They can, but it comes down to heart and determination. Along with a few other clubs, they have one of the most talented rosters assembled this year. Huge potential.
Currently they're playing without heart and courage. They look hugely unfit. Jones was once a genius, now he's an also ran with a great kicking game. He never runs anymore, he never takes the ball at the line and looks to start something. All he does is stand 5 metres back, catch the ball and distribute.
I can't believe they have ommitted Iafeta Paleaaesina from their 17, he at least wants to make a difference. Lauaki was huge the week before, as was Vinnie Anderson, their returns will matter. PJ Marsh's imminent return hopefully to five eighth where quite frankly Leuluai is playing like the kid he is will also take heat off Jones to make him see he doesn't have to be the sole kicker, and can try his running game.
Any squad with Brent Webb, Francis Meli, Clinton Toopi, Lance Hohaia, Stacey Jones, Awen Guttenbeil, Ali Lauitiiti, Sione Faumuina, Richard Villasanti, Jerry Seu Seu, Tevita Latu, PJ Marsh, Monty Betham and that huge junior gathering can make the eight from 1-4. Its a matter of if they have the heart, I'm not so sure they do. Sad, but true. I'm as loyal to the Warriors as it comes, but I'm extremely worried by this (they played like this a lot in the middle of '03 but all everyone focusses on is the back end), there are too many trends, the defensive line speed is woeful, the lateral movement is woeful, the halves are lacking impotus to run the ball etc.
Take nothing away from the Dragons, Broncos, Panthers and Knights who have comfortably put the Warriors away, but the 2004 Warriors current performance is a poor immitation of what I expect and of what should be a bare minimum given their unparalleled ability.
