Two wins in a row on the trot for the Wahs as combat sports heat up

Mondays always feel better when the Warriors win! That’s the big news this week, so let’s get into it.

Wahs secure two consecutive wins

Up, up the Wahs! Two wins in a row can’t get any better for Warriors fans.

The Wahs ended an eight-year drought against the Sydney Roosters with a hard-fought 14-6 victory at Go Media Stadium.

Centre Ali Leiataua had a standout performance, scoring two crucial tries.

Despite trailing for much of the game after an early try from the Roosters, the Warriors fought back. Leiataua's second try, followed by a conversion from Luke Metcalf, secured the win in the final minutes.

But the victory has come at a cost, as winger Roger Tuivasa-Sheck limped off the field with a hamstring injury after making a defensive play to stop a try.

The Warriors are now preparing to face the Wests Tigers, who arealso on a two-game winning streak. Let’s go, boys!

Warriors players celebrating with Chanel Harris-Tavita. Photo/NZ Warriors.

Moana Pasifika fight hard but fall short

Moana Pasifika showed spirit in the second half, closing in on a potential victory against the table-topping Chiefs, going down 50-35 in Pukekohe on Friday.

The Chiefs established a commanding 40-3 lead at half-time, thanks to their clinical ball play that broke through Moana's defence for easy tries.

Flyhalf Damien McKenzie was brilliant, converting seven tries along with a penalty, and even scoring a try himself.

In the second half, Moana Pasifika came roaring back, scoring 35 unanswered points and getting within reach of taking the lead.

But a late try from the Chiefs sealed the game, shutting out Moana’s inspiring comeback.

Moana Pasifika debutant Taalo Faatausala. Photo/Moana Pasifika.

Blues stump to season-low

The defending champion Blues have slumped to a season-low, suffering their fourth straight defeat against the red-hot Crusaders. The Crusaders thumping the Blues 42-19 at Eden Park.

The Blues' Super Rugby Pacific title defence is in serious trouble after this heavy loss, marking their fifth defeat in the last six games.

Injuries, errors, and discipline issues are affecting the team, and head coach Vern Cotter needs to rally the troops for the remaining rounds.

Dalton Papali'i in a tackle. Photo/Blues media.

New Caledonia face All-Whites in FIFA qualifier

A historic match at Eden Park tonight will decide which team earns direct entry to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with New Zealand and New Caledonia vying for the spot.

Both teams are determined to win, with All Whites captain Chris Wood and coach Darren Bazeley emphasising the importance of Oceania representation. New Caledonia’s players are equally focused on making history for their nation.

The loser will still have a chance to qualify through an intercontinental playoff, but both sides are fully committed to realising their World Cup dreams tonight.

New Caledonia players celebrating after a goal against Tahiti. Photo/OFC media.

Carlos Ulberg secures win against former champ

UFC Light Heavyweight Carlos Ulberg’s unanimous decision win against former champion Jan Blachowitz has positioned him for a shot at a top-ranked opponent.

In a tense and tactical fight, Ulberg’s composed performance and effective striking earned him the victory, with all three judges scoring the bout 29-28 in his favour.

The City Kickboxing fighter is now on an eight-fight winning streak and has declared his ambition - he is ready for a shot at the UFC Light Heavyweight title.

Wishing all the best to one of our top fighters!

Matty’s Golden Point

“Learning to enjoy today has two benefits: it gives me happiness right now and it becomes a good memory later.”

George Foreman