Bulldogs star Sonny Bill Williams was downcast after losing heavily to the Warriors yesterday, but mention of the Kiwis test against Australia on May 9 lifted his mood.

"I've always loved playing for the Kiwis and playing with the boys touch wood I won't get injured and keep playing consistent footy and hopefully get a start."

He also praised the display of Kiwis standoff hopeful Ben Roberts, who was dropped during the disastrous tour to Great Britain last year. Roberts scored a try and defended strongly for the Bulldogs to enhance his claims under new coach Stephen Kearney.

"Benny's had a pretty good year and is improving each game. I think he's a bit more mature than last year. Getting dropped really played a part in his training this year. Hopefully he plays well and gets a start."

Williams downplayed his strong efforts yesterday.

"You never enjoy losing. We've just got to keep our heads up and stay positive. Things can change in the space of a week and we've got a lot of young boys in the team."

He said two successive losses did not mean a crisis for the Bulldogs.

"We have to improve a lot of of aspects. I don't think it's panic stations yet. We're a young side and we have just got to stay focused and positive."

Williams confirmed he would look very seriously at joining the Warriors when his Bulldogs contract ends in 2012.

"Auckland is my home town and I always love coming back here. Anything's possible.

"It's my old stamping ground over here and I do have a soft spot for the Warriors. I guess I still thought I had a lot to prove over in Australia but hopefully the door is still open when I come off contract next time," he said.

"Committing to the Bulldogs was a big decision and I have to live with the one I made. I'm really happy at the Bulldogs right now."

Warriors forward Simon Mannering, who could partner Williams in the second row against the Kangaroos, took pride in standing up to the Dogs pack.

"Sonny Bill is a handful all right. He had a great game and to win we knew we had to shut him down. You can't get him every time, he's a very skilful player."

"They have a very big pack and are always very physical. It's the first time I've beaten them in four years the last couole of years we sort of let the Bulldogs beat us without giving them a go.

"We just wanted to go out there and give it our all."

Warriors captain Ruben Wiki confirmed that he will have a mentoring role with the Kiwis under Kearney.