Warriors run riot in Cherry-Evans’ Roosters debut

The Warriors dominated the Sydney Roosters from the first whistle to the last whistle in Auckland to start the NRL season in the best way possible.

The Roosters put in classy displays at times, but on other occasions they looked completely out to sea as they struggled for continuity, particularly defensively at the Go Media Stadium on Friday night.

The Warriors took a 22-6 lead at halftime with an inspiring performance from the field, making four tries to one.

In good conditions, in front of an enthusiastic crowd of 24,112, the home side scored first when Tanah Boyd staked the gap, sold an easy dummy and raced past after 12 minutes.

The Roosters responded quickly when Billy Smith made poor tackles to trap James Tedesco from 20 meters out and Sam Walker converted to lock the score at 6-6 after 18 minutes.

After Tricolors’ Benaiah Ioelu try was disallowed, Adam Pompey found his quick hands to reach Kurt Capewell and reach the home side’s midfield, taking the lead 16-6 after the successful strike.

Chanel Harris-Tavita scored in the corner after a few passes and Boyd took a 22-6 lead at halftime.

The Roosters started the second half with Daly Cherry-Evans’ try not awarded and the Warriors added their fifth four-pointer when Leka Halasima headed in a shot close to the post from Boyd.