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Riding the wave of optimism

Riding the wave of optimism

07/21/2010 12:33:28 AM

You little beauty, this is a Warriors team to get excited about.

A 'sure thing' for the wooden spoon before the season began and you can bet your house Australian league pundits still don't rate them one iota as they anticipate a late season flop so the traditional boot can be put in.

Not this year - a top four spot is well within their reach. With that comes home advantage and an intimidating Auckland caldron for opposition outfits.

Five wins in a row – for the first time since Daniel Anderson's 2003 chargers – and this hearty mob of over-performing men are showing, above all else, unity. A togetherness that could see them equal the club's second longest winning streak against the Rabbitohs on Sunday, a run registered 15 years ago.

Crippling injuries to experienced players put paid to any early season consistency, yet the club sits fifth with seven games remaining and has all but its best front-rower, Sam Rapira, back on board.

Adversity does one of two things to a team. It gives an excuse for poor performances, or a chance to grow another leg and man-up.

Jerome Ropati, Ben Matulino, Ian Henderson, Lance Hohaia and Lewis Brown have all stepped out of their regualr positions to adequately fill voids.

While Matulino, Russell Packer, Isaac John and Kevin Locke are four young prodigies who have proven to be blossoming fruits of a strong development programe.

The 2010 Warriors are also a smarter band of brothers, proving they can adapt to all conditions. There is a balance to their play – with both flair and gritty defence portrayed in their 10 victories from 17 matches this year.

Captain Simon Mannering was a wise choice as a leader, especially since Steve Price's career ended abruptly.

Mannering's 'follow me' approach sets high standards and while he is not an inspirational talker, he has immense respect and brings a grounded nature to his side.

He's also not afraid to challenge referees who traditionally show the Warriors a lop-sided penalty count.

After finishing 14th - of 16 teams – last year the Warriors have instigated a remarkable turnaround. Not only will they feature in finals football, with young talent and a positive recruitment process well advanced, they have the framework and foundations to become a force to be reckoned with.

 
Photograph Copyright : Getty Images

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