Latest news with #AdamO'Brien
News.com.au
a day ago
- Sport
- News.com.au
O'Brien praises Knights hunger in win
RLG: Adam O'Brien and Kalyn Ponga have spoken to the media after their side's last breath win over the Dolphins in Perth.
The Advertiser
2 days ago
- Sport
- The Advertiser
Adam O'Brien showed class in publicly owning mistake with Knights fans
MUCH has been written and spoken about the recent booing of the Knights coach, Adam O'Brien. As so often happens, however, inaccuracies and opinions have become confused with the truth, and I would like to comment upon the most recent correspondence on the subject ("Apology won't undo coach's shot at supporters", Letters, 18/6). Let me say up front that, like the correspondent, I have also been a member since 1988 and was at the game in question, seated in the western grandstand. The correspondent accused O'Brien of labelling the entire Knights supporter base as follows: "they don't know anything about rugby league ...' ... one of the most disrespectful comments ...." as he tried to protect his young team from the few who booed the side at half time. There were only a few. My wife and friends were on the top deck of the western stand and heard only a dull murmur. Dylan Lucas, when interviewed on the field after the event, hadn't heard the noise. The noise of booing was picked up by the TV sound system, but wasn't anywhere near the loudness of the crowd noise that followed the awarding of the Roosters' match-winning try last weekend. That was booed by the whole crowd! In reply to the retort: "Are the stands soundproof?" No, they aren't, but at the moment in question, O'Brien was in the lift going down to the dressing room. The lifts certainly are soundproof. Not his best response, certainly, clumsy at best, and the reason for calling the press conference. From enquiries I have made, when realising his error, O'Brien requested the next day's press conference be held over the objections of the Knights media team. He was certainly not instructed by the hierarchy to hold a conference. On the evidence of courage and tenacity shown by his team over the past weeks, the Knights, with the worst player absentee record in the NRL from injuries and a suspension according to the Sunday Telegraph, have the best defensive record in the comp, hardly an indication of "losing the dressing room". O'Brien's record of four finals appearances in his five years as coach should stand him in good stead. We had four finals appearances in the previous 16 years before his appointment. In the team for the grand final of golden year 2001, we had nine of 17 players who represented Australia, plus two State of Origin players and the NRL prop of the year. It's a different squad this year. GROIDEN Schammell takes Adam O'Brien to task for calling out spectators who booed the Knights off the field ("Apology won't undo coach's shot at supporters", Letters, 18/6). Why wouldn't he? You don't boo your own team off the field - other teams' spectators will do that for you. I've been a Rabbitohs supporter since 1952, and they have had plenty of seasons where they couldn't beat time, but none of our loyal supporters ever booed them off. If Adam O'Brien's to blame for all their troubles, why boo the players? The only possible excuse would be if they weren't trying. Are you going to tell me if any of the players go out there and don't try? As for knowledgeable fans, the average fan wouldn't know where to start if he had to coach a team. As Wayne Bennett said once, if you start taking notice of what fans say, you are in trouble. STEVE Barnett, how has the ALP government threatened your retirement at the beach ("We went without plenty in the past", Letters, 16/6)? Australia is setting records on overseas travel and renovations, while those on the frontline, charities, are reporting many more in very grim hardship. The wealth of the few is exploding. There are two Australias, with a growing gap between haves and have-nots. None of what you list interests me, either, especially the make-up, body treatments and handbags. The beach slam dunks a spa any day. However, think of the livelihoods provided by today's goods and services. Times are always different, and parents do wish for better times for their children. Houses/units owned by the young are not impossible. It is not non-existent. But no matter how thrifty far too many younger people could be, owning remains a pipedream for many more. I wish you well in your beach retirement endeavours. RUGBY league has gone to the dogs. When an immortal has less input and audio than the referee during the State of Origin, it's time to ask why. The ABC, mainly funded by the taxpayer, keeps a sharp axe handy these days. If it's not used on people, you can be sure it will chop certain controversial programs like The Drum and now Q&A. It is safer for them to serve up dishwater like Guy Montgomery's Spelling Bee, Claire Hooper's House of Games and Gruen, all shows where everyone laughs hysterically except viewers. So, who is behind the sackings and dumbing down? Look no further than the head honchos who want to keep their plum jobs and not upset the government of the day. I WAS reading a couple of days ago that the politicians have already been, or are about to be, granted another pay rise, quoted as being the fourth in three years. Providing this is correct, I would like to ask my federal Member, Pat Conroy, and state Member, Jodie Harrison, to provide this masthead with full details of the rise so it can be made public. We, the taxpayers, are the ones who pay their remuneration, so I think