Regardless of their NRL premiership fortunes this year, NZ Warriors have already created history, with their U17 team stunning Wests Magpies 34-16 to capture the prestigious Harold Matthews Cup in their debut season.
The New South Wales age-group competition has provided a launching pad for some of rugby league's biggest names, as a pathway towards NRL first grade, but the Warriors' participation was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
After losing their opening two games, they rattled off five wins in their next six outings to sneak into the six-team playoffs, before an incredible run of victories that put them on course for the title.
First, they ousted Parramatta Eels - 20-time winners of the competition - who had defeated them 32-6 in their season-opener, before edging defending champions Canterbury Bulldogs in the semi-finals.
In the final, they trailed 10-0 early, but scored the next 28 points to stamp their authority over their rivals. Halfback Jack Thompson and lock Lennox Tuiloma both scored try doubles, with winger Karius Booth converting four of their six tries.
"It's been a long journey, but that's footy," said Warriors captain Kaawyn Patterson. "It's pretty exciting [being captain] and I love it.
"I would like to thank Robbo [club owner Mark Robinson] for backing us, and giving us the opportunity to go out and do this. I feel like the boys made the most of it."
NZ Warriors 34 (Thompson 2, Tuiloma 2, Davidson-Faaiuaso, Krone tries; Booth 4 conversions & penalty) Wests Magpies 16 (Godinet, Lele, Taupau-Moors tries; Makasini 2 conversions)
