While it was very much a preseason workout, some impressive statistical efforts emerged from the Vodafone Warriors’ 20-14 NRL trial win over Melbourne in Rotorua on Saturday.
Despite combinations constantly changing, the Vodafone Warriors achieved a solid completion rate of 25 from 35 sets (71 per cent) with just eight errors.
On defence, they had 16 missed tackles and only eight ineffective tackles.
Among the forwards, the leading performers were Bunty Afoa (12 runs, 115 metres, 28 tackles, 0 misses), Ligi Sao (11 runs, 113 metres, 24 tackles, 0 misses), Leivaha Pulu (11 runs, 96 metres, 23 tackles, 1 miss), James Gavet (9 runs, 93 metres, 15 tackles, 0 misses) and Isaiah Papali’i (29 tackles, 1 miss).
Best of the backs for metres gained was 18-year-old Rotorua-raised Hayze Perham, who was at fullback in his debut appearance for the club in the second half. He made 112 metres from 10 runs and topped the team tally for supports (10). Halfback Mason Lino made 75 metres from 10 runs, had a try assist, 12 kicks for 305 metres and 18 tackles.
