A packed Saturday of Witzer Pre-Season Challenge action delivered four matches across two countries, with eight teams taking the field aiming to impress supporters and build momentum toward the competition’s $100,000 prizemoney.
The opening clash in Napier saw the Warriors host the Sea Eagles, but it was the visitors who set the early benchmark for the day. Young halfback Joey Walsh controlled the contest with composure and attacking vision, guiding the Brookvale side to a convincing 33–18 victory.
The result gives the Sea Eagles an early confidence boost in the pre-season tournament, while the Warriors will look to sharpen their combinations ahead of their next outing.