5 reasons why the Warriors turned their season around.

They lost 6 games in a row, and looked down and out. Then came the turn around and the Warriors have lost just 2 of their last 10 games and are on track for a top 8 finish.

Here’s why.

1. Wade Mckinnon. Mckinnon’s form over the last 10 weeks has been fantastic. I’ve mentioned earlier that I believe he has attitude issues, but there is no denying his form. He’s scored plenty of tries, beat a ton of tacklers and has been electric with the ball in hand.
2. Jerome Ropati. The guy who craves the number 6 jersey that was his last year has unselfishly put the Warriors needs before his own and resided in the centres. And he’s been great. Excellent foot work and the ability to get round a man has seen his stocks increase. My opinion of him has changed from earlier in the season.
3. Epalahame Lauaki. Earlier in the season I blogged about how he seemed scared to try his hand for fear of making a mistake and that Ivan Clearly needed to give him free license. I don’t know if that happened or not, but over the last month Lauaki has been devastating. Breaking tackles never seemed so easy. This guy helps make up the best bench in the NRL.
4. Michael Witt. His goal kicking has been a revelation. At the time of writing he’s missed 3 of his last 45 kicks. Dan Carter would be happy to have that record at the world cup! It make’s winning games a lot easier when the scores are increasing in 6’s not 4’s.
5. Ivan Cleary. Losing 6 games on the trot put’s immense pressure on a coach, and there were loud calls for Clearly to make changes (myself included). But he stood firm and backed what he was doing and turned the season around. Credit must also go to the Warriors management for providing the necessary support for Cleary. A strong stable environment has enabled players and coach to focus on football and not get distracted.

Last night the Warriors lost to Canberra, this weeks they face Manly at home in front of a sell out crowd. A top 8 place is not yet guaranteed. Is the run of hot form over?

Hold on folks, it’s about to get interesting!