NRL: Win leaves Warriors satisfied

Sam Rapira hits up the ball in the Warriors' trial match against the Panthers. Photo / Getty

The Warriors have beaten the Panthers 18-4 in their second trial of the season today in Rotorua.

If trials are our accurate barometer, Warriors' coach Andrew McFadden will be satisfied with his teams' progress a few weeks out from the start of the season.

The scoreline isn't particularly important - though the home side will bank the win - but there were plenty of boxes ticked on Saturday afternoon.

The big guns made successful returns, some of the backline play was crisp and sharp and youngsters like Solomone Kata, Sam Lisone and Albert Vete got some game time.

But the most pleasing aspect was their defence. Penrith were limited to one try, despite plenty of possession in attacking areas and an 83 per cent completion rate.

As you would expect in a trial, accuracy was lacking at times but neither team were helped by some over zealous officiating. Just as we saw in the All Stars match on Friday, the referees were whistle happy on Saturday, often allowing a minuscule amount of time for tacklers to release.

There were 15 penalties in the first half alone, which made for a disjointed match at times.

After absorbing sustained Panthers pressure, the Warriors opened the scoring in the 24th minute with young winger Ken Maumalo diving over after a trademark Sam Tomkins tip on. The momentum had been created by long range Solomone Kata break, who produced some impressive touches in Rotorua.

Penrith drew level in the 31st minute through Robert Jennings, who made the most of a precise Jamie Soward cut out pass.

Maumalo, who has been labelled the 'Junior Beast' added to his tally early in the second half, finishing off a strong Warriors' set of six in the match by forcing his way over in the corner.

Local product Marata Niukore (Howick Hornets) extended their lead, before Shaun Johnson finished off some wonderful lead up work from young props Vete and Lisone.

Warriors 18 (K. Maumalo (2), M. Niukore, S. Johnson tries; C. Townsend goal)
Penrith 4 (R. Jennings try)
Halftime: 4-4