The NYC Newcastle Knights came away deserved victors over the New Zealand Warriors in Auckland on Easter Monday despite a gruelling travel schedule that saw them in the country for little more than 24 hours.
Coach Todd Lowrie was thrilled with the way his young charges conducted themselves despite the challenges.
“We did really well, we only flew in last night and had to get here (Mt Smart Stadium) about 11 o’clock this morning,” he said following the 26-12 win.
The Warriors side was full of big bodies, but the young Knights were unfazed by the physicality of the game and came away with the two points as a result.
“Joe Morris was really good, he played 80 minutes for the second or third time this year and scored two tries,” Lowrie explained.
“Tyrone Amey was really good as well, he did some nice things and played really tough.”
Halves pairing Brock Lamb and Jack Cogger were in fine form as well, directing the side through every play and making several big breaks that resulted in tries.
“Jack and Brock have played a lot together, but it’s still a new team to them and they’re getting better every week,” Lowrie said of the duo.
Ken Tofilau was a highlight as well, the New Zealander flying over as cover for first grade but playing 80 minutes for the NYC side in the end.
He made the most metres out of anyone on the field and defused several dangerous plays on his flank.
“Kenny came over as cover for first grade, so he’s been doing really well. He came back and played for us which was good for our team,” Lowrie said.
The team was back on the bus soon after the game with plenty more travel ahead of them.
“We get home about midnight tonight (Monday), and then we’re off to Melbourne in four days’ time. It’s a pretty big ask, but it makes this win even better.”
