Harold Matthews Cup: Lost to Cronulla Sutherland Poses a big setback for warriors

The inaugural season of the Harold Matthews Cup (under-17) competition for the One New Zealand Warriors took a disappointing turn as they faced a significant setback in their quest for a playoff berth. Their aspirations were dealt a severe blow in a pivotal eighth-round encounter against Cronulla Sutherland, held at Pukekohe’s Navigation Homes Stadium on Sunday, ending in a disheartening 10-40 defeat.

Entering the match, the Warriors found themselves in a precarious position, tied with the Sharks at 10 points and vying for a spot in the top six, which was crucial for playoff contention. Their path to the playoffs necessitated victories in their remaining two matches.

However, Cronulla Sutherland displayed no leniency, swiftly notching up three converted tries to establish an imposing 18-0 lead. Although the Warriors managed to respond with a try by Jeremiah Lemana, narrowing the deficit to 4-18, their relief was short-lived. The Sharks continued their dominance, heading into halftime with a commanding 24-4 lead, extending it to 30-4 early in the second half, and further to 34-4 shortly thereafter.

Amidst the onslaught, the Warriors found a brief moment of respite with a try from Isaiah Savea, but the Sharks promptly sealed the contest with their seventh try. Consequently, the Warriors plummeted to seventh place on the ladder, while the Sharks ascended to fifth with 12 points. Meanwhile, the Manly Sea Eagles climbed to sixth place on points difference following their 30-4 victory over Balmain.

To salvage their playoff aspirations, the Warriors face a daunting task in their final match against the lowly-ranked St George Illawarra next week, needing a substantial victory. Additionally, their fate hinges on the outcome of the Sea Eagles’ match against the Central Coast Roosters. Currently, the Sea Eagles hold a favorable points difference of plus 12, whereas the Warriors’ deficit widened to minus 25 after their hefty loss to Cronulla Sutherland.