is boyd injured or being rested after world cup?
Auckland Nines Discussion
- Thread starter Junior11
- Start date
is boyd injured or being rested after world cup?
thought i read somewhere toka had injury as well?
Junior11
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Chanel Mata'utia is out injured, he's been replaced with Adam Cuthbertson. So that will leave either Jake Mamo or Dane Gagai to play fullback, who'd you prefer?
Auckland Nines draw finalised
Monday 10 February 2014 1:06 PM
The **** Smith Auckland Nines tournament’s draw has been finalised, which kicks off in five days time.
The Newcastle Knights are in ‘Pool Blue’, along with the Wests Tigers, Cronulla Sharks and the Gold Coast Titans.
Chanel Mata'utia has been ruled out of the Nines after he sustained an ankle injury in Saturday's trial match at Hunter Stadium.
Adam Cuthbertson joins the 16-man squad.
Below is the full schedule, along with the squads announced to date in Pool Blue.
NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS SQUAD: 1 – Adam Cuthbertson, 2 – Jake Mamo, 3 – Dane Gagai, 4 – Joseph Leilua, 5 – Akuila Uate, 6 – Jarrod Mullen (c), 7 – Tyrone Roberts, 8 – Willie Mason, 9 – Adam Clydsdale, 10 – Chris Houston, 11 – Beau Scott, 12 – Robbie Rochow, 13 – Jeremy Smith, 14 – Michael Dobson, 15 – Alex McKinnon, 16 – Zane Tetevano.
CRONULLA SHARKS SQUAD: Nathan Gardner, Nathan Stapleton, Blake Ayshford, Jonathan Wright, Sosaia Feki, Todd Carney, Daniel Holdsworth, Vitale (Junior) Roqica, Michael Lichaa, Sam Tagataese, Wade Graham, Matt Prior, Paul Gallen, Ricky Leutele, Tupou Sopoaga, Fa’amanu Brown.
WESTS TIGERS SQUAD: 1. James Tedesco 2. David Nofoaluma 3. Pat Ricahrds 4. Bodene Thompson 5. Marika Koroibete 6. Mitch Moses 7. Blake Austin 8. Aaron Woods 9. Robbie Farah (C) 10. Martin Taupau 11. Cory Paterson 12. Curtis Sironen 13. Adam Blair 14. Manaia Cherrington 15. Kurtis Rowe 16. James Gavet
Gold Coast Titans Squad: Still to be announced
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15
Game 1 —Sharks vs. Knights, 10:35am
Game 2 — Wests Tigers vs. Titans, 11:00am
Game 3 —Roosters vs. Eels, 11:25am
Game 4 — Broncos vs. Bulldogs, 11:50am
Game 5 — Warriors vs. Raiders, 12:25pm
Game 6 — Sea Eagles vs. Cowboys, 12:50pm
Game 7 — Storm vs. Panthers, 1:15pm
Game 8 — Rabbitohs vs. Dragons, 1:40pm
Game 9 — Sharks vs. Wests Tigers, 2:20pm
Game 10 — Knights vs. Titans, 2:45pm
Game 11 — Roosters vs. Broncos, 3:10pm
Game 12 — Eels vs. Bulldogs, 3:35pm
Game 13 — Warriors vs. Sea Eagles, 4:10pm
Game 14 — Raiders vs. Cowboys, 4:35pm
Game 15 — Storm vs. Rabbitohs, 5:00pm
Game 16 — Panthers vs. Dragons, 5:25pm
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16
Game 17 — Sharks vs. Titans, 10:00am
Game 18 — Knights vs. Wests Tigers, 10:25am
Game 19 — Roosters vs. Bulldogs, 10:50am
Game 20 — Eels vs. Broncos, 11:15am
Game 21 — Warriors vs. Cowboys, 11:45am
Game 22 — Raiders vs. Sea Eagles, 12:10pm
Game 23 — Storm vs. Dragons, 12:35pm
Game 24 — Panthers vs. Rabbitohs, 1:00pm
Game 25 — Quarter-final 1 (1st Pool Blue vs. 2nd Pool Green), 1:30pm
Game 26 — Quarter-final 2 (1st Pool Green vs. 2nd Pool Blue), 1:55pm
Game 27 — Quarter-final 3 (1st Pool Yellow vs. 2nd Pool Red), 2:20pm
Game 28 — Quarter-final 4 (1st Pool Red vs. 2nd Pool Yellow), 2:45pm
Game 29 — Semi-final 1 (Winner QF1 vs. Winner QF2), 3:45pm
Game 30 — Semi-final 2 (Winner QF3 vs. Winner QF4), 4:10pm
Game 31 — Grand Final (Winner SF1 vs. Winner SF2), 5:30pm
NOTE: All games will be broadcast live via Fox Sports, although check local guides. Times listed above are in AEDT — two hours behind local time.
http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/news-display/Auckland-Nines-draw-finalised/90200
Auckland Nines draw finalised
Monday 10 February 2014 1:06 PM
The **** Smith Auckland Nines tournament’s draw has been finalised, which kicks off in five days time.
The Newcastle Knights are in ‘Pool Blue’, along with the Wests Tigers, Cronulla Sharks and the Gold Coast Titans.
