4. Talking Points
- Ponga's Delayed Start: Kalyn Ponga is set to miss the opening few rounds, up to possible four, due to injury. Newcastle are far from a one man side, however at times they have fallen victim of relying on their superstar number one. As good as young Tex Hoy is, fans can't expect him to be Ponga across the opening month of the competition. As strange as this sounds the early injury could prove a blessing in disguise. Newcastle now have a month to learn how to play without Ponga through necessity.
- Halves Must Fire: Despite the aforementioned brilliant season by Kurt Mann, the Knights never truly settled on a halves partner for Mitchell Pearce. That must change in 2021. Phoenix Crossland has been named in the six for the last trial and looks the most likely to partner the former captain. Kurt Mann could find himself back in the role at some stage, while Conor Watson is always an option. Given Pearce has lost the captaincy he'll now be 100% focused purely on his role as the side's main creator. That could be a plus. It's down to Crossland, who is yet to start at NRL level and Mann who is probably better suited elsewhere.
- How to use Conor Watson?: There is no doubt that the Knights have to get the most out of Conor Watson to put themselves in the best spot to play finals footy again. He's a brilliant, young player who can do it all. That said, he's yet to fully nail down a regular position. It looks as though he'll play lock in the early rounds. I'm not sure that's the best use of the creative speedster however we will find out. If he can find his feet and give the Knights a regular 13 then that's one less question they have to answer.
