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It was a tough game for the Newcastle Knights in regards to injuries in Friday night’s match against the Brisbane Broncos.

An already depleted Newcastle side lost NSW Origin second rower Beau Scott and Robbie Rochow within 25 minutes of the match.

The Knights’ interchange forwards were quickly thrust into the action with the team forced to play the remainder of the match with a two-man bench. 

In a team that was already missing experienced heads Kade Snowden and Jeremy Smith from its pack, it was the effort the young forwards like Joseph Tapine, Pat Vaivai and Sam Mataora that stepped up.

Adding to their gutsy labours were Korbin and Tariq Sims who clocked impressive 74 and 80-minute performances respectively. 

“We were short of forwards already,” an injured Rochow told the media after the Friday night match.

“I think with me and Beau (Scott) on the sidelines relatively early, it was a massive effort for them to be out on the field for such a long amount of time. 

“Hopefully it gives them a bit of belief and confidence. 

“When you’re forced into that situation, you can push your boundaries and can play big minutes and do a good job.” 

The disappointed 24-year-old explained he was involved in a collision with his opponent after a kickoff in the first half.

“It felt bad but not terrible. I ran around for a bit and I knew I’d done something,” Rochow explained. 

“I tried to clench my fist and I felt a clunk and then I thought, ‘I’ve done something here’. 

“That’s when I stood out of the scrum and they got me off." 

Rochow was then interchanged by veteran Knight Clint Newton who played 48 minutes and made 25 tackles in defence. 

The Round 16 match was Rochow’s second appearance since returning from a back injury.

“I’ve done a lot of training and haven’t played much this year, It’s frustrating,” he said.

“It’s just part of the game.

“I’m not in too much pain, which is good. 

“I think with my back, there is a fair element of control with how you rehab and build-up some strength.

“I think with a broken forearm, it’s just the luck of the draw. 

“It’s disappointing I can’t play with them much this season, but I’m hoping they can play with that sort of attitude and aggression for the remainder. 

“The injury isn’t my worry. I’m just disappointed I can’t contribute more to this team."

Despite the loss, Rochow believes the valiant display from Sims brothers, Korbin and Tariq did them favours for the possibility of Origin call-up.

“They both put their hands up and played really well,” he assessed.

“It would be great to see them play Origin in the future. 

“I wish them all the best and hope they keep their good form.”