Kiwi Coach. In a press statement that would only come from a New Zealand Sports Organisation the NZRFL wished Anderson the best of luck and hoped he would give the Australians a big walloping. The St. Patricks Day Clash between Ireland and USA is scheduled for the 15th of March. So far each nation has won two matches each with the Tomahawks winning the last two. The AMNRL has plans to expand with two new clubs being added in 2003. The Australian Police have won both there matches in there Morocco tour, defeating a Morocco Emerging side 54-0 and a Residents side 48-0. Both the Moroccan sides have already defeated a Lebanon Residents side this year while the Australian Police defeated the Tomahawks by two points. Lion Red is again the Official jersey sponser of the Kiwis.

The Dutch Sevens have been postponed from the 19th of April to the 24th of May. The best players in the tournament will be selected for the South Holland side which will travel to the York Nines later in the year. In other news Newcastle Knights officials are travelling to Wellington to help the WRL decide if a bid for a new NRL Franchise to be based in the Captial is viable.

Seven people have applied for the Kiwi coaching position. They are: Gary Freeman, Daniel Anderson, Graham Norton, Mark Thompson, Gerald Stokes, Gary Kemble and Stan Martin. Originally only six were announced because Gary Freeman failed to get his application in on time, but the board allowed his to be received after the deadline.

The NZRFL has received Six applicant for the Kiwi Coaching Job. Gerald Stokes is confirmed as one of the candidates with Gary Freeman, Daniel Anderson, Graeme Norton, Gary Kempbell, Tony Kemp, Graeme West & John Akland others rumoured to have applied. If Daniel Anderson did decide to apply he will almost certainly be appointed Kiwi Coach.

Serbia has completed a Two match tour of France with one win and one loss against two French clubs. USA and Ireland are building up to there Saint Patricks Day Clash.

PNG Has proposed to tour New Zealand this year, including at least one test against the Kiwis. PNG did have plans to tour in 2002 but funding problems wiped out that tour. PNG are also touring France and it is likely that they will get a chance to play Great Britain as the Lions warm up for there test series with Australia.

Eleven nations are confirmed to be coming to Auckland for the 2003 Womens World Cup. In 2000 a Womens World Series was held during the Mens World Cup with only three nations participating, Australia, New Zealand and Great Britain. The Eleven nations confirmed are: New Zealand, American Samoa,     Australia, Cook Islands, Great Britain (England&Wales), NZ Maori, PNG, Russia, Samoa, Scotland and Tokelau. Several nations are reportedly interested in the 12th spot.

The 2005 World Cup is likely to only have 8 teams, this is most likely to be held in Britain again. South Africa is one nation that has put its hand up to host the Emerging nation's cup, likely to have more importance as increased pressure is placed on qualifying spots for the World Cup.

Results from the RLIF (Rugby League International Federation): Russia was admitted as a full member, The World Sevens will be a permanent fixture and the Tri Series between GB, NZ and Australia will commence next year. The RLIF now has 11 members: Australia, Great Britain, New Zealand, PNG, France, Russia, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, South Africa and the Cook Islands.

A New Section is up, it details the last five games played by each international country, its got a lot of gaps, some of which are pending (Like Australia isn't on the list yet) But if you want to send in match results or other info go ahead.

Fiji lost to the Cowboys 18-8. England defeated Manly 22-14 before losing to the Eels in the final 48-18.

Fiji df Samoa 26-12, Fiji v Cowboys in Bowl Final. No All-International matches left to be played.

Latest Update: England 30 df France, England v Manly. Lebanon lost to Cowboys 14-10. Next Up: Tonga v Fiji.

International results so far on Day Two of the World Sevens: Russia lost to Cowboys, Lebanon df Storm, Samoa 20 df Tonga 16, Fiji df Newcastle, Aborigines 28 df PNG 16. Upcoming International matches: England v France, Cowboys v Lebanon, Samoa v Fiji, Aborigines v Warriors. Also in a special challenge match the USA lost to the Dolphins 24-12.

How the International teams did yesterday in the World Sevens: Russia: lost 2, Lebanon: lost 2, England: Won 2, Tonga: Lost 2, PNG: Won 1, Lost 1, France: Won 2, Aborigines: Won 1, Lost 1, Samoa: Lost 2, Fiji: Lost 2. Head to head clashes: England 30 df Tonga 8, PNG 8 lost to France 28, Tonga 16 lost to Aborigines 26, France 12 df Samoa 6, England 18 df Aborigines 10, PNG 30 df Samoa 22.

The Aborigines are into the World Sevens after winning the Qualifying on Wednesday. I'll just cover the international pool matches: USA 28 df Japan 4, American Samoa 28 df Italy 16, Aborigines 36 df Japan 0, Aborigines 28 df USA 14. In the Semi Finals Maori df A.Samoa 22-16 and the Aborigines df NSW Country 10-8. In the final the NZ Maori lost 26-12.

A meeting in Paris between the RFL and FRLF has formed the European Federation. Representatives from Scotland, Ireland, Morocco, Lebanon, Russia, Italy and Holland were also present while Wales and Serbia sent apologies. The Federation can only be good for Rugby League Internationally and has already confirmed two tournaments. The Victory Cup will be held in Moscow between Russia, USA and BARLA. The Mediterranean Cup will again be held featuring Lebanon, Morocco, Italy and France. A third competition has also been proposed, the 'European Nations Cup' featuring Scotland, Ireland, Wales, France, Russia and England 'A'.

