New Zealand Warriors fans will love what Panthers supporters just said about the Wahs

This could still be the year of the Warrior, with New Zealand’s premier rugby league side continuing to earn admirers, including the fans of their latest opponent.

The Warriors had won 9 of their opening 11 NRL games to start 2026 before facing Penrith Panthers on the road on Sunday night.

It was a classic. The game might have been missing some State of Origin stars, but the top-of-the-table clash didn’t disappoint.

The Warriors trailed 16-6 only to lead by two late on. Ultimately, it was arguably the Panthers’ Kiwi star Casey McLean, who already impressed in Origin last week, who was the difference between the sides.

Penrith fans praise the Wahs

But Penrith fans were impressed by the Wahs, as detailed below.

Tim Grey: The Wahs are the real deal

Brian West: Tim Grey they gave us a great fight ❤️💛🖤💚

Antony Petersen: From a Panthers fan the Wahs gave us a great contest, could’ve gone either way.
To those who are calling out the ref pull your heads in, it was equally good & bad for both sides.
Looking forward to competing with the Wahs again in round 23.

Bert Bolding: I’m a Panther fan. I’m happy for the win. However the Warriors played good enough to win also.

Webster reacts to loss

Next up for the Wahs is a bye before they return home to face the Cronulla Sharks in Auckland on Saturday, June 13.

After the loss to Penrith, Warriors head coach Andrew Webster shared his thoughts on the game.

Webster explained: “We were so good for long periods, but just not the 80 minutes. That was probably the biggest issue.

“We probably played some of our best football, but they hurt us on last plays in particular.

“There were moments when we were in control, and we let them off. They’re too good to do that.

“We’re trending in the right direction, but we are not the finished article yet.”