Warriors Edge Rabbitohs in NRL Thriller
June 1, 2025 — The New Zealand Warriors pulled off a high-octane 36-30 win over the South Sydney Rabbitohs at Accor Stadium in Round 13 of the NRL Telstra Premiership. The match was one of the most exhilarating contests of the season so far, with intense action and impressive plays from both sides. In a thrilling finish, the Warriors edge Rabbitohs in an NRL thriller that featured standout performances, record-breaking milestones, and injury setbacks that could affect the upcoming State of Origin series.
Mitch Barnett Injury Sends Shockwaves Ahead of Origin II
In a worrying development for New South Wales, Warriors forward Mitch Barnett was sidelined with a right knee injury sustained during a first-half tackle attempt on Souths halfback Bud Sullivan. The 31-year-old was helped off the field and later spotted on crutches in the locker room.
Barnett, who starred in State of Origin Game I just days ago — where he ran for 110 meters and completed 26 tackles in 41 minutes — is now facing a race against time to be fit for Game II on June 18 at Perth’s Optus Stadium. The Blues, aiming to seal back-to-back series wins, will likely await scan results with bated breath.
Luke Metcalf Dominates as Warriors Extend Winning Run in NSW
While the injury to Barnett was a blow, the Warriors found momentum through their red-hot halfback Luke Metcalf, who continues to be a revelation this season. Metcalf lit up the second half with an 85-meter intercept try, adding four line breaks and orchestrating much of the Warriors’ attacking rhythm.
Heading into Round 13, Metcalf already led the Dally M Medal tally with 31 points. Sunday’s explosive display strengthens his case as the frontrunner for the game’s most prestigious individual award.
The Auckland side overturned an early 12-4 deficit with tries from Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Rocco Berry, and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, leading 14-12 at halftime. The momentum carried over as Leka Halasima, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, and Metcalf scored in quick succession to make it 30-12 with 25 minutes left.
Latrell Mitchell Sparks Rabbitohs Comeback in Second-Half Blitz
Enter Latrell Mitchell. After passing a head injury assessment (HIA) in the first half, the Rabbitohs’ star fullback returned with purpose. He orchestrated back-to-back tries for winger Alex Johnston, who soon etched his name into rugby league history.
Mitchell’s playmaking brilliance helped Johnston complete a hat-trick, cutting the deficit to 30-24 with 17 minutes remaining. The surge injected new energy into the home crowd. But Mitchell wasn’t done yet. After Tuivasa-Sheck appeared to seal the win with his second try in the 72nd minute, Mitchell struck again just three minutes later, making it 36-30.
Despite the late flurry, the Warriors’ defense held firm in the closing moments. They secured their fourth straight win in New South Wales — a feat last achieved during their inaugural 1995 season.
Alex Johnston Enters Rarefied Air With 200 Career Tries
While the result didn’t go South Sydney’s way, it was still a historic night for Alex Johnston. He became only the second player in NRL history to score 200 career tries. Johnston now sits just 12 tries behind all-time great Ken Irvine, who holds the record with 212.
The 29-year-old winger reached the milestone on the same night that legendary coach Wayne Bennett marked his 950th game in charge of a first-grade rugby league team. Bennett’s milestone reflects his incredible longevity. Johnston’s consistency and finishing ability, meanwhile, cement his place among the elite players of the modern game.
What This Means for the Ladder
With the win, the Warriors move back into second place on the NRL ladder, reasserting themselves as a legitimate contender for the 2025 premiership. They are now within striking distance of the top spot, depending on the outcome of Sunday night’s clash between the Roosters and Raiders.
The Rabbitohs, meanwhile, continue their uneven campaign. Despite moments of brilliance from stars like Mitchell and Johnston, their inability to contain opposition surges remains a concern.
Match Summary
- Final Score: Warriors 36 – Rabbitohs 30
- Venue: Accor Stadium, Sydney
- Key Players: Luke Metcalf (Warriors), Latrell Mitchell (Rabbitohs), Alex Johnston (Rabbitohs)
- Attendance: 28,600
- Injury Concern: Mitch Barnett (knee – pending scans)
Key Talking Points
- Mitch Barnett’s knee injury could impact State of Origin II selection.
- Luke Metcalf continues to shine as a Dally M Medal frontrunner.
- Alex Johnston reaches the 200-try milestone, chasing Ken Irvine’s record.
- Warriors win four straight in NSW for the first time in nearly 30 years.
Final Thoughts
This Round 13 encounter had everything — explosive tries, elite performances, milestone achievements, and high-stakes drama. As the season heats up and representative football looms, clubs and fans alike will be watching closely to see how injuries, form, and ladder positions evolve.
For the Warriors, it’s a statement win. For the Rabbitohs, it’s another case of what could’ve been.