Andrew Johns, a legendary figure in the Newcastle Knights’ history, expresses his struggle to maintain optimism for a team that has faced a challenging season. As the Knights prepare to take on the unpredictable Manly Sea Eagles in their round 14 clash, Johns, usually a steadfast supporter, is reluctant to back his team this time, bluntly opting to predict a loss for Newcastle.
During a discussion on Wide World of Sports with Brad Fittler, Johns hinted at his feelings of hesitation, driven largely by the Knights’ dismal home performance, which has seen them suffer heavy defeats, including a recent 28-6 loss to the Eels and a narrow 24-20 defeat against the struggling Titans. This losing streak has left Newcastle with just two wins in their last eleven matches.
Injuries have compounded the Knights’ woes, forcing them to field a weakened squad against Manly, with key forwards like Jacob Saifiti, Adam Elliott, and Leo Thompson missing the match. Fittler expressed doubt about the Knights’ ability to compete with Manly given their makeshift lineup, a sentiment echoed by Johns in his commentary.
Johns pointed out that the injuries have severely impacted the team’s effectiveness, particularly in the forward pack, while also acknowledging that stars Bradman Best and Greg Marzhew are sidelined, exacerbating the squad’s difficulties.
Yet, there’s a glimmer of hope with the return of Kalyn Ponga, who he urges must receive early ball to influence the game positively. Johns emphasizes the need for coach Adam O’Brien to establish stability within the team’s lineup rather than constantly changing it due to player availability, suggesting a set spine of Ponga, Fletcher Sharpe, Jack Cogger, and Kurt Mann.
Despite the bleak outlook, the Knights’ lineup attempts to rally for the match against the Sea Eagles. Should Johns’ predictions hold true, Newcastle could find themselves at the bottom of the ladder by the end of the weekend, further intensifying concerns among their loyal supporters. The upcoming game thus remains pivotal as the Knights seek to turn their fortunes around in a season marred by setbacks.