The Draw for the Wildcard Qualify world sevens, in which nine teams fight for the twenty fourth place at the World Sevens, has been released. There are five International Teams; NZ Maori, USA, Italy, Japan and American Samoa and Four Australian Teams; NSW Country, NASCA Aboriginal, Coogee Dolphins and the Newtown Jets. All the matches will be held on the 29th of January.

he February 3rd Board Meeting in Sydney will see NZ Bid for hosting the 2005 WC. New Zealand has the facilities and capabilities to host the World Cup and it would be a great boost to the game. The UK has held the 1995 and 2000 World Cups and should not hold a third in a row.

In International League News Holland is working on setting up a National Comp. with a Ten-a-Side Cup this year starting it up. In West Coast USA Three teams have been confirmed, Phoenix, Utah and a LA Warriors side which is looking for affiliation with the NZ Warriors.

Tevita Latu has been found guilty on the charge of a grade one dangerous throw. He pleaded not guilty. No word yet on his replacement for sunday.

Sione Faumuina has been moved to halfback for this weekends clash against the Roosters. The rest of the team is the same with Karl Te Mata coming on to the bench after recovering from injury.

Motu Tony, released by the Warriors for the 2004 season has signed a one year deal with the Brisbane Broncos. I hope we don't regret letting him go...

Okay, who voted for Greg Alexander as the Warriors best ever Fullback?!? I updated the best team ever list as voted by you guys and he has 50% of the FB vote, beating guys like Matthew Ridge and Ivan Cleary!

Karl Te Mata has been dropped from the bench for tonight's game against the Storm. He was originally in the five man bench named on Tuesday. Tawera Nikau has had his lower leg amputated after a Bike Crash.

Motu Tony has finally been released by the Warriors. He asked for a release earlier this year but was denied.

Motu Tony will be out for 4-6 weeks because he needs surgery on a dislocated finger. This is the same kind of injury that Clinton Toopi had at the start of the year.

Stacey Jones is out for at least two weeks with a groin injury suffered in the Test Match. It will be interesting to see who is made halfback with Tony and Hohaia seemingly out of favour at the moment.

New Zealand Warriors have signed London Broncos' centre Tony Martin on a three year contract. The 24 year old has been hugely successful in two stints at London, the second time round establishing himself as a top goalkicker which will be his prime asset at the Warriors who have struggled to replace Ivan Cleary in that department. He played in the Melbourne Storm Grand Final winning team and is a Queenslander. Newcastle Knight Matt Jobson has also reportedly signed with us. Although why we need another forward is beyond me.


 

Kiwi Hooker Richard Swain has signed with Hull, he will join Richard Barnett there. Nigel Vagana has not yet signed with a club for 2004 and is reportedly being chased by the Sharks, Bulldogs and a English club. Stephen Kearney is available for the Kiwis July test despite not playing this week for the Storm.

Most reports are indicating the PJ Marsh will be out for the rest of the season, what a cruel blow both for the player and the team. Kiwi Jason Cayless has resigned with them Roosters. Former Warrior Scott Pethybridge has signed for the Rabbitohs for 2004.

Reports are that Ali Lauiti'iti could be back as soon as two or three weeks. Awen Guttenbeil and Lance Hohaia both made there returns against the Rabbits. Robbie Paul broke his arm playing for Bradford and won't be availible for the July test against Australia.

SeuSeu did not play in the match against the Raiders. Clinton Toopi did however make his return to the side. Logan Swann was outstanding.

PJ was not named in the Queensland side for Origin Two due to his injury. He is back in Auckland but in a neck brace. Reports are that Wairangi Koopu has also suffered a neck injury and may be out for quite some time.

PJ Marsh was taken to hospital after being taken off the field on Saturday. His first scans were clear but he was still there Sunday morning and was due to see a specialist.

At the halfway stage of the NRL now, scary huh? I thought I'd show you the team that would be picked at the moment in the Team of the Year Poll. Webb, Fa'afili, Carlaw, Toopi, Meli, Hohaia, Jones, SeuSeu, Marsh, Tookey, Swann, Lauiti'iti and Guttenbeil. With Betham, Anderson Tony and one forward on the bench.

Revamped the Players section, both current and ex-players. Warriors defeated the Sharks yesterday, two players made there debuts, Vince Mellors and Tavita Latu. Both had wonderful games. Also Villasanti is back from injury.

The Warriors have finally given in to the theory that grey shirts don't work by unveiling a new jersey that they will 'trial' this week against the sharks. The Broncos once changed out of there grey uniforms at halftime because they felt they could not see each other in it.

Vince Anderson has signed a long term contract with the Warriors

Logan Swann could be in trouble for assault involving an incident in a nightclub in Auckland after the Bulldogs/Warriors clash. Mark Robinson wore his grey socks while playing for the Barbarians. They defeated the Scotland yawnion side. Ali Lauiti'iti is expected back around Round 16.

The Warriors have announced the signing of former Parramatta backrower Danny Sullivan. Danny was released by the club after suffering several injuries, he will reportedly not be able to play until next year. Sullivan says: "f*$# them". He is a former Junior Kangaroo and was picked by RLW as one of "Seven to Watch" in 2001. Since then injuries have stalled his career. Danny played under Daniel Anderson in the Parramatta Reserve Grade.

