Get ready for an electrifying Witzer Pre-Season Challenge! We're talking about a thrilling day of rugby action, spanning two countries and featuring eight teams, each eager to showcase their skills and claim a slice of the 100K prize pool. It's a battle for glory and a chance to impress the fans.
The action kicks off with a bang as the Warriors take on the Sea Eagles in Napier, followed by a double-header in Newcastle, where the Wests Tigers face the Roosters and the Knights clash with the Bulldogs. Both the Knights and Bulldogs showed glimpses of promise last weekend, and they're determined to build on that momentum as they gear up for the main event in Las Vegas.
And here's where it gets controversial... The Charity Shield, a time-honored tradition, will see the Dragons and Rabbitohs go head-to-head in Wollongong. The Red V is aiming for back-to-back wins after their impressive 46-26 victory in Mudgee last year. Will they continue their dominance, or will the Rabbitohs pull off an upset?
Follow every thrilling moment of Round 2 of the 2026 Witzer Pre-Season Challenge on NRL.com's live blog. It's an unmissable rugby extravaganza!
Warriors vs Sea Eagles at McLean Park, Napier
31st minute: The Sea Eagles have been on fire, capitalizing on their attacking opportunities. Joey Walsh's pinpoint bomb set up a try for Hugo Hart, extending their lead. Warriors 4 - Sea Eagles 12.
27th minute: The wet conditions are proving tricky, with the Sea Eagles struggling to handle the ball. However, their defense has been solid, successfully repelling the Warriors' attacks. Warriors 4 - Sea Eagles 6.
19th minute: The Warriors used their Captain's Challenge after a controversial knock-on call against Tanah Boyd. Replays were inconclusive, and the Bunker upheld the referee's decision. A close call, but the Warriors retain their challenge. Warriors 4 - Sea Eagles 6.
Walsh's Magic Touch
18th minute: The Warriors' forward pack has been dominant, and Jackson Ford's tackle forced an error, earning his team an attacking set. Unfortunately, prop Demitric Vaimauga had to leave the field for an HIA after a heavy tackle. Warriors 4 - Sea Eagles 6.
Manly's Youngster Shines
12th minute: The Manly halves, Onitoni Large and Joey Walsh, have been impressive, moving the ball around and testing the defense. Walsh's well-placed bomb led to a repeat set, and Brandon Wakeham linked up with Paul Bryan, who ran a brilliant line to score. Warriors 4 - Sea Eagles 6.
Leiataua Strikes First
5th minute: It's been an exciting start, with the Warriors striking first. In the wet conditions, Tanah Boyd's cross-field bomb was difficult to handle, and Manly's Navren Willett dropped it. Ali Leiataua pounced on the loose ball and put the Warriors ahead. Warriors 4 - Sea Eagles 0.
Kick-off
We're underway in Napier! The Warriors have fielded a star-studded squad, while Manly fans get a glimpse of their future with a youthful team led by Walsh and Large. The hosts got off to a dream start, earning a penalty in the opening tackle. Warriors 0 - Sea Eagles 0.
Team Updates
Both teams have made changes due to midweek injuries. The Warriors lost Roger Tuivasa-Sheck to a hamstring injury, with Motu Pasikala taking his place on the wing. Jacob Auloa is the new face in the squad. For the Sea Eagles, Caleb Navale is out with an ACL tear, leading to a reshuffle with Corey Waddell moving to lock and Hugo Hart starting in the second row. Tom Summer joins the extended bench.
Other Matches
Wests Tigers vs Roosters at McDonald Jones Stadium
Knights vs Bulldogs at McDonald Jones Stadium
Dragons vs Rabbitohs at WIN Stadium
Get ready for an action-packed day of rugby! Who will emerge victorious? And this is the part most people miss... the real winner is the sport itself, as these pre-season challenges build anticipation for the main event. So, who do you think will dominate the Witzer Pre-Season Challenge? Let's discuss in the comments!
