Knights superstar Kalyn Ponga looks set to be stripped of the captaincy after a video emerged of him being kicked out of a toilet cubicle with teammate Kurt Mann.
The video came to light on Monday morning, sparking Ponga’s dad, Andre to claim the 24-year-old was “sick in the toilet and his mate went in to help him” while out celebrating “an exciting house purchase.”
Although, Fox League’s James Hooper suggested that wasn’t the real story, telling NRL 360: “You might have to get Pinocchio out again, we aren’t believing that fairytale are we?”
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Newly signed football manager Peter Parr will front the media on Tuesday and News Corp Journalist Phil Rothfield believes it could be the end of Ponga’s reign as captain.
“I think it’s a really, really bad look and I know the Knights are really concerned about the PR side of it and the culture side of it,” he told NRL 360.
“Do you know how serious I think it is, I think he will be stripped of the captaincy over this.”
Ponga was announced as co-captain alongside Jayden Brailey in February, however with the latter missing for a lot of the season Ponga carried the responsibility himself for the first 16 rounds.
Hooper agreed that “it’s a bad scene” and urged the Knights to come down hard on Ponga given prop David Klemmer was stood down for an on-field incident involving a trainer.
“If he’s had concussions, commonsense tells you he should be (on an alcohol ban), certainly Kurt Mann (who is injured) is supposed to be on an alcohol ban,” he said.
Put asked to leave toilet cubicle | 00:16
“They tore strips off David Klemmer for swearing at a trainer on the field, I’d argue that this is far more detrimental in terms of negative headlines for the club and if they’re fair dinkum they’ll read the Riot Act tomorrow morning , Peter Parr will front the media and he will say ‘enough is enough, this is the line in the sand moment, we’re not going to tolerate this sort of jibber anymore.’
“Off the back of that I think both of them are going to have to be issued breach notices and fines. Because if they’re going to breach David Klemmer and fine him for something that was trivial on the field with a trainer, you can’t cop this.”
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However Paul Kent fears stripping the captaincy could have the opposite effect and believes the club should “demand” Put “lifts his standards.”
“I would say to him ‘you’re the only guy at this club that can lead us out of trouble and we’ve paid you the money you deserve, you’re a senior player and an Origin start…’ and I would oblige him to start leading them out of the woods,” he said.
“If you’re going to spend that money on a player you’ve got to get a return out of him. The way to get the best out of Kalyn is not to banish him, not to sack him from the captaincy.
“I’m not excusing it, I would bring him in and give him the Riot Act but I’d say to him ‘you’re the guy mate’ and I would demand that he starts lifting his standards and he takes his teammates with him.
“If he’s got any sense of decency inside of him as a player from a football point of view he will respond to that.”
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Braith Anasta agreed.
“As much as he’s taken the mickey, this guy holds the key to success… you’ve got to get this blokes in your hip pocket,” he said.
“Kick him in the ass but say ‘this is it mate, this is your last chance.’ They should do some in-house stuff over the next 24 hours, teach him a lesson, scare the you know what out of him and go ‘c’mon mate.’
“If you just sack him as captain you start to lose your key player.”
Jesse Bromwich is the highest paid prop in the game with the front-rower leading a clear attitude shift over how much props should be paid.
In a game-changer for the code, the front-row position is now the highest-paid position in the NRL.
The second highest-paid prop is Roosters recruit Matt Lodge on $900,000. A portion of his current salary is being paid by former clubs, the Warriors and Broncos.
From the Rich 100, 26 of the top-earners are front-rowers.
The next best grossing position across the NRL is back rowers (15) and locks (14).
Halfbacks (10) are ranked fourth overall for position in the 2022 Rich 100, a possible insight into the death of quality halves currently in the NRL.
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Bromwich’s $1.05 million salary with the Melbourne Storm will shock league fans, who routinely rate Penrith’s James Fisher-Harris, Eels prop Junior Paulo, Broncos spearhead Payne Haas or Roosters powerhouse Jared Waerea-Hargreaves as the best go-forward merchant in the NRL.
Climbing from a 53rd ranking on the Rich 100 last year to be 13th overall this year, Bromwich has hit pay dirt in his final year in Melbourne on the back of a stellar career at the Storm which has included three premierships and three Player of the Year awards.
The Kiwi International and Storm captain is edging closer to 300 first grade games in what is his final season in Victoria before moving north to become an inaugural franchise player with The Dolphins.
The 33-year-old will take a major pay cut to join the NRL’s newest baby, but could still figure inside the top-50 highest-paid players next year.
The stunning increase in salaries for props is in direct contrast from a long-held view of supercoach Wayne Bennett, who historically refused to spend big-money in his pack.
Lodge has landed at the Roosters for the remainder of this season on a cut-price deal, although his full salary continues to be supplemented by payouts from both the Brisbane Broncos and New Zealand Warriors, the latter of whom have paid him out in full for next season.
Lodge is hoping to earn an extension with the Roosters.
A mainstay of the Rich 100, the next highest-paid prop is Andrew Fifita, who will farewell the list at the end of this season.
The off-contract Sharks prop is in the final year of a five-year contract that is valued at $850,000 a season.
His current overall ranking of 19 on the Rich 100, is shared with fellow front-rower Addin Fonua-Blake.
