The 2025 NRL season has been a rollercoaster for the New Zealand Warriors, but their current trajectory suggests they're on the right path. Despite a few setbacks, the team has made significant strides in both attack and defense, with several standout performances and key developments that have turned heads across the league. ### A Strong Mid-Season Performance At the halfway mark of the season, the Warriors sit in a surprisingly strong position, defying expectations from critics who predicted a repeat of the 2024 struggles. The team has shown resilience, particularly in their defensive efforts, which have been nothing short of world-class at times. This is a marked improvement from the previous season, where the Warriors struggled to close out games and maintain consistency. ### Key Players and Standouts Several players have stepped up and delivered standout performances, helping to elevate the team's overall performance: - **Luke Metcalf (8/10):** The young halfback has been a revelation this season, leading the team in try-scorers with eight tries and forming a solid halves partnership with Chanel Harris-Tavita. Metcalf's kicking game has been crucial, including a golden point penalty goal against the Brisbane Broncos and a game-winning penalty goal against the Wests Tigers. With free agency approaching, the Warriors will likely look to secure his long-term future with the club. - **Chanel Harris-Tavita (7/10):** Harris-Tavita has been a consistent presence in the halves, leading the team in try assists with 10. His defensive work has also been reliable, and he's been instrumental in several key moments, including a self-assisted try in the win over the Sydney Roosters. - **James Fisher-Harris (7/10):** After a pectoral injury sidelined him for part of the season, Fisher-Harris has returned to form and shown his leadership qualities. His defensive reliability and ability to command respect from teammates have made him an essential figure in the Warriors' success. - **Mitch Barnett (8/10):** Barnett has been a standout in the absence of Fisher-Harris, proving why he was a deserving winner of the Simon Mannering Medal last season. Unfortunately, an ACL injury has cut his season short, dealing a major blow to the Warriors' second-half plans. - **Wayde Egan (9/10):** The hooker has had a stellar season, arguably the best of his career. Egan's tackling has been exceptional, and his ability to run the ball from dummy half has been a welcome addition to the team's attack. With no injuries to his name this season, he's been a consistent performer and a key factor in the Warriors' defensive success. - **Erin Clark (9/10):** Clark's return to the Warriors has been nothing short of transformative. Since Dylan Walker's departure, Clark has thrived under the increased workload, running over 130 meters per game and making over 35 tackles in his last six games. He's become a vital part of the team and has been arguably the best buy of the season in the NRL. ### Coaching and Strategy Andrew Webster deserves significant credit for the Warriors' resurgence in 2025. After a disappointing 2024 season, where the team struggled to close out games and maintain consistency, Webster has made necessary adjustments that have led to improved performance. The coaching staff has managed a mix of youth and experience effectively, and the team's defense has been a standout feature. Despite occasional flat attacks, the Warriors have shown they can compete with any team on their day. ### Contenders for the Simon Mannering Medal With the season halfway through, the following players are leading the charge for the Simon Mannering Medal: - **Wayde Egan** - **Erin Clark** - **Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad** - **Luke Metcalf** ### Looking Ahead The Warriors have several key challenges in the second half of the season, including replacing the departed Mitch Barnett and ensuring the core players remain healthy. With a young and talented squad, the Warriors are well-positioned to maintain their strong form and push for a top-eight finish. The team's resilience and adaptability will be tested, but with the current trajectory, there's every reason to be optimistic about their future. As the season progresses, the Warriors will need to continue building on their mid-season success, maintaining their defensive strengths while improving their attacking consistency. With a solid coaching staff and a mix of experienced leaders and emerging talent, the Warriors are showing signs of becoming a formidable force in the NRL.