Ruthless and creative attack, smothering defense, and an ability to once again turn up with key players unavailable due to injury were on display during the One New Zealand Warriors' 42-12 victory over the North Queensland Cowboys in Townsville.
Warriors halfback Te Maire Martin starred in the No. 7 jersey with four try assists, plus three line breaks assists adding to the team's momentum as the winning streak extends to three.
However, Shaun Johnson and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck are expected to return to the mix against the Melbourne Storm at Go Media Stadium this Saturday, adding a few potential selection headaches for head coach Andrew Webster.
“It's never easy, but personally I feel that Roger and Shaun do come straight back in. With Shaun coming back, it will not disrupt anything," Blake Ayshford told SENZ Breakfast.
Te Maire Martin was instrumental in the No. 7 jersey for the @NZWarriors, setting up four of seven tries in their 42-12 victory vs North Queensland.@NIGHTNDAYNZ Stats | #NRLCowboysWarriors pic.twitter.com/LXq0NtrbP5
— SENZ (@SENZ_Radio) June 8, 2024
Calling the games for SENZ alongside Sam Hewat, Ayshford stated that the move should not discourage Martin, but instead give confidence in his ability to run the ball.
“He has a running game that is so good and takes so much pressure off the rest of the game."
Ayshford added the current mindset of the Warriors has helped them to be successful during their current winning streak, beginning with a 24-20 shock win over defending champions Penrith Panthers at Magic Round.
“It was just that 'working for your mates' thing - that's why teams like the Panthers have been so good. It's not because of the superstar players, it's because of everyone 1 to 17, (and) being able to do a job and work for each other,
“You don’t need to rewrite a playbook or anything - it's right there, working for your mates to win games."
The Warriors will look to continue their winning ways when they face the top-of-the-table Melbourne Storm at Go Media Stadium this Sunday.
“If they (the Warriors) go there to ambush and stay ruthless with their defence, their attack will fall into place."
Listen to the full interview below: