Warriors vs Bulldogs: Egan returns to the lineup; King makes a comeback.
As the Warriors approach the close of a challenging season, they have the opportunity to enjoy a memorable moment with their dedicated fans this Friday. Shaun Johnson will play his final game at Go Media Stadium, which has been renamed in his honor for the event.
The atmosphere is expected to be vibrant as Johnson makes his 223rd appearance for the Warriors. He is set on concluding his NRL career on a high note, even though the team’s hopes of making the finals were dashed weeks ago.
After being just one point shy of the top eight at the season’s midpoint, the Warriors have since lost seven of their last nine games, causing them to fall out of contention.
Injuries to crucial players have contributed to their struggles, marking a significant decline for a team that reached the preliminary final last season.
The Bulldogs, meanwhile, are on the opposite trajectory with six wins in their past seven games putting them within reach of a top-four finish and a double chance in the finals.
After seven seasons in the finals wilderness the Bulldogs are September-bound and looking to build momentum in their last three games against the Warriors, Sea Eagles and Cowboys.
Team News.
Warriors: Hooker Wayde Egan returns from an elbow injury, pushing Freddy Lussick to the bench for Shaun Johnson’s final game at home. In late adjustments an hour before kick-off, Chanel Harris Tavita is added to the bench in place of prop Tom Ale, who is now confirmed as the 18th man. Jazz Tevaga will start, with Marata Niukore moving to the bench.
Bulldogs: No changes on game day after prop Max King was named in the starting lineup on Thursday, marking his return from a wrist injury. Josh Curran is out due to a shoulder injury sustained in Bundaberg last week, while Eli Clark remains as the 18th man an hour before kick-off.
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