18:18, September 16, 202518:18, September 16, 2025

'Queen of the Castle' adamant her Knights can claim the crown

Newcastle's captain, Yasmin Clydsdale, recognizes the attention on the Roosters and Broncos during the finals but remains confident that the Knights have what it takes to contend for the NRLW title.

In her 50th NRLW match, the NSW and Australian second-rower played a pivotal role in leading the Knights to a 30-22 triumph over the Dragons last Sunday, which set the stage for an elimination final against the Titans in Newcastle.

Despite a rocky start in her milestone game, the Knights rallied from a 16-4 deficit late in the first half to secure victory over the Dragons, finishing third behind the Roosters and Broncos.

While the Knights have struggled to match the consistency of the top two teams and need to first defeat the Titans, Clydsdale is optimistic about their chances of clinching a third title.

Coach Ben Jeffries, who guided the Knights to the final four last year before they were eliminated by the reigning champions, the Sydney Roosters, shares Clydsdale's belief that his team can seize the trophy on October 5.