Maumalo in tears after scoring hat-trick in loss At a glance
Ken Maumalo couldn’t hide his emotions after scoring a hat-trick in his final NRL game for the Warriors at Central Coast Stadium yesterday.
The Warriors lost 42-16, for their 11th defeat in a row against the Storm and it was a typical defeat for the club, who were outplayed in every facet.
But this game will be best remembered for Maumalo’s hattrick, scoring tries in the 60th, 76th and 79th minutes, then being unable to hold back the tears as he realised he’d just made his final play for the club that’s been such an important part of his life.
Speaking to SkyTV, Maumalo was teary-eyed as reflected on his time at the club.
‘‘It’s pretty emotional and it’s hard to put it into words,’’ Maumalo said. ‘‘This club has been a massive part of my life.
‘‘I was there as soon as I was 16 years old and I’m 26 now. Spending 10 years at the club is massive for me and my family.
‘‘I’m going to miss these boys – they mean a lot to me.’’
Maumalo had struggled to get into the starting team for recent games and was last week told by the Warriors that he was free to talk to other clubs about an immediate move.
Wests Tigers coach Michael Maguire, who has admired Maumalo since working with him for the Kiwis, jumped at the chance to pick him up and must be licking his lips at the prospect of having the winger in his team next weekend.
It was a bad day all round for the Warriors, with Chanel Harris-Tavita likely to be out for the season with a torn pectoral muscle and Wayde Egan having to go to hospital after a bad headknock.
After penalty kicks from both teams early on, Dean Ieremia scored the opening try for the Storm, with Brandon Smith going in later in the half.
Jahrome Hughes, who the Warriors were hoping to sign earlier this season, scored opening try of the second half, while there were further four-pointers for Justin Olam, Harry Grant and Tom Eisenhuth before Maumolo’s late flourish gave Warriors fans some consolation.
Storm 42 (Dean Ieremia, Brandon Smith, Josh Addo-Carr, Jahrome Hughes, Justin Olam, Harry Grant, Tom Eisenhuth tries; Nicho Hynes 7 goals) Warriors 16 (Ken Maumalo 3 tries; Kodi Nikorima 2 goals). HT: 18-2.