Knights' Playmaking Conundrum Deepens After Dragons Defeat in Pre-Season Clash
The Newcastle Knights' pre-season preparations have thrown up a significant selection headache for coach Justin Holbrook, following a 28-18 loss to the St George Illawarra Dragons in a scrappy trial match at Kogarah Oval on Saturday night. With marquee signing Dylan Brown yet to debut, the battle for the halves positions intensified as both Fletcher Sharpe and Sandon Smith delivered compelling performances.
Impressive Displays from Sharpe and Smith Complicate Selection
Holbrook's looming decision on whether to start Sharpe or Smith alongside Brown in the halves has become even more challenging after the trial. Sandon Smith, who wore the No.7 jersey, showcased his skills in his first appearance since joining the Knights from the Sydney Roosters on a four-year deal. The 23-year-old halfback kicked effectively, maintained composure with ball in hand, and set up a try with a precise cut-out pass late in the first half.
Fletcher Sharpe, playing his first game since suffering a ruptured spleen and lacerated kidney in June last year, demonstrated his trademark elusiveness with several dynamic runs. The 21-year-old also contributed to a try, reminding observers of his potential impact. Post-match, Fox League commentator and former Titans half Kieran Foran urged Holbrook to find a starting spot for Sharpe, emphasising his quality and the need for him to play full minutes.
Error-Ridden Affair Sees Dragons Pull Away Late
The match itself was characterised by numerous handling errors and scrappy play from both sides. After a tightly contested first half that ended 12-all, the Dragons managed to secure victory with a strong finish. Newcastle briefly took the lead in the second stanza through a Tom Cant try, but St George Illawarra responded with three late tries to seal the win.
Key moments included an early try to Dragons rookie halfback Kade Reed, while Knights centre Kyle McCarthy crossed untouched thanks to Sharpe's assist. James Schiller's try from Smith's pass levelled the scores before halftime, but the Dragons' superior execution in the closing stages proved decisive.
Context and Caveats Surround the Trial Result
It's important to note that both teams were missing significant talent. The Knights were without Kalyn Ponga, Dylan Brown, Dom Young, and several other key players, while the Dragons rested stars like Clint Gutherson and Valentine Holmes. Trial results can be misleading, as evidenced by Newcastle's comprehensive trial win over the Roosters last year preceding a disappointing regular season.
Six new Knights recruits made their club debuts, with Smith particularly standing out. Hooker Harrison Graham also adapted well, while forward Francis Manuleleua showed promise with an energetic second-half performance.
What's Next for the Knights?
Newcastle now turns its attention to a second trial match against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs next Saturday at McDonald Jones Stadium. The match forms part of a double-header, with the Wests Tigers and Sydney Roosters clashing earlier in the afternoon. Following this, the Knights will have a fortnight break before their season opener against the North Queensland Cowboys in Las Vegas on March 1 (AEDT).
Holbrook has indicated he will make a final decision on his halves combination after the Bulldogs trial, leaving one more opportunity for Sharpe and Smith to state their cases. The coach's dilemma represents what Foran described as "a healthy headache," but one that will significantly impact Newcastle's prospects for the 2026 NRL season.
