Andrew Webster, head coach of the Warriors, has resolutely confirmed the fitness of star halfback Shaun Johnson ahead of Saturday’s preliminary final against the Broncos. Johnson sat out the qualifying final defeat to Penrith, a casualty of a last-minute calf injury. Defying doubts, he returned the subsequent week to assist his team in their stunning victory over the Knights, witnessed by an enthusiastic home audience.
The seasoned playmaker, who masterminded two tries and dominated the match with his adept kicking, has the opportunity to usher the Warriors into their premiere grand final since 2011, his inaugural NRL season.
Webster has full faith in Johnson’s performance, stating, “There’s no doubt. He’s going well, he’ll train tomorrow and he’ll play. His calf isn’t exactly measured, but considering how well he has trained and the splendid performance he had over the weekend, I believe everyone is content with what he accomplished. Undoubtedly, he’ll keep improving from last week. I feel everyone needs to be better, we all need to enhance our game each week. His performance against Newcastle was exceptional. If he surpasses it this week, the possibilities are exciting. We all can achieve more and Shaun is striving for just that.”
Injury concerns over key Warriors’ players; Marata Niukore (knee), Josh Curran (finger), and Wayde Egan (head knock) who were substituted against the Knights, have been allayed. The injured trio have been given the all-clear and will participate in the match.
Webster noted, “At this stage of the year, minor injuries are common among players. It’s been a long season but everyone’s in fine condition. The same team that contended last week will return for the match on Saturday.”
In spite of narrowly avoiding a bottom-placed finish in 2022 with meager six wins, following few challenging years being the NRL’s wanderers due to the pandemic, the Warriors have made a tremendous comeback. There was uncertainty regarding Johnson’s future, but under Webster’s guidance, Johnson has revitalized his game, helping to reinstate rugby as a dominant sport in a nation slowly shifting its focus from the All Blacks and passionately supporting the Warriors.
The remarkable resurgence of the team is impressive, given that they were deprived of the dynamism of young sensation Reece Walsh last year. Walsh, who dominated for two seasons with the Warriors, is now an obstacle in their path, leading Brisbane’s attack.
Webster commented on the potential rivalry saying, “Since I didn’t work with the team last year, I can’t speak to his rapport with the players, but I am fairly confident no allegiances will take precedence come Saturday night. The sole focus is on winning the match, after which issues of friendship can be addressed.”
