Magic Round: Warriors hold off Cowboys' comeback in thriller

In a heart-stopping showdown at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, the New Zealand Warriors secured a breathtaking 30-26 victory over the North Queensland Cowboys on Saturday, solidifying their place among the league’s elite.

The Warriors’ triumph came after the Cowboys' valiant comeback attempt in a classic Magic Round clash that kept fans on the edge of their seats all night.

The spotlight shone brightly on Warriors’ halfback Luke Metcalf, who delivered an electrifying first-half performance, steering his team into the coveted top four of the NRL.

The excitement of the National Rugby League's Magic Round - a weekend where all matches are played at one venue in Australia - brought a festive atmosphere. The concept is derived from the iconic Super League Magic Weekend in the United Kingdom.

In front of a roaring crowd, the Warriors’ victory marks their best start to a season since 2018, fuelling their campaign as serious contenders this year.

After dominating the first half with a staggering completion of more than 90 per cent, Metcalf and his powerhouse team-mates shredded through a disorganised Cowboys’ defence.

But just when it seemed that the Warriors had the game in hand, the Cowboys staged a remarkable comeback, rattling off three rapid-fire tries in the second half.

Despite a shaky performance in the final 40 minutes and only managing a penalty goal, the Warriors held their nerve, thanks to their passionate supporters.

Metcalf, who has rapidly ascended since leaving the Sharks, showcased his talent again, scoring two spectacular tries and amassing 16 points, while racking up an impressive 150 run metres in the opening half. His confidence ignited his team-mates, with Kurt Capewell, Erin Clark, and Chanel Harris-Tavita stepping up their game.

Since leaving the Sharks at the end of 2022, the 26-year-old has played 19 matches for the Warriors in 2023 and 2024. Through the first nine rounds, Metcalf has featured in all eight games for the club, scoring the most tries of any halves player in the competition.

But the win was marred by the heavy rain that drove fans for cover, and Warriors’ centre Rocco Berry suffered a hamstring injury in the 52nd minute.

On the Cowboys’ side, captain Tom Dearden was a force to be reckoned with. At just 24, he led by example, scoring a try and putting in a tireless performance with 81 run metres and 21 tackles.

Despite the loss, rising Cowboys winger Jaxon Purdue continued to shine, adding another try to his tally this season. The 19-year-old has started all eight games at centre in 2025. He finished with 102 run metres and nine tackles against the Warriors.

Cowboys forward and Tongan international Jason Taumalolo is stopped by the Warriors' defence during their Magic Round epic at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday. Photo/photosport

In other thrilling Magic Round action, the Sharks defeated the Eels 28-18, the Roosters triumphed over the Dolphins 36-26, the Knights cruised to a 30-4 victory against the Rabbitohs, and the Wests Tigers held on to win 34-28 over the Dragons.

As the excitement continues, fans expect another epic battle on the final day, Sunday, matchups featuring the Titans and the Bulldogs, Panthers vs Broncos, and the Storm to face the Raiders.

Warriors 30 (Metcalf - two, Kosi, Harris-Tavita, Pompey tries; Metcalf four conversions; Metcalf penalty)

Cowboys 26 (Purdue, Dearden, Derby, Taulagi, Nanai tries; Drinkwater three conversions)

HT: 28-12.