The Warriors find themselves in a dire situation as they contend with a mounting injury crisis following their recent match against the Panthers. Key players Marata Niukore and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak were both sidelined during the first half due to separate incidents, further complicating the team’s challenges, especially with halfback Luke Metcalf also struggling with a leg injury later in the game.
In the early stages of the second half, despite the disruptions, the Warriors managed to seize the lead against the reigning premiers. However, they ultimately faltered, losing 28-18, a result that propels the Panthers into the top eight for the first time this season.
Niukore was the first casualty, forced off the field after failing a Head Injury Assessment (HIA) due to a head clash with teammate Moala Graham-Taufa while trying to tackle Panthers half Blaize Talagi. The impact left Niukore dazed, with visible injury as blood flowed from his nose, causing concern among the crowd and commentators.
Curiously, while Niukore underwent the HIA, Graham-Taufa also appeared affected, yet he remained on the field. Shortly before half-time, Watene-Zelezniak joined his teammate on the sidelines, injuring his knee during a tackle by Scott Sorensen, who was subsequently placed on report for a hip-drop tackle.
Metcalf, in the second half, looked limited by his leg injury, notably failing to engage in play throughout an entire set, raising alarms from commentators about his condition.
The Warriors are now gearing up for their upcoming match against the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium next Saturday, hoping to navigate the challenges presented by injuries within their squad.