The New Zealand Warriors scored a late try to beat Melbourne Storm 12-6 in the first NRL pre-season trial of 2019 at GMHBA Stadium on Friday night.
Played in four quarters, the Warriors held a 6-0 lead for the majority of the game until a Cheyse Blair try and conversion from Ryan Papenhuyzen in the fourth quarter levelled the scores.
A late try from Warriors back-rower Hayze Perham and conversion from Adam Keighran within the final eight minutes sealed the win for the visiting side.
Handling errors cost the Storm on a few occasions but a positive takeaway from the night was the solid defensive effort, particularly on their own tryline.
Winger Sandor Earl played his first game in Storm colours and showed promising signs throughout the match.
Acting head coach Jason Ryles said Papenhuyzen impressed and put forward a strong case for first-grade selection.
"Ryan was very impressive tonight," Ryles said.
"We know he's a tough kid and he will need a little bit of time yet but he certainly put himself in the frame tonight.
"If an opportunity comes up we certainly wouldn't have any worries about playing him at this level."
Storm's next trial will be in Mackay against the Cowboys on Saturday night.
Don't forget our round one clash is less than three weeks away.
See you all at AAMI Park on March 14.
