Despite only eight wins in their season, the NZ Warriors are still only three points from the top eight and have a good opportunity to gain another victory.
They host the Parramatta Eels in another sell-out at Go Media Mt Smart Stadium on Friday (kick-off 8pm), with their opponents also struggling for form.
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A knee injury to back-rower Jackson Ford in the win over Wests Tigers only added to a bulging injury toll but there is still plenty of pride and passion inside the Warriors' camp as they look to finish the season strongly.
A win over the Eels is a must for Andrew Webster's side given they face tough away games against the Dolphins and Manly Sea Eagles in the next couple of weeks.
Star playmaker Shaun Johnson returns from an Achilles injury in a massive boost for the Warriors, while Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad (calf) is also back on deck.
The Eels have not lost six on the trot as they deal with an injury crisis interim coach Trent Barrett said he has never seen the likes of in all his years in the game.
Johnson is back in the No 7 jersey, pairing with Chanel Harris-Tavita in the halves, pushing Te Marie Martin to the reserves.
At fullback is Nicoll-Klokstad back from a calf injury, which moves Roger Tuivasa-Sheck to the wing. A knee injury to bench forward Ford brings Tom Ale into the 17.
NZ WARRIORS: Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, Dallin Watene-Zelezniack, Ali Leiatuaua, Moala Graham-Taufa, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Chanel Harris-Tavita, Shaun Johnson, Addin Faonua-Blake, Wayde Egan, Mitchell Barnett, Marata Niukore, Kurt Capewell, Dylan Walker. Interchange: Freddy Lussick, Tom Ale, Jazz Tevaga, Leka Halasima
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