The nib Newcastle Knights NRLW side have defeated the Gold Coast Titans 28-22 at McDonald Jones Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
A last minute try from Jesse Southwell sealed a memorable win for the Knights after a back-and-forth, bruising encounter against the Titans.
The two points sealed a finals finish for the NRLW squad as they now prepare for their final round match back on home soil next Sunday.
How it played out:
The match kicked off in pristine conditions in the Hunter for the Knights penultimate match of the 2025 campaign.
The red and blue were off to a fast start when Jesse Southwell produced some magic to open the scoring.
Southwell opened up the oncoming defence with a trademark step to put the Knights out to an early 6-0 lead in the first minute.
Soon after, Sheridan Gallagher extended the Knights lead with a well executed put down in the corner.
The visitors worked their way back into the contest with two quick-fire tries through Laikha Clarke and Jessika Elliston to hit the lead on the 22nd minute mark.
On the stroke of half-time, Sienna Yeo bulldozed her way under the posts to put the Knights back in front to make it 16-12 at the change of ends.
Newcastle were next to score after the break and what a moment it was for NRLW debutant Fane Finau.
The young forward moved into the centres due to the injury of Botille Vette-Welsh and was on hand for her first try in the competition.
Once again, the Titans weren't going to die wondering and posted another two tries through Estanoa Faitala-Mariner and Phoenix-Raine Hippi to level the scores at 22-all with 10 minutes remaining.
Heading into the final minute and the scores tied, Newcastle No.7 Jesse Southwell stood tall producing her trademark step to weave through the Titans defence and score the match winning try for the Knights.
The result confirmed a fourth consecutive finals finish for the NRLW squad as they booked their spot in the last six.
What's next:
The Knights will finish off the regular season back at home next Sunday against the St George Illawarra Dragons in a special match for one of our champion Novocastrians.
Yasmin Clydsdale is set to notch her 50th match in the NRLW. Secure your seat here.