The Warriors scored a coup when they managed to get Fonua-Blake from Manly for the 2021 season.
He was already one of the game’s premier props when he arrived at the Warriors and he continues to lead from the front for a side that has faced plenty of recent adversity.
Locked in until the end of 2026, Fonua-Blake’s challenge will be delivered upon his worth at the back-end of his contract.
Knights prop David Klemmer is the next highest-paid prop. He is ranked 28th overall on the Rich 100 on a salary of $850,000.
The Broncos have beaten the Knights 28-10 on the back of brilliant displays from Te Maire Martin and Ezra Mam and a hat-trick to Selwyn Cobbo.
Martin’s return from injury gave the Broncos an edge in attack and Cobbo cashed in with a brilliant three-try performance as the Knights’ edges were blown apart.
MATCH CENTER: Broncos vs Knights teams, SuperCoach scores, videos, updates
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Cobbo opened the scoring in the corner after some brilliant lead-up work from Adam Reynolds and Martin.
Corey Oates crossed in the opposite corner for his 19th try of the season after a questionable last pass from Delouise Hoeter was cleared.
Mam and Martin combined for one of the long-range tries of the season to push the Broncos out to a commanding 18-0 lead.
Daniel Saifiti barged over from close range to give the Knights a chance at a late comeback.
Bradman Best dived over to cut the deficit to eight points and set up a grandstand finish.
However, Cobbo snuffed out the comeback after securing his double to seal an important win for the Broncos.
Cobbo sealed his hat-trick when Reynolds put the ball on a dime for him to score in the corner and put the icing on the cake.
Here are the key takeaways from the match.
MARTIN PROVES MISSING LINK FOR BRONCOS
Te Maire Martin returned for his first game since Round 16 and showed the Broncos exactly what they have been missing in a masterful display.
Martin is a five-eighth turned fullback and his playing ability adds another dimension to the Broncos attack.
Corey Parker believes Martin’s inclusion ensured the Broncos looked far more cohesive in attack and it took the pressure of his halves and allowed them to play their games.
“They look more in sync with Martin back,” Parker said.
“He has got a real nice slight of hand. Not your traditional fullback in regards to getting lots of run meters, but he had two try assists in the first half.
“He alleviated a lot of pressure off the halves just by his ability to be able to ball play and Cobbo and Mam were the beneficiaries of that.”
Michael Ennis credited Martin with getting the Broncos out of their funk in terms of their attack over their two game losing run.
“What a game from Te Maire Martin,” Ennis said.
“Coming into the side after being out since Round 16, boy he made a difference just with his composure and his control.
“He has ignited the Brisbane attack.”
MAM SHINES AS REYNOLDS STEERS BRONCOS TO VICTORY
The Broncos were not at their best but with the brilliant running game of Ezra Mam providing the perfect foil for Adam Reynolds’ organisation, Brisbane took the game by the scruff of the neck in the key moments.
As long as the Broncos can get their defense in order, with Mam and Reynolds driving the ship and Selwyn Cobbo finishing in the corner, they can create more than enough points to make a deep run in the finals.
Cooper Cronk noted that the Broncos were not at the peak of their powers against the Knights, but Reynolds and Mam were able to ice the try-scoring opportunities.
“The Broncos did it in second gear,” Cronk said.
“They had the tools to break open the game at any stage with the likes of Adam Reynolds with some craft to sell the dummy for the Oates try.
“This was the attempt of the first half from Ezra Mam.
“He scored with five minutes to go and it set the tone for the rest of the game for the Broncos.”
Michael Ennis marveled at Mam’s ability to break the game open out of nothing at such a young age and with a long career ahead of him.
“Mam was electric,” Ennis said.
“19 years of age. Boy isn’t he an excitement machine.
“The Broncos have now jumped the Eels into sixth and have a healthy points differential lead over them.”
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KNIGHTS WOEFUL ATTACK GOES FROM BAD TO WORSE
The Knights had enough ball and field position to win easily against the Broncos, but a combination of their soft defense and inept attack gave them no chance at Suncorp Stadium.
Cooper Cronk lamented the Knights’ inability to create any real try-scoring opportunities despite a mountain of possession in the first half.
“It was a strange first half because statistically the Knights were the better team,” Cronk said.
“They had more ball and more possession but to be honest they didn’t look like scoring a try.
“Their centers Bradman Best and Dane Gagai were under immense pressure.
“They carved up Dane Gagai on the right edge for the Knights.
“The Knights didn’t look like firing a shot.
“When they get down the other end they are just not engaging that Brisbane defensive line at all.”
Corey Parker slammed the Knights’ horror attack, which failed to put the Broncos under any sustained scoreboard pressure.
“25 times the Knights were tackled inside the Broncos 20 without even looking like scoring,” Parker said.
“The only time they were able to mount any sort of pressure was off a couple of repeat sets.
“They were awful with their attack the Knights.
“The Knights are in all sorts at the moment.”
Michael Ennis was at a loss as to why the Knights haven’t been able to be more competitive with the roster they have at their disposal. in 2022.
“You just watch that Newcastle side come out and you see the Saifiti brothers, Dane Gagai and Tyson Frizell who are absolute weapons and great leaders at different stages throughout their careers and I find it hard to fathom that Newcastle are sitting where they are this year with the roster they have,” Ennis said.
