Knights snatch trial victory from Sharks

Knights 26 v Sharks 24 Cessnock, NSW Saturday, 1st March 2008

Newcastle Knights have scored a dramatic trial win over the Sharks in Cessnock last night.

Trailing by 24-4 early in the second half, the Knights came back to snatch a 26-24 victory, albeit against a Sharks side which was fielding many of its reserve graders.

The Sharks almost pulled off a late victory when backrower Grant Milligan forced a grubber kick, but he was ruled off-side by referee Shayne Hayne.

After leading 18-4 at the break, Sharks coach Ricky Stuart rested numerous players, including forward and captain Paul Gallen who appeared to make a successful return from injury.

In a match riddled with errors and penalties, the Knights eventually settled down enough for Kurt Gidley to score his sceond try while rookie Junior Fau also posted a double.

Knights: 26 Tries: Gidley 2, Fau 2, Mullen Goals: Gidley 3 defeated Sharks: 24 Tries: Talaupapa, Seymour, Simmons, Kimmorley, Williams Goals: Seymour 2

For a full wrap of all trials - click here