Friday night NRL returns with two great matches ahead. The first heads over to New Zealand as the Warriors host the Roosters. Both teams looked good at different stages during last season and each will be out to start their 2026 campaign off on a positive note. A lot has been written about the chances of each side too. There is no doubt that there will be a clearer understanding of what lies ahead this season once the fulltime whistle sounds. We bring you our full preview and tips for the game below!
Also, Before You Bet will be providing free previews and betting tips for EVERY game in the 2026 NRL season, so make sure to head over to our NRL Tips regularly to keep up to date with all of our free content.
Warriors vs Roosters Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 1 2026
A positive start is vital for the Warriors
The Warriors are still without Metcalf at halfback, who is still recovering from an ACL injury. Barnett is also absent at prop, with this squad relying on players developing through their system to add strength to their team. This means that the start to their 2026 campaign is vital, and any negative signs will sound alarm bells. The way they closed out 2025 was disappointing. There is no doubt that the talent is present. Last season, it was displayed in conjunction with disciplined play; that should be a paramount focus for this team as they aim to return to successful results.
A lot to crow about
The Roosters have named a strong team to start the season and scarily, they will only improve as other notable names return to their team. They appear to have a host of talented players in their lineup that can positively swing the momentum into the visitor’s favour. The most exciting prospect at this stage is the halves pairing of Walker and DCE. The attacking opportunities they can provide for their team are endless and while that also relies upon strong play from their forwards, the Roosters look better placed in 2026 to make that a regular occurrence.
Stats that matter
- The Warriors have won just 2 of the past 10 matches against the Roosters. Thankfully, they have a 56% record at home compared to their opponents 40% success rate here.
- The average margin of victory in the past 5 matches between these two sides is 11.6 points, with three games decided by 8 points.
- The past 5 matches have also been low scoring, with the average total points scored being 31.6. 2 games saw fewer than 20 points scored.
This is a challenging place to win
It is all before the Warriors this season and they have a great opportunity to ambush the Roosters and get their season off to a positive start. The visitors appear the stronger side on paper; the Warriors should get better as the season progress. You should rule out the home ground advantage though. This will count for a lot throughout the game; be it the travel, the atmosphere or the ‘lift’ the home team has, it is all a challenge to overcome. While the Roosters should be capable of adjusting based on their class, it might keep the score closer than expected. The fact that they have the experience of DCE and Tedesco, combined with the spark offered by Walker, is exciting. Use this to your advantage and, as it is early in the season, keep your stake lower than you normally would as to get a better read on both sides at the end of this contest.
Roosters 1-12
$2.70 (1 unit)
Warriors vs Roosters Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Total points under 39.5 – tough conditions with two teams facing one another looking to make a statement with their defence, should make for a low scoring contest. While trial form suggests the opposite, regular season matches provide a new level of competitiveness altogether.
Leg 2 = Either team by 1-12 – as stated above, the average winning margin in matches between these two sides is low. Given it is the first game of the season, that shouldn’t change.
Leg 3 = Walker to score – he has scored in each of his past 3 matches against the Warriors. After a long preseason and coming back from injury, you can expect that he will want to make a statement in this game and take the ball to the line as much as possible.
Same Game Multi Odds: $15.19 at Dabble (0.5 units)
Warriors vs Roosters Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Friday 6th March
Location: Go Media Stadium, Auckland
Time: 6pm (AEDT)
Odds: Warriors $2.55 vs Roosters $1.52
Line: +5.5
Points: 39.5
Where to Watch Warriors vs Roosters
Watch the Warriors vs Roosters match live and ad free on Kayo Sports.
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