Warriors Concerned Over Watene-Zelezniak's Injury Ahead of NRL Season Opener
The Warriors are anxious about the fitness of Dallin Watene-Zelezniak due to a wrist injury, impacting their preparations ahead of the NRL season opener in Las Vegas.
The Warriors are concerned about Dallin Watene-Zelezniak's fitness as the try-scoring winger is in doubt for round one in Las Vegas after suffering a wrist injury during the Pre-Season Challenge clash with Cronulla.
Watene-Zelezniak was forced off the field within the opening 10 minutes of the match. He started with both wrists strapped and appeared to be in discomfort when he landed awkwardly after attempting to throw the ball back into play.
He was ruled out immediately and was seen with ice on his left wrist. The Warriors are hoping it is not a serious injury, given he has scored 39 tries over the past two seasons.
Taine Tuaupiki replaced him and scored a try in the second half as the Warriors drew 12-12 with the Sharks. Luke Metcalf impressed in his first game at halfback, performing well under pressure.
Stand-in skipper Mitch Barnett also had to leave the field in the first half due to a cut below his mouth, resulting in a bloody jersey change.
Despite concerns over life after Shaun Johnson, Metcalf appeared to have settled well in the No.7 jersey, directing play and using his speed to threaten the Sharks' line while combining effectively with Te Maire Martin.
Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad had a standout performance, scoring a try and recording impressive statistics including 134 metres and seven tackle busts. Dylan Walker, expected to fill in for Tohu Harris at lock, also contributed with an assist.
The Sharks struggled to find their rhythm, particularly missing key players like Nicho Hynes and Braydon Trindall, with Daniel Atkinson's performance falling short of expectations.
James Fisher-Harris, a former Panther, had a shaky first half but showed improvement in the second, making several effective carries.
Young playmaker Jett Cleary, brother of Nathan, could not make a significant impact during his limited time on the field.
Rookie Michael Gabrael demonstrated his pace with a chase down for a loose ball, showing potential for the future.
Looking ahead, there's a hot prediction for Addin Fonua-Blake and Tom Hazelton to combine for 20 tries this season.
With the introduction of stricter rules on play-the-ball infringements, the Warriors faced penalties during the match, indicating potential challenges in upcoming fixtures.