Center Clinton Toopi is out for six weeks after having surgery on his left hand. He did not play last week against the Eels and there is said to have been friction between him and Daniel Anderson. Mark 'Sharky' Robinson will play Yawnion for the Barbarians Invitational side from May 25th to 31st. They play England, Scotland and Wales. He was granted a special release by the Warriors. Ali Lauiti'iti got married on Thursday, the Warriors squad was present.

The NZRFL has appointed Peter Cordtz as General Manager. Peter has been the General Manager of the NZRL/Warriors joint development venture. Previously NZRFL Chairman Selwyn Pearson had been acting as Executive Chairman. Also in the news is that former NZRFL President George Rainey passed away aged 73. He also was instrumental in the ARL purchasing Carlaw Park.

It has been revealed that Clinton Toopi could have still played with his hamstring injury. He was dropped because of a poor attitude at training and an incident with coach Daniel Anderson.

Clinton Toopi has pulled his hamstring and is out of the Eels clash. He has been replaced by John Carlaw who was originally left out of the side to get over poor form and injury concerns.

Webb has retained the Fullback jumper for this weeks clash against the Eels. Tony is named on the bench, but injury may still be a factor in the decision

PJ Marsh has been named in the 22-man Queensland Side. Marsh is an almost certainty to fill the Queensland hooker role for all three matches with only injury or a massive form loss looking likely to rule him out. He is the only Warrior in the Squad.

Former All-Black Mark Robinson and Thomas Leuluai both made there debuts for the Warriors tonight in Wellington. Robinson had a fine game with good passes. No word on why Tuimavave did not play.

Lance Hohaia did not play in the weekend because of a leg injury, he has been named for the Panthers clash. Karl Te Mata should return this weekend in the Bartercard Cup. Mark Sharky Robinson scored four tries in the bartercard cup on the weekend.

Koopu and Meli will both play there 50th match for the Warriors this Sunday

David Tua wore a Warriors jersey into the ring today in Pennsylvania. He amazingly drew his rematch against Hasim Rahman.

John Carlaw did not play last night. Vinnie Anderson started in the centers. It is not known how serious Carlaw is injured but he has had a lack of stamina in the first two matches. Carlaw has a shortened pre-season because of injury.

Stacey Jones will not kick this week against the Sea Eagles. Daniel Anderson has said he has a leg strain which he does not want to aggrevate. PJ Marsh is going to be taking the majority of kicks. Awen Guttenbeil is out for 4-6 weeks with a groin strain.

Palea'asina and Tuimavave had awesome games. Karl Te Mata was named but did not play.

The Side for the Bulldogs match has been named - It will be Monty Bethams 50th Game.

Jeremiah Pai has been dropped from the six man bench named against the Knights, either Murphy or Anderson will also be dropped. The Roosters defeated the Eels last night in the first NRL Match of the season. The Eels lacked attacking flair and went down 32-14

Coach Daniel Anderson described his sides 28-20 loss against the Penrith Panthers as being the sides worst performance since he joined the club.

Brent Webb is out until Round 6 after breaking his hand in the Pre-Season trial at North Harbour

The Warriors defeated the Sharks in a high scoring game at North Harbour Stadium. The Warriors Development side lost to the Sharks.

Article Match Review

The Cronulla Sharks thrashed the Canterbury Bulls 62-12 in Christchurch. 4,000 people turned up for the event. The Sharks take on the Warriors at North Harbour Stadium on Saturday. Full sides clash at 5pm while the respective Development sides play at 3. There is also an earlier Bartercard Cup match so three games for $10 is really good value. Get There! In the World Club Challenge the Sydney City Roosters defeated the Saint Helens team 38-0.

The Warriors went down to the Eels 46-16 in the Goldcoast last night. The Warriors had only Seven first graders playing with most of the rest of the players playing in bartercard cup or age group sides in 2002. The Warriors used 18 players, the Eels 20.

Daniel Anderson has named the starting line up of the Warriors side for there first 13-a side match this year. They play the Eels on the Goldcoast. It is a young side and features Vince Mellors, Thomas Lulawai, Tevita Latu, Dallas Rennie, Louis Anderson and Jerome Ropati - all who have not played a NRL game. Full squad in Match Preview section.

The Warriors lost to the Bulldogs 24-18 in the Plate Final. The Cowboys won the Bowl, defeating Fiji 18-8. Parramatta defended there 1997 World Sevens title by beating England 48-18.

The Warriors have reached the World Sevens Plate Final after defeating the Aborigines, 28-16. They play the Bulldogs who defeated the Panthers 28-20 in there Semi Final.

The Warriors defeated the Tigers 20-16. They play the Aborigines in a plate Semi Final and the winner will play the winner of the Bulldogs/Panthers match. The Panthers defeated the Broncos to earn there place in the Semis.

The Warriors play the Tigers in a Plate Quarterfinal today. The Winner will play either The Aborigines or PNG. The Winner of that Semi Final will play either The Bulldogs, Roosters, Panthers or Broncos in the Plate Final.

We have a new section just to cover International News, this section will now focus on the Warriors and other NRL news. The Warriors yesterday lost to the Dragons 24-16 and defeated Fiji 36-4. They take on the Tigers today in a Plate Quarterfinal.