MATCH PREVIEW
The Brisbane Broncos host the Newcastle Knights in a clash at Suncorp Stadium.
Te Maire Martin returns at fullback for the Broncos, while Delouise Hoeter replaces Brenko Lee in the centers after his hamstring injury.
Ryan James starts at lockout, with Kobe Hetherington switching to the bench.
The Knights have lost David Klemmer to injury, with Jacob Saifiti to start and Sauaso Sue joining the bench.
Adam Clune returns to the No.7 jumper with Jake Clifford out with a fractured arm.
The seventh place Broncos desperately need to avoid a third straight loss to keep their slim top four hopes alive, while the Knights are playing for pride as they look for their second straight win.
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The Wests Tigers have been urged to “move on” from new recruit Isaiah Papali’i and use his $1.9 million contract to make a splash in the transfer market.
The Eels enforcer Isaiah had agreed to a three-year deal with the Tigers, but the star recruit is considering a backflip which could leave the club in a tough spot.
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The 23-year-old revealed his concerns after the Tigers parted ways with premiership winning coach Michael Maguire, and has since been linked with a return to the Warriors.
Papalii inked the big-money deal last November, but told 9 News that his future is still far from certain.
“Obviously people ask me about it, just even on the street or family and friends are hitting me up but that’s kind of for my manager look after and even if I don’t stay here or I do go next year, I want to make sure that this year has no regrets,” Papalii said.
“I reckon somewhere in the off-season because this is distracting me at the moment.
“We have a massive opportunity and I don’t want to leave any stone unturned this year and look back on it and think ‘I shouldn’t have left that stuff get in the way’.”
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The Daily Telegraph’s David Riccio and NRL360 co-host Paul Kent said the Tigers could not afford to wait until the end of the season for Papali’i to make a decision.
“They have a salary cap to manage, they can’t sit back and wait for this guy,” Kent said.
“That’s why they the Tigers should move on now, move on and use the money before it’s too late,” Riccio added.
“Don’t wait until November. If they do there will be no market for them,” Kent replied.
Should Tigers hear the message and cut ties with Papali’i, it leaves them with two clear options.
Spend the money now and bring in a player to bolster the side for next season or save it up and make a play for one of the big-name stars off-contract from 2023 who can begin negotiating with rivals from November 1.
BEN HUNT
Age: 32
Club: St George Dragons
Position: half-back
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
While the Dragons are reportedly leading the race for Hunt’s signature, the Tigers should do everything they can to ensure he’s wearing their colors in the future.
Hunt, who was leading the Dally M race before the count went behind closed doors, has begun negotiations with the Dragons over a two-year extension.
The Daily Telegraph have revealed that the playmaker’s management had met with the Dragons late last month.
Since then, however, the Dragons have hit turmoil.
James Hooper reported there had been a major blow-up at the Dragons following the treatment of hooker Andrew McCullough and the axing of assistant coaches Peter Gentle and Mat Head for next season.
Hunt is extremely close with McCullough, having played together at both the Dragons and Broncos as well as for Queensland. The development could provide an opening for rivals to make a move.
The Tigers, who would only be able to speak to Hunt since November 1, are in desperate need of a solution at halfback.
Jock Madden has been sporting the No. 7 jersey for the Tigers over the past couple of weeks, but with just 13 games of NRL experience to his name, the club could use a boost.
If Luke Brooks is allowed to leave it would free up plenty of money for the Tigers to make an all-in move.
Hunt is in high demand with a number of clubs interested in services, and he wouldn’t come cheap. But fresh off his Origin heroics, the Tigers should be willing to move mountains if that’s what it takes to lure the star half to the western suburbs.
COREY OATES
Age: 27
Club: brisbane broncos
Position: wings
Current contract: expires at the end of the year
At just 27-years-old, there’s no reason why a club like the Tigers shouldn’t spend big money on a proven try scorer such as Corey Oates.
Oates, who has 188 NRL games to his name, equaled his record for most tries in a season with a double in Round 21 against the Roosters.
Corey Oats. Broncos V Storm. Picture: NRL ImagesSource: Supplied
Oates comes off contract at the end of this season with the Broncos, so he could become an immediate piece of the Tigers’ puzzle for next season.
He would also offer new coach Tim Sheens some versatility having experience playing in the back row.
DAVID KLEMER
Age: 28
Club: Newcastle Knights
Position: Prop
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
Klemmer was reportedly close to having his contract torn up with the Knights after being issues with a breach notice for an on-field issue.
The former New South Wales prop is on a big-money contract with the Knights, but came under fire after he verbally abused trainer Hayden Knowles during a 14-point loss to the Bulldogs.
“A big overreaction’ Johns on Klemmer | 04:26
Parramatta were reportedly interested in signing the prop for the remainder of the 2022 season on loan before the incident.
While Klemmer has been among the Knights best players, the recent incident, and his hefty contract, could convince Newcastle to agree to release him early.
LIAM MARTIN
Age: 25
Club: Penrith Panthers
Position: second row
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
Another player who comes off contract at the end of next season, Martin would be an incredible signing for the Tigers who could approach him from November 1.
