NRL, ROUND 24, AUGUST 13th, 2023 NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS v CANTERBURY BULLDOGS
McDONALD JONES STADIUM, NEWCASTLE
As the NRL’s Round 24 beckons, the spotlight shines on the battle between the Newcastle Knights and the Canterbury Bulldogs at the McDonald Jones Stadium.
The Newcastle Knights, riding a five-game winning streak, have surged into the top eight. Their remarkable comeback against the Dolphins last round showcased their resilience and determination. With just four rounds remaining in the regular season, they sit just one victory away from 11th-placed Manly on the ladder. Every win becomes pivotal as they march forward.
This upcoming Sunday afternoon duel against the Canterbury Bulldogs marks the start of a trio of home matches for the Knights, a sequence that could further strengthen their pursuit of the premiership. Recalling their dominant round 18 performance, where they thrashed the Bulldogs with a resounding 66-0 victory, the Knights remain poised for success. Star fullback Kalyn Ponga, a driving force behind the Novocastrian resurgence, continues to lead their charge.
Last week’s encounter saw the Knights narrowly overcoming a determined Dolphins side, with Ponga’s influence again evident. His stellar display included a try, 2 line breaks, and 2 try assists. Ponga’s momentum, coupled with his consistent performance in recent games, positions him as a formidable threat against the Bulldogs.
The Knights’ backline, comprising talents like Greg Marzhew and Dom Young, has been firing on all cylinders. Both wingers have established themselves as premier try-scorers over the past two months. Unfortunately, the Knights will miss the services of in-form center Bradman Best.
On the opposing end, the Bulldogs enter the match with the advantage of rest, having come off their third bye. They are determined to rectify the memory of their crushing defeat at the hands of Newcastle six weeks ago. With slight adjustments to their lineup, including the return of Viliame Kikau and the inclusion of Toby Sexton, the Bulldogs bring a bolstered squad to the field.
Despite the Bulldogs’ improved lineup, the challenge remains daunting, especially against a Knights team that is aiming to secure a strong finish for the round. The Knights understand the gravity of the situation, with a potential loss threatening to drop them to a lower ranking. As they enter this clash, it’s evident that a repeat of their round 18 triumph is unlikely. Vigilance is key for the Knights to avoid slipping into a challenging situation that could truncate their top-eight aspirations.
Predictions
In this clash, the scales tip in favor of the home team. The Newcastle Knights, fueled by the impressive form of Ponga and their overall performance, are poised to secure victory. With momentum on their side, the Knights seem well-equipped to emerge triumphant in this encounter.
Knights: 1. Kalyn Ponga 2. Dominic Young 3. Dane Gagai 4. Enari Tuala 5. Greg Marzhew 6. Tyson Gamble 7. Jackson Hastings 8. Jacob Saifiti9. Phoenix Crossland 10. Leo Thompson 11. Tyson Frizell 12. Lachlan Fitzgibbon 13. Adam Elliott 14. Kurt Mann 15. Brodie Jones 16. Jack Hetherington 17. Mathew Croker 18. Dylan Lucas 19. Hymel Hunt 20. Simi Sasagi 21. Jack Johns 22. Daniel Saifiti
Bulldogs: 1. Jake Averillo 2. Blake Wilson 3. Jacob Kiraz 4. Braidon Burns 5. Josh Addo-Carr 6. Matt Burton 7. Toby Sexton 8. Max King 9. Reed Mahoney 10. Tevita Pangai Junior 11. Viliame Kikau 12. Jacob Preston 13. Ryan Sutton 14. Kyle Flanagan 15. Luke Thompson 16. Liam Knight17. Corey Waddell 19. Harrison Edwards 20. Kurtis Morrin 21. Jayden Okunbor 22. Hayze Perham 23. Sam Hughes
Referee: Peter Gough
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