Interim NZ Warriors coach Todd Payten is demanding one more credible performance from his players before they return to New Zealand for the first time since May.
On Sunday, the Warriors fought valiantly against Canberra Raiders, but lost 26-14 at GIO Stadium in their penultimate game of the season.
Payten admitted the loss hurt, as he felt the Raiders didn't earn enough of their points, with two of their five tries coming off interceptions.
But before jumping on their charter flight home next Monday, the Warriors have one more game to play against Manly Sea Eagles, a side they've already beaten this season.
A win would be a great way to cap off one of the most challenging seasons any sports team has faced and Payten wants a strong performance to show that the sacrifices they've made were worth it.
After his first game in charge against Melbourne Storm in June, Payten questioned the Warriors' commitment and while they haven't always had the results, they've played with more effort and fighting spirit.
When asked what he wants from his last game with the Warriors, Payten replies: "Enjoyment, pride, credibility.
"If we don't show the same effort that we've shown for the last 10 weeks, we'll have some people saying it's the same old Warriors.
"I want us to enjoy the last eight days that we have together.
"We're going to be down on troops. I don't know who's going to play, but we'll just get through it."
One player who definitely won't play next weekend is captain Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who limped off the field with a hamstring injury during the second half.
Payten confirms the skipper will remain with the team and says he considered putting him on a commercial flight to New Zealand, but it wasn't feasible, due to complicated travel restrictions.
"We spoke about it last week, putting him on a commercial flight, but he'll get home quicker on a charter," says Payten.
"I know he's counting down the days. After last weekend's game, his wife Ash was relieved that we got beat - I can't hold that against the kid."
Tuivasa-Sheck's future with the team is uncertain, as is where the Warriors will be based next year.
Reports suggest that the 27-year-old is contemplating a switch to rugby union to stay closer to his family, but a Daily Telegraph report claims Tuivasa-Sheck has been assured his family can travel to Australia next year, if the Warriors are forced to relocate.
But incoming coach Nathan Brown seems unsure what Tuivasa-Sheck's future holds, adding fuel to the fire over a suspected departure.
Payten definitely won't be at the club next year, after signing a deal to coach North Queensland Cowboys.
Payten has thanked the Warriors for changing his life during a challenging campaign.
"I'm really proud of this group of men, they've changed my life," says Payten. "I owe them a whole debt of gratitude.
"I'll always be grateful for the opportunity they've given me and my family moving forward."
Join us at 5pm Sunday for live updates of the Warriors v Manly Sea Eagles NRL clash
