Broncos leave it late to down Knights

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Brisbane Broncos v Newcastle Knights

The Brisbane Broncos have moved to the top of the premiership ladder with a thrilling 24-20 victory over the Newcastle Knights at Suncorp Stadium.

Temporarily moving ahead of Penrith into first position with their 11th win of the season, the Broncos were made to earn the two points with a late try to Adam Reynolds clinching the win with four minutes remaining.

Beginning the match in fine form with Dane Gagai producing a stellar defensive effort to deny Corey Oates over the try line, the Newcastle centre was equally effective in attack by delivering the final pass to send Dominic Young (17th minute) over for the first try of the evening.

Going close to extending their lead only for the bunker to overturn a try to Greg Marzhew due to the winger putting an arm into touch before grounding the ball, the Broncos struck a blow against the run of play with Reynolds finding Selwyn Cobbo (32nd minute) in support to take a 6-4 lead.

Determined to have their dominance during the first half reflected on the scoreboard, Newcastle fullback Kalyn Ponga (35th minute) produced a dazzling 60 metre run to send the visitors to the sheds leading 10-6. 

The Broncos were quick to capitalise on an error following the resumption with Cobbo (45th minute) running onto a pass from Reece Walsh to collect his second of the night. 

Refusing to wilt in the face of their more favoured opponents, the Knights posted consecutive tries with Young bursting down the sideline and connecting with Mat Croker (54th minute) before Young (58th minute) claimed his second to establish an eight-point advantage.

Striking back with a four-pointer to Brendan Piakura (69th minute) to set up a thrilling finish, Reynolds (76th minute) combined with Ezra Mam to put the Broncos back in front.

Despite conceding a penalty after the siren, the Broncos were able to repel the Knights and claim a 24-20 victory.

Next week, the Broncos will have their second bye of the season, while the Knights will return home on Saturday afternoon to take on the Roosters.