Warriors Women Face Raiders in NRLW Clash Amid Key Injuries

The Warriors Women are set to take on the Canberra Raiders in an NRLW clash today in Hamilton. The match will see the home team contend with significant changes to their lineup due to injuries. Notably, five-eighth Patricia Maliepo and fullback Apii Nicholls are sidelined with calf and pectoral injuries, respectively. Both players are expected to return next week. However, halfback Emily Curtain will miss the remainder of the season due to a knee injury, prompting a major reshuffle in the team.

In response to these absences, coach Ronald Griffiths has made strategic adjustments. Emmanita Paki will step into the fullback position, shifting from centre, while Kaiyah Atai will transition from the second row to centre. Shakira Baker returns from injury to fill Maliepo’s position in the No. 6 jersey, with Lydia Turua-Quedley also moving to the role from hooker. Capri Paekau will start at hooker, and Matekino Gray and Lavinia Tauhalaliku will join the starting lineup.

Griffiths had initially planned to field the same 17 players who contributed to a record-breaking 34-6 victory over the Bulldogs last Saturday. Unfortunately, Michaela Brake and prop Mya Hill-Moana remain unavailable due to personal reasons.

The Warriors Women’s starting lineup for the match against the Raiders is as follows:

– 4. Emmanita Paki
– 5. Payton Takimoana
– 3. Tysha Ikenasio
– 12. Kaiyah Atai
– 20. Lavinia Tauhalaliku
– 22. Shakira Baker
– 9. Lydia Turua-Quedley
– 8. Metanoia Fotu-Moala
– 14. Capri Paekau
– 10. Lavinia Kitai
– 11. Maarire Puketapu
– 15. Matekino Gray
– 13. Laishon Albert-Jones

The interchange players include Harata Butler (captain), Ivana Lauitiiti, Avery-Rose Carmont, Makayla Eli, Ashlee Matapo, and Tyra Wetere.

On the opposing side, the Canberra Raiders will field a strong team, with key players such as Elise Simpson, Mackenzie Wiki, and Sereana Naitokatoka set to make an impact. The Raiders are known for their competitive spirit, and this match promises to be intense.

As the teams prepare to clash, fans will be watching closely to see how the Warriors Women adapt to their new lineup and whether they can continue their winning momentum against a resilient Raiders side. The match is not only crucial for standings in the NRLW but also a test of depth and strategy for the Warriors Women in the face of adversity.