The Nathan Brown era began with victory for the Warriors today, the men from across the Tasman (temporarily calling Gosford home) claiming a 19-6 victory over the Titans at Central Coast Stadium.
The winning side's three tries all came from relatively easy plays, offloads before the line giving forwards Bayley Sironen (first half) and Leeson Ah Mau (second half) four pointers, while Bunty Afoa turned provider for five-eighth Kodi Nikorima in a similar fashion at the 70th minute to seal the game.
It wasn't a great day for the Titans, who struggled for cohesion in attack. They failed to crack the scoreboard until after the Warriors were 18-0 up, a 73rd-minute Corey Thompson try out wide their only shining moment in an otherwise dour contest.
In fairness - it was a hot one in Gosford. The first match played under the NRL's heat policy for the season, fatigue was evident even in the first half among both playing groups. Drinks breaks enforced at the 20 minute intervals of each half gave each side a bit of pep in their step but ultimately poor handling and discipline increased as the match went on.
The result will be disappointing for the Titans and their fans, who would've expected big things from new back-rowers Tino Fa'asuamaleaui and David Fifita among a raft of other key signings. While neither played poorly, they didn't set the world on fire and ultimately the visitors' attack didn't gel the way Justin Holbrook would've wanted.
On the winning side, union-bound captain and fullback Roger Tuivasa-Sheck was a standout as usual, one highlight being a trysaver on Titans halfback Ash Taylor in the first half - a try that if scored, would've allowed the visitors to draw first blood.
Turning the page to the next game - the Warriors are again at home next week in Gosford, where they'll host nearby club Newcastle; the Titans head home to Robina where they'll welcome Brisbane next Friday night.