Dane Gagai supports younger brother

The Newcastle Knights Junior Reps played their first of three trial matches of the season in Dora Creek on Sunday against the Manly Sea Eagles.

Watching from the sideline was Newcastle Knights centre Dane Gagai, whose younger brother Jacob joined the Club’s SG Ball team this season.

“Jacob was pretty nervous before the game, especially coming up against Manly who have some pretty big boys in their side,” Dane told newcastleknights.com.au.

“He played pretty well considering this was his first run with the boys and once he got a feel for the game he fell in to his role and did a good job.”

“Before the game I told him to be confident and not to try and do anything he doesn’t have to.”

Dane and Jacob’s Dad, Ray travelled to Newcastle from Mackay to attend the trial match.

“Having Dad there meant a lot to Jacob,” the older Gagai explained.

“Unfortunately our Mum and sister couldn’t get down here for it but hopefully they will be here for his first season game if he is picked in the side.”

The Junior Reps will play their second round of trial matches on Saturday against the Central Coast Centurions at Lyall Peacock Field.

“Jacob’s teammates have really welcomed him in to the team and as I result he has been doing a lot better at training,” he added.

“He is starting to get more confident and is really looking forward to having a big game on Saturday.”

Saturday 19th January 2013
Lyall Peacock Field, Toronto
2.00pm: Newcastle Knights Chargers Youth Squad v West Magpies 15s
3.15pm: Hunter Academy v West Magpies 17s
4.45pm: Harold Matthews Newcastle Knights v Cent. Coast Centurions
6.25pm: SG Ball Newcastle Knights v Cent. Coast Centurions

Saturday 26th January 2013
Cessnock Sports Ground
2.45pm: Newcastle Knights Chargers Youth Squad v Penrith 15years Dev. Sq.
4.00pm: Hunter Academy U/17s v Penrith 17years Development Squad
5.15pm: Harold Matthews Newcastle Knights v Penrith Panthers
6.30pm: SG Ball Newcastle Knights v Penrith Panthers