it's a fair request. Thank you both in anticipation. MATT Ophir ("Targets of hate speak volumes", Letters, 12/6) is 100 per cent correct. Hamas could easily end the bloodshed by laying down their arms and releasing the hostages. Many people are quick to forget who started the conflict. Meanwhile, Julie Robinson ("Turning away aid ship is telling", Letters, 12/6) seems to have fallen for the propaganda of the world's best-known attention-seeker. Greta and her activist cronies were carrying a minuscule amount of aid, and one boat does not constitute a flotilla. Just another stunt. MUCH has been written and spoken about the recent booing of the Knights coach, Adam O'Brien. As so often happens, however, inaccuracies and opinions have become confused with the truth, and I would like to comment upon the most recent correspondence on the subject ("Apology won't undo coach's shot at supporters", Letters, 18/6). Let me say up front that, like the correspondent, I have also been a member since 1988 and was at the game in question, seated in the western grandstand. The correspondent accused O'Brien of labelling the entire Knights supporter base as follows: "they don't know anything about rugby league ...' ... one of the most disrespectful comments ...." as he tried to protect his young team from the few who booed the side at half time. There were only a few. My wife and friends were on the top deck of the western stand and heard only a dull murmur. Dylan Lucas, when interviewed on the field after the event, hadn't heard the noise. The noise of booing was picked up by the TV sound system, but wasn't anywhere near the loudness of the crowd noise that followed the awarding of the Roosters' match-winning try last weekend. That was booed by the whole crowd! In reply to the retort: "Are the stands soundproof?" No, they aren't, but at the moment in question, O'Brien was in the lift going down to the dressing room. The lifts certainly are soundproof. Not his best response, certainly, clumsy at best, and the reason for calling the press conference. From enquiries I have made, when realising his error, O'Brien requested the next day's press conference be held over the objections of the Knights media team. He was certainly not instructed by the hierarchy to hold a conference. On the evidence of courage and tenacity shown by his team over the past weeks, the Knights, with the worst player absentee record in the NRL from injuries and a suspension according to the Sunday Telegraph, have the best defensive record in the comp, hardly an indication of "losing the dressing room". O'Brien's record of four finals appearances in his five years as coach should stand him in good stead. We had four finals appearances in the previous 16 years before his appointment. In the team for the grand final of golden year 2001, we had nine of 17 players who represented Australia, plus two State of Origin players and the NRL prop of the year. It's a different squad this year. GROIDEN Schammell takes Adam O'Brien to task for calling out spectators who booed the Knights off the field ("Apology won't undo coach's shot at supporters", Letters, 18/6). Why wouldn't he? You don't boo your own team off the field - other teams' spectators will do that for you. I've been a Rabbitohs supporter since 1952, and they have had plenty of seasons where they couldn't beat time, but none of our loyal supporters ever booed them off. If Adam O'Brien's to blame for all their troubles, why boo the players? The only possible excuse would be if they weren't trying. Are you going to tell me if any of the players go out there and don't try? As for knowledgeable fans, the average fan wouldn't know where to start if he had to coach a team. As Wayne Bennett said once, if you start taking notice of what fans say, you are in trouble. STEVE Barnett, how has the ALP government threatened your retirement at the beach ("We went without plenty in the past", Letters, 16/6)? Australia is setting records on overseas travel and renovations, while those on the frontline, charities, are reporting many more in very grim hardship. The wealth of the few is exploding. There are two Australias, with a growing gap between haves and have-nots. None of what you list interests me, either, especially the make-up, body treatments and handbags. The beach slam dunks a spa any day. However, think of the livelihoods provided by today's goods and services. Times are always different, and parents do wish for better times for their children. Houses/units owned by the young are not impossible. It is not non-existent. But no matter how thrifty far too many younger people could be, owning remains a pipedream for many more. I wish you well in your beach retirement endeavours. RUGBY league has gone to the dogs. When an immortal has less input and audio than the referee during the State of Origin, it's time to ask why. The ABC, mainly funded by the taxpayer, keeps a sharp axe handy these days. If it's not used on people, you can be sure it will chop certain controversial programs like The Drum and now Q&A. It is safer for them to serve up dishwater like Guy Montgomery's Spelling Bee, Claire Hooper's House of Games and Gruen, all shows where everyone laughs hysterically except viewers. So, who is behind the sackings and dumbing down? Look no further than the head honchos who want to keep their plum jobs and not upset the government of the day. I WAS reading a couple of days ago that the politicians have already been, or are about to be, granted another pay rise, quoted as being the fourth in three years. Providing this is correct, I