Martin has been a key part of the Panthers’ dominance over the last few seasons and has reaped the rewards after cementing his place in the Blues Origin fold.
Liam Martin is among a list of big names who can talk with rivals since November 1.Source: Getty Images
The Panthers still need to lock down fellow Origin stars Brian To’o and Stephen Crichton which could mean Martin is gettable.
He would be a more than handy replacement for Papali’i if the Tigers can convince him to make the switch.
MARTIN TAUPAU
Age: 32
Club: Manly Sea Eagles
Position: second row
Current contract: expires at the end of the year
Sea Eagles enforcer Taupau reportedly requested an immediate release to join the Eels before the August 1 deadline.
It appears as if he wants out of Brookvale, and with his contract expiring at the end of the season, it’ll be interesting to see which colors he dons next season.
The former Kiwi international played for the Tigers for two seasons before moving to Manly for the 2016 season.
With plenty of power to throw around the field, Taupau can be an asset to any team when he’s in-form.
TYSON FRIZEL
Age: 30
Club: Newcastle Knights
Position: second row
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
It wasn’t too long ago that Tyson Frizell was a regular for both the New South Wales Blues and Kangaroos teams.
Frizell made his name with the Dragons before securing a lucrative deal to sign with the Knights, where he’s played the last two seasons.
Tyson FrizellSource: Getty Images
While he still has one more year to run on that contract, Frizell could potentially be lured to the Tigers on a smaller deal than what he’s on now.
What’s more, his name has been mentioned as part of a potential swap deal for Luke Brooks.
While it was denied by Tim Sheens, there is clearly some movement around Frizell.
VICTOR RADLEY
Age: 24
Club: sydney roosters
Position: Lock
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
Hypothetically speaking, Roosters lock Victor Radley has the potential to be an incredible signing for the Tigers.
The 24-year-old, who has sworn his international allegiance to England ahead of the World Cup, has premiership winning experience and 93 NRL games to his name.
What’s more, Phil Rothfield revealed on NRL360 that the Roosters are facing a cap crunch with seven players commanding more than half their salary cap.
The Panthers are facing an injury crisis ahead of their blockbuster clash with the Melbourne Storm.
The Premiers are already without a host of players and could now add young gun Taylan May to the list.
Read on for all the latest NRL team news
THURSDAY
Penrith Panthers vs Melbourne Storm 7.50pm at BlueBet Stadium
panthers team: 1. Dylan Edwards 2. Taylan May 3. Izack Tago 4. Stephen Crichton 5. Brian To’o 6. Jaeman Salmon 7. Sean O’Sullivan 8. Moses Leota 9. Apisai Koroisau 10. Matt Eisenhuth 11. Chris Smith 12 Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo 14. Mitch Kenny 15. Scott Sorensen 16. Spencer Leniu 17. Sunia Turuva 18. Charlie Staines 19. J’maine Hopgood 20. Robert Jennings 21. Kurt Falls 22. Viliame Kikau
Early Mail: The Panthers’ injury toll could be about to get worse after young gun Taylor May turned up to training in a sling. He was named in the Panthers side on Tuesday but will be in doubt for the blockbuster clash with the Storm.
storm-team: 1. Nick Meaney 2. David Nofoaluma 3. Marion Seve 4. Justin Olam 5. Xavier Coates 6. Cameron Munster 7. Cooper Johns 8. Jesse Bromwich 9. Harry Grant 10. Nelson Asofa-Solomona 11. Tom Eisenhuth 12. Kenny Bromwich 13. Josh King 14. Brandon Smith 15. Tui Kamikamica 16. Chris Lewis 17. Tyran Wishart 18. Alec MacDonald 19. Dean Ieremia 20. Young Tonumaipea 21. Jordan Grant 22. Jack Howarth
Broncos set to make changes after losses | 01:53
FRIDAY
Warriors vs Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs 6pm at Mt Smart Stadium
warriors team: 1. Reece Walsh 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Viliami Vailea 4. Marcelo Montoya 5. Edward Kosi 6. Daejarn Asi 7. Shaun Johnson 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Wayde Egan 10. Tohu Harris 11. Euan Aitken 12 Jack Murchie 13. Josh Curran 14. Freddy Lussick 15. Bunty Afoa 16. Eliesa Katoa 17. Jackson Frei 18. Bayley Sironen 20. Adam Pompey 21. Taniela Otukolo 22. Tom Ale 23. Rocco Berry
bulldogs team: 1. Jake Averillo 2. Jacob Kiraz 3. Aaron Schoupp 4. Braidon Burns 5. Josh Addo-Carr 6. Matt Burton 7. Kyle Flanagan 8. Max King 9. Jeremy Marshall-King 10. Paul Vaughan 11. Josh Jackson 12 Jackson Topine 13. Raymond Faitala-Mariner 14. Zach Dokar-Clay 15. Joe Stimson 16. Harrison Edwards 17. Chris Patolo 19. Declan Casey 20. Kurtis Morrin 21. Bailey Biondi-Odo 22. Jeral Skelton 23. Phillip Makatoa
