Witt and Hohia combine well in Warriors win
NZ Warriors have notched up a big score in their trial win over Auckland Lions. Focus was also on Bill Harrigan who made his return from retirement to adjuicate this fixture.
The Warriors side was made up mainly of the new buys and a large group of youngsters coming through the local comp ranks. A few recognisable faces were present in: Todd Byrne, Tony Martin, Loius Anderson, Lance Hohia and former rising star Epalahame Lauaki who gets another shot. (Lauaki, was at one stage compared to former Warriors star Ali Lauitiiti)
The game was reffed by none other than Billy Harrigan, who received a loud welcome from the crowd, and he was soon in control of a game that was played at an intensity which belied the fact it was a trial match. Big hits were the order of the day, however Harrigan hasn't lost his touch and controlled the flow well.
(Left: Former Warriors Star, Ali Lauitiiti)
The Warriors had named Hohia at fullback and Rovelli at halfback, but Hohia was rotated into the half role and his combination with Witt was impressive. Lauaki also impressed for the Warriors.
The final score of 64-4 to the Warriors does not reflect the intensity of the game. The Lions threw everything they had at the Warriors and only superior defense by the NRL franchise saved the score from becoming much closer.Warriors to stand out were, Witt, Hohaia, Crockett and Lawrie.
The Lions, coached by Kiwi assistant coach Graham Norton, can go home with their heads held high. They were beaten by a team who were out to impress and took the Lions by surprise.
Lions to impress, Kapi, Buckingham, Toimoana, Paora Packer.
(Below: Epalahame Lauaki)
Warriors:1 Lance Hohaia 2 Todd Byrne 3 Tony Martin 4 Cooper Vuna 5 Michael Crockett 6 Michael Witt 7 Grant Rovelli 8 Sam Rapira 9 George Gatis 10 Evarn Tuimavave 11 Epalahame Lauaki 12 Louis Anderson 13 Corey Lawrie 14 Sonny Fai 15 Wayne McDade 16 Russell Packer 17 Constantine Mika 18 Malo Solomona 20 Miguel Start 21 Scott Jones
Vodafone Warriors 64 defeated Auckland Lions 4
Scorers:
Warriors 64
Tries: Hohaia (3) Byrne (2) Martin, Lawrie, Vuna, Witt, Gatis, R Packer, Crockett.Con: Martin 3/6 Witt 5/6
Lions 4
Tries: Number 20 Con
John 0/1
Referee: Bill Harrigan
Crowd: 7000 (approx)
