We always have an eye on the future.
Each week the nib Newcastle Knights will identify the best performers from the Canterbury Cup 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.
JOE BROMAGE
A Cessnock product, the bench forward was brilliant for the Jersey Flegg Knights on Sunday.
According to coach, Scott Dureau, Bromage was a standout in Newcastle’s 22-12 win over the Roosters.
“He’s been playing out at Cessnock,” Dureau said.
“He was with us at the start of the year and got hurt. He’s been back playing first grade for Cessnock and he got his first game with us in probably eight weeks.
“He was really good. He’s a handful in attack and had a high work-rate in D.”
BAYDEN SEARLE
The halfback returned to the Flegg side after several weeks playing Canterbury Cup.
“His kicking game was outstanding. We completed at 85 percent and the finishes that Baydo provided us with,” Dureau said.
Having had the opportunity to play alongside experienced first graders and opposition with plenty of top flight games to their name, Searle has returned to the 20s competition a more mature player.
“I’d like to think it’s given him some confidence to come back and be a dominant player in the 20s competition,” Dureau said.
“Hopefully he can maintain that. It’s a long year. It’s his first year in our program.”
ONOSAI AUINA
A Gold Coast product, Auina joined the 20s squad late last year.
A powerful centre, Auina made his Flegg debut in the win over the Roosters and made the most of his opportunity.
“It was his first game for us,” Dureau said.
“He’s been playing for the Macquarie Scorpions in first grade and got his first game for us on the weekend on his birthday.
“He scored a try and was really strong at right centre. Strong, powerful and stocky. He made some good one-on-one tackles. He’ll get another start next week.”
