NRL match preview: Warriors host Panthers in first Auckland clash since 2019
For the first time since 2019, the Penrith Panthers will play at Go Media Stadium in Auckland, where they will face the
One New Zealand Warriors
in Round 16 of the NRL. The Panthers secured a narrow 19-18 golden point win during their last visit to the venue, courtesy of then-halfback James Maloney.
Several players who featured in that 2019 fixture have since retired, moved clubs, or transferred overseas. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck remains the only current Warrior from that match. James Fisher-Harris and Wayde Egan were then with Penrith, while Isaiah Papali'i, now with the Panthers, played in the Warriors' back row.
Also read:
New Zealand coroner warns against dangerous Rugby-inspired 'Runit Championship' following player death
The Warriors enter this match third on the ladder, having won seven of their last eight games. Penrith, after a poor 1-5 start, have climbed to ninth with three wins and a draw in their last five matches. The match is a sellout, contrasting the 12,952 attendance in 2019.
Live Events
Complete team lists: Warriors and Panthers finalize squads for key matchup
Warriors starting line-up
Backs:
1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad
2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak
3. Adam Pompey
4. Moala Graham-Taufa
Also read:
Dylan Walker released by One New Zealand Warriors, joins Australia's Parramatta Eels
5. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck
6. Chanel Harris-Tavita
7. Luke Metcalf
Forwards:
8. James Fisher-Harris
9. Wayde Egan
10. Marata Niukore
11. Leka Halasima
12. Jacob Laban
13. Erin Clark
Interchange:
14. Te Maire Martin
15. Jackson Ford
16. Demitric Vaimauga
17. Tanner Stowers-Smith
Reserves:
18. Samuel Healey
22. Edward Kosi
Ins: Edward Kosi, Moala Graham-Taufa, Wayde Egan
Outs: Kurt Capewell, Taine Tuaupiki
Panthers Starting Line-Up
Backs:
1. Daine Laurie
2. Thomas Jenkins
3. Izack Tago
4. Casey McLean
5. Paul Alamoti
6. Blaize Talagi
7. Brad Schneider
Forwards:
8. Moses Leota
9. Mitch Kenny
10. Lindsay Smith
11. Scott Sorensen
12. Isaiah Papali'i
13. Matthew Eisenhuth
Interchange:
14. Trent Toelau
15. Liam Henry
16. Luron Patea
17. Luke Garner
Reserves:
18. Luke Sommerton
19. Jack Cole
Ins: Daine Laurie, Jack Cole, Liam Henry, Matthew Eisenhuth, Paul Alamoti, Trent Toelau