Chanel Mata'utia has been ruled out of the Nines after he sustained an ankle injury in Saturday's trial match at Hunter Stadium.
Adam Cuthbertson joins the 16-man squad.
Below is the full schedule, along with the squads announced to date in Pool Blue.
NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS SQUAD: 1 – Adam Cuthbertson, 2 – Jake Mamo, 3 – Dane Gagai, 4 – Joseph Leilua, 5 – Akuila Uate, 6 – Jarrod Mullen (c), 7 – Tyrone Roberts, 8 – Willie Mason, 9 – Adam Clydsdale, 10 – Chris Houston, 11 – Beau Scott, 12 – Robbie Rochow, 13 – Jeremy Smith, 14 – Michael Dobson, 15 – Alex McKinnon, 16 – Zane Tetevano.
CRONULLA SHARKS SQUAD: Nathan Gardner, Nathan Stapleton, Blake Ayshford, Jonathan Wright, Sosaia Feki, Todd Carney, Daniel Holdsworth, Vitale (Junior) Roqica, Michael Lichaa, Sam Tagataese, Wade Graham, Matt Prior, Paul Gallen, Ricky Leutele, Tupou Sopoaga, Fa’amanu Brown.
WESTS TIGERS SQUAD: 1. James Tedesco 2. David Nofoaluma 3. Pat Ricahrds 4. Bodene Thompson 5. Marika Koroibete 6. Mitch Moses 7. Blake Austin 8. Aaron Woods 9. Robbie Farah (C) 10. Martin Taupau 11. Cory Paterson 12. Curtis Sironen 13. Adam Blair 14. Manaia Cherrington 15. Kurtis Rowe 16. James Gavet
Gold Coast Titans Squad: Still to be announced
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15
Game 1 —Sharks vs. Knights, 10:35am
Game 2 — Wests Tigers vs. Titans, 11:00am
Game 3 —Roosters vs. Eels, 11:25am
Game 4 — Broncos vs. Bulldogs, 11:50am
Game 5 — Warriors vs. Raiders, 12:25pm
Game 6 — Sea Eagles vs. Cowboys, 12:50pm
Game 7 — Storm vs. Panthers, 1:15pm
Game 8 — Rabbitohs vs. Dragons, 1:40pm
Game 9 — Sharks vs. Wests Tigers, 2:20pm
Game 10 — Knights vs. Titans, 2:45pm
Game 11 — Roosters vs. Broncos, 3:10pm
Game 12 — Eels vs. Bulldogs, 3:35pm
Game 13 — Warriors vs. Sea Eagles, 4:10pm
Game 14 — Raiders vs. Cowboys, 4:35pm
Game 15 — Storm vs. Rabbitohs, 5:00pm
Game 16 — Panthers vs. Dragons, 5:25pm
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16
Game 17 — Sharks vs. Titans, 10:00am
Game 18 — Knights vs. Wests Tigers, 10:25am
Game 19 — Roosters vs. Bulldogs, 10:50am
Game 20 — Eels vs. Broncos, 11:15am
Game 21 — Warriors vs. Cowboys, 11:45am
Game 22 — Raiders vs. Sea Eagles, 12:10pm
Game 23 — Storm vs. Dragons, 12:35pm
Game 24 — Panthers vs. Rabbitohs, 1:00pm
Game 25 — Quarter-final 1 (1st Pool Blue vs. 2nd Pool Green), 1:30pm
Game 26 — Quarter-final 2 (1st Pool Green vs. 2nd Pool Blue), 1:55pm
Game 27 — Quarter-final 3 (1st Pool Yellow vs. 2nd Pool Red), 2:20pm
Game 28 — Quarter-final 4 (1st Pool Red vs. 2nd Pool Yellow), 2:45pm
Game 29 — Semi-final 1 (Winner QF1 vs. Winner QF2), 3:45pm
Game 30 — Semi-final 2 (Winner QF3 vs. Winner QF4), 4:10pm
Game 31 — Grand Final (Winner SF1 vs. Winner SF2), 5:30pm
NOTE: All games will be broadcast live via Fox Sports, although check local guides. Times listed above are in AEDT — two hours behind local time.
http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/news-display/Auckland-Nines-draw-finalised/90200
Last edited:
Hamish171
Adam Woolnough
After having a short think about it, the Sharks side isn't as bad as I first thought. Gardner is made for this type of comp and Ayshford and wright could also cause some damage. Carney obviously will carve up and Tagatese is a big worry to stop. The juniors I have no idea how they will perform but of course the sharks have a few duds in their like Holdsworth and Prior but I'm pretty worried for our match up against the Sharkies, despite how good our side looks.
Yeah I agree Sharks squad is decent. Gallen will be a gun in it with his offloading and all his other skills. Graham should do well too. Also never seen him play, but Lichaa is an attacking hooker who is said to be a mix of Farah and Luke, so really excited to see how he goes.
Junior11
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Apparently Fifita will be playing for the Sharks which makes me nervous, he's got the speed, skill and power to win short games like this by himself
Ryan James and Will Zillman look to be out for the Titans which will help us though, depending on who they replace them with
Ryan James and Will Zillman look to be out for the Titans which will help us though, depending on who they replace them with
rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Knights ready to impress at Nines
Tuesday 11 February 2014 12:07 PM
Jarrod Mullen admits he doesn’t know too much about Nines rugby league.