would like to ask my federal Member, Pat Conroy, and state Member, Jodie Harrison, to provide this masthead with full details of the rise so it can be made public. We, the taxpayers, are the ones who pay their remuneration, so I think it's a fair request. Thank you both in anticipation. MATT Ophir ("Targets of hate speak volumes", Letters, 12/6) is 100 per cent correct. Hamas could easily end the bloodshed by laying down their arms and releasing the hostages. Many people are quick to forget who started the conflict. Meanwhile, Julie Robinson ("Turning away aid ship is telling", Letters, 12/6) seems to have fallen for the propaganda of the world's best-known attention-seeker. Greta and her activist cronies were carrying a minuscule amount of aid, and one boat does not constitute a flotilla. Just another stunt. MUCH has been written and spoken about the recent booing of the Knights coach, Adam O'Brien. As so often happens, however, inaccuracies and opinions have become confused with the truth, and I would like to comment upon the most recent correspondence on the subject ("Apology won't undo coach's shot at supporters", Letters, 18/6). Let me say up front that, like the correspondent, I have also been a member since 1988 and was at the game in question, seated in the western grandstand. The correspondent accused O'Brien of labelling the entire Knights supporter base as follows: "they don't know anything about rugby league ...' ... one of the most disrespectful comments ...." as he tried to protect his young team from the few who booed the side at half time. There were only a few. My wife and friends were on the top deck of the western stand and heard only a dull murmur. Dylan Lucas, when interviewed on the field after the event, hadn't heard the noise. The noise of booing was picked up by the TV sound system, but wasn't anywhere near the loudness of the crowd noise that followed the awarding of the Roosters' match-winning try last weekend. That was booed by the whole crowd! In reply to the retort: "Are the stands soundproof?" No, they aren't, but at the moment in question, O'Brien was in the lift going down to the dressing room. The lifts certainly are soundproof. Not his best response, certainly, clumsy at best, and the reason for calling the press conference. From enquiries I have made, when realising his error, O'Brien requested the next day's press conference be held over the objections of the Knights media team. He was certainly not instructed by the hierarchy to hold a conference. On the evidence of courage and tenacity shown by his team over the past weeks, the Knights, with the worst player absentee record in the NRL from injuries and a suspension according to the Sunday Telegraph, have the best defensive record in the comp, hardly an indication of "losing the dressing room". O'Brien's record of four finals appearances in his five years as coach should stand him in good stead. We had four finals appearances in the previous 16 years before his appointment. In the team for the grand final of golden year 2001, we had nine of 17 players who represented Australia, plus two State of Origin players and the NRL prop of the year. It's a different squad this year. GROIDEN Schammell takes Adam O'Brien to task for calling out spectators who booed the Knights off the field ("Apology won't undo coach's shot at supporters", Letters, 18/6). Why wouldn't he? You don't boo your own team off the field - other teams' spectators will do that for you. I've been a Rabbitohs supporter since 1952, and they have had plenty of seasons where they couldn't beat time, but none of our loyal supporters ever booed them off. If Adam O'Brien's to blame for all their troubles, why boo the players? The only possible excuse would be if they weren't trying. Are you going to tell me if any of the players go out there and don't try? As for knowledgeable fans, the average fan wouldn't know where to start if he had to coach a team. As Wayne Bennett said once, if you start taking notice of what fans say, you are in trouble. STEVE Barnett, how has the ALP government threatened your retirement at the beach ("We went without plenty in the past", Letters, 16/6)? Australia is setting records on overseas travel and renovations, while those on the frontline, charities, are reporting many more in very grim hardship. The wealth of the few is exploding. There are two Australias, with a growing gap between haves and have-nots. None of what you list interests me, either, especially the make-up, body treatments and handbags. The beach slam dunks a spa any day. However, think of the livelihoods provided by today's goods and services. Times are always different, and parents do wish for better times for their children. Houses/units owned by the young are not impossible. It is not non-existent. But no matter how thrifty far too many younger people could be, owning remains a pipedream for many more. I wish you well in your beach retirement endeavours. RUGBY league has gone to the dogs. When an immortal has less input and audio than the referee during the State of Origin, it's time to ask why. The ABC, mainly funded by the taxpayer, keeps a sharp axe handy these days. If it's not used on people, you can be sure it will chop certain controversial programs like The Drum and now Q&A. It is safer for them to serve up dishwater like Guy Montgomery's Spelling Bee, Claire Hooper's House of Games and Gruen, all shows where everyone laughs hysterically except viewers. So, who is behind the sackings and dumbing down? Look no further than the head honchos who want to keep their plum jobs and