The NSW Cup Newcastle Knights were happy to get one back over the Illawarra Cutters on Sunday afternoon at No.2 Sportsground.
It was clear the Knights were out to avenge for the 26-nil defeat they suffered in Round 17.
“It was good to get out there and put in a good effort against a team that kind of gave it to us a couple of weeks ago,” fullback Nathan Ross said after the 38-16 win.
“It just shows where we are in this competition, and that we’ll be able to rattle any team."
The Knights are sitting in eighth with four games left in the home and away series.
After the Knights dismantled a Cutters side that is placed second in the competition, Ross believes his side is gaining momentum at the right time.
“We just focused on getting some line speed up at their big boys, and really winning the wrestle,” he added.
“We showed them that we’re a more dominant pack with enthusiasm and line speed.
“(Michael) Dobbo went well leading us around the park, Tyler (Randell) injected a little bit of show-and-go, and big Clint (Newton) went well when he wasn’t giving me a hard time.
“And big Sam Mataora, it was a good effort from everyone really."
Pat Mata’utia was another strong performer, running with energy and providing a memorable assist for winger Josh Mantellato in the first half.
With brothers Sione and Chanel playing NRL together, Pat Mata’utia made it another family affair, coming up against older brother Peter for the first time.
“Pete took one run, but he was playing on this side of the field and I was on the other side, so I just came over to get one in,” the skilful centre joked.
“But yeah, it was good fun playing against Pete, the backyard footy paid off.”
