Warriors v Panthers player ratings: Taine Tuaupiki keeps grip on No 1 jersey, Origin prospects impress
Taine Tuaupiki celebrates after scoring against the Panthers. Photo / Photosport
Ben Francis rates the New Zealand Warriors’ performance in their 20-18 defeat against the Penrith Panthers in Sydney.
1. Taine Tuaupiki – 8
One of the Warriors’ best performers, he produced a game-high 228m from 23 runs and broke 10 tackles. He capped off his display with a well-earned try and came up with several big defensive plays. Based on this performance, it is difficult to see him relinquishing the No 1 jersey anytime soon.
2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak – 6
He was well-contained by the Panthers’ defence, bringing his streak of seven consecutive matches with a try to an end. He also had what would have been one of the try assists of the season ruled out, while his unsuccessful captain’s challenge did little to help his cause.
3. Ali Leiataua - 4
Overall, it was a tough night, although it ended better than it began. A poor defensive read contributed to the Panthers’ opening try, and he later had a try ruled out for being offside. To his credit, he responded with some strong carries and worked his way back into the contest.
4. Adam Pompey – 6
One of his more consistent performances of the season, highlighted by 22 runs for 177m. He was also flawless with the boot, enjoying a perfect night from the tee.
5. Alofiana Khan-Pereira – 7
His speed continues to provide an X-factor for the Warriors, highlighted by the way he capitalised on Paul Alamoti’s mistake to score. However, he was caught out defensively on a couple of occasions, jamming infield and the Panthers were quick to take advantage.
6. Chanel Harris-Tavita – 7
Was heavily involved throughout the match, taking on most of the in-play kicking duties and producing several excellent attacking kicks that kept the Panthers back three under pressure. Did claim a try assist as he played a key role in the Warriors’ attacking game.
7. Te Maire Martin - 7
The halfback had his running shoes on, opting to carry the ball more often than kick it. The approach frequently paid dividends, keeping the defence guessing and creating opportunities for those around him, although there were a few questionable decisions with ball in hand. Overall, it was a very impressive performance, highlighted by two try assists.
8. James Fisher-Harris – 7
A strong performance from the skipper, who finished with 122m and 34 tackles. He grew into the contest and became increasingly influential as the game wore on.
9. Wayde Egan – 7
A massive defensive shift from the reliable hooker, who produced a game-high 55 tackles without a miss. He ran the ball just three times, which is down on previous weeks. His performance would have given New South Wales coach Laurie Daley plenty to consider.
10. Jackson Ford – 8
Another dominant 80-minute performance in the middle, finishing with 17 runs for 134m and 51 tackles. He should now be able to put his feet up during the upcoming bye week after another heavy workload. His form will also have him firmly in contention for NSW selection ahead of the second State of Origin clash.
11. Leka Halasima – 3
Never got the chance to showcase his more flashy skills after picking up a knock in the opening exchanges, before ultimately succumbing to a hamstring injury. He battled valiantly in the minutes he did play and will be glad of the upcoming week off after shouldering a heavy workload in the first half of the campaign.
12. Jacob Laban - 7
Arguably his best performance in a Warriors jersey. He got off to a perfect start with an excellent leap to score the opening try. He nearly had a second in the half but was chopped down just short of the line. He also contributed strongly on defence, finishing with 36 tackles in a standout all-round display.
13. Erin Clark – 8
Overall, he was probably the pick of the Warriors forwards, finishing with 164m from 18 runs and 38 tackles. His ball-playing skills continue to be a key focal point of the Warriors’ attack, with the side’s structure and creativity clearly dropping off when he’s not on the field.
Interchange:
14. Sam Healey – 3
Came on for a brief 11-minute cameo off the bench. Didn’t have much impact with the ball but did make seven tackles.
15. Tanner Stowers-Smith - 7
He was the best of the Warriors’ bench players and is making a strong case for most-improved player of 2026. He finished with 86m from his carries and 34 tackles in a busy all-round effort. The only blemish was a handling error with the Warriors on the attack, but otherwise it was another highly effective performance.
16. Demitric Vaimauga – 4
He didn’t get as many minutes as in previous weeks, with the Panthers doing well to contain him. As a result, he was limited to just four runs for 27m, with 18 tackles in a subdued outing.
17. Marata Niukore - 3
Back in the side for the first time in seven weeks, he played the entire second half but had a relatively quiet outing overall. On this showing, it will be difficult to see him retaining his spot once Kurt Capewell and Mitch Barnett return.
Ben Francis is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers breaking sports news.