LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Cooper Cronk has dropped a truth bomb on his former club, the Roosters, after a disastrous 48-10 loss to the Knights in Gosford.
The Roosters legend highlighted suspect defence and issues with Spencer Leniu and Mark Nawaqanitawase, leaving the Chooks with a mountain to climb before the new season kicks off.
The Knights' No.6, Fletcher Sharpe, was in scintillating form, solidifying his claim for a starting halves position in 2025 with a stunning performance against the Roosters.
He combined seamlessly with Kalyn Ponga and Bradman Best, scoring two tries in the first half to help Newcastle race to a commanding 36-4 lead at halftime.
The Roosters' lack of intensity in the middle was ruthlessly exposed by the Knights, leaving coach Robinson with plenty to ponder.
With the departures of key players like Jared Waerea-Hargraves, Luke Keary, and Joseph-Manu, the Roosters are lacking both experience and firepower in the middle.
This was evident as the Knights ran riot, exploiting gaps in the Roosters' defence with ease.
Adding insult to injury, Leniu could face suspension for a high tackle on Knights hooker Phoenix Crossland, leaving his availability for the season opener against the Broncos in doubt.
Robinson remains hopeful that Leniu will escape a ban and be cleared to play, but the incident has cast a shadow over the Roosters' preparations.
In the world of Rugby League, every setback is an opportunity for redemption.
The Roosters will need to regroup, address their defensive frailties, and rally together to bounce back from this humiliating defeat.
As they say in the game, it's not about how hard you hit, but about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.
Time will tell if the Roosters have what it takes to rise from the ashes and soar once more.