Warriors eye rematch of '95 NRL debut against Brisbane Broncos

Warriors take the field for their NRL debut against Brisbane Broncos. Photo: Photosport

Warriors v Broncos

7.30pm Saturday, 19 April

Go Media Stadium, Auckland

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"Look at the Auckland crowd, they know that their team has done them proud.

"They could have easily won it. I don't think anybody will leave here disappointed.

"They will be back to watch the Warriors on many occasions."

Prophetic words from legendary NRL commentator Ray Warren, spoken at fulltime of NZ Warriors' inaugural game - a 25-22 defeat to Brisbane Broncos.

Three decades on, a premiership still eludes them, but Warriors fans have remained steadfast in their loyalty and while losing games is still acceptable, losing faith isn't.

In a repeat clash from that memorable 1995 evening, the Broncos return to town for the first time since 2019.

Warriors coach Andrew Webster, though 13 at the time, understands the significance of the occasion.

"We know it's special," he said, "I think, for a lot of fans, it brings back memories for them, which is cool."

Across the 30 years, the Broncos have become among of the Warriors' greatest rivals, meeting them 44 times, with the Warriors winning 21, losing 22 and drawing one.

Warriors gather behind the goalposts after a Broncos try. Photo: Photosport

Webster expected a typically fierce battle against Brisbane.

"We expect that from the Broncos every week. I'm sure that they're going to be bringing that physicality this week and think both teams are going to be pretty hungry to win that battle after last week.

"It's going to be an awesome challenge."

After their horror start in Vegas, the Warriors had enjoyed a strong start to their season, before last week's mauling in Melbourne.

"We've got to be better at stopping the bleeding, and just recover and get back to what we do well, and prevent those big momentum swings," Webster said.

A reshuffled side will take the field at Go Media Stadium, with co-captain James Fisher-Harris, Rocco Berry and Charnze Nicoll all sidelined for Saturday night.

With weather likely to be a factor in Auckland, Webster said nailing the basics would be paramount.

"We've got to be smart about the way we play and I think being tough in this weather's going to be important," he said. "Who hangs onto the ball and kicks well will win, I'd say."

Warriors fans celebrate their team's first game in 1995. Photo: Photosport

One man who knows all about staying loyal to the Warriors is centre Adam Pompey, who will bring up a century of games for the club this weekend - just the fourth man to notch his first 100 with the Warriors.

"It will be a special moment, not just for me, but for my family."

Pompey hoped to retire as a Warrior and only a Warrior.

"I'm a one-club man hopefully," he said. "The club has been very welcoming and played a big part in my life."