Parramatta Eels vs South Sydney Rabbitohs 7.55pm at CommBank Stadium
eels team: 1. Clinton Gutherson 2. Maika Sivo 3. Viliami Penisini 4. Tom Opacic 5. Waqa Blake 6. Dylan Brown 7. Jakob Arthur 8. Reagan Campbell-Gillard 9. Reed Mahoney 10. Junior Paulo 11. Shaun Lane 12. Isaiah Papali’i 13. Ryan Matterson 14. Ofahiki Ogden 15. Bryce Cartwright 16. Oregon Kaufusi 17. Marata Niukore 18. Makahesi Makatoa 19. Bailey Simonsson 20. Ky Rodwell 21. Sean Russell 22. Elie El Zakhem
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Eels tired of ’embarrassment’ by Souths | 01:22
SATURDAY
Sydney Roosters vs North Queensland Cowboys 3pm at SCG
roosters team: 1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Paul Momirovski 4. Joseph Manu 5. Joseph Suaalii 6. Luke Keary 7. Sam Walker 8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 9. Sam Verrills 10. Matthew Lodge 11. Angus Crichton 12. Nat Butcher 13. Victor Radley 14. Connor Watson 15. Egan Butcher 16. Drew Hutchison 17. Terrell May 18. Adam Keighran 19. Fletcher Baker 20. Kevin Naiqama 21. Ben Thomas 22. Siua Wong
cowboys team: 1. Scott Drinkwater 2. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow 3. Valentine Holmes 4. Peta Hiku 5. Murray Taulagi 6. Tom Dearden 7. Chad Townsend 8. Coen Hess 9. Reece Robson 10. Reuben Cotter 11. Tom Gilbert 12. Jeremiah Nanai 13. Jason Taumalolo 14. Jordan McLean 15. Jamayne Taunoa-Brown 16. Luciano Leilua 17. Griffin Neame 18. Brendan Elliot 19. Ben Hampton 20. Jake Granville 21. Riley Price 22. Connelly Lemuelu
Wests Tigers vs Cronulla Sharks 5.30pm at Scully Park, Tamworth
tigers team: 1. Daine Laurie 2. Brent Naden 3. James Roberts 4. Asu Kepaoa 5. Starford To’a 6. Adam Doueihi 7. Jock Madden 8. James Tamou 9. Fa’amanu Brown 10. Zane Musgrove 11. Alex Seyfarth 12 Kelma Tuilagi 13. Joe Ofahengaue 14. Fonua Pole 15. Austin Dias 16. Thomas Freebairn 17. Tyrone Peachey 18. Luke Garner 19. Jake Simpkin 20. Brandon Tumeth 21. Junior Tupou 22. Justin Matamua
sharks team: 1. Kade Dykes 2. Lachlan Miller 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Siosifa Talakai 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Braydon Trindall 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Toby Rudolf 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Braden Hamlin-Uele 11. Briton Nikora 12. Wade Graham 13. Dale Finucane 14. Teig Wilton 15. Cameron McInnes 16. Aiden Tolman 17. Andrew Fifita 18. Kayal Iro 19. Royce Hunt 20. Luke Metcalf 21. Jesse Colquhoun 22. Matt Ikuvalu
Brisbane Broncos vs Newcastle Knights 7.35pm at Suncorp Stadium
broncos team: 1. Te Maire Martin 2. Corey Oates 3. Kotoni Staggs 4. Brenko Lee 5. Selwyn Cobbo 6. Ezra Mam 7. Adam Reynolds 8. Thomas Flegler 9. Billy Walters 10. Payne Haas 11. Kurt Capewell 12. Jordan Riki 13. Kobe Hetherington 14. Jake Turpin 15. Rhys Kennedy 16. Corey Jensen 17. Keenan Palasia 18. Cory Paix 19. Ryan James 20. Jordan Pereira 21. Delouise Hoeter 22. Zac Hosking
knights team: 1. Tex Hoy 2. Enari Tuala 3. Dane Gagai 4. Bradman Best 5. Dominic Young 6. Anthony Milford 7. Adam Clune 8. David Klemmer 9. Jayden Brailey 10. Daniel Saifiti 11. Tyson Frizell 12. Brodie Jones 13 Mathew Croker 14. Phoenix Crossland 15. Jacob Saifiti 16. Pasami Saulo 17. Simi Sasagi 18. Jack Johns 19. Sauaso Sue 20. Chris Randall 21. Edrick Lee 22. Hymel Hunt
Rudolf opens up on Pride support | 01:19
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SUNDAY
Canberra Raiders vs St George Illawarra Dragons 2pm at GIO Stadium
raiders team: 1. Xavier Savage 2. Albert Hopoate 3. Matthew Timoko 4. Sebastian Kris 5. Jordan Rapana 6. Jack Wighton 7. Jamal Fogarty 8. Josh Papali’i 9. Zac Woolford 10. Emre Guler 11. Hudson Young 12. Elliott Whitehead 13. Adam Elliott 14. Tom Starling 15. Ryan Sutton 16. Corey Horsburgh 17. Corey Harawira-Naera 18. James Schiller 19. Ata Mariota 20. Matt Frawley 21. Peter Hola 22. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad
dragons team: 1. Moses Mbye 2. Mathew Feagai 3. Jack Bird 4. Zac Lomax 5. Tautau Moga 6. Talatau Amone 7. Ben Hunt 8. Jack de Belin 9. Andrew McCullough 10. Blake Lawrie 11. Josh Mcguire 12. Jaydn Su ‘A 13. Michael Molo 14. Tyrell Sloan 15. Aaron Woods 16. Tyrell Fuimaono 17. Billy Burns 18. Jayden Sullivan 19. Jackson Ford 20. Jaiyden Hunt 21. Cody Ramsey 22. Jack Gosiewski
Gold Coast Titans vs Manly Sea Eagles 4.05pm at Cbus Super Stadium
titans team: 1. Jayden Campbell 2. Sosefo Fifita 3. Phillip Sami 4. Brian Kelly 5. Patrick Herbert 6. AJ Brimson 7. Tanah Boyd 8. Moeaki Fotuaika 9. Erin Clark 10. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui 11. David Fifita 12. Beau Fermor 13. Isaac Liu 14. Greg Marzhew 15. Herman Ese’ese 16. Jaimin Jolliffe 17. Sam McIntyre 18. Corey Thompson 19. Toby Sexton 20. Paul Turner 21. Klese Haas 22. Jarrod Wallace
