NRL finals footy discussion 2026

[rugbygoated]

Thy don’t need him to win. They proved that in the GF v Brissie.
As soon as he left the field the comeback began.
They need him for his defence to stop tries. His attack, not so much.

Luai's 2024 season playing halfback kept them afloat in the top 4 while cleary had a long time out. When you look at penrith who were running last half way through 2025 and the back end of this season, it's clear they haven't figured out his replacement. Some may point to JFH being the bigger out which he most likely is over the course of the season, but that game yesterday was not missing an enforcer. Newcastle had Frizell and some young middles. Game was lost due to lack of creativity of cole and cogger with Yeo, Edwards and even Kenny still recovering from injuries. Thought Talagi played pretty well at centre attacking-wise barring his defence against Best

 

[Dr_Ice]

I meant to say had both played 3 games !

Both teams also had the week off in the final round (Knights with the bye and Roosters resting their NRL players)

 

[Dr_Ice]

The great Malcolm Reilly did the same in 1997 led newcastle to grand final first year as head coach

I think he started at Knights in 1995

 

[innsaneink]

Crossland cops four match suspension

Not your average four games though

 

[Jedi_Tiger]

I think he started at Knights in 1995

he did correct mate