Shaun Johnson secures thrilling win for Warriors against Bulldogs

A Sunday afternoon thriller in Auckland

The Warriors have secured their third victory of the season with a thrilling 16-14 win over the Bulldogs in front of a packed Mt Smart Stadium.

Johnson’s heroics

With 15 minutes left to play, veteran playmaker Shaun Johnson produced a superb solo try to put the Warriors in front for the first time in the match, securing a classic victory for the home side.

Johnson took the ball to the line before dummying outside and crashing over from 20m out to score.

Bulldogs take early lead

The Bulldogs took an early lead through Dally M leader Jacob Kiraz, who finished off a slick lead-up by Kyle Flanagan and Jake Averillo to slide into the right corner.

Warriors fight back before half-time

After repeated sets gifted the Warriors more opportunities on their opponent’s line, centre Viliame Vailea muscled his way through multiple Bulldogs defenders to reduce the deficit to 8-6 just before half-time.

Both teams lose players to injury

Both teams suffered early losses in the second half with forwards Tohu Harris and Fa’amanu Brown picking up injuries.

Warriors hold on for win

With some heroic goal-line defence, the Warriors managed to hold on to their lead to claim their third victory of the season and ensure a top-four position heading into Round 5.

Upcoming matches

The Warriors will look to make it three straight wins when they face the Sharks at PointsBet Stadium in Sydney in Round 5, while the Bulldogs will host the Cowboys in a huge clash at Accor Stadium.

Credit: https://www.nrl.com/news/2023/03/26/magic-johnson-leads-warriors-to-down-bulldogs-in-sunday-thriller/

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