For only the second time in club history the New Zealand Warriors have scored three consecutive victories to start an NRL season.

Co-captain Mitchell Barnett’s comeback moves closer while young halfback Luke Hanson will make his NRL debut when the NZ Warriors face the Knights in Saturday’s top-of-the-table round three clas at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle

For just the fourth time in their history the Warriors are 2-0 to start the season as Tanah Boyd's kicking game, Leka Halasima's power and Jackson Ford's work ethic lead them to a sensational win over last year's minor premiers at Mt Smart.

Hard-working prop Jackson Ford and hooker Wayde Egan return for the One New Zealand Warriors’ elimination final against the Penrith Panthers at Go Media Stadium on Saturday

Warriors player Jackson Ford has been banned for the remainder of the NRL regular season after pleading guilty to a crusher tackle.

The Warriors had won seven of their past eight matches to sit comfortably in third spot on the NRL ladder but they had no answer to a Panthers side led by Moses Leota and Scott Sorensen going down 28-18.

Fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad and centre Rocco Berry return while front rower Jackson Ford will make his 50th appearance for the Warruirs on Friday,.

The NZ Warriors' winless streak against the Melbourne Storm reaches 17 after a dire first half on Sunday.

Fullback Taine Tuaupiki and forward Jackson Ford are the latest players to re-commit to the NZ Warriors.

The NZ Warriors have gone back-to-back at home after outclassing the Knights 20-12 at Go Media Stadium.