Early Mail: The Daily Telegraph reports Titans coach Justin Holbrook could recall struggling half Toby Sexton. The cellar dwellers are looking to snap a 10-game losing streak and could promote Sexton from the extended bench
Sea Eagles team: 1. Reuben Garrick 2. Jason Saab 3. Morgan Harper 4. Tolutau Koula 5. Christian Tuipulotu 6. Kieran Foran 7. Daly Cherry-Evans 8. Toafofoa Sipley 9. Lachlan Croker 10. Martin Taupau 11. Haumole Olakau’atu 12 Andrew Davey 13. Jake Trbojevic 14. Dylan Walker 15. Ben Trbojevic 16. Ethan Bullemor 17. Josh Aloiai 18. Josh Schuster 19. Kurt De Luis 20. Brad Parker 21. Kaeo Weekes 22. Morgan Boyle
Knights coach Adam O’Brien has conceded that Sunday’s 14-10 win over the Tigers was a “relief for everyone” after what’s been a “tough” week for the club.
The Knights have been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons this week after star prop David Klemmer was stood down for over disciplinary matter.
Klemmer sprayed a trainer and refused to come off in the Knights’ Round 20 loss to the Bulldogs with the incident being elevated to HR.
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While being left out of the team for the Tigers clash, Klemmer was also handed a suspended fine.
The club copped criticism left, right and center in the lead-up to Sunday for its handling of a matter that happens often in the game.
Making matters worse, a report emerged earlier in the week alleging that a racist remark was made to a player by a staff member.
But the Knights put the horror week behind them and shot out a three-try lead on Sunday before surviving a comeback from the Tigers to seal the win.
Fox League analyst Michael Ennis said the squad looked “galvanised,” while Knights captain Jayden Brailey said after the game that the players used the turmoil as “a bit of motivation.”
“It was tough reading all the headlines and there was a lot of stuff that came out that we didn’t like and probably a lot of it wasn’t true,” he said.
“But I think in tough times you’ve got to stick together to pull yourself out of weeks like this.
“I think we probably did a really good job this week to block out the outside noise and use that as a bit of motivation to show who we really are… it was just a gritty performance tonight.”
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O’Brien went through all the emotions in the coaches box during the game. The Knights shot out to a 14-nil lead at half time… but then the Tigers narrowed the scoreline to just four points to set up a grandstand finish.
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Asked if the win — which snapped a four-game losing streak — was a relief, O’Brien said: “Definitely a relief for everyone — players, staff, families.
“It was ugly but we don’t care, we got it done,” he added.
“It matters. Everyone is invested, it’s not just me, everyone from physios to players.
“It was a tough week, I’m really proud of the players, they rallied, we were really united and trained well. I’m really pleased for them.
“These boys, they certainly grabbed it.
“The leaders addressed some stuff — there was some stuff that needed to be addressed.
“There’s no doubt there’s been a lot of commentary on our club and how we run things. Some things are learnings for us and some things are completely inaccurate, but when you’re losing you open yourself up to that so I get it.
“We’ll take our medicine, we’ll look at the parts that we can control and do something about… and the rest we’ll forget.”
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O’Brien also gave insight into his involvement in the incident.
“I just gave a statement in and around when it got to that level, which it has to escalate up,” he said.
“I just made a statement regarding it but I’ve been around footy long enough to know it’s pretty hard to get some guys off the field sometimes. I’ve been in that position, but it’s dealt with now.”
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He confirmed too that Klemmer will come straight back into the 17 for next week’s clash with the Broncos.
“Yep, it’s been dealt with,” O’Brien said when asked if Klemmer would return.
“There was a process it went through and sometimes when you go through a process you realize you can do it in a different way so you change it — so we’re better for going through that part.
“Big Klem accepted some accountability on some of his stuff, he has addressed the team and no doubt he’s dealt with now, he’s back in the team. He’s back at training now so I can pick him on Tuesday.”
Newcastle Knights trainer Hayden Knowles has broken his silence and cleared up one of the biggest misconceptions to come out of his argument with David Klemmer last week.