In fact, the Knights' skipper says he only got told about the rules for the inaugural tournament this week.
In many ways, this weekend's NRL Auckland Nines is a bit of an unknown commodity for the 16 competing teams.
All that aside though, Mullen says the Knights' have selected a strong side and are heading over to New Zealand focused on playing well.
"We want to win it," Mullen says.
"We’re not going over to muck around and we want to go over there and do our best.
"Obviously it’s the first hit out for a lot of our boys, so it will be good to blow the cobwebs out and have a bit of a run around.
"I’d like to see a game before we play, but we are actually opening the whole thing (against the Sharks).
"We’ve done a little bit of training for it, but not much.
"I only just found out the rules today, so it will be a bit of fun."
Mullen believes the Club has selected a potent side for the Nines, a team based on speedy backs and mobile forwards.
He says he is particularly excited about the prospect of flyers like Dane Gagai, Aku Uate and NYC graduate Jake Mamo all finding open space in Auckland.
"We’ve obviously got a lot of speed with all the outside backs playing and all our big, mobile forwards," he says.
"So I suppose we’ll be pretty strong.
"Obviously we are going to be missing Kurt, Darbs (Darius Boyd) and players like that, but we’ve got a couple of younger blokes coming up from the 20s.
"Then there are blokes like Dane Gagai, who with a bit of space will be exciting to watch."
Mullen has fond memories of attending the last Rugby League World Sevens back in 2004.
Now 26 years of age, the Knights' five-eighth is looking forward to actually playing in the fast-paced format himself.
"I went to the last Sevens when I was 17 when the Wests Tigers won it," he recalls.
"So obviously there is a lot more space out there and the nines will be a bit different.
"I’m not looking to tackling all the quick blokes with a lot of space.
"That will be a bit challenging, but I’m looking forward to it."
There's no doubting the competition at the Nines will be intense, but Mullen says his team are heading into the tournament full of confidence.
He believes the squad have benefited from having the same team for a number of years and that will help them perform at the Nines and the NRL season proper.
"That’s a good thing that we’ve kept most of the squad from last year," he admits.
"We’ve re-signed as lot of the blokes who were here, so there has been a lot of cohesion in the squad for the past two or three years.
"So everyone knows each others games and that can only be a good thing leading into 2014."
Newcastle open their Nines campaign against the Sharks at 10.35am on Saturday, before meeting the Titans at 2.45pm and finally coming up against the Tigers on Sunday at 10.25am.
http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/news-display/Knights-ready-to-impress-at-Nines/90243
Tuesday 11 February 2014 12:07 PM
Jarrod Mullen admits he doesn’t know too much about Nines rugby league.
In fact, the Knights' skipper says he only got told about the rules for the inaugural tournament this week.
In many ways, this weekend's NRL Auckland Nines is a bit of an unknown commodity for the 16 competing teams.
All that aside though, Mullen says the Knights' have selected a strong side and are heading over to New Zealand focused on playing well.
"We want to win it," Mullen says.
"We’re not going over to muck around and we want to go over there and do our best.
"Obviously it’s the first hit out for a lot of our boys, so it will be good to blow the cobwebs out and have a bit of a run around.
"I’d like to see a game before we play, but we are actually opening the whole thing (against the Sharks).
"We’ve done a little bit of training for it, but not much.
"I only just found out the rules today, so it will be a bit of fun."
Mullen believes the Club has selected a potent side for the Nines, a team based on speedy backs and mobile forwards.
He says he is particularly excited about the prospect of flyers like Dane Gagai, Aku Uate and NYC graduate Jake Mamo all finding open space in Auckland.
"We’ve obviously got a lot of speed with all the outside backs playing and all our big, mobile forwards," he says.
"So I suppose we’ll be pretty strong.
"Obviously we are going to be missing Kurt, Darbs (Darius Boyd) and players like that, but we’ve got a couple of younger blokes coming up from the 20s.
"Then there are blokes like Dane Gagai, who with a bit of space will be exciting to watch."
Mullen has fond memories of attending the last Rugby League World Sevens back in 2004.
Now 26 years of age, the Knights' five-eighth is looking forward to actually playing in the fast-paced format himself.
"I went to the last Sevens when I was 17 when the Wests Tigers won it," he recalls.
"So obviously there is a lot more space out there and the nines will be a bit different.
"I’m not looking to tackling all the quick blokes with a lot of space.
"That will be a bit challenging, but I’m looking forward to it."
There's no doubting the competition at the Nines will be intense, but Mullen says his team are heading into the tournament full of confidence.
He believes the squad have benefited from having the same team for a number of years and that will help them perform at the Nines and the NRL season proper.
"That’s a good thing that we’ve kept most of the squad from last year," he admits.
"We’ve re-signed as lot of the blokes who were here, so there has been a lot of cohesion in the squad for the past two or three years.
"So everyone knows each others games and that can only be a good thing leading into 2014."