The Aborigines are into the World Sevens after winning the Qualifying on Wednesday. I'll just cover the international pool matches: USA 28 df Japan 4, American Samoa 28 df Italy 16, Aborigines 36 df Japan 0, Aborigines 28 df USA 14. In the Semi Finals Maori df A.Samoa 22-16 and the Aborigines df NSW Country 10-8. In the final the NZ Maori lost 26-12. In other news, It is confirmed that Ali is out for six months rather than only 3.

Ali Lauiti'iti is out for three to six months after being diagnosed with having a cyst in his arm. If Ali does not have surgery he could risk breaking his arm by playing.

Two team photos were taken today, one with Mark Robinson and one without. The Warriors seem to be bending over backwards to accommodate Sharky, who has not committed to the club yet.

A 14 Man Squad for the World Sevens has been announced. The Team will be cut down to 10 before the Tournament starts on the 1st of February. It features PJ Marsh as captain and the debut of Mark Robinson.

Warriors squad: PJ Marsh (c), Ali Lauiti'iti, Wairangi Koopu, Karl Te Mata, Jeremiah Pai, Motu Tony, Clinton Toopi, Mark Robinson, Justin Murphy, Sione Faumuina, Jerome Ropati, Thomas Leuluai, Tevita Latu, Mark Tookey.

Likely Ten: PJ Marsh (c), Ali Lauiti'iti, Wairangi Koopu, Clinton Toopi, Mark Robinson, Justin Murphy, Mark Tookey, Jeremiah Pai, Motu Tony and Karl Te Mata/Sione Faumuina

A meeting in Paris between the RFL and FRLF has formed the European Federation. Representatives from Scotland, Ireland, Morocco, Lebanon, Russia, Italy and Holland were also present while Wales and Serbia sent apologies. The Federation can only be good for Rugby League Internationally and has already confirmed two tournaments. The Victory Cup will be held in Moscow between Russia, USA and BARLA. The Mediterranean Cup will again be held featuring Lebanon, Morocco, Italy and France. A third competition has also been proposed, the 'European Nations Cup' featuring Scotland, Ireland, Wales, France, Russia and England 'A'.

The Draw for the Wildcard Qualify world sevens, in which nine teams fight for the twenty fourth place at the World Sevens, has been released. There are five International Teams; NZ Maori, USA, Italy, Japan and American Samoa and Four Australian Teams; NSW Country, NASCA Aboriginal, Coogee Dolphins and the Newtown Jets. All the matches will be held on the 29th of January.

Former All Black Halfback Mark Robinson has begun training with the Warriors. He has not signed a contract and may sign with a European Yawnion club at any time but Mick Watson said if hes still keen he will be guaranteed one pre-season match.

The February 3rd Board Meeting in Sydney will see NZ Bid for hosting the 2005 WC. New Zealand has the facilities and capabilities to host the World Cup and it would be a great boost to the game. The UK has held the 1995 and 2000 World Cups and should not hold a third in a row.

The nominations for the Halberg Trust awards feature only Stacey Jones in the sportsman of the year category. The Warriors were the unlucky team to miss out in the Team of the Year nominations and NRL Coach of the Year Daniel Anderson was unlucky to miss out for a nomination in the Coach category.

In International League News Holland is working on setting up a National Comp. with a Ten-a-Side Cup this year starting it up. In West Coast USA Three teams have been confirmed, Phoenix, Utah and a LA Warriors side which is looking for affiliation with the NZ Warriors.

And now for some actual news :O, Stacey Jones has been awarded the Golden Boot for best International player of the year. The World Sevens are on Feb 1-2 in Sydney.

Heres my High score on the demo:

 

The new NRL Demo is out and is great, wouldn't you love to see the score above as the Grand Final result? The Warriors team is the 2003 side with Webb at Fullback and Betham at Lock. Jones, as you can see, does the kicking. I had Mark Tookey kick a field goal once! (which was recorded as two points - still some bugs in the game as it is due to be released in August, so quite a way off) But its a great demo for not much more than four months work - lets see how much better the full version is in another 8 months!

Mark Robinson was seen with Mick Watson and Daniel Anderson. He currently plays Union for North Harbour and the Auckland Blues. He plays Halfback in Union and "Would make a great Hooker". But we've got a great hooker?

Prime has secured the Free to Air rights to the Warriors. They have paid $2 million to Sky TV for the rights, outbidding TV3. They will also screen a feature game of the Week. Unfortunately the West Coast and Northland cannot get Prime. Prime has promised to screen games no later than two hours after the kick off and not make way for other programmes.

You have to feel for Sean Hoppe, no dream end to his career

There will be no draws next year, The NRL has announced all drawn matches at fulltime will go into Golden Point extra time.

The 2003 NRL Draw has been released: Rd 1: Knights (H) Rd 2: Bulldogs (H) Rd 3: Sea Eagles (A) Rd 4: Rabbitoes (H) Rd 5: Broncos (A) Rd 6: Cowboys (H) Rd 7: Panthers (H) Rd 8: Bulldogs (A) Rd 9: Eels (H) Rd 10: Bye Rd 11: Raiders (A) Rd 12: Panthers (A) Rd 13: Sharks (H) Rd 14: Eels (A) Rd 15: Raiders (H) Rd 16: Rabbitoes (A) Rd 17: Cowboys (A) Rd 18: Sea Eagles (H) Rd 19: Sharks (A) Rd 20: Bye (Aus v NZ) Rd 21: Storm (H) Rd 22: Dragons (A) Rd 23: Knights (A) Rd 24: Broncos (H) Rd 25: Roosters (A) Rd 26: West Tigers (H) The Teams we only play once are: Roosters, Dragons, Storm and Tigers.

