Auckland, New Zealand, July 26, 2009 - The Vodafone Junior Warriors boosted their finals hopes with an outstanding 20-point win over second-placed St George Illawarra in today's 20th-round NYC match at Mount Smart Stadium.

Backing up after a disappointing 28-30 loss to the lowly-ranked Sydney Roosters, the home side produced its best all-round display of the season in scoring five tries to one. One of the competition's hottest attacking teams, St George Illawarra caused concern when they crossed in just the third minute of the match to lead 6-0. But they never scored again, the Vodafone Junior Warriors grabbing three tries to lead 14-6 at halftime and then scoring two more to stretch to 26-6 with more than 20 minutes still to play.

While they couldn't build on that advantage, they defended superbly to keep the Dragons out. Excelling once again was halfback Shaun Johnson while hooker Alehana Mara also had an exceptional match. Johnson scored the Vodafone Junior Warriors' first try - his 11th in 18 matches this season - and was typically influential throughout. Exciting second rower Ben Henry underlined his promise yet again, scoring his seventh try of the season, while prolific winger Bill Tupou, back from injury, snared his 11th try in 14 appearances this year. Match details:

At Mount Smart Stadium, Auckland Vodafone Junior Warriors 26 (Shaun Johnson, Siuatonga Likiliki, Nafe Seluini, Ben Henry, Bill Tupou tries; Shaun Johnson 3 conversions). St George Illawarra Dragons 6 (Henry Raiwalui try; Beau Henry conversion). Halftime: 14-6 Vodafone Junior Warriors. Referee: Shane Rehem.