The Newcastle Knights NYC's gutsy win over the St George Illawarra Dragons rewarded the talent-packed side with the minor premiership after sitting on top of the table for much of the season.
Knights TV spoke to Bryce Donovan, Brock Lamb, Joe Boyce after the side’s telling victory.
The resilience and versatility of the NYC players was illustrated when Bryce Donovan was moved from the wing to fullback at the last minute when Jake Mamo was ruled out through injury.
“I got the text about 8.30 this morning off the coach saying Jake wasn’t going to be able to play, so I prepared to play at fullback,” Donovan said.
“I enjoyed it, it was a good game.”
The positional change proved no challenge for Donovan who scored a try in the first half.
“I got the ball and was tipped up by the coach to think run as soon as I got it, and the hole was there so it was good to get a try.
He also kicked six from seven goals in a howling wind at Hunter Stadium an effort that Donovan reveals has come from around an hour and a half practice every day.
“I do as many as I can, and if I’m on a good roll, I might quit while I’m ahead.
“Donovan’s try scoring ability was captivating throughout the season he has earned the highest points
“I’m pretty stoked to get that, but more importantly I’m glad at how the team’s gone this year, coming on top and playing like they did today.
Meanwhile, 17-year-old Brock Lamb stepped into the side at five-eighth after Jack Cogger was ruled out of the match due to an ankle injury.
Brock played an outstanding game scoring a double as well as playing a hand in a number of the team’s tries.
“It was a good game from the boys and the forward worked really well, it made it a lot easier for me to score tires and set up tries.
The Knights now face up to the Dragons again this weekend for the semi final on Saturday at Allianz Stadium at 1pm.