Outs: Brian To'o, Dylan Edwards, Isaah Yeo, Liam Martin, Nathan Cleary
Stat Highlights and Match Officials
1. The Warriors aim for consecutive wins over Penrith for the first time since 2012.
2. The Panthers have won eight of their last nine meetings against the Warriors.
3. The Warriors are 4-1 at home this season.
4. Brian To'o has scored seven tries in his last six matches against the Warriors.
5. Te Maire Martin will mark his 100th NRL appearance.
Match Officials:
1. Referee: Todd Smith
2. Touch Judge: Belinda Sharpe
NRL match preview
: Warriors host Panthers in first Auckland clash since 2019
The Penrith Panthers return to Go Media Stadium to face the One New Zealand Warriors for the first time in Auckland since 2019. The Warriors aim to secure a top-three spot, while the Panthers continue their late-season recovery. Full team line-ups, player changes, and match official details below
3. Senior Review Official: Ashley Klein
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
8 hours ago
- Time of India
Jonathan Kuminga bold claim on Cade Cunningham Scottie Barnes level sparks NBA buzz
Jonathan Kuminga bold claim on Cade Cunningham Scottie Barnes level sparks NBA buzz (Image Source: Getty Images) The NBA has entered another heated summer, and the spotlight has shifted to Jonathan Kuminga of the Golden State Warriors. A new report says the young forward now sees himself on the same level as Cade Cunningham and Scottie Barnes. The claim links to contract talks and future value. It has sparked debate around the league, leaving fans and analysts questioning where Kuminga truly stands. Jonathan Kuminga compares himself with Cade Cunningham and Scottie Barnes In August, Ron Kroichick of the San Francisco Chronicle reported that a league source shared a bold view from Jonathan Kuminga. The Golden State Warriors forward, just 22 years old, believes he is already on the same level as Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons and Scottie Barnes of the Toronto Raptors. The claim is linked to money. Both Cunningham and Barnes were top picks in the 2021 NBA Draft. They have already signed major rookie extensions worth over $200 million each. Kuminga was also a part of that draft, picked seventh overall by the Warriors. But he has not yet secured a similar contract. The source quoted by Kroichick said: 'He apparently thinks he's at the Cade Cunningham–Scottie Barnes level, where he should get that type of contract. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like The Cutest (and Creepiest) Way to Store Tissues Zekear Shop Now Undo It's really a quandary. I think it's bad for the Warriors and bad for him.' This comes at a tough time. Kuminga has shown flashes of talent. He has won an NBA title with the Warriors in 2022. Still, his role has been up and down. He has averaged modest numbers compared to the players he now compares himself with. Cunningham and Barnes are both cornerstones of their franchises. Kuminga has not had that same role in Golden State. The Warriors have offered him a smaller deal. Reports say a two-year contract worth $45 million was on the table. Another option is the $7.9 million qualifying offer. Kuminga and his camp want more. And that is where the standoff stands Fans react to Jonathan Kuminga's belief and compare him with his peers The story spread fast on social media. Fans weighed in as soon as the news was posted. Many said Kuminga's belief was too high. One fan wrote, 'Where is he getting this confidence from' Other fan said, 'On the same level as Cade Cunningham???!!!!' Another said, 'You are nowhere near Cade buddy stay on your lane' The Golden State Warriors are already under pressure after falling short in their last title chase. They face tough roster decisions, and Jonathan Kuminga's bold stance has only added more tension to an already uneasy summer. Cade Cunningham has already become the face of the Detroit Pistons. Scottie Barnes has taken charge in Toronto, even winning NBA Rookie of the Year in 2022. Both have secured their money and role. Kuminga is still fighting for that space in Golden State. Also Read: Caitlin Clark absence fails to stop Connecticut Sun from rare WNBA sell-out against Indiana Fever The question now is simple but sharp. Is Jonathan Kuminga truly on their level? Or is this belief a gamble that could hurt his standing with the Warriors? The coming weeks will show how both sides move forward Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Is Aaron Ekblad the next Florida Panther player to have his number retired?
NHL-Aaron Ekblad of the Florida Panthers (Credit: Getty Images) The Florida Panthers have truly excelled in crafting a roster that not only led them to back-to-back Stanley Cup championships but also set them up as strong contenders for many years ahead. With three straight appearances in the Stanley Cup Final, the Panthers are considered of the heavy champions in the entire hockey league. For this achievement, a lot of the credit goes to the team's impressive coordination and the management's dedication to securing their core players. Over the years, certain individuals have emerged as key pillars of this achievement and one of them is defenseman Aaron Ekblad, who has been remarkable since he has joined the Florida Panther team. But is Aaron Ekblad the last Panther to wear the No. 5 jersey? Let's find out. Will Aaron Ekblad have his number retired? With the Panthers achieving so much success over the years, there is growing talk about which players might one day have their jersey numbers retired by the franchise. For Aaron Ekblad , who has spent his entire career in Florida Panthers, this looks like a real possibility. His dedication, long-term commitment, and big impact on the team, makes him a strong candidate for the honor. