Set of Six: Missing the point

Hard to understand the angry and defensive response some current NRL players have directed at respected league journalists via social media, over stories lamenting the game's poor image and reputation in the wake of the Todd Carney scandal. Rather than getting upset at writers for highlighting genuine and well-established concerns about the game they love, players would be better served directing their contempt at those among their peer group who continually let the game down through their poor behaviour. Some Twitter exchanges in recent days have only highlighted how some players, remarkably, continue to miss the point.

Putting the boot in

Current affairs show Seven Sharp didn't miss a chance to lay the boot into the 13-man code this week, with host and league lover Mike Hosking claiming that the game attracts munters. Earlier this year, the same show - albeit with a different set of presenters - hosted Todd Carney and Paul Gallen during the lead-up to the NRL Nines. This week it focused on their "bad boy reputations" and detailed their considerable rap sheets.

Two wins for the Nielsens

Warriors centre Dane Nielsen's brother played a part in the pre-match build-up before their clash against Penrith last Sunday, proposing to his girlfriend in front of the 12,000 strong crowd. "I wasn't too sure how he'd go. I just saw him outside and he was smiling and so was she, so he said it went to plan," Nielsen said afterwards. "We got the win and he got the win as well, so it was good to see."

Welcome home

Former Warrior turned Panther Elijah Taylor was welcomed into his old team's change rooms after Sunday's match. The 24-year-old was all smiles as he caught up with his old teammates and club staff. Taylor and Warriors players joined in group photos with Kiwi heavyweight boxer Joseph Parker, a guest of the club.

Fun times at Mt Smart

Mt Smart Stadium crowds are earning big raps from Australian media for their off-beat and quirky festivities. The recent onesie party was a big success, despite falling short of the attempted world record, while last Sunday's crowd featured a Mr Bean impersonator. The Warriors' next home game against Parramatta on July 12 is being billed as "Rock Night" with the club encouraging fans to don their best mullet wig and denim wear.

Out and about

Warriors players caught LA rapper Schoolboy Q's Auckland show at the Logan Campbell Centre last week. Feleti Mateo, Jayson Bukuya, Sione Lousi and former fullback Kevin Locke were in attendance. Konrad Hurrell and Manu Vatuvei took in the UFC event at Vector Arena last Saturday.