Harata Butler of the Warriors is tackled during the Sydney Roosters Women v NZ Warriors Women in 2025. Photo: Photosport
The Warriors women understand the importance of first impressions and intend to make this one count.
With their 2020 season relocated to Australia, before Covid put them on hiatus, it has been six years since the side played in front of the Auckland faithful.
Sunday sees their grand return to Mount Smart as they take on the Eels in round two of NRLW and coach Ron Griffiths said they were about to make a statement.
"First impressions last forever and when they take the field this week, there will be a first impression that will leave an indelible imprint in the minds of our supporters."
Despite defeat in their first match back to competition, Griffiths saw plenty of positives from the trip to Sydney as the side went down to the defending champion Roosters 30-6.
"One thing that I'll never worry about is the result, I understand rugby league and sports are a results driven game, but we're here to change the landscape of rugby league in New Zealand."
The team showed glimpses of the quality they possess, with many of the players transitioning from other codes looking right at home in the 13-woman game.
"Obviously there's some teething issues for some of our players, but you'd expect that as they've never played rugby league in their life. We're extremely proud of where we started 12 months ago to where we are now and then to the first game to play like that, a team full of resolve, determination and grit. It's a marvellous testament to the group we've got here."
One of those standouts was former Blues player Patricia Maliepo, who reiterated the result was not the focus.
"I don't think anyone really reflected on the scoreboard. I think everyone just was so excited for us to be back in the comp and to be playing our first game together. It was something bigger than the scoreboard."
Patricia Maliepo of the Warriors shapes to pass. Photo: Mark Kolbe / www.photosport.nz
Something that was not dented in Sydney was the side's self belief.
"We have total confidence in who we are and I think that starts at the top, the character of people that we brought to the organisation," Griffiths said.
Another debutant, Michaela Brake said they were a team to be feared.
"We are very hearty. We've got a team full of very scary women who aren't afraid of hurting people. We're going to be going into this game on Sunday with a whole different look on our face."
A double header is set for Mount Smart on Sunday with the Warriors men to follow at 4pm against the Tigers.
Brake was hopeful that fans would head along earlier for the 1.50 kick off to support both sides.
"I'm expecting a sold out crowd because the tickets are sold out, so that should mean that there won't be any empty seats when we play. I'm excited to play in front of a Warriors fan base and in front of a crowd who are so proud to support such a prestigious team and a unique culture here in New Zealand."
Griffiths understands the significance of the season for his players.
"At the end of the day when it's all said and done, whether you deem our season as a success or not, the memories that they create with their families, they keep those forever. They run out there this weekend and it's another milestone."
For Tysha Ikenasio's whanau, it will be a return to the Mount Smart stands for the first time in 30 years.
"My papa had the first tickets when they first came here and my nana hasn't been back since the first game in 1995. So it's actually quite a special moment. It's a lot of emotion, this is kind of their dream too."
Ashlee Matapo of the Warriors runs to her supporters in the crowd after the Sydney Roosters Women v NZ Warriors Women, round 1 of the NRLW women’s rugby league at Allianz Stadium, Sydney, Australia on Sunday 6 July 2025. Photo: Photosport
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