Klemmer was stood down after an expletive-ridden outburst aimed at Knowles in the final 10 minutes of Newcastle’s loss to the Bulldogs.
While initial reports suggested Knowles was the one to instigate a HR investigation into the incident, it was later confirmed that Newcastle management made that move.
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speaking to The Sydney Morning Herald for the first time since Sunday’s events, Knowles said he felt like his “reputation has taken a hit”.
“The swearing wasn’t the issue,” Knowles said, clearing up what he saw as a big misconception to come out of the dramatic week that was.
“That’s what everyone is losing sight of. For me it’s not personal with Klem. It wouldn’t matter if it was Kalyn Ponga, Nathan Cleary, Junior Paulo or Payne Haas. It wouldn’t matter who it is.
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“If someone puts themselves before the team, I would forever die by the fact that I won’t tolerate that behaviour.”
Knowles told Herald he has a “very, very close” relationship with Klemmer and that in the end, all he was trying to do was “uphold the set of standards this team needs”.
“That’s what leaders do,” Knowles said.
“Sometimes leadership is tough. Sometimes you have to put the value of the team before anything, no matter who the person is. If our club, our roster, our management want success, they should be thanking me for trying to uphold the set of standards this team needs.”
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Klemmer was hit with a suspended fine for his actions but will be available for selection in next week’s clash with Brisbane.
Knowles admitted that the situation could have “been handled” better after Newcastle management reported the incident to HR.
“The word HR has made it worse,” he said.
“Phil (CEO Phil Gardner) wanted a report and wanted to hear from everyone. The behavior was there for all to be seen. Ideally, it wouldn’t have been handled like this. But that’s not my problem.”
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The Knights claimed a much-needed 14-10 win on Sunday to move past Sunday’s drama, having come under intense scrutiny for their handling of the Klemmer incident.
Cameron Smith was particularly strong when speaking on SEN Radio earlier in the week, calling on the Knights to “be better.”
“Well it’s strange really. If words were spoken between a player and a trainer, that’s happened a thousand times before,” Smith said on ‘The Captain’s Run’ on SEN Radioon Thursday.
“I’ve seen it first hand, I think you have as well. It’s not a new thing. I’m really confused as to why this is such a huge problem.
“The way I’ve seen it dealt with and sorted out in the past is that if there’s an issue… it’s dealt with in-person after the match.
“It’s just unnecessary. Like seriously, how bad have the words been spoken between David Klemmer and this trainer, to have a formal complaint made. It’s just ridiculous. Deal with it man to man.”
The Knights have put their horror week behind them to escape with a 14-10 win over the Tigers, despite a second half fightback from the home side at Campbelltown Stadium.
A galvanized Knights outfit ran amok in the first half, shooting out a three-try lead thanks to a double to Enari Tuala and another to Tex Hoy.
But the Tigers came out of the half time break fired up and tried to Brent Naden and Asu Kepaoa set up a grandstand finish.
But the Knights were able to hang on and end their four-game losing streak… and finally move on from a dramatic week following the David Klemmer saga.
“It seems to have galvanized them, they’ve come with great energy,” Fox League analyst Michael Ennis said of the Knights’ attitude.
MATCH CENTER: Tigers vs Knights live score, video, stats
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61ST MINUTE
The momentum had well and truly swung in the Tigers’ favor after Asu Kepaoa scored to bring his side within four points of the Knights after being completely carved up in the first half.
52ND MINUTE
The Tigers finally got on the board through Brent Naden but it wouldn’t have been possible without Adam Doueihi’s boot. Doueihi put a giant bomb up that Dominic Young let bounce and Naden was there to snatch it and score. Doueihi converted to shorten the scoreline to 14-6.
30TH MINUTE
Star hooker Jayden Brailey took off before the Tigers’ markers were set and sent Tex Hoy over. Hoy converted to extend the Knights’ lead to 14-nil.
The easy try sparked Fox League’s Michael Ennis to take aim at the Tigers’ “turnstile” defense.
17TH MINUTE
Enari Tuala got his second of the day to extend his side’s lead with Jake Clifford and Bradman Best having a hand in the lead-up.
“Finally playing like Adam O’Brien has been telling us they’ve been training,” Fox League commentator Warren Smith said.
5TH MINUTE
Jake Clifford set up Enari Tuala for the first try of the afternoon with a long grubber kick for the winger to dive on.
“Terrific kick, set up perfectly,” Fox League commentator Warren Smith said.
MATCH PREVIEW
The Wests Tigers will chase back-to-back wins for just the second time this season when they take on the Knights at Campbelltown Stadium in the final game of Round 21.
The Knights got the bragging rights last time these two teams faced off but a lot has changed since then.
Both are languishing near the bottom of the table, but the Tigers are coming off an inspiring win over the Broncos last week, while the Knights have lost four consecutive games — and are coming off a dramatic few days for the club.
The Knights will be without David Klemmer after the star prop was stood down from selection due to disciplinary reasons in a storyline that has since blown up in the club’s face.
Jacob Saifiti takes Klemmer’s place in the starting pack, while star center Bradman Best makes a welcome return from a thumb injury.
For the Tigers, Jackson Hastings is out for the season, opening the door for young gun Fonua Pole to start at lock.
