Penrith outlasted the Spirited Knights
The nib Newcastle Knights’ spirited performance was not enough, as they were defeated 26-18 by an outstanding Penrith Panthers team in front of a sold-out crowd at McDonald Jones Stadium.
After jumping out to a 6-0 lead thanks to a thrilling try by rookie fullback Fletcher Sharpe, the Knights headed into the sheds 14 points adrift following a late blitz by the seasoned Panthers attack.
Tries to Dylan Lucas and Bradman. Best helped the Knights claw their way back into the game, but the defending champions were too strong in the fourth quarter.
The Knights will take a bye next weekend before returning to McDonald Jones Stadium to face Parramatta in Round 17.
In the third minute, Fletcher Sharpe lit up the sold-out home crowd with an electrifying four-pointer, solidifying his status as a rising star.
Fletcher Sharpe Try Fletcher Sharpe. Try Fletcher Sharpe. In the 13th minute, Scott Sorenson scored the Panthers’ first try after juggling the ball and storming over.
Brian To’o crossed in the 18th minute to put his team ahead, capping a beautiful backline movement with a goal in the south eastern corner.
In the 32nd minute, Jarome Luai danced over the pitch to score a stunning solo try and extend the Panthers’ lead.
Lindsay Smith scored for the Panthers in the 38th minute, giving them a 14-point lead at halftime.
52nd minute – The Knights once again started the better of the two teams, with Dylan Lucas rushing into a hole and racing away to put the Knights back in the game.
Dylan Lucas: TryDylan Lucas Try
Dylan Lucas In the 58th minute, Bradman Best scored a critical four-pointer, bringing the Knights to within two points of the defending premiers.
Bradman’s best attempt.
64th minute – As the Knights surged ahead, the Panthers responded with a key try against the flow of play, with Dylan Edwards scoring after Moses Leota cut through the centre of the field.
