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Scoreline: Knights 24-14 Warriors
The Knights begin life under Rick Stone with a terrific 24-14 win over the Warriors. Newcastle had to withstand plenty of pressure in the second half and were even a man down for 10 minutes. The Warriors though unable to take advantage and the Knights made them pay. Gagai superb for Newcastle. Rochow strong upfront. Johnson had his moments but his play let him down when it truly mattered.
Two NRL sides with big hopes for season 2015 clash this afternoon as the Newcastle Knights host the New Zealand Warriors. Join The Roar for live scores and commentary from 4.30pm AEDT.
Both the Knights and Warriors missed out on a place in last year’s NRL finals. On paper, these two sides are capable of pushing any team on their day but inconsistency has often plagued their capacity to fulfil potential.
Despite making a preliminary final back in 2013, Newcastle never really got going under Wayne Bennett and now the Knights begin a new era under former coach Rick Stone.
In team news, Kurt Gidley is back at fullback, replacing Darius Boyd who signed with the Broncos. Gidley leads a very good Knights backline that contains a great mix of skill and power.
The Mata’utia brothers were a sensation last season and should be expected to feature prominently in 2015. Throw in the dangerous Akuila Uate, Dane Gagai and James McManus and Newcastle certainly have what it takes to score plenty of points this afternoon.
Newcastle’s fortunes this season rest on how well Jarred Mullen is able to play. Mullen at his best is a superb play-maker who really shines when he takes on the line. His battle against Warriors half Shaun Johnson is worth the price of admission alone.
Johnson is coming off a terrific Four Nations tournament which culminated in a superb showing against Australia in the final. If he can continue to maintain such high standards, the Warriors are top-eight material.
New signing Ryan Hoffman is also massive for New Zealand. Hoffman is the ultimate professional and his line-running will cause Newcastle’s defence immense problems if the Warriors are given too much possession.
With both teams blessed with attacking firepower, expect plenty of points this afternoon in what should be a very entertaining contest. The Warriors are often suspect away from home but a fit and firing Johnson could see them snatch a win here.
Warriors by 6.