Knights Secure Finals Spot with Win Over Dolphins

8 September 2024

In front of a sold-out crowd at McDonald Jones Stadium, the Newcastle Knights have clinched the final spot in the NRL finals with a hard-fought 14-6 victory over the Dolphins. The win sees the Knights head to Townsville next week for a do-or-die clash against the North Queensland Cowboys.

Captain Kalyn Ponga played a pivotal role, assisting both of Newcastle’s tries and proving once again why he is the Knights’ key player. The Dolphins, in their first NRL season, fought valiantly but couldn’t break through Newcastle’s tough defence for much of the match.

The contest was intense, with both teams desperate to secure a spot in the finals. Early on, the Dolphins appeared to gain momentum, but a controversial obstruction call in the first half denied them what would have been a crucial try. Trai Fuller’s effort was overturned after the bunker ruled Connelly Lemuelu had obstructed a Knights defender.

Newcastle capitalised on this call and soon after, Ponga delivered a perfectly timed pass to Adam Elliott, who crashed through the Dolphins’ defence to score the opening try. The Knights led 6-0 at halftime, with their fans daring to dream of a finals berth.

The second half started with more pressure from Newcastle, and it didn’t take long for Ponga to work his magic again. A slick pass from the star fullback set up Brodie Jones for the Knights’ second try, extending their lead to 12-0. A penalty goal further secured their advantage.

Despite the Dolphins pulling one back with a try from Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow in the 71st minute, the Knights’ defence held firm to see out the match.

The win not only secures Newcastle’s spot in the finals but also ends Canberra’s hopes of sneaking in, as the Raiders needed a draw in this game to progress.

For the Dolphins, the loss marks the end of Wayne Bennett’s tenure with the club. The legendary coach will return to South Sydney next year, while captain Jesse Bromwich is set to retire after a stellar 15-year career.

The Knights will now face the Cowboys in Townsville next week, setting up a thrilling elimination final as Newcastle eyes a deep run in the post-season.

Match Highlights:

Kalyn Ponga recorded two try assists, 160 running metres, and 13 tackle breaks.
Greg Marzhew was a powerhouse for Newcastle, running 204 metres and breaking seven tackles.
The Knights have now scored 138 points in their last five games and will compete in their fourth finals series in the past five years.
Dolphins captain Jesse Bromwich was sin-binned for a swinging arm in the 68th minute, dampening his final game before retirement.

Newcastle fans will be eagerly awaiting next week’s showdown, with hopes high for a long-awaited finals campaign.