In Round 13, the Newcastle Knights and Canterbury Bulldogs, both teams recently hitting their stride, will face off with a potential spot in the top eight at stake. Newcastle enters the match well-rested from a bye, while the Bulldogs arrive at McDonald Jones Stadium buoyed by their commanding 44-12 victory over the Dragons last Thursday.
The Knights, led by Adam O’Brien, are riding a wave of momentum from a fourth consecutive win during Magic Round. However, they face a challenging month ahead with key players like star center Bradman Best sidelined due to a hamstring injury. This injury also prevents Best from participating in the Origin series, adding to the absence of crucial players Kalyn Ponga and Tyson Gamble.
Conversely, Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo will have to manage without Stephen Crichton and Matt Burton, who are away for Origin camp this week. Nonetheless, the Bulldogs’ recent performance, particularly the impressive play of young halfback Toby Sexton, highlighted their squad’s depth and resilience this season.
As both teams prepare for this critical matchup, the Knights will look to leverage their home advantage and recent winning streak, while the Bulldogs aim to build on their latest dominant performance and demonstrate their strength in depth.
