Warriors coach Andrew Webster explains surprise positional switch ahead of clash with St George Illawarra Dragons
Warriors coach Andrew Webster has made a surprising positional switch in the team’s run-on 13 for their upcoming clash against the St George Illawarra Dragons. Josh Curran will start in the second row on the left edge, replacing Jackson Ford who will come off the bench. Ford, who joined the club this season, has been a consistent starter in all 20 games he has played for the Warriors. However, Webster clarified that the switch was not due to Ford’s defensive performance but rather an opportunity to give Curran a chance to start.
Webster emphasized that the left edge defense needs improvement but also acknowledged that the entire team, including the right edge, needs to work together to raise their defensive standards. He also mentioned that Curran has expressed disappointment with his individual performance this season as he lost his regular starting spot to Ford and Marata Niukore.
Despite securing a place in the finals series already, Webster stated that resting players is not on his agenda. The positional switch between Ford and Curran is a tactical move to enhance the team’s performance. A win against the Dragons would secure a top-four finish for the Warriors, a milestone they haven’t achieved since 2007. Webster expressed his strong desire for the team to have a standout performance and attain their goals for the game.
Webster declined to disclose whether Te Maire Martin, who was named among the extended reserves, would be playing at the NRL level. He mentioned that he had already made a decision but preferred to keep it undisclosed until game day, as there is no harm in keeping certain tactics and strategies confidential.
Full Team Line-Up:
Warriors: Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Rocco Berry, Adam Pompey, Marcelo Montoya, Luke Metcalf, Shaun Johnson, Addin Fonua-Blake, Wayde Egan, Bunty Afoa, Josh Curran, Marata Niukore, Tohu Harris.
Interchange (from): Dylan Walker, Jackson Ford, Bayley Sironen, Freddy Lussick, Tom Ale, Taine Tuaupiki, Edward Kosi, Te Maire Martin, Kalani Going (five to be omitted).
Original article: Warriors coach Andrew Webster explains surprise positional switch ahead of clash with St George Illawarra Dragons
