Sharks and Warriors Fight to a 12-12 Draw in Pre-Season Thriller

Three weeks before their Las Vegas showdown, the Cronulla Sharks and New Zealand Warriors clashed in the opening game of the 2025 Witzer Pre-Season Challenge at Sharks Stadium in Sydney. Both teams eagerly awaited the opportunity to test their combinations and strategies after a demanding off-season. The match, a back-and-forth affair, ultimately ended in a 12-12 draw, leaving fans and coaches with plenty to analyze.

A Look at the Key Players and Injuries

Warriors coach Andrew Webster fielded a strong starting lineup, showcasing several key players. However, the match wasn't without its setbacks. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, initially slated to play, was a late withdrawal due to a minor injury sustained in training. Meanwhile, Cronulla coach Craig Fitzgibbon opted for a more strategic approach, resting several stars to provide valuable playing time for younger members of the squad, with William Kennedy leading the team.

Early Setbacks and Injuries for the Warriors

The Warriors suffered early injuries to key players. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, a key try-scoring threat, was forced off the field within the first 15 minutes with a wrist injury. His exit cast a shadow over the Warriors' offensive capabilities. Mitch Barnett also sustained a laceration and required attention on the sidelines.

A First Half of Close Contests

The first half saw an even contest, with both teams showcasing their strengths and weaknesses. Tom Hazelton opened the scoring for the Sharks with an early try, establishing a 6-0 lead. However, the Warriors swiftly responded, with Dylan Walker executing a superb pass to Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, resulting in a try and tying the score at 6-6.

Defensive Prowess and Missed Opportunities

Cronulla's young side impressed with their defensive resilience, holding firm against the Warriors' attacks. The Sharks demonstrated their commitment to defense despite several missed opportunities to extend their lead. Despite dominating possession, the Sharks weren't able to fully capitalize on their advantages.

The Second Half: A Tug-of-War for the Lead

The second half continued the back-and-forth battle, with both teams making numerous interchanges. The Warriors took the lead with a try by Taine Tuaupiki, showcasing their ability to capitalize on opportunities. However, the Sharks responded late in the game with a try by Hohepa Puru, securing a 12-12 draw. The final moments of the game saw a final push by the Sharks, resulting in a last-minute error by Motu Pasikala that gave Cronulla one final opportunity, but the last pass failed to connect, resulting in the final score.

A Glimpse into the Future

The extended bench usage in this match provided a platform for emerging players to display their talents. This created a showcase for several players, many of whom are expected to make names for themselves in the coming seasons. Youngsters such as Samuel Healey for the Warriors left a significant impact on the game.

Jett Cleary’s Debut and Other Notable Performances

Jett Cleary, younger brother of Penrith Panthers star Nathan Cleary, made his debut for the Warriors in the second half, replacing Luke Metcalf at halfback. While his playing time was limited, his presence marked a notable moment for the team and generated significant interest from fans and media alike. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad also delivered a strong performance, scoring a try and contributing significantly to the Warriors' attack. His impressive display was a hallmark of the Warriors' efforts throughout the night.

The Final Whistle Blows: A Draw and Lessons Learned

The final score of 12-12 reflected a balanced and competitive encounter. Both teams took away valuable lessons and insights from the match. The Sharks showcased the potential of their younger players while the Warriors demonstrated the impact of their key players and new recruits, including James Fisher-Harris, who showed his value after a relatively quiet first half. The match served as a critical evaluation for both teams, revealing areas that need further development and those that shine brightly. The game also highlights the intensity expected in the upcoming Las Vegas trip.

Post-Match Analysis and Looking Ahead

The match offered a glimpse into the upcoming season, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of both teams. The injuries sustained by the Warriors raise concerns about their preparations for the Las Vegas trip, which the Warriors will need to address to ensure a strong performance, and the Sharks will seek to refine their younger team's ability to take advantage of more opportunities. The final score may not have decided a victor, but it has revealed a wealth of insights into the upcoming season for both teams. The teams now look ahead to their next matches, aiming to capitalize on the lessons learned in this exciting pre-season clash. The 2025 season promises to be an exciting one.