Newcastle open their Nines campaign against the Sharks at 10.35am on Saturday, before meeting the Titans at 2.45pm and finally coming up against the Tigers on Sunday at 10.25am.
http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/news-display/Knights-ready-to-impress-at-Nines/90243
rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Cuthbertson primed for Nines
By Matt Logue
Wednesday 12 February 2014 9:00 AM
Adam Cuthbertson can't take the smile off his dial.
Chatting to Knights TV after training on Tuesday, Cuthbertson speaks about the excitement of playing in the NRL Auckland Nines this weekend - his first game of football after almost four months on the sideline.
The utility forward injured his groin against the Sharks in round 22 last year and hasn't played since.
So you can understand why he is so pumped about getting the call-up for the inaugural Nines tournament.
"I’m just stinging to get out there and have a proper crack," Cuthbertson enthuses.
"I haven’t played since the Sharks game down in Cronulla last year, so it has been a long stint on the sidelines for me.
"But I’ve worked really hard on improving my strength with my injury.
"It hasn’t been long since I started ball work, so it will be enjoyable to get over there and play some footy.
"I wasn’t going to do anything at first, because the injury was holding me back a bit.
"But then Chanel (Mata'utia) got injured and I was just lucky to get the call-up and go on the tour."
Cuthbertson, a player renowned for his ability to offload, is looking forward to testing himself at the Nines.
He says the Club are well served to shine at the tournament and he can't wait to see some of his speedy outside backs in action.
"It's an exciting brand of football," he says.
"It will be a bit more open and it will be good to see some of our outside backs come off the back of the forwards and really have their chance to spread their wings.
"You’ve got people like Joey Leilua and Aku who are pretty elusive and Jake Mamo is there now and he has got a lot of pace that he showed in the Indigenous game.
"I haven’t really read too much into it as a team, we’ve just been practising for the season.
"But it will be a good chance for us to go out there and try and display some of our skills."
Cuthbertson says he is now back to full fitness after off-season surgery on his groin, but concedes his lungs might get a good work out at the Nines.
"I wouldn’t be going if I wasn’t fit," he insists.
"The only thing will be finding my feet and getting a bit of match fitness.
"But they are only nine minute halves, so I’m sure I’ll try and stay out there for as long as I can."
Cuthbertson might struggle at stages, but as he knows all too well that’s better than sitting on the sidelines injured.
http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/news-display/Cuthbertson-primed-for-Nines/90279
By Matt Logue
Wednesday 12 February 2014 9:00 AM
Adam Cuthbertson can't take the smile off his dial.
Chatting to Knights TV after training on Tuesday, Cuthbertson speaks about the excitement of playing in the NRL Auckland Nines this weekend - his first game of football after almost four months on the sideline.
The utility forward injured his groin against the Sharks in round 22 last year and hasn't played since.
So you can understand why he is so pumped about getting the call-up for the inaugural Nines tournament.
"I’m just stinging to get out there and have a proper crack," Cuthbertson enthuses.
"I haven’t played since the Sharks game down in Cronulla last year, so it has been a long stint on the sidelines for me.
"But I’ve worked really hard on improving my strength with my injury.
"It hasn’t been long since I started ball work, so it will be enjoyable to get over there and play some footy.
"I wasn’t going to do anything at first, because the injury was holding me back a bit.
"But then Chanel (Mata'utia) got injured and I was just lucky to get the call-up and go on the tour."
Cuthbertson, a player renowned for his ability to offload, is looking forward to testing himself at the Nines.
He says the Club are well served to shine at the tournament and he can't wait to see some of his speedy outside backs in action.
"It's an exciting brand of football," he says.
"It will be a bit more open and it will be good to see some of our outside backs come off the back of the forwards and really have their chance to spread their wings.
"You’ve got people like Joey Leilua and Aku who are pretty elusive and Jake Mamo is there now and he has got a lot of pace that he showed in the Indigenous game.
"I haven’t really read too much into it as a team, we’ve just been practising for the season.
"But it will be a good chance for us to go out there and try and display some of our skills."
Cuthbertson says he is now back to full fitness after off-season surgery on his groin, but concedes his lungs might get a good work out at the Nines.
"I wouldn’t be going if I wasn’t fit," he insists.
"The only thing will be finding my feet and getting a bit of match fitness.
"But they are only nine minute halves, so I’m sure I’ll try and stay out there for as long as I can."
Cuthbertson might struggle at stages, but as he knows all too well that’s better than sitting on the sidelines injured.
http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/news-display/Cuthbertson-primed-for-Nines/90279
rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
McKinnon tips speedsters to star at Nines
By Matt Logue
Wednesday 12 February 2014 1:50 PM
Knights back-rower Alex McKinnon says he won't have to do too much running at the NRL Auckland Nines this weekend.
It's not that McKinnon will be resting on his laurels at the inaugural tournament, no far from it.
You see, with teammates like Aku Uate, Dane Gagai and NYC graduate Jake Mamo, the Aberdeen junior knows there will be times when all he'll have to do is sit back and marvel at their sheer speed and skill.
"I was thinking the other day about the concept of five in the scrum, two on the open and one on the short side," McKinnon grins.
"So I think two-on-two with Jake Mamo and Aku Uate will be pretty strong."
McKinnon believes the Auckland Nines concept has the potential to launch league into a bold new era and he can't wait to be a part of the event.
