Rabbitohs vs Knights: Ponga's Impact Revives Newcastle's NRL Finals Aspirations

Rabbitohs vs Knights highlighted Kalyn Ponga's renewed spark, leading Newcastle to a critical 36-16 victory over South Sydney. His standout plays were crucial as they strive to maintain their position in the NRL finals race. After a challenging season, Ponga’s performance indicated he is regaining his form, crucial for the Knights' efforts. Coach Adam O'Brien praised Ponga's influence, stating, "He’s got a look about him at the moment," which showcases his importance as a leader and player for the team.

The match unfolded with Newcastle taking an early lead. Ponga made a remarkable 40-meter sprint, igniting the team's offensive efforts. The Knights scored twice more, with Jack Cogger and Dane Gagai finding the try line successfully. However, not all news was positive for the Knights, as injuries to key players like Kai Pearce-Paul raised concerns about the next match against Gold Coast.

For Newcastle to reach the finals, they need to win their remaining games while also relying on favorable results from other teams, including St George Illawarra. Meanwhile, the Rabbitohs faced another setback in their disappointing season, with coach Ben Hornby noting the persistent issues impacting their performance.