The New Zealand Warriors have held their nerve to beat the Dolphins 20–18 in a tense ANZAC Round clash at Hnry Stadium in Wellington on Saturday night.
The Dolphins made a fast start, surging to an 18–4 lead midway through the first half and putting the Warriors under early pressure with sharp ball movement on the edges. Centre Herbie Farnworth was a standout, producing a strong individual try as the visitors capitalised on field position.
The Warriors regrouped before halftime and returned with greater control, building pressure through sustained possession and improved execution out wide. Their persistence paid off as they gradually closed the gap and shifted momentum in the second half.
Fullback Taine Tuaupiki was central to the comeback, threatening throughout before crossing for the try that levelled the scores late in the match. Halfback Tanah Boyd then converted from the sideline to edge the home side in front.
Winger Alofiana Khan-Pereira continued his impressive form with a double, both tries created by centre Roger Tuivasa-Sheck. On the opposite flank, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak crossed to extend his recent scoring run.
The Dolphins remained in contention until the final moments but were unable to regain the lead, missing a late two-point field goal attempt as the Warriors’ defence held firm.
The result was tempered by injury concerns for the home side, with co-captain Mitch Barnett and centre Ali Leiataua both leaving the field with concussion. Watene-Zelezniak was also placed on report for an alleged hip-drop tackle.
The win lifts the Warriors into second place on the NRL ladder, edging the Wests Tigers and Sydney Roosters on points differential.
The Warriors travel to meet the Parramatta Eels next weekend.
This story was first published on WellingtonNews.nz