And while the team hasn't focused too heavily on the tournament at training, the 22-year-old has no doubts they'll be ready to fire on the weekend.
"I’m really looking forward to the nines in Auckland this weekend," he says.
"We’ve got a quality team going over there, so we should give it a good shake.
"I suppose it’s a new concept that the NRL has introduced and you’ve got to buy into it.
"There is a bit of cash on the line and it’s a different format, which everyone will enjoy.
"We play a lot of games at training, just fitness games and all of that, so you're always moving.
"I reckon the nines will be similar to the NRL, but even quicker."
McKinnon heads into this weekend's Auckland Nines on the back of an impressive performance in the Knights' trial win against the First Nations Goannas last Saturday.
He says the match was the perfect opportunity to build some strength in his ankle after surgery last season.
"That’s the reason I played last week, because I really felt that I needed to get more game time," he confirms.
"I’ve had a big pre-season this year on my ankle and I’ve worked really hard on my leg weights and all that kind of stuff."
McKinnon played 19 NRL games last season and can't wait to build on that in 2014 alongside the likes of Beau Scott, Jeremy Smith and Robbie Rochow.
"I’ve worked up combinations with a lot of the middle boys and that’s one of the areas we can work with," he adds.
"I’ve learnt a lot off Jeremy, Robbie and Beau, so I’m really looking forward to this season.
"I just can’t wait to play a bit of footy again.”
http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/news-display/McKinnon-tips-speedsters-to-star-at-Nines/90305
By Matt Logue
Wednesday 12 February 2014 1:50 PM
Knights back-rower Alex McKinnon says he won't have to do too much running at the NRL Auckland Nines this weekend.
It's not that McKinnon will be resting on his laurels at the inaugural tournament, no far from it.
You see, with teammates like Aku Uate, Dane Gagai and NYC graduate Jake Mamo, the Aberdeen junior knows there will be times when all he'll have to do is sit back and marvel at their sheer speed and skill.
"I was thinking the other day about the concept of five in the scrum, two on the open and one on the short side," McKinnon grins.
"So I think two-on-two with Jake Mamo and Aku Uate will be pretty strong."
McKinnon believes the Auckland Nines concept has the potential to launch league into a bold new era and he can't wait to be a part of the event.
And while the team hasn't focused too heavily on the tournament at training, the 22-year-old has no doubts they'll be ready to fire on the weekend.
"I’m really looking forward to the nines in Auckland this weekend," he says.
"We’ve got a quality team going over there, so we should give it a good shake.
"I suppose it’s a new concept that the NRL has introduced and you’ve got to buy into it.
"There is a bit of cash on the line and it’s a different format, which everyone will enjoy.
"We play a lot of games at training, just fitness games and all of that, so you're always moving.
"I reckon the nines will be similar to the NRL, but even quicker."
McKinnon heads into this weekend's Auckland Nines on the back of an impressive performance in the Knights' trial win against the First Nations Goannas last Saturday.
He says the match was the perfect opportunity to build some strength in his ankle after surgery last season.
"That’s the reason I played last week, because I really felt that I needed to get more game time," he confirms.
"I’ve had a big pre-season this year on my ankle and I’ve worked really hard on my leg weights and all that kind of stuff."
McKinnon played 19 NRL games last season and can't wait to build on that in 2014 alongside the likes of Beau Scott, Jeremy Smith and Robbie Rochow.
"I’ve worked up combinations with a lot of the middle boys and that’s one of the areas we can work with," he adds.
"I’ve learnt a lot off Jeremy, Robbie and Beau, so I’m really looking forward to this season.
"I just can’t wait to play a bit of footy again.”
http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/news-display/McKinnon-tips-speedsters-to-star-at-Nines/90305
rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Nines a chance to hone skills for NRL season: Bennett
Wednesday 12 February 2014 4:31 PM
The Auckland Nines is only a pre-season tournament, but Newcastle Knights coach Wayne Bennett believes the event will serve as vital preparation for the NRL season proper.
Coach Bennett and his players left Newcastle on Wednesday afternoon bound for Auckland full of confidence and excitement for the inaugural tournament.
The veteran mentor spoke to Knights TV on departure, saying he has selected his strongest side possible for the event with a view to hone their skills and discipline for the Club's NRL campaign.
"This (event) is a minor game, but it’s not a bad way to start when I think about it," Bennett says.
"My main message to them is to control the footy as best they can, compete really well and work hard in defence for each other.
"If they do that, then that’s the things that are going to give us a successful season in 2014 if we are going to have one.
"I just want us to compete really well and have a bit of sense about our play without thinking we can just go out there and throw the ball from one end of the field to the other.
"That's why I’ve taken all my experienced players that are fit and ready to go, so I’ve taken what I consider the best of."
Bennett admits the Knights are yet to formally start training for the Auckland Nines, but confirms he'll briefly speak with the players in the lead-up to the event about his goals and expectations.
"We’ve done no preparation for it, but we’ve done a lot of preparation for the season so I’m sure that will be beneficial in that sense," he explains.
"Tomorrow (Thursday) I’ll spend a bit of time with them, talk through a little bit and see how we go on Saturday.
