The Warriors have moved another step towards securing their first minor premiership since 2002 after overcoming a remarkably resilient Newcastle Knights side in Auckland, with the visitors forced to play almost the entire match with 12 men after forward Jacob Saifiti was sent off for a high tackle in the 13th minute.
Newcastle, who have completed a stunning turnaround after collecting last year’s wooden spoon and are already assured of finals football thanks to their Round 27 bye, refused to surrender despite the dismissal and further injury concerns, keeping the Warriors under pressure throughout the contest.
Warriors debutant Jett Cleary made an immediate impression in the halves, producing three try assists in an important victory that keeps his side firmly on course for the minor premiership.
