Warriors coach Andrew McFadden has a simple message for his players - hold the ball.
McFadden says doing the basics well will be key to beating the Raiders in Sunday's NRL clash in Canberra.
The Warriors let a 14-6 halftime lead slip against the Newcastle Knights in their season opener, fading in the Saturday afternoon heat to lose 24-14.
"Hanging onto the ball at this time of the year is critical because it's always a little bit hotter, always a little bit more challenging physically, so possession's a big point," McFadden said on Thursday.
The Warriors will be without centre Konrad Hurrell against the Raiders after he was hurt in the Knights game, but they welcome back fullback Sam Tomkins from injury.
"We probably could have played him at a pinch (against Newcastle) but it was just too risky to put him out for 80 minutes," McFadden said.
"He's a big talker for us so losing him on the weekend was a significant blow. He's obviously ready to go and he will give us an extra spark in attack."
Also coming into the team will be Jonathan Wright, who plays his first game for the Warriors on the right wing, with last week's fullback Tuimoala Lolohea moving into the centres.
Canberra head to the clash after beating the Sharks 24-20 in the opening NRL round and McFadden, a former Raiders player, is wary of them.
"They're always pretty strong at home and on the back of that performance against the Sharks they'll have some confidence."
Share
