Newcastle Knights reach NRL grand final for first time since 2001
Newcastle Knights defeated Penrith Panthers in the NRLW preliminary final. They reached the grand final for the first time since 2001.
The Knights played with 12 players for the entire second half after Phoenix Crossland suffered an injury. The side still secured the win.
Coach Justin Holbrook's team showed resilience and defensive intensity under the disadvantage. Sandon Smith sealed the victory with an intercept and a length-of-the-field run late in the match.
The Knights are into the grand final for the first time since 2001. Captain Kalyn Ponga and the squad celebrated an emotional return to the promised land after years of rebuilding.
- 25
- Years since last grand final
- Penrith Panthers
- Opposition
- 12
- Players on field second half
Why it mattersNewcastle's grand final appearance marks their first decider since 2001. It gives the city's rugby league fans their biggest match in a generation.
AustraliaNewcastle is a traditional league heartland, and the Knights' return to the grand final restores local pride and brings major rugby league attention back to the city.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 6 h ago
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