Premier League - Knights V Wests
round 13

EnergyAustralia Stadium was the venue for round 13 fixture between the 6th placed Newcastle and 9th placed Wests.

The first half was a tight contest with defence the dominant part. Just three tries were scored - 2 by the Knights through centre Brad Tighe and lock Todd Maddison and one by Wests. The teams went to the break with Newcastle leading 12-6.

The second half was in complete contrast to the first half with both teams willing to throw the ball around. The Knights kicked clear with two converted tries, through fullback Nathan Hinton and captain Kurt Hancock. These tries extended the lead to 24-6. Wests though, did not lie down and scored two quick tries themselves, through centre Aaron Mercer and captain and hooker Isaac De Gois. This trimmed the deficit to 24-16. Further tries to Newcastle duo Dane Campbell and Jesse Royal put the result beyond doubt. Wests scored a consolation try through five-eight Ben Roberts, which put respectability to the scoreline. With just a few minutes remaining, Knights captain Kurt Hancock then scored the second try of his double. Fulltime Newcastle 42 defeated Wests 22 and the Knights stay in contention for a top four finish.

Newcastle halfback Dane Campbell, back in Premier League, after deputising for Andrew Johns in First Grade, was very impressive. He finished with a personal tally of 18 points from a try and 7 goals from as many attempts. To top his day off he had a hand in 5 of Newcastle's 7 tries and his kicking game was near faultless.