Warriors pull out of NRLW

The Warriors have been forced to withdraw their NRLW team from this year’s competition in order to save on costs, but will be back in 2022. The Warriors have been involved in the NRLW since it’s inception in 2018 and have been a part of the four-team women’s league, with the Dragons, Roosters and Broncos being the other foundation clubs. However, because of the financial pressure of the NRL team being based in Australia the club has had to cut its cloth accordingly. The Warriors had previously axed their reserve grade NSW Cup team and SG Ball Cup team, which was for players under 18. The NRLW are set to announce a revamped NRLW competition for this season, with it going up to six teams. While the Warriors will be missing from that list, they will be back in next year.

Five bogeys slowed Lydia Ko at the opening round of the Mediheal Championship in Daly City, California, yesterday. Ko was tied for 31st after carding an even round 72 to leave her seven shots back from Irish leader Leona Maguire (in the same feature group as Ko), who shot a scorching seven-under 65, including nine birdies. Ko, who won the Mediheal Championship in a playoff in 2018 at the same course, had five bogeys and five birdies in her opening round.

■ Danny Lee is three shots off the lead after a scorching back nine at the opening round of the Palmetto Championship in Ridgeland, South Carolina. The New Zealander fired a four-under par 67 to be tied for seventh. Lee was in brilliant touch over the last nine holes, producing five birdies and shooting 30. American Wes Roach leads after the first round following a seven-under 64 – three shots ahead of Lee.