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Rookie report: Fancy footwork, defensive menace

We always have an eye on the future.

Each week the nib Newcastle Knights will identify the best performers from the Canterbury Cup NSW and Jersey Flegg competitions so the supporters can get a feel for who is consistently performing in the lower grades.

These are the players to keep an eye out for as they climb the ranks or knock on the door for a future NRL debut.

Phoenix Crossland

The talented teen again gets a mention in this week's rookie report after a cracker performance in Canterbury Cup against the North Sydney Bears.

The junior Origin star used his speed to score a hat-trick of tries and proved hard to handle for the opposition with some fancy footwork.

Two Knights in Origin and another 18th man

The 18-year-old, who is still eligible to play in Jersey Flegg, is known for his mature footy sense and his ability to make an impact in the halves.

Bradman Best

In just his second Canterbury Cup game, Best was outstanding in the centres.

Strong carriers and exceptional post contact metres, this 17-year-old star is an excitement machine.

A big frame for a back, Best is deceitfully fast and a superb handler of the ball.

Pasami Saulo

Saulo is a young talent that has risen through the ranks at the Knights.

The 21-year-old is a consistent contributor in the Canterbury Cup side, who rises to the challenge each week.

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Against the Bears, he was a menace.... confidently charging the line, solid runs with the ball and massive hit-ups.

With his intensity in defence, the young prop is striking fear in his opponents.