LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Newcastle Knights might be considered one of the most deserving wooden spoon teams in the history of the competition.
The performance they delivered this season was abysmal.
At times, their offensive strategies seemed as if they were crafted by someone unfamiliar with rugby league, and while they displayed more defensive effort than some teams ranked above them, that doesn't significantly contribute to winning matches if scoring is an issue.
Ultimately, the hopeful spark of Kalyn Ponga's prior performances did not materialize in 2025. Although he faced some injury challenges, those cannot fully account for the team's overall struggles.
The ongoing instability in the halves, along with the forwards' lack of impact and a general sense of disinterest at times, meant that the wooden spoon was always within reach.
Adam O'Brien's departure at the season's end was justifiable, and Justin Holbrook has now been announced as his successor, facing a daunting task ahead in the Hunter region.
Today, the Knights.