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Kafr Hamam: Unsold Sofas Prices May Surprise You (Prices May Surprise You) Sofas | Search Ads Search Now Undo As per reports, THN Florida recently shared a list of players who might one day have their numbers retired, and it's no surprise that Ekblad made it to the list. It is very certain that Aaron Ekblad is going to spend his entire career with the Panthers, directing towards his legacy that will extend far beyond just championships and All-Star appearances, as his jersey will be etched forever in the history of the league. Aaron Ekblad 2024-25 Season Highlights 🔥 Aaron Ekblad's legacy with the Florida Panthers Aaron Ekblad was the first overall pick by the Florida Panthers in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft , where he made quite a splash right from the start. In his rookie season, he won the Calder Memorial Trophy as the Rookie of the Year in 2015. As the years went by, Ekblad evolved into one of the NHL's most trusted defensemen. However, his journey was marred by concussions and a serious leg fracture in 2021. Despite these challenges, he kept hitting significant milestones, including becoming the franchise leader in points and games played by a defenseman. Aaron Ekblad: Florida Panthers Repeat as Stanley Cup Champions In 2016, he inked an eight-year, $60 million contract and earned the title of alternate captain. He played a pivotal role in Florida's ascent as a championship contender, helping the team clinch the Stanley Cup in both 2024 and 2025. Also Read : Who is Logan Paul's wife Nina Adgal? Exploring the personal life of the former WWE United States Champion In March 2025, Ekblad faced a 20-game suspension for breaching the NHL's performance-enhancing drug policy. But, Ekblad bounced back to assist Florida in winning their second consecutive Stanley Cup in 2025. This year, he also signed a new contract worth $48.8 million to remain associated with the Panthers and keep chasing championships. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Matthew Tkachuk faces an uncertain start to the 2025-26 NHL season
NHL-Matthew Tkachuk (Credit: Getty Images) Matthew Tkachuk's offseason has been marked by indecision. The Panthers' forward has been managing a torn adductor muscle and sports hernia since February, injuries that limited his health but did not stop him from helping Florida secure its second straight Stanley Cup. Months later, the 27-year-old has yet to finalize whether surgery is the best course of action. Tkachuk admitted recently that if he undergoes surgery, he would likely be sidelined for two to three months. That recovery window would force him to miss the early stretch of the regular season, leaving Florida without its most influential forward at a critical stage of its title defense. Panthers' Matthew Tkachuk Handed Major Penalty AfterThunderous Hit On Jake Guentzel A tough choice with long-term impact At the close of last season, Tkachuk described himself as '50/50' about surgery, hoping rest during the summer would provide clarity. The decision has proven complicated. Playing through the injury risks further setbacks. While surgery means missing a large portion of the upcoming season, it could provide a cleaner recovery for the long term. For a player known for his aggressive style, physical edge. And offensive creativity, the choice carries extra weight. Tkachuk has built his career on being both a scorer and an agitator, qualities that depend heavily on lower-body strength and stability. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Is this legal? Access all TV channels without a subscription! Techno Mag Learn More Undo Panthers' roster stability offers support While uncertainty surrounds their star winger, the Panthers enter 2025-26 in a strong position. General manager Bill Zito managed to retain the bulk of the championship roster. It is an impressive feat given the salary cap pressures. Many believed major changes were inevitable, but Florida's core remains largely intact. Top 5 Matthew Tkachuk Plays from 2019-20 | NHL What's at stake for the new season If Tkachuk misses the opening months, the Panthers will lean heavily on captain Aleksander Barkov and top contributors like Sam Reinhart and Carter Verhaeghe. Depth scoring and defensive stability will be essential. While goaltenders Sergei Bobrovsky and Spencer Knight will be expected to keep the team competitive. Florida's back-to-back championships have set a high bar. And while Tkachuk's status adds an element of uncertainty. The team's experience and chemistry may be enough to keep them in contention. Until their star forward returns, his final decision on surgery remains the pivotal factor. This is shaping the start of the 2025-26 NHL campaign. Also Read: NHL trade news: Connor McDavid's big decision between the Edmonton Oilers and Auston Matthews' Maple Leafs stirs speculation Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