"It’s just nine on nine and next week it will get a bit more serious with 13 on 13, but I’m looking forward to it and I hope the boys enjoy it and have some fun."
Bennett says this weekend’s Auckland Nines will also be another chance for the Club’s rookies to impress.
This includes exciting winger Jake Mamo, who scored a hat-trick in the trial against the First Nations Goannas last weekend, and emerging hooker Adam Clydsdale.
Bennett was particularly impressed with Mamo and other emerging stars like Sione Mata'utia against the Goannas and has no doubts they have a big future ahead of them.
"I just liked what they did and how they did it," he enthuses.
"I think they showed us all that they’ve got qualities that we hope will transfer to the Knights at some stage of their life in the next few years."
The Auckland Nines concept is only new, but Bennett hopes the event remains on the game's calendar long-term.
"I hope its got a future," he says.
"I mean, the fans are telling us it has got a future.
"It’s sold out for two days in Auckland, so that’s telling me it has got a future."
Newcastle will kick-off the Auckland Nines tournament on Saturday with a clash against the Sharks at 10.35am (AEST), before taking on the Titans at 2.45pm and finishing off the pool stage on Sunday with a match against the Tigers at 10.25am.
http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/...e-to-hone-skills-for-NRL-season-Bennett/90321
Wednesday 12 February 2014 4:31 PM
The Auckland Nines is only a pre-season tournament, but Newcastle Knights coach Wayne Bennett believes the event will serve as vital preparation for the NRL season proper.
Coach Bennett and his players left Newcastle on Wednesday afternoon bound for Auckland full of confidence and excitement for the inaugural tournament.
The veteran mentor spoke to Knights TV on departure, saying he has selected his strongest side possible for the event with a view to hone their skills and discipline for the Club's NRL campaign.
"This (event) is a minor game, but it’s not a bad way to start when I think about it," Bennett says.
"My main message to them is to control the footy as best they can, compete really well and work hard in defence for each other.
"If they do that, then that’s the things that are going to give us a successful season in 2014 if we are going to have one.
"I just want us to compete really well and have a bit of sense about our play without thinking we can just go out there and throw the ball from one end of the field to the other.
"That's why I’ve taken all my experienced players that are fit and ready to go, so I’ve taken what I consider the best of."
Bennett admits the Knights are yet to formally start training for the Auckland Nines, but confirms he'll briefly speak with the players in the lead-up to the event about his goals and expectations.
"We’ve done no preparation for it, but we’ve done a lot of preparation for the season so I’m sure that will be beneficial in that sense," he explains.
"Tomorrow (Thursday) I’ll spend a bit of time with them, talk through a little bit and see how we go on Saturday.
"It’s just nine on nine and next week it will get a bit more serious with 13 on 13, but I’m looking forward to it and I hope the boys enjoy it and have some fun."
Bennett says this weekend’s Auckland Nines will also be another chance for the Club’s rookies to impress.
This includes exciting winger Jake Mamo, who scored a hat-trick in the trial against the First Nations Goannas last weekend, and emerging hooker Adam Clydsdale.
Bennett was particularly impressed with Mamo and other emerging stars like Sione Mata'utia against the Goannas and has no doubts they have a big future ahead of them.
"I just liked what they did and how they did it," he enthuses.
"I think they showed us all that they’ve got qualities that we hope will transfer to the Knights at some stage of their life in the next few years."
The Auckland Nines concept is only new, but Bennett hopes the event remains on the game's calendar long-term.
"I hope its got a future," he says.
"I mean, the fans are telling us it has got a future.
"It’s sold out for two days in Auckland, so that’s telling me it has got a future."
Newcastle will kick-off the Auckland Nines tournament on Saturday with a clash against the Sharks at 10.35am (AEST), before taking on the Titans at 2.45pm and finishing off the pool stage on Sunday with a match against the Tigers at 10.25am.
http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/...e-to-hone-skills-for-NRL-season-Bennett/90321
rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Nines an opportunity to build team connection: Mason
By Matt Logue
Thursday 13 February 2014 10:21 AM
To be successful in any professional team environment, you need your squad to be close.
Just ask Knights veteran forward Willie Mason - a man who has played at the highest level for over a decade and fully understands the importance of team camaraderie to succeed.
On the back of the Knights' charge to the finals last season, Mason says the squad are closer than ever before and he believes this weekend's NRL Auckland Nines is a great chance to further enhance that connection.
"We came together well as a team last year, so we are using this trip as a chance to really build that bond as a team," says Mason, who won a title with the Bulldogs in 2004.
"Everyone is pretty much best mates at the moment.
"There are a few kids who still need to earn their stripes and they are going to in games and at training.
"We are just looking forward to enjoying each others company every day.
"We do it at training, but you’re in and out and everyone has got their families.
"But here we are going to be stuck together for five days, so I love that kind of stuff."
Mason, an official ambassador for the Auckland Nines, says the Knights are keen to impress at the inaugural tournament and it's why coach Wayne Bennett has picked his strongest possible side for the event.
"The team we’ve selected is probably the best team that we can put on the field, apart from Jimmy Mac’s ankle, Kurt Gidley’s foot and Darius Boyd has pretty much just played a lot of football," he says.
"Everyone was sort of jousting for positions and to get on this bus.
