Johnson expected to take on the Eels

The Warriors struggled for continuity without their star playmaker as they went down 15-11 in front of their home fans but should have him back after he was in essence rested for the opening pool game. 

Warriors skipper Ruben Wiki allayed any fears Johnson had suffered an injury, telling media after the game that the fan-favourite would be right to play the Parramatta Eels in what's shaping as a must-win match for the locals. 

"He'll play the next game," Wiki said.

"He wasn't named in this one. They [the coaches] said they're going to try to limit the big players' [minutes] for the season."