LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Kalyn Ponga's exceptional performance helped lead the Newcastle Knights to a convincing 26-12 victory over the Dolphins.
Ponga displayed his genius on the field, playing a key role in all four of his team's first-half tries.
The Dolphins, who had a challenging week due to adverse weather conditions, struggled to match the Knights' intensity.
The Knights will be anxiously waiting to hear about second-rower Kai Pearce-Paul's fate after he was sin-binned and reported for a dangerous tackle.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Pearce-Paul, Newcastle's victory was a testament to their strength and depth as a team.
The Dolphins, on the other hand, will be relieved to return home after suffering two consecutive away losses.
In a surprising move, the Knights secured the signing of Dylan Brown from Parramatta on a lengthy 10-year contract starting in 2026.
Brown now has the exciting opportunity to play alongside Ponga, who showcased his versatility by frequently operating as a playmaker.
Despite the arrival of Brown, Jack Cogger had a solid performance at starting halfback, proving that he was not intimidated by the new addition to the team.
Ponga's creativity was evident in his role as the link man for the Knights' opening try, setting up winger James Schiller with a perfectly timed overhead pass from Pearce-Paul.
His ability to control the game and involve his teammates highlighted his status as a true maestro on the field.
As the Knights continue their unbeaten streak, Ponga's influence and leadership will be crucial in guiding the team to further success.