The New Zealand Warriors have suffered their seventh straight NRL loss after going down 36-18 to South Sydney in Sydney.
Stephen Kearney. Photo: Photosport
The Warriors led 18-12 at one stage, but couldn't hold onto a rampant Souths side in the second half as they piled on 24 points in 20 minutes.
Coach Stephen Kearney says unfortunately he has a number of players that aren't quite ready for this level of footy.
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck was a rare shining light for the visitors as he crossed twice, while lock Simon Mannering was crafty in attack and resolute in defence.
The Warriors have two games remaining.
The result will be a bitter pill to swallow for the Warriors who could have lost representative stars Kieran Foran (back) and Jacob Lillyman (bicep).
Lillyman's now out for the season, while Foran is in doubt for his last two games at the club before he heads to the Bulldogs next year.
"It has been a tough year for (Foran)," coach Stephen Kearney said.
"If it's not one thing it's another."
The Warriors are at home to Manly next weekend and then are away to Wests Tigers in their final game.
Meanwhile St George Illawarra have had their NRL finals fate taken out of their hands after Brisbane beat them 24-12 at Suncorp Stadium.
The Dragons must win their final two regular season games then hope other results fall their way to remain in the top eight mix after their 10th straight loss at the Brisbane venue.
St George Illawarra have now not won at Suncorp Stadium since 2009.
Brisbane are second on the table.
-AAP