"We’ve got a few forwards out, but everyone is fit so we are ready to go.
"I think every team is fielding their best team barring the Roosters, because they’ve got that World Club Challenge.
"So there is going to be a bunch of exciting players, because you’ve got people like young Mamo who has just come out of the 20s and is excited.
"It’s going to be a great chance for them to go out there and showcase their skills."
One player Mason is especially looking forward to watching excel in Auckland is winger Jake Mamo.
Mamo starred in last weekend's trial against the First Nations Goannas, scoring a hat-trick, and big Willie is confident the NYC graduate will handle the step up to the more competitive nines tournament.
"I’m expecting the same from Jake," he says.
"The format will suit his game down to a tee.
"You know, it’s going to be quick, fast and fit and he is all of them.
"He was exciting to watch on the weekend, but obviously he is going to be playing against different oppositions and it will really test him.
"But you can’t fault his attitude or anything, its been second-to-none.
"He has been the best trainer in the pre-season, so I’m looking forward to watching him go."
http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/...ortunity-to-build-team-connection-Mason/90320
By Matt Logue
Thursday 13 February 2014 10:21 AM
To be successful in any professional team environment, you need your squad to be close.
Just ask Knights veteran forward Willie Mason - a man who has played at the highest level for over a decade and fully understands the importance of team camaraderie to succeed.
On the back of the Knights' charge to the finals last season, Mason says the squad are closer than ever before and he believes this weekend's NRL Auckland Nines is a great chance to further enhance that connection.
"We came together well as a team last year, so we are using this trip as a chance to really build that bond as a team," says Mason, who won a title with the Bulldogs in 2004.
"Everyone is pretty much best mates at the moment.
"There are a few kids who still need to earn their stripes and they are going to in games and at training.
"We are just looking forward to enjoying each others company every day.
"We do it at training, but you’re in and out and everyone has got their families.
"But here we are going to be stuck together for five days, so I love that kind of stuff."
Mason, an official ambassador for the Auckland Nines, says the Knights are keen to impress at the inaugural tournament and it's why coach Wayne Bennett has picked his strongest possible side for the event.
"The team we’ve selected is probably the best team that we can put on the field, apart from Jimmy Mac’s ankle, Kurt Gidley’s foot and Darius Boyd has pretty much just played a lot of football," he says.
"Everyone was sort of jousting for positions and to get on this bus.
"We’ve got a few forwards out, but everyone is fit so we are ready to go.
"I think every team is fielding their best team barring the Roosters, because they’ve got that World Club Challenge.
"So there is going to be a bunch of exciting players, because you’ve got people like young Mamo who has just come out of the 20s and is excited.
"It’s going to be a great chance for them to go out there and showcase their skills."
One player Mason is especially looking forward to watching excel in Auckland is winger Jake Mamo.
Mamo starred in last weekend's trial against the First Nations Goannas, scoring a hat-trick, and big Willie is confident the NYC graduate will handle the step up to the more competitive nines tournament.
"I’m expecting the same from Jake," he says.
"The format will suit his game down to a tee.
"You know, it’s going to be quick, fast and fit and he is all of them.
"He was exciting to watch on the weekend, but obviously he is going to be playing against different oppositions and it will really test him.
"But you can’t fault his attitude or anything, its been second-to-none.
"He has been the best trainer in the pre-season, so I’m looking forward to watching him go."
http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/...ortunity-to-build-team-connection-Mason/90320
rhugh89
Danny 'Bedsy' Buderus
Who will win the Auckland Nines?
By Dominic Brock
NRL.com
2:00pm Thu 13th February, 2014
Backline speedsters Akuila Uate and Dane Gagai will be crucial players for the Newcastle Knights. Copyright: Renee McKay/NRL Photos.
The squads have been named, the odds are in, and now the question on everyone's mind is just which teams will thrive in the inaugural **** Smith NRL Auckland Nines?
Will the rapid-paced matches with more room to move suit the NRL's quickest backlines, or the hard-running big men who can draw three defenders at a time? Can your club go all the way?
The 16 NRL teams have been split into four groups (yellow, green, blue and red) with the top two teams from each group advancing to the quarter-finals.
The fresh concept and the new-look nature of the squads makes for one unpredictable tournament, but here are our fearless predictions for how the matches will pan out. .
BLUE GROUP
This is arguably the toughest group to predict, with all four clubs selecting strong sides for the Nines.
The Titans possess raw power in Dave Taylor, genuine speed in William Zillman, David Mead, Kevin Gordon and Albert Kelly, and a great work ethic in Greg Bird, Ashley Harrison and Mark Minichiello.
The Wests Tigers team looks solid as well with new signing Pat Richards joining Marika Koroibete, James Tedesco and tireless forwards Robbie Farah and Aaron Woods.
But there is a good chance neither of those teams will survive the group stage, due to the quality of their group rivals.
The Newcastle Knights are the competition's second-favourites behind the Warriors, with a strong all-round squad boasting backline speedsters Akuila Uate, Dane Gagai, Joseph Leilua, Tyrone Roberts and Jarrod Mullen plus tough-tackling forwards Chris Houston, Beau Scott, Jeremy Smith and Robbie Rochow.
