Ford fires after Origin snub as Warriors extend winning streak

Jackson Ford says missing out on State of Origin selection has only made him more determined after another powerful performance helped the Warriors continue their winning run.

The Warriors forward was again one of his side’s best in their convincing win over the St George Illawarra Dragons, finishing with 48 tackles and 171 running metres from 16 carries in another tireless 80-minute performance.

His consistency continues to strengthen his case as one of the competition’s form forwards and a genuine Dally M contender.

Despite missing out on Origin selection, Ford remained measured after helping guide the Warriors to a sixth straight victory, ironically against the club where his NRL journey began.

“They’ve got a really good team there [New South Wales], so I can’t argue with it,” Ford told journalists. “I’ve just got to keep doing my job here and hopefully some accolades can come.”

Since debuting for the Dragons in 2019, Ford had rarely featured in representative conversations until this season, where his relentless work rate and presence have become impossible to ignore.

Demitric Vaimauga and Jacob Laban of the Warriors celebrating post-match. Photo/David Neilson/Photosport

The omission has only sharpened his motivation.

“I’ve definitely grown more determined from it. I’m just stoked to even be in the conversation,” Ford said.

Meanwhile, the Wahs overall performance further cemented their status as genuine premiership contenders.

Jackson Ford of the Warriors in possession. Photo/David Neilson/Photosport

The visitors controlled large periods of the contest to take a 14-6 lead into halftime, with tries to Alofiana Khan-Pereira, Te Maire Martin and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak setting the tone.

Martin’s return in the halves was another major positive for the Warriors, with the veteran playmaker producing another solid performance, gaining confidence slowly after his injury.

Martin crossed for a double and made his impact felt on both sides of the ball, finishing with two line breaks, four tackle breaks and a composed 72-minute outing that helped steer the Warriors around the park.

Warriors coach Andrew Webster praised the veteran’s growth since returning to the side, saying there is still more improvement to come.

“He’s learning, not the game, but learning how to come back into the team, and he’s doing a terrific job,” Webster said.

“He’s making adjustments. He hasn’t played much footy, so once he starts really seeing the game again, he’ll be even better… I’m not going to make any selections tonight, but while the team is winning, people deserve their spots.”

The Warriors now remain on the road for one of the biggest clashes of round 13.

They will face the Penrith Panthers at CommBank Stadium on Sunday 31 May, with kick-off scheduled for 8.35pm (NZT).

For more information on the 2026 NRL Premiership competition click here.