$13M Return Creates Knights Selection Dilemma; Tough Lesson for 22-Year-Old Star

Newcastle ended Easter Sunday with a 32-12 victory over Canberra at McDonald Jones Stadium. The result left the Raiders winless in regulation after five rounds. The Knights moved to a strong early-season position and head into Round 6 with momentum.

Match overview

Canberra struck first when Simi Sasagi finished off an early break. Ethan Strange created the opening for the Raiders. Canberra led 6-0.

Newcastle answered with a Greg Marzhew try. Fletcher Sharpe then crossed to give the home side a 10-6 half-time lead.

The Knights extended their advantage in the second half. Dom Young finished a one-man overlap after a sin-bin. Phoenix Crossland registered his first try of the season. Marzhew grabbed his second. Fletcher Hunt produced a late-length play that set up Young’s second. Ethan Strange added a late Raiders try. The final score was 32-12.

Key performances and injuries

Dane Gagai earned Fox Lab player of the match honours. He ran for 135 metres. He also busted 12 tackles and created multiple scoring chances.

Greg Marzhew scored a double and was placed on report for a mid-air tackle. Bradman Best left with a groin issue. Teenager Wilson De Courcey replaced him. De Courcey is poised to sign a two-year extension.

Xavier Savage was carried off with an apparent lower-leg issue. Jayden Brailey gave away a knock-on. Zac Hosking had a try overturned for obstruction.

Selection questions for Newcastle

Dylan Brown could return as early as next week. The prospect of a 13M return creates Knights selection dilemma for coach Justin Holbrook. Fletcher Sharpe can cover fullback or five-eighth. Kalyn Ponga remains weeks away from returning.

Holbrook now faces tough calls over personnel. Fletcher Hunt’s form and Sandon Smith’s control add options to the spine.

Canberra’s struggles

Rookie half Ethan Sanders had a difficult afternoon. He produced several poor kicks and a costly miss. It was a tough lesson for the 22-year-old star.

The Raiders slipped to 0-4. This represents their fifth 1-4 season start in the NRL era. They will travel to Perth next week to face South Sydney.

Reports and discipline

• Greg Marzhew placed on report for a mid-air tackle.
• Tyson Frizell placed on report for a dangerous low tackle on Joseph Tapine.

Stat attack

• Final score: Newcastle 32, Canberra 12.
• Halftime: Knights 10, Raiders 6.
• Marzhew’s double was his ninth multi-try game.
• Marzhew has eight tries in eight matches versus Canberra.
• Knights recorded their second 30-plus scoreline this season.
• Newcastle snapped a seven-game home losing run on Easter Sunday.
• Raiders have lost seven of their last eight matches overall.

The Knights now prepare for a Round 6 clash with the Wests Tigers. The Raiders must regroup quickly ahead of their trip to Perth. Follow continued coverage and live updates at Filmogaz.com.