Newcastle have taken another step in their NRL rebuild, signing veteran prop Jacob Lillyman on a one-year deal.
His recruitment comes just two days after the club had announced premiership-winning Melbourne forward Slade Griffin has also been lured to the Hunter until the end of the 2019 season.
With 250 NRL games and 14 State of Origin matches for Queensland, the long-serving Warriors’ prop brings a wealth of experience to the Knights’ young roster.
Already on the recruitment list are Brisbane duo Herman Ese’ese and Tautau Moga, and Sydney Roosters pair Aidan Guerra and Connor Watson.
The biggest fish is North Queensland teenage sensation Kalyn Ponga.
“Newcastle is a good young team on the up and I’m really looking forward to getting over there and getting stuck in,” the 33-year-old Lillyman said on Thursday.
“I think the Knights have got some great young players, especially in the forwards, and I am keen to help them in their development.
“Newcastle is a very proud rugby league region and town and I can’t wait to experience that, first hand.”
matth
Guest
I understand he has been bought as a number 6. Pongya is fullback.
matth
Guest
He'll be on a pretty small deal and will be good cover.
The Koomz
Guest
Very good signing, he will be a mentor to the Saifiti boys. I like the Knights recruitment, they are being very selective. I don't know where Conor Watson will fit but Fullback is his best fit.
Albo
Guest
I'm with you Nat ! I hope they aren't paying too much cash for him ! The Knights have a good young developing pack with many already showing better form than Lillyman has shown in recent seasons ? At 33 years old and getting slower each year, I don't see the point really ?
Sideline Commentator
Roar Guru
I think Lillyman is really just there to set an example to the Knights, which I think might help. Where they keep getting beaten is in the second half when the forwards have to step up in defence (and set the platform for more points), so I think the idea is that Lillyman will help create a culture of a good work ethic and professionalism for the young blokes. As a long languishing Knights fan, I don't mind it. My mate is actually calling top 8 next year, but I'm not sure I'm that optimistic.
Nat
Roar Guru
I like Lillyman but I hope the Knights got a good deal with him. Bringing a wealth of experience is fine but they have a quality young pack and he is generally only good for 40-50mins each week. The Storm bought Nate Myles for his 'wealth of experience' and Brisbane Easts are benefiting from it.
Paul
Roar Guru
With players Newcastle either has on it's roster or has bought for next year, Brown can't have any excuses if this side does not do well. This is now his team and not a carry over from previous coaches