UPDATE: The Brisbane Broncos have solidified their position in the NRL finals with a commanding 46-12 victory over the Newcastle Knights at McDonald Jones Stadium on Sunday, October 15, 2023. This decisive win not only distances them from the mid-table logjam but also positions them as serious contenders for a top-four spot as the regular season nears its end.
The match was highlighted by a dominant second-half performance, with the Broncos scoring six tries, including a remarkable solo effort from Reece Walsh, which put the game out of reach for Newcastle. The victory marks Brisbane’s significant momentum shift, crucial in the final weeks of the season.
With the score at 20-12 and just 20 minutes remaining, a missed opportunity by Newcastle’s Jake Arthur turned the tide in favor of Brisbane. Following this, Payne Haas initiated the scoring spree, and Walsh’s spectacular run sealed the game soon after. Earlier in the match, Walsh showcased his sportsmanship by assisting teammate Kobe Hetherington on his milestone 100th game, but the gesture drew criticism from former Broncos coach Kevin Walters.
“I’m not a fan of that… throwing the ball back in the in-goal,” Walters stated on Fox Sports. He added that he doubted the wisdom of the play, suggesting it could have ended poorly for Walsh had Hetherington dropped the ball.
Newcastle’s woes deepened as they faced their seventh consecutive loss, now struggling to avoid the dreaded wooden spoon. The Knights have now suffered ten defeats in their last eleven home games, marking a troubling trend for the team.
In a historic moment, veteran playmaker Ben Hunt celebrated his 350th NRL game, joining the ranks of legends like Terry Lamb and Daly Cherry-Evans as one of the most capped players in Australian rugby league history. Hunt was instrumental in the early stages, assisting in two of Brisbane’s early tries, including a powerful opening from Kotoni Staggs.
As Brisbane looks ahead, they are focused on securing a top-four finish. With just two weeks remaining in the regular season, all eyes will be on their upcoming matches to see if they can maintain this momentum.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the Broncos will navigate the final stretch, making this victory not just a triumph but a potential turning point in their quest for NRL glory. Download the 7NEWS app for real-time updates and exclusive content as the finals approach.