Evan Tuimavave and Brent Webb have injury worries

Pre-Season Matches: 8th February vs Eels @ Gold Coast

22nd February vs Sharks @ North Harbour Stadium

28th February vs Panthers @ Invercargill

New Zealand Kiwis 24 lost to Australian Kangaroos 32. Junior Kiwis 56 vs Junior Kangaroos 10!

Voting for the 2002 Team of the Year is closed. Cleary, Fa'afili, Toopi, Jones, SeuSeu, Lauiti'iti and Campion all retain there spots. Guttenbeil moves from the bench to the starting line up, Meli, Tony and Villasanti all fall from the starting line up to the bench. And Carlaw, Murphy, Hohaia, Marsh, Tookey and Webb replace Koopu, Betham, Swann, Wood, Death and Hape. Jones takes the captancy from Campion. Both all time team's(one is by voting and one is by a points system) will be updated tomorrow.

Mark Tookey and Brent Webb are playing in a Emerging Origin squad against the QLD Residents on Sunday. Meli to face a fitness test today, Fa'afili has been bought in to cover. Both the South Sydney Juniors and British Army Engineers are touring the American East coast later this year. Finally an Australian team doing something to help International RL!

Michael Smith and Tevita Vaikona have been named in the Super League Dream Team for 2003. Andrew Lomu has failed to assemble in Wellington, the cause is apparently "Mad-Monday" The Traditional drinking session after the NRL Season. He is expected in Wellington tonight.

So close, yet so far! 80,130 players packed Telstra Stadium to watch The Warriors go down 30-8 against the Sydney City Roosters. The Warriors were ahead 8-6 with only 20 minutes to go. Roosters defeated the Dragons 23-22 to win the Jersey Flegg. And the Dragons reserve side also lost 24-22 to the Bulldogs. Half of the North Shore had a power cut during the second half of the Grand Final, the cut was reportedly caused by a possum! The Kiwi side has been announced: David Vaealiki, Matt Utai, Nigel Vagana, Clinton Toopi, Franis Meli, Lance Hohaia, Stacey Jones(c), Paul Rauhihi, Richard Swain, Jerry SeuSeu, Ali Lauiti'iti, Ruben Wiki, Stephen Kearney, Bench: David Solomona, Andrew Lomu, Motu Tony, Awen Guttenbeil, Jason Cayless, Logan Swann. 10 Warriors and 2 Roosters in the side. The Bradford Bulls have qualified for the ESL Grand Final. The NZ Maori defeated Tonga 50-6.

What a week for my computer to break down. So much news I've missed so lets recap: The Warriors have a Welcome home planned on Monday win or lose. It will go from 5pm till 9 and feature local DJ's. Eric Watson has said he would not sell the Warriors for $1B, he is in for the long haul. An unchanged line up is announced for Sunday. Air New Zealand and Qantus have put on extra flights to Australia this week. The Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition and several other ministers will be at the Grand Final. Helen Clark is a long time League fan. John Banks, Aucklands Major has made a bet with his Sydney counterpart, the loser will fly the other clubs flag over there town hall for a week, this bet is similar to the one made between the NSW and QLD governors during the origin series. Sky Digital subscribers will have three options for this weekend, The NZ commentators, the Australian classic commentators and the Maori commentators. UHF and TV3 will have the NZ'ers commentating. Gordan Tallis has concedded that Ali Lauti'iti is a better second rower. Both National Anthems will be played on Sunday. Warriors Jerseys have sold out in Sydney. After 8 Years, 211 Games and 282 Hours the Warriors are only 80 minutes away from premiership Glory.

The Warriors are joining the Roosters in the Grand Final after defeating the Sharks 16-10 in a classic arm wrestle at Telstra Stadium.

The Roosters are the first team into the Grand Final after beating the Broncos 16-12 tonight at Aussie Stadium. 

New Zealand 'A' thrashed France 'A' 56-18. 1,500 watched the game in Rodez. New Zealand led 28-8 at Halftime. Tries: Lee Finnerty 2, Daniel Floyd, George Carmont, Archie Ikehele, Phillip Leulai, David Fa’Alogo, Jonny Limmer Goals: Daniel Floyd 5 from 8 Team: Lee Finnerty (Mt Albert), Daniel Floyd (Hibicus Coast), David Fa’Alogo (Mt Albert), George Carmont(Otahuhu), Archie Ikehele(Otahuhu), Gavin Bailey(Glenora), Ben Lythe(Mt Albert), George Tuakura(Otahuhu), Tevita Latu(Marist Richmond), Hutch Maiava(Mt Albert), Phillip Leulai (Eastern), Tyrone Pau(Hibicus Coast), Jonny Limmer(Wellington); Subs: Steve Buckingham(Mt Albert), Karl Guttenbeil(Marist Richmond), Fui Fui Moi Moi(Glenora), Wayne Barnett(Manureva)

The NRL has limited the number of tickets that Cullen Investment were able to give out to 5,000. This was so "the Ticketek offices can get back to selling tickets for all their events, including Saturday’s Roosters v Broncos game at Aussie Stadium". Ticketek was overwelled today by New Zealanders lining up for free tickets to Sundays match.

