Newcastle Knights 2024 season review
Overview
Top eight was the aim for the Knights in 2024, and that’s what they managed…just. And just like they did in 2023, it was their form towards the back end of the year that got them there.
Four wins from their last five games, including a 14-6 win over the Dolphins in their round 27 winner-take-all clash was enough to claim a finals spot for the fourth time in five years under Adam O’Brien.
Unfortunately, they were knocked out at the first hurdle by the Cowboys, but it was another encouraging year for the Knights, who are proving themselves to be a consistent top eight contender, without taking that next step.
Highs
There were plenty of plus points for Newcastle in 2024. After losing their first two games, the visit of Melbourne in round three could have been worrying, but a 14-12 win for the Knights got their season up and running.
Their 14-6 win over the Dolphins in round 27 was another big positive, as knockout footy came to Newcastle a week early.
As for players, Fletcher Sharpe had an outstanding season after making his debut in round 14, and he’ll be a fixture in the side next year. Englishman Kai Pearce-Paul had a strong debut season and there’ll be plenty more to come from him in 2025, while Kalyn Ponga showed why he’s one of the best players in the world on several occasions when some magic was required.
Lows
Despite making the top eight, there was a big drop-off for the Knights in 2024. They scored 136 less points than they did in 2023, and they conceded almost 60 more as well.
Their attack wasn’t helped by the fact they used an incredible 11 combinations in the halves this year. They finished the season with Phoenix Crossland and Jack Cogger in the playmaking positions, but as good as they are, they’re not a pairing that will lead this side to a Premiership in 2025, or even a top four finish.
Reasons to be positive in 2025
Four top eight finishes in five years is a record that many NRL clubs would kill for, so it’s a sign the Knights are on the right track.
As mentioned, the likes of Kai Pearce-Paul and Fletcher Sharpe should be even better next year, and I’m expecting a lot more from Will Pryce as well, who had a quiet debut season. The halves spots are up for grabs in 2025 and he’s more than capable of getting a stranglehold on the number six jersey.
Any team that has Kalyn Ponga in it is a chance of achieving something as well. The star man had some big moments during his 16 games in 2024, and if he can stay fit, then he’s always a weapon for the Knights.
My 2024 prediction – 10th
Final 2024 position – 8th (+2)
The Knights exceeded my expectations in 2024 and maybe I underestimated them. A top eight finish was a good achievement for Newcastle this year, but they need to take that next step in 2025, and a couple of signings – especially a top half-back – could help them do it.
