In a thrilling display of rugby league, Kalyn Ponga led the Newcastle Knights to a convincing 26-12 victory over the Dolphins at home. Ponga’s masterclass performance showcased his versatility and skill, contributing significantly to the Knights’ undefeated start to the season.

Key Takeaways

• Kalyn Ponga delivered a standout performance, influencing all four of Newcastle’s first-half tries.
• The Knights secured their second consecutive win, maintaining their undefeated streak.
• The Dolphins struggled with discipline, conceding multiple penalties that hindered their performance.
• Newcastle’s new signing, Dylan Brown, is set to join the team in 2026, adding excitement for the future.

Ponga’s Masterclass Performance

Kalyn Ponga was nothing short of sensational during the match, demonstrating his ability to control the game from various positions on the field. He played a pivotal role in Newcastle’s attack, often taking on the first receiver role and orchestrating plays that led to multiple tries.

• First-Half Contributions:
  • Assisted in the opening try for winger James Schiller.
  • Set up Bradman Best’s try, extending the lead to 14-0 within the first 21 minutes.
  • Executed a remarkable play that left commentators in awe, showcasing his unique talent.

Ponga’s performance drew praise from rugby league legends, including Andrew Johns, who remarked on the rarity of such skill in the game. Queensland coach Billy Slater also commended Ponga, rating his first-half performance a perfect 10.

Knights’ Dominance

The Knights displayed a well-rounded team effort, with solid contributions from players across the board. Starting halfback Jack Cogger proved he could handle the pressure of the upcoming competition with Dylan Brown, showing poise and skill throughout the match.

• Key Players:
  • Kalyn Ponga: Instrumental in attack, involved in all first-half tries.
  • Jack Cogger: Solid performance, demonstrating confidence and control.
  • Fletcher Sharpe: Contributed to the second try after halftime, showcasing the Knights’ depth.

The Knights’ forward pack, led by Jacob Saifiti, dominated the physical exchanges, setting the tone for the match. The Saifiti twins faced off for the first time, adding a personal rivalry to the competitive atmosphere.

Dolphins’ Struggles

The Dolphins, who faced challenges leading up to the match due to adverse weather conditions affecting their training, struggled to find their rhythm. Despite a few bright moments, including a late try from Isaiya Katoa, the team was unable to capitalize on their opportunities.

• Discipline Issues:
  • Conceded three penalties for incorrect play-the-balls, disrupting their flow.
  • Failed to maintain possession and control, leading to missed scoring chances.

The Dolphins will be eager to return home and regroup after two consecutive losses, hoping to find their form in the upcoming matches.

Looking Ahead

As the Knights celebrate their victory, they will be keeping an eye on the health of second-rower Kai Pearce-Paul, who was sin-binned for a shoulder charge late in the game. Meanwhile, the anticipation builds for the arrival of Dylan Brown, who will join the Knights in 2026, potentially forming a dynamic partnership with Ponga.

With Ponga at the helm, the Knights are poised for a promising season, while the Dolphins will need to address their issues quickly to turn their fortunes around.