Broadbeach Road - Nerang saw a Parramatta Eels victory over the New Zealand Warriors in Saturday's preseason game. The Eels played with intensity and skill to overcome the Warriors many attacks securing the victory which culminated in a two point victory, the final score being 24 - 22.

It has been said that the Warriors faced two opponents in the game. The Eels... and the stifling Gold Coast heat. Reportedly the Kiwi boys struggled with the hot conditions. It can be argued that this  contributed to the score line, but no amount of circumspection will change that self same score line. 

One thing is for sure, the boys will have to acclimatise to the harsh Australian temperatures if they hope to be competitive against their old foes the Bronco's for their first official match of the year. Brisbane is notorious for ultra high temperatures.

Enough griping on my part. There are some real positive to be taken from the match. More inexperienced players got some ore field time to help developed their game, and Brett Webb played outstandingly. The by Warriors Fullback was at his mercurial best tearing up the defence from open play, scoring two tries and setting up another. Also Former North Queensland Cowboy Paul Dezolt showed signs of brilliance as the warriors stand in hooker, for injured PJ Marsh.

Posted 23rd February, 2004