Arabic version: الفرسان يحافظون على الفخر رغم خسارة النهائي بفارق نقطة واحدة

According to ABC News, Newcastle’s NRL grand final campaign ended in a 19-18 defeat to the Roosters on October 4, 2026, but the Knights’ effort left their supporters with pride and hope. The side fought until the final siren after reaching the decider as underdogs.

Kalyn Ponga produced one of Newcastle’s defining moments midway through the first half. After making a try-saving tackle on Billy Smith, Ponga went the length of the field to score. ABC News described the captain’s defence as stellar, saying he continued to throw himself into collisions and refuse to give up on plays.

The Roosters controlled much of the territory battle, with Newcastle having six tackles inside opposition territory compared with 51 for the premiers. James Tedesco, the Clive Churchill Medal winner, led a direct Roosters approach alongside Naufahu Whyte and Spencer Leniu. Newcastle nevertheless resisted repeatedly, holding up Lindsay Collins and preventing Robert Toia from scoring.

Newcastle’s tries conceded included two for Mark Nawaqanitawase, while Billy Smith also crossed. Greg Marzhew’s late try gave the Knights a final opportunity after what ABC News said was virtually their only chance of the second half. Francis Manuleleua, playing his 15th NRL game, scored in the first half, while prop Cody Hopwood made 46 tackles.

Although the Knights could not take home the premiership trophy, their young forwards and the expected return of Dylan Brown, Trey Mooney, Jacob Saifiti and Phoenix Crossland offer reasons for optimism. ABC News said Newcastle’s players could have performed better in some areas, but it was difficult to imagine how they could have fought harder.