Warriors Fight to the Finish

The New Zealand Warriors fought strongly again this season, losing in the NRL Preliminary Final to eventual winners Penrith Panthers 28-20 in a match played at a cracking pace. They again earned respect for their commitment and expressive Polynesian-inspired flair. The Warriors have been dubbed a Cinderella team for their extraordinary turnaround in fortune, on the playing field under coach Daniel Anderson and captain Stacey Jones, and off the pitch, under the leadership of chief executive Mick Watson and owner Eric Watson.