The Newcastle Knights may have turned the corner, and have had a great start to the year by thrashing the Tigers.
Wayne Bennett has worked hard to prepare for this season, and the super-coach hopes this year he can bring the Knights success.
He has been known to improve players and make them reach their maximum potential.
One player that has grown is young Tyrone Roberts. He always had loads of potential but since Wayne Bennett’s arrival he has been great for the club.
Last year he gained much experience with Gidley’s injury. With Gidley and Mullen guaranteed the halves spot it looked grim for Tyrone, but Wayne Bennett has been so impressed with the youngster he has put him on the bench as a utility player.
Akuila Uate also owes Bennett some thanks, even though he lost his NSW State of Origin jersey last year. He was considered to be a defensive liability against Queensland, but Bennett believes this experience made him a better defensive player.
Uate’s display against the Tigers was just raw talent and power and this season may be his best yet.
The Newcastle Knights fans have lots to look forward to as their attack is looking better than ever, and with new recruits Beau Scott and Jeremy Smith in the ranks their defence looks stronger than ever.
The Knights had a great start to 2013 with a 42-10 win over the Tigers and they can back it up against the Sea Eagles.
Their team has been named and Mullen is expected to play despite his wrist complaint. Bennett says he only took him off as a precaution and he is hopeful he can play. The Knights have named an unchanged 18 for round two
KNIGHTS: Darius Boyd, James McManus, Dane Gagai, Anthony Quinn, Akuila Uate, Jarrod Mullen, Kurt Gidley, Kade Snowden, Travis Waddell, Willie Mason, Beau Scott, Chris Houston, Jeremy Smith. Interchange: Tyrone Roberts, Neville Costigan, Robbie Rochow, Alex McKinnon, David Fa’alogo.
The Knights could be in for a great season.
Wayne Bennett is the man with seven titles with two clubs in 20 years, and the Knights will be hoping for their first premiership since 2001.
One thing that is certain, if Gidley and Jarrod Mullen click in the halves behind such a tough pack, and with such attacking ability they will be a hard team to beat.
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