Roosters player Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii is held up in a tackle during the match against the Warriors at Mt Smart Stadium. Photo: Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz
The Warriors have fallen to their second straight NRL loss going down 14-0 to the Roosters in stormy conditions at Mt Smart Stadium.
In the low-scoring match the Aucklanders enjoyed plenty of field position throughout the afternoon but were unable to break through for any points as the Roosters repelled any raids that came their way with relentless defence.
Warriors coach Andrew Webster said the defence of the visitors was certainly a factor.
"I felt the difference between the two teams was they put the ball in the corner, and they went after us defensively," Webster said.
"Their tackling was elite.
"We had enough ball to in there tonight, so I'm not that frustrated about that."
Nat Butcher and Sitili Tupouniua scored the tries for the visitors.
There were serious concerns after the match for Roosters hooker Brandon Smith who was taken to hospital in Auckland as a precaution post-match after leaving the field late the game.
Roosters player Brandon Smith prepares to pass during today's match. Photo: Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz
Smith was seen in a neck brace and on a stretcher coming out of the dressing rooms before being taken to hospital via ambulance with Roosters medical staff alongside him.
The club told NRL.com at Mt Smart Stadium it was for precautionary reasons after the dummy half suffered neck pain following a head injury assessment in the 74th minute.
It was following the game that the Roosters requested a doctor and paramedic for Smith, who played an influential role in the side's win on Sunday.