We're suspecting they and the Sharks will both advance, with Cronulla being one of the competition's dark horses thanks to the presence of genuine superstars Paul Gallen, Andrew Fifita and Todd Carney.
If the Nines turns out to be more of a battle of the big men than a test of pure speed, then the impact of all-action Kangaroos forwards Gallen and Fifita could give Cronulla an edge over the competition.
Predicted finishing order: Knights; Sharks; Titans; Wests Tigers.
QUARTER-FINALS
1st Blue v 2nd Green: Knights v Eels
Experience and the strike power of Uate, Gagai and Leilua should give the Knights the edge in this one.
1st Green v 2nd Blue: Broncos v Sharks
A tough one to call.
You get the feeling Fifita could break a game apart on his own in this format, but for strength across the park we'll lean towards Brisbane.
1st Yellow v 2nd Red: Warriors v Dragons
The Dragons look good, but the Warriors look better.
1st Red v 2nd Yellow: Panthers v Cowboys
We'll give this one to the Panthers in another close battle.
SEMI-FINALS
QF1 Winner v QF2 Winner: Knights v Broncos
Barba could be the breakout star of the tournament if he gets back to the best, but Newcastle look a little stronger all-round.
QF1 Winner v QF2 Winner: Warriors v Panthers
If Johnson, Tomkins and Hurrell are still fit and firing by Sunday afternoon, the Warriors should be too good.
FINAL
SF1 Winner v SF2 Winner: Knights v Warriors
The sell-out crowd should be at fever pitch by the time the Auckland Nines Final swings around at 7.30pm local time on Sunday, and that should be enough to carry the Warriors to victory against whoever they face in the final.
http://www.nrl.com/who-will-win-the-auckland-nines/tabid/10874/newsid/76254/default.aspx
By Dominic Brock
NRL.com
2:00pm Thu 13th February, 2014
Backline speedsters Akuila Uate and Dane Gagai will be crucial players for the Newcastle Knights. Copyright: Renee McKay/NRL Photos.
The squads have been named, the odds are in, and now the question on everyone's mind is just which teams will thrive in the inaugural **** Smith NRL Auckland Nines?
Will the rapid-paced matches with more room to move suit the NRL's quickest backlines, or the hard-running big men who can draw three defenders at a time? Can your club go all the way?
The 16 NRL teams have been split into four groups (yellow, green, blue and red) with the top two teams from each group advancing to the quarter-finals.
The fresh concept and the new-look nature of the squads makes for one unpredictable tournament, but here are our fearless predictions for how the matches will pan out. .
BLUE GROUP
This is arguably the toughest group to predict, with all four clubs selecting strong sides for the Nines.
The Titans possess raw power in Dave Taylor, genuine speed in William Zillman, David Mead, Kevin Gordon and Albert Kelly, and a great work ethic in Greg Bird, Ashley Harrison and Mark Minichiello.
The Wests Tigers team looks solid as well with new signing Pat Richards joining Marika Koroibete, James Tedesco and tireless forwards Robbie Farah and Aaron Woods.
But there is a good chance neither of those teams will survive the group stage, due to the quality of their group rivals.
The Newcastle Knights are the competition's second-favourites behind the Warriors, with a strong all-round squad boasting backline speedsters Akuila Uate, Dane Gagai, Joseph Leilua, Tyrone Roberts and Jarrod Mullen plus tough-tackling forwards Chris Houston, Beau Scott, Jeremy Smith and Robbie Rochow.
We're suspecting they and the Sharks will both advance, with Cronulla being one of the competition's dark horses thanks to the presence of genuine superstars Paul Gallen, Andrew Fifita and Todd Carney.
If the Nines turns out to be more of a battle of the big men than a test of pure speed, then the impact of all-action Kangaroos forwards Gallen and Fifita could give Cronulla an edge over the competition.
Predicted finishing order: Knights; Sharks; Titans; Wests Tigers.
QUARTER-FINALS
1st Blue v 2nd Green: Knights v Eels
Experience and the strike power of Uate, Gagai and Leilua should give the Knights the edge in this one.
1st Green v 2nd Blue: Broncos v Sharks
A tough one to call.
You get the feeling Fifita could break a game apart on his own in this format, but for strength across the park we'll lean towards Brisbane.
1st Yellow v 2nd Red: Warriors v Dragons
The Dragons look good, but the Warriors look better.
1st Red v 2nd Yellow: Panthers v Cowboys
We'll give this one to the Panthers in another close battle.
SEMI-FINALS
QF1 Winner v QF2 Winner: Knights v Broncos
Barba could be the breakout star of the tournament if he gets back to the best, but Newcastle look a little stronger all-round.
QF1 Winner v QF2 Winner: Warriors v Panthers
If Johnson, Tomkins and Hurrell are still fit and firing by Sunday afternoon, the Warriors should be too good.
FINAL
SF1 Winner v SF2 Winner: Knights v Warriors
The sell-out crowd should be at fever pitch by the time the Auckland Nines Final swings around at 7.30pm local time on Sunday, and that should be enough to carry the Warriors to victory against whoever they face in the final.
http://www.nrl.com/who-will-win-the-auckland-nines/tabid/10874/newsid/76254/default.aspx