Vodaphones 10,000 free tickets took only two hours to sell out! But no one will miss out because Eric Watsons Cullen Investments has bought another 10,000 tickets and are giving them away as well. That means we can expect well over 20,000 Kiwis to be at Telstra Stadium this Sunday. Awesome!

Vodaphone has bought 10,000 tickets to Sundays Match at Telstra Stadium. These tickets are going to be given away for free to any ex-pat Kiwis who take there passports to an Australian Ticketek office. The NRL has also paid for the Mad Butcher to fly over to Australia to drum up support. This is after the NRL paid for an ad in the Sydney Daily Telegraph reading "We've already lost one to Queensland - we don't want to lose one to New Zealand" The Warriors Oz Army will be located in bays 106 and 107 in the ground.

Monty Betham has been named in the Warriors side for the Weekends Semi Final against the Cronulla Sharks. However he is named in a nine strong bench and with five to be ommited he might not be in the squad. In other news Tim Mander will be the referee for the match after Sean Hampstead was stood down by the NRL.

The Warriors will play the Sharks next week after they defeated the Dragons. The other Semi Final will feature Brisbane and the Roosters.

This weeks League Week features this website in its League Online section. "A Warriors fan site put together with much love and attention by Matthew McIvor and providing a ton of information on the current minor premiers. Click on the Team of the Year link off the homepage for a walk down memory lane through some of the chronically under-achieveing teams who've taken to the field wearing the Warriors jersey through the 1990's. The look's not that sophisticated but there's lots of news, opinions, player profiles, polls and pictures - a top little effort."

 

The Kiwi squad has been announced and features 11 Warriors. The suprise new face is Michael Smith a prop who plays for Castleford. He is a former North Harbour number 8, go Harbour!

Nathan Cayless (Eels) (Captain)

David Solomona (Eels)

David Vaealiki (Eels)

Tony Puletua (Panthers)

Paul Rauhihi (Bulldogs)

Matt Utai (Bulldogs)

Nigel Vagana (Bulldogs)

Jason Cayless (Roosters)

Stephen Kearney (Storm)

Richard Swain (Storm)

Robbie Paul (Bradford Bulls)

Tevita Vaikona (Bradford Bulls)

Craig Smith (Wigan Warriors)

Michael Smith (Castleford Tigers)

Ruben Wiki (Raiders)

Monty Betham

Henry Fa'afili

Awen Guttenbeil

Lance Hohaia

Stacey Jones

Ali Lauiti'iti

Francis Meli

Jerry SeuSeu

Logan Swann

Motu Tony

Clinton Toopi

Rumors that Bradford had signed Ali Lauiti'iti are false. Willie Talau and Nathan Cayless will miss the NZ v Australia test.

Dally M. Awards

Player of the Year: Andrew Johns

Provan Summons Medal: Andrew Johns

Coach of the Year: Daniel Anderson

Captain of the Year: Steve Price

Rookie of the Year: Matt Utai

Rep Player of the Year: Danny Buderus

Fullback: Darren Lockyer

Wing: Lote Tuqiri

Center: Nigel Vagana

Standoff: Brad Fittler

Halfback: Andrew Johns

Lock: Steve Menzies

Second Row: Ali Lauiti'iti

Prop: Shane Webke

Hooker: Danny Buderus

The NRL Website claims Monty Betham could make a shock return for the NRL Playoffs. I personally think this is a bad idea, we have form players at the moment and he will not be match fit.

Results from the Player of the Year Awards:

Player of the Year: Ali Lauiti'iti

Rookie of the Year: Brent Webb & Lance Hohaia

Fans Choice: Stacey Jones

The Doggies have been fined $500,000 and stripped of 37 competition points. The Warriors are now first and the Bulldogs are last.

The Canterbury Bulldogs have admitted breaching the salary cap by $600,000 last year and $400,000 this year! 

A test against Tonga is expected to replace the cancelled test against PNG later this year.

A fan died in the Crowd minutes before kick off at the Bulldogs match. Seventy-one year old Joyce Thiele of Manurewa died suddenly from what appeared to be a heart attack shortly after taking her seat in the West Stand of Ericsson Stadium. The incident occurred as the two teams were about to take the field. Security and emergency medical staff were on the scene immediately but failed to revive Mrs Thiele.

Ivan Cleary has passed 200 points this season, his first conversion in last nights match against the Doggies breaking the double century. He is equal with El Masri at the top of the point scoring list with 208 points. His is 6 goals clear of El Masri on the Goal Scoring list with 92 goals. Lauiti'iti leads the offloads with 69 (John Hopoate second with 64) and Stacey Jones leads the 'Try Assists' table with 20 (Andrew Johns and Brett Sherwin have 19 each) 

Six Pacific nations have registed themselves for the South Pacific Games to be held next year in Fiji. They are Fiji, PNG, Tonga, Samoa, The Cook Islands and Nuie. New Caladonia is also rumored to be entering.

