After eight months of not playing in front of their home faithful, the Newcastle Knights returned to play against the Wests Tigers.
After running riot in the opening ten minutes with two quick converted tries with more points than minutes gone, Knights played one hell of a game and gave their fans something to celebrate.
The second half saw the Knights add three extra tries which all went unconverted and backed it up with brilliant defence. Despite conceding a late try, I can see a far better defensive team this year so far. I know it’s only been two rounds so I’m not going to get ahead of myself, make predictions or talk nonsense.
Our next task is away at Bathurst against the defending premiers Penrith Panthers. We may be the best defensive team in the league after two rounds but we’re facing the best attacking team. A battle which will see the winning team finish Round 3 topping the ladder, Newcastle will have their work cut out for them.
We won our first two games by taking control of the match and playing it our way. The team who controls the field, controls the game and the team who controls the game wins 99 times out of 100.
This new style we’re playing sees every player doing their part required, not overexerting themselves and letting our halves run the show. One thing I realised from our fullbacks – whether Kalyn Ponga in Round 1 or Tex Hoy in Round 2 – they didn’t play too hard, try to take over or be superheroes. Neither of them are named Bruce Wayne.
The Panthers may be without Nathan Cleary but that hasn’t stopped them being a dangerous team. They may be defending premiers but they are showing their value as a powerhouse team.
This game is our biggest test to date. I do feel confident we can get the job done. Penrith and Melbourne are showing signs they’re the teams to beat this year.
One player I really have to give credit to is Kurt Mann. He has owned the lock forward role so well. He plays like an extra half, he runs a more direct line and knows how to be Jared Waerea-Hargreaves’ pimp. One thing I do find funny is how the keyboard warriors who love to online bash him have gone hiding.
Another player I give credit to is Adam Clune. The coaching influence from Andrew Johns has really showed the difference the former Dragon can make. Clune has plays like a calm, centred halfback.
I can’t wait to see my team play at Bathurst, plus I can’t wait to return there – it’s a nice place.
I’ve had my say, now you have yours.
Roarers, time for you to take the floor: who wins on Saturday?
Dutski
Roar Guru
It feels like Adam O’Brien has structured the play around the players he has (rather than hoping the players will be something they aren’t). As such the Knights are playing uncomplicated roles really, really well. The halves seem to know their roles really well and the forwards are laying a platform for them. The centres are one of the best pairings in the league now. A lot to like about how the Knights are going about it. Agree that this will be a good test of where they’re at. I don’t think the Panthers will be out coached or complacent as we saw the Chooks in round 1. As others have said - Penrith are vulnerable but they will also be well aware of what the Knights are bringing. I’m thinking Panthers, but not with any great confidence.
Choppy Zezers
Roar Rookie
Great. Thanks King. What wonderful memories.
The King of the World
Roar Guru
We lost the next 5 in a row Won Round 10 against Wests Sixth losses in a row Thumped Titans Round 19 Thumped by South Sydney the following week Rick Stone got sacked Won only 2 of 6 with Danny Buderus as coach Got the spoon.
Rob
Guest
No reason why they can’t knock over the Panthers. The Panthers got absolutely spanked by the Eels in preseason. They come out and beaten Manly and the Dragons. Run the form through Manly and Dragons against the Knights comfortable win over the Roosters and Sharks flogging of the Dragons? Should be an interesting game. Clifford will own Lui IMO.
Choppy Zezers
Roar Rookie
Dear lord in heaven please let it happen. Yep the knights have played well, are using the ball better and have more attacking threats. Agree with Kmann. I blew up deluxe last year. But in the middle he's distributing and playing first receiver. Well done Kmann. I don't think we will topple the Panthers. They play so up tempo and have so much depth. But hey I thought that about the Roosters so what do I know? A terrifying thought: Last time the knights were 4 from 4 at the start or the year was during the Stone Age. I loaded up on them making the top 8 and was gloating to all and sundry. Think we lost the next 14. You won't find too much medieval optimism from me.
Beastie
Roar Rookie
As you say it is the perfect time for any team to be taking on the reigning premiers with all of their injuries, but if they do win, or get close, it should be recognized that they did it without Brailey, Klemmer, Fitzgibbon, Jones, Sue, and Hunt. They are playing a better team game now instead of the "pass it to Ponga" ball from the last couple of years. It has Joey's fingerprints all over it. Should be a cracking match.
jimmmy
Roar Rookie
Well it's the perfect time for the Knights to stand up . No Cleary., no Martin, no JFH no Leota leaves the Panthers very vulnerable. Really the Knights have to win this or go awefully close to get some genuine credibility. They have surprised me so far ,so I will be looking closely.