Dragons need Warriors spirit to win NRL women’s round two clash

COACH Daniel Lacey says the St George Illawarra Dragons need to emulate the Warriors to beat them when the two clubs meet in round two of the NRL women’s premiership.

There were big hits in the match against the Broncos but coach Daniel Lacey wants his charges to be even tougher this round.

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COACH Daniel Lacey says the St George Illawarra Dragons need to emulate the Warriors to beat them.

The teams from either side of the Tasman clash Saturday in the second round of the NRL women’s premiership.

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Lacey said the Warriors fighting spirit was a strength of the side in their shock win over the Roosters last weekend and his charges need to channel it for their match.

There were big hits in the match against the Broncos but coach Daniel Lacey wants his charges to be even tougher this round.

“What they threw out against the Roosters, they were really the surprise packet of the weekend given what they had to endure with their travel,’’ Lacey said of major delays to the teams arrival in Sydney due to storms.

“What they did with their commitment was amazing.

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“They have some real good team spirit. They will fight to the end.

“They were fighting the whole 60 minutes. We need to do the same.’’

Alice Vailea celebrates victory with her Warriors team mates.

Lacey said his side is treating the game as a semi-final with a second loss making it almost impossible for his side to make the first decider of the women’s NRL premiership.

The Warriors last Saturday beat the Roosters 10-4 in the first upset of the competition played over three rounds before a one-game final.

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The Dragons fell to the Broncos 30-4 in a disappointing result for the team but Lacey believes his team could turn their fortunes on Saturday.

“I have seen enough from my lot to think we can beat the Warriors but we need more polish,’’ he said.

Week 2, NRL women’s premiership

Friday: Sydney Roosters v Brisbane Broncos, 5.15pm at Allianz Stadium

Saturday: St George Illawarra Dragons v New Zealand Warriors, ANZ Stadium, 5.10pm.

Week 3, NRL women’s premiership

September 21: Brisbane Broncos v New Zealand Warriors, AAMI Park, 5.15pm EST

September 22: Sydney Roosters v St George Illawarra Dragons, Allianz Stadium, 5.10pm EST