Interesting stuff from the French Transfer market:

Quentin Pongia(Sydney) to Paris-Chatillon as player/coach

Brad Kelly(Manly) to Toulouse XII

Justin Morgan(Warriors) to Toulouse XII as player/coach

Boycie Nelson(Otahuhu Leopards) to Limoux

Johnaton Smith(Otahuhu Leopards) to Limoux

Mark Faumuina(Toulouse XII) to Villefranche

Peter Lewis(Mt Albert Lions) to Limoux

Sala Faalogo(Mt Albert Lions) to Limoux

The Warriors have signed two more youngsters - Vince Mellars and Karl Te Mata

Ali Lauiti'iti has been signed until 2006

The Warriors have signed 18 year old Dallas Rennie from the Hibiscus Coast Raiders. He is a prop and has performed sensationally in the bartercard cup. He has been a NZ rep in both Uner 16 and U18.

The PNG Team has pulled out of there scheduled test match with New Zealand later in the year.

Koopu is out for the next two months after breaking a bone in his foot

Matthew Utai has said he will be eligible for the Kiwis!

Top NRL Referee Bill Harrigan gets dropped for Round 18 for sin binning four eels in one match.

Warriors fail to get 10 year license

Warriors continue being unbeaten in Australia this year with a 26-10 win over the Broncos. They had never won at ANZ before.

Kevin Campion and Motu Tony have both pleaded guilty and will miss a week - against the Broncos.

Shontayne Hape has been reported to be going to the Bradford Bulls next year on a big money two year deal. Hape plays mostly on the Wing at the Warriors but will be probably used as a center next year at the Bulls. In other news Mick Watson expects Tookey to re-sign before Tuesday and Four clubs (Tigers, Eagles, Warrington Wolves & London Broncos) are reportedly chasing Ivan Cleary.

Jerry SeuSeu has pleaded guilty to a careless high tackle and will miss the Match against the Broncos as well as this weeks clash with the Dragons.

Russia and the USA are set to clash around the July 4th Holiday weekend. Plans are also being made for a two test tour of Russia by the American Tomahawks. The Australian and English Rugby League bodies should have a look at the AMNRL to see how to run both a successful national and international scene at the same time.

Justin Morgan, Logan Swann and David Myles have all been released from the club.

Stacey Jones has re-signed for 'life' or four years. He will be 30 when this deal finishes and he may not play in the NRL after that.

The site has remained un-updated while my computer has been down

Ivan Cleary has been told he will be released at the end of the year. 2002 is the fullbacks third year at the club. It is expected that Webb and Tony will replace him at fullback and Tony, Marsh and Jones will all share Goal Kicking duties. He has made 38 appearances for the Warriors. 33 under the New Zealand Warriors name.

We all knew that most Australians are crazy but one punter has just put $1,000,000 on Parramatta winning (losing?) the woden spoon this year!

Queensland defeated the Cockroaches 26-18 with Mr 'TBA' Lote Tuqiri scoring 18 points, a Queensland record.

The USA Tomahawks defeated the Japanese Samarais 26 - 10 in Philadelphia. This is build up to the six team AMNRL comp. that kicks off soon. The teams involved are: Philadelphia Fight, New York Knights, Media Mantarays, Glen Mills Bulls (Four time Champions), New Jersey Sharks and the Wilmington Vikings (Debut Season).

Jones makes early come back. Jones started today against the sharks in what was a shock move after reportedly targeting the Cowboys match next week for his comeback. Myles was dropped from the bench and Tony was dropped from the starting line up.

Lance Hohaia has signed for two more years making him a Warrior till 2004.

Vinnie Anderson is out for two to three weeks after wrenching his knee. This comes after yesterday being named in the side to take on the Sharks. David Myles will replace him on the bench.

The Sharks have named Peter Cook as there 18th man. He has not been recorded playing in either First Division or Jersey Flagg. And no one has reported a new signing. Even sharks fans have no answers?

PJ Marsh will get his first Queensland Cap in Origin Two, Campion has been dropped from the side.

Awen Guttenbeil has had his contract extended untill 2004.

Justin Murphy (24), Wirangi Koopu (22), Brent Webb (21) and Richard Villasanti (21) have all had there contracts extended. Jeremiah Pai (20) and Vinnie Anderson (23), Eastern Tornadoes and Mt Albert Lions respectively, have both been added to the full-time NRL squad.

Warriors have re-signed P-J Marsh until 2005. At only 22 he is a player that the club can be built around along with Stacey Jones. "Signing a long-term deal with Mick [Watson - Warriors CEO] allows me to focus on my goals of playing State of Origin and winning a grand final with the Warriors." P-J Marsh

Ivan Cleary will become the Warriors tenth captain this week when we play the Knights

Warriors star halfback Stacey Jones is only going to be out for three weeks, it was originally feared that he would miss eight weeks.

Site passes 7000, yay, lol

Betham surgery successful, may be back for playoffs and Kiwi Tests

Warriors beat the Cowboys 50-20 in there biggest NRL win away from home. Ivan Cleary equaled the club record of eight goals in a match and had a personal haul of 20 points. 

Injury update: Betham will miss 8 weeks at best, Hape out for season, Palea'asina to miss 2 weeks, Carlaw will play on Saturday.

Matthew Ridge has stepped down from the board of directors but will remain as a share holder

A New Zealand 'A' side will tour America while the Kiwis are in GB. The A Team will be made up of players no involved in the PNG/GB/France tour and will likely include some Bartercard Cup Stars.

