The New Zealand Warriors have beaten the Gold Coast Titans 24-14 in their crucial NRL match in Robina.
The Warriors' Solomone Kata scores a try against the Gold Coast Titans. Photo: Photosport
The Gold Coast stadium was packed full as noisy fans came out in droves to watch the return of code-hopper Jarryd Hayne.
Hayne, who left the NRL almost two years ago to pursue a career in America's NFL, made his rugby league return from the bench in the 28th minute, and made an immediate impact for the home side with strong defence and urgency on attack.
The Warriors traded tries with the hosts in the first half, with the scores tied 10-all at half time.
David Fusitu'a and Bodene Thompson touched down for the visitors, while Ryan James and former Warrior Konrad Hurrell scored for the Titans.
The second half belonged to the Warriors, with the visitors scoring three tries to the Titans' one, including two from centre Solomone Kata and one from Simon Mannering, to come away with the victory.
The ex-San Francisco 49er Hayne finished the game with a try assist - his grubber kick resulting in the final try of the match to winger Anthony Don.
The Warriors host South Sydney next weekend while the Titans will be in Hayne's old stomping grounds of western Sydney to take on the Wests Tigers at Campbelltown.
The Warriors move to 7th on the NRL ladder, while the Titans drop back to 8th.
