Friday’s clash against the Canberra Raiders was Jack Cogger’s first NRL appearance for the nib Newcastle Knights this year, called up to first grade to replace an injured Brock Lamb.
“It was good to be back with the boys, obviously I haven’t played first grade for a long time,” Cogger said in the sheds after the match.
Unfortunately, in his first game back, there was no glory for the young five-eighth as Newcastle were defeated 46-28.
“I am disappointed in the result,” Cogger stated.
“We didn’t really respect the ball when we had it.
“They also had a really good start and while we did find our way back in the game at 14-10, we didn’t respect the footy and it showed.”
The Raiders played a desperate style of footy to keep their finals hopes alive.
“They had something to play for but so did we,” commented Cogger.
“That's what makes it so disappointing that we couldn’t put in a better effort.”
But with the Knights' final home game this weekend celebrating Old Boys Day, Cogger is looking forward to another challenge.
“We've got Cronulla (Sharks) at home and it's Old Boys Day so we’ll be up for that and hopefully we can finish the season on a high.”
Meanwhile, Josh King has elected to take the early plea for his Grade 1 High Contact charge from Round 25, which means he will not miss a game.