The full Kiwis itinerary for 2002 follows:

Date Opposition and Venue (if known)
12 October Australia, Wellington
14 October Depart for UK
15 October Arrive UK
18 October Northern Ford Premiers - TBA
19 October Attend Super League Grand Final
23 October Hull - Boulevard
27 October Super League Grand Final Winners - TBA
29/30 October England A - London
2 November Wales - Cardiff
10 November Great Britain – 1st Test - Blackburn
17 November Great Britain – 2nd Test - Huddersfield
24 November Great Britain – 3rd Test – Wigan
30 November/1 December France - TBA
The Bartercard New Zealand ‘A’ itinerary is as follows:

Date Opposition and Venue (To Be Confirmed)
17 October United States of America
22 October Catalan
25 October France
29 October Pyranees

Campion in doubt for Knights match after receiving a gash above the eye against the Roosters. 

The Warriors official site is at last online although a few bugs have yet to be sorted out.

Shontayne Hape, The Warriors 1st choice winger ahead of Meli, Fa'afili and Murphy, has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. He injured his knee in a tackle after catching a kick during the first 5 minutes of the Warriors/Roosters match.

Warriors 21 - Roosters 14: Stats, Report

Melbourne and North Queenstown have both been fined $90,000 each by the NRL for salary caps breaches.

Warriors beat the Waitakere Cowboys/Auckland XII 66-24. A Rugby Legends team beat a League Legends side in a hybrid union/league curtainraiser. The match had 4 League style tackles before going into a Union style Ruck-Maul system.

If your in West Auckland on Saturday for just $2 you can watch the New Zealand Warriors play the Waitakere Cowboys at Waitakere Stadium!

The Warriors beat the rabbitoes 24-20 at Carlaw Park. Match Review, Article

The Warriors drew their first match this season, 30 all against the Sharks at Jade Stadium 

The Warriors open day attracted c. 12,000 people including the Prime Minister. Monty Betham was announced as captain for 2002! Betham debuted in 1999 under Mark Graham but only last year was elevated from a Utility bench player to the sides starting Hooker.

The Warriors Official Website, www.warriors.co.nz, has been updated for the first time since the Club was sold to Eric Watson in 2000. This shows that the club is commited to having a website for the 2002 NRL season. Right now you can subscribe to be notified when the site does go live and you can send in suggested content.

The NRL Draw has been released and the Warriors are the unlucky team to get their bye in round one. Week two sees us play the Roosters and week three the Knights. Surprisingly we again play the Knights in round ten! However our last two rounds should be easier with the West Tigers and the Sea-Eagles. Our other bye is recieved on the week Australia meets England, it was originally scheduled to be Australia vs New Zealand. 

Homesick Kiwi Sione Faumuina has signed with the Warriors for three years.  The Raiders and the Warriors finally settled on a transfer fee which will see Faumuina cross the tasman to play for the Warriors. He Started nine games for the Raiders in 2001 and came of the bench twice. He scored eight points from two tries.

Former West Tigers centre John Carlaw has joined the Auckland based NRL club on a two year contract. 26 year old Carlaw has played 101 first grade games and has spent the last three seasons with West Tigers and Balmain. He can play Wing and Center but is speculated to be used in the Centers. He has said that in 1998 when the Mariners folded he seriously thought about joining the Warriors. He was the Tigers top try scorer last season with nine tries

Age: 26
D.O.B: 6 February 1975
Weight: 92 kg
Height: 186 cm
Position: Utility Back

 

4)Which Year was the Warriors best?
  votes perc
 1.)  1995 13   25%
 2.)  1996 1   2%
 3.)  1997 3   6%
 4.)  1998 1   2%
 5.)  1999 1   2%
 6.)  2000 1   2%
 7.)  2001 27   53%
 8.)  No Opinion 4   8%
  
 12345678

Total Votes:  51

5)Who will be the Warriors leading Points Scorer?
  votes perc
 1.)  Richie Blackmore 1   3%
 2.)  Cliff Beverley 1   3%
 3.)  Ivan Cleary 18   58%
 4.)  Clinton Toopi 1   3%
 5.)  Justin Murphy 0   0%
 6.)  Shontane Hape 2   6%
 7.)  Henry Fa'afili 4   13%
 8.)  David Myles 0   0%
 9.)  Stacey Jones 2   6%
 10.)  Other 2   6%
  
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Total Votes:  31

3)Who should be the Warriors captain?

 

votes

perc

 1.)  Kevin Campion

10  

48%

 2.)  Logan Swann

2  

10%

 3.)  Jason Death

5  

24%

 4.)  Stacey Jones

3  

14%

 5.)  Other

1  

5%

  

 

1

2

3

4

5

Total Votes:  21

2) Who will the Warriors miss the most?
  votes perc
 1.)  Joe Vagana 5   12%
 2.)  Nigel Vagana 3   7%
 3.)  John Simon 4   10%
 4.)  Robert Mears 11   27%
 5.)  Terry Hermansson 5   12%
 6.)  Scott Pethybridge 1   2%
 7.)  Other 12   29%
  
 1234567

Total Votes:  41

1) Who was the Warriors best player of 2000?

 

votes

perc

 1.)  John Simon

10  

9%

 2.)  Stacey Jones

30  

26%

 3.)  Robert Mears

45  

39%

 4.)  Jason Death

25  

22%

 5.)  Ivan Cleary

5  

4%

  

 

1

2

3

4

5

Total Votes:  115