Newcastle’s remarkable turnaround continued with a 10-20 upset of South Sydney at Allianz Stadium, sending last year’s wooden-spooners within two victories of an unlikely NRL grand final appearance.
Despite missing several injured stars, the Knights controlled the elimination clash through a powerful forward effort led by Tyson Frizell and youngsters Jermaine McEwen and Francis Manuleleua, while Dane Gagai scored after an explosive early confrontation with former teammate Latrell Mitchell.
McEwen crossed twice, including the match-sealing try, as Newcastle contained Souths’ usually dangerous attack and Kalyn Ponga remained a constant threat.
The Rabbitohs’ night deteriorated further when veteran Cody Walker suffered a non-contact calf injury that could potentially mark the end of his NRL career, while Alex Johnston later departed with a groin problem. Newcastle now advances to face either the Warriors or Dolphins as its extraordinary finals run continues.
