Warriors coach Stephen Kearney is a step closer to deciding who will fill the boots of departed star Shaun Johnson.
With Blake Green certain to start in the halves when the Warriors host the Bulldogs in the season opener on March 16, Kearney is tossing up between Adam Keighran and Chanel Harris-Tavita as his other playmaker.
The pair shared the role in Saturday's 26-16 trial win over the Wests Tigers and Kearney refused to reveal who had the inside running.
"Once we've had a closer look at the game and get a feel for what we think best suits the footy team, we'll make that decision," Kearney said.
Off-season addition Keighran has been impressive in the pre-season but he got off on the wrong foot at the Warriors.
"He's got a bit of game about him but I don't know when he turned up if he thought it was a summer camp," Kearney said.
"He didn't go real well and didn't make a good impression from a fitness point of view. He's from the NSW Central Coast and they have some good drinkers there.
Match Highlights: Warriors v Wests Tigers
"I don't know what he expected and I don't think he realised what our expectations were, but he's worked really hard on his game so that's a credit to him."
Harris-Tavita has come through the Warriors' junior system and is keeping a level head in his battle with Keighran for a starting spot.
"Shaun leaving was a big loss and there's been a lot of noise around it, but it's an opportunity for us," Harris-Tavita said.
"I see it as an advantage because we're both competing every week for that spot every week and it's only going to make us better."
Turning 20 in April, Harris-Tavita has formed a solid friendship with his teammate.
"We're pretty tight and we're looking to help each other," he said.
"Everyone asks us if there's a bit of beef in there but we're real close and catch up on off days. he took me for my first golf game.
"Whoever gets it will deserve it. I'd be happy with whoever gets it because it'll just be motivation for both of us to keep pushing for that spot."
Kearney said the Warriors got through the game without suffering any injuries.
