4 Jul 2010

Warriors beat Eels to secure third successive NRL win

8:42 pm on 4 July 2010

The New Zealand Warriors have claimed their third successive national rugby league win with a convincing 35-6 victory over the Parramatta Eels in Auckland.

The Warriors fullback Lance Hohaia was ruled out of the match with a groin injury just before kick-off, which resulted in a major reshuffle.

Centre Jerome Ropati moved to fullback, Lewis Brown switched to centre and Ukuma Ta'ai had to play in the second row, but the disruption had little affect on how they played.

The Warriors lead 12-6 at the break, following tries to Brown and Ben Matulino.

The wet and cold conditions brought down the quality of play from both teams in the second half, but the Warriors were able to hold on to the ball long enough for Ta'ai to score in the 62nd minute.

James Maloney converted a penalty and winger Manu Vatuvei scored a sensational try from a stripped ball, before Maloney and Brown added to the Eels' humilitation with late tries.

Isaac John kicked a field goal to take the final score to 35-6.

It's the Eels' fifth loss in six games.

With nine rounds to go, the win keeps the Warriors in the hunt for a top eight spot.