Filling Pole’s spot on the bench is 27-year-old debutant Tom Freebairn — captain of the Western Suburbs Magpies’ NSW Cup side.
A win for the Tigers will see them leapfrog the Knights on the ladder and move further away from the wooden spoon. But if the Knights get a much-needed win, they will jump to 13th, ahead of the Warriors.
TEAMS
Tigers: 1. Daine Laurie 2. Brent Naden 3. Starford To’a 4. Asu Kepaoa 5. Ken Maumalo 6. Adam Doueihi 7. Jock Madden 8. James Tamou 9. Fa’amanu Brown 10. Joe Ofahengaue 11. Alex Seyfarth 12 Kelma Tuilagi 13. Fonua Pole 14. Zane Musgrove 15. Austin Dias 16. Thomas Freebairn 17. Tyrone Peachey. Replacement player: 18. Junior Tupou
knights: 1. Tex Hoy 2. Enari Tuala 3. Dane Gagai 4. Bradman Best 5. Dominic Young 6. Anthony Milford 7. Jake Clifford 8. Jacob Saifiti 9. Jayden Brailey 10. Daniel Saifiti 11. Tyson Frizell 12. Brodie Jones 13 Mitchell Barnett 14. Phoenix Crossland 15. Simi Sasagi 16. Pasami Saulo 17. Mathew Croker. Replacement player: 18. Jack Johns
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The Newcastle Knights’ season has been thrown into even more disarray after it was revealed that the club was investigating an alleged racist remark made by a staff member.
According to Newcastle Heraldthe complaint was made after a lower-grade indigenous player was told to “stop playing like a blackfella and get back to structure”.
Newcastle are reportedly investigating the alleged racist remark, and are taking the matter very seriously.
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According to the Herald, it was not the player in question who raised the complaint to the Knights.
“I can confirm the process if there are any allegations of racial vilification,” Knights chief executive Phil Gardner said told Newcastle Herald.
“They will be handled very firmly by the club.
“The outcomes could lead to a range of sanctions, which could be suspended, ends or
“Anyone found guilty would be dealt with on that basis, although it’s very important that allegations aren’t treated as truth or fact, because it could impact on those people in their future careers … if it’s not factual, it shouldn’t be reported .”
This investigation it not at all linked to David Klemmer’s situation at the club, after he was given a show cause notice after an on-field incident.
Klemmer allegedly refused to leave the field and verbally abused trainer Hayden Knowles during the Knights’ 14-point loss to the Bulldogs.
The Telegraph reported on Thursday that claimed the star forward had called the trainer a “c***” and told him to “shut the f*** up”.
Journalist Brent Read understands that the former Blues representative had apologized to coach Adam O’Brien over text message.
While the prop has been dropped for this weekend’s clash with the Wests Tigers, amid earlier reports that he could have his contract torn up, it’s believed that he could return next weekend.
Originally published as Under-fire Newcastle Knights rocked as racism allegations revealed
Newcastle legend Matthew Johns says the Knights overreacted by issuing David Klemmer with a “show cause” notice and standing him down after he blew up at a trainer last weekend.
Klemmer refused to come off the field late in the second half of his side’s 14-point loss to the Bulldogs, spraying trainer Hayden Knowles.
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The saga surrounding the front-rower sparked rumors he could be sacked, while reports emerged of an unhappy camp at Newcastle — who are in danger of claiming the wooden spoon at the end of what’s been a disastrous season.
the Sydney Morning Herald reports Klemmer was stood down due to the company policy of the Wests Group, who own the Knights, after a formal HR complaint was lodged against him.
Rumors about Klemmer’s potential axing from Newcastle have since died down and coach Adam O’Brien reportedly has no issue with his prop. But there are suggestions changes are afoot in Newcastle after too many years of mediocrity.
Club legend Johns said the Knights are at a low ebb and criticized how Klemmer’s situation has been handled, given he saw players refuse to come off “a thousand times” during his career.
“It’s led to a big situation. The situation itself (isn’t a big deal) – I’m really surprised. I sprayed a trainer, I didn’t want to come off. He’s been stood down, apparently his Knights career is in the balance for refusing to leave and giving a trainer a spray, ”Johns told Fox League on Thursday night.
“I’ve seen that a thousand times. I just think it’s an overreaction. Even if it isn’t, and you want to address it, I don’t know why and how it’s turned up in the public domain … I can’t get my head around it.
“You see it a million times, a bloke’s going (off) to the trainer – there’s always argy-bargy.”
Former NSW forward Bryan Fletcher said it would be a “disgrace” if the Knights were trying to use this episode to justify moving Klemmer on, in order to free up space in the salary cap.
However, reports this week say that’s not the case.
The drama comes after O’Brien was criticized for his post-match press conference after the loss to Canterbury. Speaking to reporters, O’Brien said he’d been involved in four grand finals as an assistant coach with the Roosters and Storm, so he knows what it takes to win — even though he’s overseen underwhelming results at Newcastle.
Johns said it’s been an “absolute bludger of a week” for his former club, adding: “The press conference after the game, (after which) Adam O’Brien was criticized for a lot of his comments, talking about his four premierships as an assistant.
“I can’t be too critical of Adam with this – he’s a coach without answers for a fanbase asking a lot of questions. He’s really at a loss at the moment.”
