The Newcastle Knights are a team with potential, but they’ve often been held back by inconsistency and injuries in recent seasons. However, with a well-balanced squad and some key playmakers, they have the tools to compete at the highest level. To unlock their full potential, particularly the superstar talent of Kalyn Ponga, they need to adopt the right structure and game plan.
#### **Best 17 for Newcastle Knights**
1. **Fullback**: Kalyn Ponga
2. **Wingers**: Dominic Young, Greg Marzhew
3. **Centres**: Bradman Best, Justin Holbrook
4. **Halfbacks**: Jackson Hastings, Mitchell Pearce
5. **Props**: David Klemmer, Daniel Saifiti
6. **Hooker**: Jayden Brailey
7. **Second-row**: Tyson Frizell, Lachlan Fitzgibbon
8. **Lock**: Kurt Mann
**Bench**: Leo Thompson, Jacob Saifiti, Adam Clune, Phoenix Crossland
The forward pack is solid, with plenty of experience in Klemmer and Frizell, while the likes of Saifiti and Brailey provide a reliable platform. The halves, with Hastings and Pearce, offer a blend of creativity and leadership, while the backline has speed and power in Young and Best.
#### **How to Unlock Kalyn Ponga’s Potential**
Ponga is undoubtedly the Knights’ biggest star and needs to be the focal point of their attacking structure. To maximize his impact, Newcastle should focus on the following areas:
1. **Centralizing Ponga’s Role**
Ponga is most dangerous when given the freedom to roam and create from the back. However, too often, the Knights have used him predominantly as a conventional fullback. By shifting him into the first receiver role more frequently, similar to how teams use a “playmaking fullback,” they can unlock his ball-playing skills. Having him involved in shaping both sides of the attack will allow him to exploit the defensive line, whether by attacking the line himself or using his passing and kicking skills.
2. **Better Structure in Attack**
Ponga thrives in ad-lib football, but Newcastle needs a more structured approach to bring the best out of him. By setting up deep and wide platforms in attack, with Pearce and Hastings feeding the ball out to the edges, Ponga can come into the play at key moments. The middle forwards, including the Saifiti brothers, need to consistently win the ruck battle to allow the Knights’ spine—especially Ponga—to operate with space.
3. **Partnership with Mitchell Pearce**
While Hastings has been a key figure in Newcastle’s spine, it’s the combination between Ponga and veteran Mitchell Pearce that can take this side to the next level. Pearce is an experienced general who can control the tempo of the game and allow Ponga to focus on creating opportunities. By running plays that combine Pearce’s tactical kicking with Ponga’s running game, Newcastle can shift defenses and create gaps for attacking opportunities.
4. **Support Play and Kicking Game**
Ponga excels when he has support runners around him. Having forwards, especially players like Frizell and Fitzgibbon, running off his shoulder will create space for him to break the line or produce a killer pass. Additionally, Ponga’s kicking game, particularly his short-kicking for tries, should be better utilized in attacking zones to pressure the opposition’s defense.
5. **Defensive Focus**
While Ponga’s attacking ability is unquestionable, Newcastle must also bolster his defensive game. Shifting him around the field while ensuring he stays engaged in defensive systems will help the team maintain a solid defensive structure, especially in crucial moments when the opposition tries to exploit his positioning.
#### **Conclusion**
Newcastle Knights possess the personnel to challenge for a top-eight finish, but they need to refine their game plan around Ponga’s abilities. By centralizing his role, improving their attacking structure, and ensuring that Ponga’s partnership with Pearce thrives, the Knights can unlock their superstar and become a far more potent side.
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