Vodafone Warriors Primed to Hit Wellington

For Immediate Release

Vodafone Warriors Primed to Hit Wellington

Auckland, New Zealand, April 3, 2001 – League fans in Wellington will, for the first time, get a taste of NRL action when the Vodafone Warriors take on the Canterbury Bulldogs at Westpac Trust Stadium this weekend.

The Bulldogs selected Westpac Trust Stadium as an alternate home ground when Easter festivities forced a switch from their regular Sydney venue. While the Bulldogs hope the Wellington crowd will act as an increased fan base, the Vodafone Warriors are looking forward to the opportunity to play before more of their club’s long term supporters.

“This weekend’s game is a good opportunity for our Wellington supporters to see first hand the team’s new faces and new attitude. We’ve said all along our success relies on the support of our grass-roots fans and we are as determined as ever to deliver a quality performance,” says Vodafone Warriors General Manger, Mick Watson.

“The guys are looking forward to what we hope will be a less parochial crowd than we normally expect at away games. Every bit of support will be appreciated. Several players will be out with injuries for Saturday’s game, and there are a number of issues from the Knight’s match we need to address. The Bulldogs are a strong side so player consistency will be crucial this week,” says Coach Daniel Anderson.

The Vodafone Warriors have sustained a significant blow in the form of an injury list that now includes Ivan Cleary, Cliff Beverly, and Shontayne Hape. Co-captain Kevin Campion will also be out for the Bulldog’s game after pleading guilty to a grade two careless high tackle against Newcastle second rower Ben Kennedy. Campion is suspended for one week, but will return for the home game against the Panthers.

The Vodafone Warrior’s line up for Saturday’s game is as follows:

1. Clinton Toopi
2. Henry Faafili
3. Richie Blackmore
4. David Myles
5. Francis Meli
6. Nathan Wood
7. Stacey Jones (C)
8. Ali Lauitiiti
9. Jason Death
10. Justin Morgan
11. Logan Swann
12. Awen Guttenbeil
13. Monty Betham
14. Motu Tony
15. Richard Villasanti
16. Justin Murphy
17. Jason Temu

Kick off for the Vodafone Warriors v the Bulldogs is at 7.30pm, April 7, Westpac Trust Stadium, Wellington.

ENDS.

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