As were the Warriors without Matulino, Foran, and for most of the game RTS. Isaac Luke was massively taped up around his injured rib muscles too.
I was happy with the Warriors last night. All I want is a team who can compete in the grind. In large parts last night they did that. I think the defence, given how much possession Melbourne had was really good. It blew out late and gives a slightly inaccurate impression of the game. 86% completion in weather like that is really strong.
Have to remember, Melbournes two first half tries were off kicks. One was pin point, the other the bloke had it under control but lost his footing in the wet. The Vunivalu try we can all agree was off a disgraceful piece of refereeing and play that was very much against the spirit of the game. Remember, that was last tackle and they were deep in their own half when he got that disgraceful, shameful penalty. We all know this club will stop at nothing whether it be wrestling, salary cap rorting and now that piece of shambles. Can't underestimate how much that affected momentum and in wet conditions that's critical. Of course, Issac Luke did the same thing later in the game but I think he was trying to show the sheer absurdity of it all.
Kata, just needed to dive on the ball in goal, again another critical 1%er not executed.
The difference for me was the kicking game. Cronk and Smith throttled the Warriors. They are brilliant at it.
I thought young Ata Hingano was awesome. His defence stood out for me. Afoa was good, Mannering as per usual fantastic. Maumalo had easily his best game. We have to get better in the wrestle and the initial contact. Melbourne had far superior ruck speed through the middle. Luke and Johnson need that time and they only got it in drips and drabs. Must re-sign Hingano, he could be a 30 test veteran such is his composure at what, age 19?
Last year I think our heads drop and we go down by 30. So I see improvements, and despite the loss I remain quietly confident.
