Story perspectives

Newcastle Knights reach first grand final in 25 years

By Drooid · Sep 27, 2026, 11:59 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Newcastle Knights beat Penrith Panthers 22-14 in the NRL preliminary final.
Knights played with 12 men after hooker Phoenix Crossland was sent off for a hip-drop tackle.
Halfback Nathan Cleary started on the bench with a foot issue and fractured his ankle ten minutes later.
The victory sends Newcastle to their first grand final in 25 years, facing the Sydney Roosters.

History

Historical Context

After the Knights’ first premiership in 1997—winning 22-16 over Manly-Warringah and sparking regional pride amid the BHP steelworks closure—the club stayed loyal to the ARL during the Super League split and reached seven straight finals. Their 2024 preliminary-final victory, achieved with twelve men, echoes that breakthrough and revives the same community enthusiasm.

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Story summary

Newcastle Knights beat Penrith Panthers 22-14 in the NRL preliminary final.
Knights played with 12 men after hooker Phoenix Crossland was sent off for a hip-drop tackle.
Halfback Nathan Cleary started on the bench with a foot issue and fractured his ankle ten minutes later.
The victory sends Newcastle to their first grand final in 25 years, facing the Sydney Roosters.

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