Warriors’ New Recruit Faces Anxious Wait Over High Tackle as Dragons Suffer Heartbreaking One-Point Defeat

The newly acquired Warriors player Erin Clark faces an anxious wait after being put on report for a high tackle on Jack De Belin.

Clark’s challenge occurred during a tense one-point victory for the Warriors against the Dragons, with Luke Metcalf displaying his skill at halfback by kicking the decisive field goal.

The Warriors started impressively in Wollongong, racing to a 14-0 lead within the first 30 minutes.

Tries from Metcalf and Taine Tuaupiki, along with two penalty goals from Metcalf, paved the way for their early advantage.

Just before the half-time break, the Dragons gained some momentum when Clint Gutherson scored, reducing the deficit to 14-4 as the teams headed into the sheds.

Shortly after the second half began, Clark caught De Belin with a hit described as a “lazy arm” by Steve ‘Blocker’ Roach on Fox League.

De Belin appeared stunned after the impact, holding his face and looking at the referee, before pointing and laughing in Clark’s direction when the penalty was awarded.

Tune in to watch the 2025 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.

The Dragons continued to find success in scoring as Dylan Egan crossed the line, levelling the match at 14-14 in the 52nd minute after Corey Allan’s try.

From there, both teams engaged in a tough battle with neither side able to seize control of the game.

Metcalf, who transitioned to halfback during the off-season, proved the wisdom of that decision by landing a crucial field goal with ten minutes remaining.

The Dragons struggled to threaten thereafter, handing the Warriors a narrow 15-14 win.

This marks the second time this season that Metcalf has secured victory with a field goal after also clinching a win against the Broncos earlier in the season.

Next week, the Warriors will take on the Dolphins, while the Dragons prepare to face Brisbane.