NRL: Stephen Kearney labels Warriors' win over Dragons as one of the best in his coaching career

Warriors coach Stephen Kearney has labelled the Warriors' win over the St George Illawarra Dragons as one of the best in his career.

The Warriors headed into the match having lost 13 of their last 14 against the joint-venture club, but they came out on top 20-12 in front of 18,295 fans at Auckland's Mt Smart Stadium.

They also did it without injured halfback Shaun Johnson and centre Solomone Kata. The Warriors also lost forward Tohu Harris during the match to concussion.

On top of that, the Dragons were unbeaten in six games this season before the match and are sitting atop the NRL ladder.

Kearney has achieved plenty in his career having led the Kiwis to World Cup glory in 2008 as well as winning the Four Nations title, twice. 

Speaking to media after the win, Kearney said it would go down as one of his memorable moments in his coaching career. 

"Not only here [at the Warriors], but this is right up there in terms of the situation that was facing the lads tonight," Kearney said.

"With the changes, 10 minutes in the bin and being up against the best side in the comp at the minute.

"The way they stuck in there, I'm really proud, it ranks up there, way up there."

Antony Gelling celebrates scoring his first NRL try.
Antony Gelling celebrates scoring his first NRL try. Photo credit: Photosport

The Warriors showed plenty of heart and courage on attack and defence - something Kearney admitted was missing during last week's 27-18 loss to the Brisbane Broncos.

Kearney was proud of his players and praised their attitude and commitment they showed on the footy field.

"Last week we spoke about commitment and attitude, and I thought that's what the guys had tonight.

"They were really committed to the process and putting some pressure on the Dragons, which we thought was going to work for us.

"To do that, you've got to have a real purpose about yourself and a real purpose about your job.

"They did that tonight, I don't think it was anything technical that stood out, but there was certainly a lot of spirit, commitment and energy."

The Warriors now head to Melbourne for their annual Anzac Day clash against the Melbourne Storm on Wednesday.

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