In seven of their seventeen defeats this season, the Wests Tigers have lost by six points or less. And while it has been a tricky season to judge with blow outs on both sides of the ledger, that statistic suggests that perhaps the team isn’t as far off as what bottom position on the NRL ladder says.
Speaking with Izzy and Kempy on SENZ Breakfast this morning, Tigers assistant coach Benji Marshall says despite that, he still feels the pain from the losses that have mounted up this year.
“Obviously I would’ve loved to have won more games, but from a learning perspective as I’m transitioning from assistant coach to head, it’s been hard but there’s no better introduction. You learn more about peoples’ character and how they react to adversity.
“It has been tough – but at the same time, seeing these young fellas come through, make their debuts, and make a name for themselves, that’s been the most exciting part for me. I’ve still got a bit to go before I take over in 2025 but I’m enjoying it.”
This Saturday, the Tigers are taking one of their home games for the 2023 season on the road to Hamilton as a way of giving back to the One New Zealand Warriors for the sacrifices they made during the pandemic-affected seasons to keep the competition going in Australia.
While many around the NRL have publicly stated their gratitude for what the Warriors did during those times, the Tigers remain the only club to have effectively put their money with their mouth is.
“It was really hard for those boys and without them, the game doesn’t continue. Irrespective of advantages and disadvantages of what bringing a home game here does, it doesn’t matter. For us it’s giving back to the Warriors for what they gave to the game.
“Not just the Warriors players, but the fans who had no rugby league in New Zealand during that time. Whether people think it’s right or wrong, for us as a club, it’s the right gesture and the right thing to do,” Marshall stated.
The Warriors are enjoying a turnaround season that Marshall believes is predominately due to the coaching of first-year head coach Andrew Webster, plus the resurgence of halfback Shaun Johnson who currently has eight tries to his name this campaign, plus 22 try assists, 18 line break assists, and an impressive tackle efficiency of 92% with 391 tackles made.
“I know Webby well because he was at the Tigers. He would’ve encouraged Shaun to express himself and be who he is.
“And what I love about Shaun is that he’s built his game on the tough stuff this year – taking the line on, defensively he’s been outstanding, controlling the game – and in my opinion, he’s been the best player in the competition.”
Before signing an extension with the Warriors, Johnson was reportedly linked to a deal with the Tigers to replace Luke Brooks from next season.
“I’m really proud of Shaun – we tried to offer him a two-year deal and I thought it was done. But the bro wanted to stay at home, so unlucky uce,” Marshall joked.
The pleasantries, however, will be dropped come 7.30pm Saturday at a sold out FMG Stadium - the Warriors are on a mission to grab a further two points to secure their position in the top-four.
SENZ will have live coverage of the One NZ Warriors vs Wests Tigers from 7pm with Sam Hewat and Tony Kemp providing commentary.
Listen to the full interview below: