KEY POINTS:
While not trying to tempt fate, I mentioned last week the worst thing that could happen to the Warriors was to sustain an injury to a third player. At the time it was in hope that it did not occur to Ruben Wiki but losing Jerome Ropati is just as bad.
His influence with the Warriors and their performance was highlighted last season when injury struck and the team's penetration out wide was lacking after that. Jerome's work rate is high, especially off the ball, and he is an underestimated player to the non-purist.
Not only is he outstanding but he is courageous as well. In last week's game against the Eels, he was injured early but nearly saw out the game. After each play, it was noticeable his ankle was causing him major concern but he toughed it out.
Obviously it was worse than expected and time will determine the team's outcome without him.
But before you think I am predicting doom and gloom, there is a ray of light in that 'Mr Fixit' will cover for Jerome while he is out - Simon Mannering has the versatility to replace Ropati and do it comfortably.
Fortunately for the Warriors but unfortunately for Mannering, his versatility prevents him establishing a fixed position in the team.
He is your 'go-to guy' when injury strikes in the backline.
He is the modern-day Gary Prohm, who had the same tag when playing for all his teams including Otahuhu, Mt Albert, Hull Kingston Rovers, Easts (Roosters) and of course the Kiwi team. Gary covered hooker, second row, loose forward, centre, wing and fullback and did it with ease.
His influence was never taken for granted by his team mates and it was a reassuring to have a player of such high calibre who could cover so many positions.
Like Gary, Mannering seems to do this without fuss and is more than happy to just be part of the team. However, Mannering does not offer the same attacking options as Ropati.
He is a raw-boned, aggressive defender and has a presence when shutting down attacking plays. But Ropati's ability to ball play at the defensive line has given the Warriors more penetration alongside the halves.
He was close to being their best player in last weekend's win over Parramatta and I stress he will be missed.
This week travelling to Brookvale and playing a Manly side without a win so far this season is not ideal.
But it certainly is an opportunity to capitalise on a team not really playing badly but one lacking cohesion.
If the Warriors aspire to a top eight finish, then early away wins are crucial.