not upset the government of the day. I WAS reading a couple of days ago that the politicians have already been, or are about to be, granted another pay rise, quoted as being the fourth in three years. Providing this is correct, I would like to ask my federal Member, Pat Conroy, and state Member, Jodie Harrison, to provide this masthead with full details of the rise so it can be made public. We, the taxpayers, are the ones who pay their remuneration, so I think it's a fair request. Thank you both in anticipation. MATT Ophir ("Targets of hate speak volumes", Letters, 12/6) is 100 per cent correct. Hamas could easily end the bloodshed by laying down their arms and releasing the hostages. Many people are quick to forget who started the conflict. Meanwhile, Julie Robinson ("Turning away aid ship is telling", Letters, 12/6) seems to have fallen for the propaganda of the world's best-known attention-seeker. Greta and her activist cronies were carrying a minuscule amount of aid, and one boat does not constitute a flotilla. Just another stunt. MUCH has been written and spoken about the recent booing of the Knights coach, Adam O'Brien. As so often happens, however, inaccuracies and opinions have become confused with the truth, and I would like to comment upon the most recent correspondence on the subject ("Apology won't undo coach's shot at supporters", Letters, 18/6). Let me say up front that, like the correspondent, I have also been a member since 1988 and was at the game in question, seated in the western grandstand. The correspondent accused O'Brien of labelling the entire Knights supporter base as follows: "they don't know anything about rugby league ...' ... one of the most disrespectful comments ...." as he tried to protect his young team from the few who booed the side at half time. There were only a few. My wife and friends were on the top deck of the western stand and heard only a dull murmur. Dylan Lucas, when interviewed on the field after the event, hadn't heard the noise. The noise of booing was picked up by the TV sound system, but wasn't anywhere near the loudness of the crowd noise that followed the awarding of the Roosters' match-winning try last weekend. That was booed by the whole crowd! In reply to the retort: "Are the stands soundproof?" No, they aren't, but at the moment in question, O'Brien was in the lift going down to the dressing room. The lifts certainly are soundproof. Not his best response, certainly, clumsy at best, and the reason for calling the press conference. From enquiries I have made, when realising his error, O'Brien requested the next day's press conference be held over the objections of the Knights media team. He was certainly not instructed by the hierarchy to hold a conference. On the evidence of courage and tenacity shown by his team over the past weeks, the Knights, with the worst player absentee record in the NRL from injuries and a suspension according to the Sunday Telegraph, have the best defensive record in the comp, hardly an indication of "losing the dressing room". O'Brien's record of four finals appearances in his five years as coach should stand him in good stead. We had four finals appearances in the previous 16 years before his appointment. In the team for the grand final of golden year 2001, we had nine of 17 players who represented Australia, plus two State of Origin players and the NRL prop of the year. It's a different squad this year. GROIDEN Schammell takes Adam O'Brien to task for calling out spectators who booed the Knights off the field ("Apology won't undo coach's shot at supporters", Letters, 18/6). Why wouldn't he? You don't boo your own team off the field - other teams' spectators will do that for you. I've been a Rabbitohs supporter since 1952, and they have had plenty of seasons where they couldn't beat time, but none of our loyal supporters ever booed them off. If Adam O'Brien's to blame for all their troubles, why boo the players? The only possible excuse would be if they weren't trying. Are you going to tell me if any of the players go out there and don't try? As for knowledgeable fans, the average fan wouldn't know where to start if he had to coach a team. As Wayne Bennett said once, if you start taking notice of what fans say, you are in trouble. STEVE Barnett, how has the ALP government threatened your retirement at the beach ("We went without plenty in the past", Letters, 16/6)? Australia is setting records on overseas travel and renovations, while those on the frontline, charities, are reporting many more in very grim hardship. The wealth of the few is exploding. There are two Australias, with a growing gap between haves and have-nots. None of what you list interests me, either, especially the make-up, body treatments and handbags. The beach slam dunks a spa any day. However, think of the livelihoods provided by today's goods and services. Times are always different, and parents do wish for better times for their children. Houses/units owned by the young are not impossible. It is not non-existent. But no matter how thrifty far too many younger people could be, owning remains a pipedream for many more. I wish you well in your beach retirement endeavours. RUGBY league has gone to the dogs. When an immortal has less input and audio than the referee during the State of Origin, it's time to ask why. The ABC, mainly funded by the taxpayer, keeps a sharp axe handy these days. If it's not used on people, you can be sure it will chop certain controversial programs like The Drum and now Q&A. It is safer for them to serve up dishwater like Guy Montgomery's Spelling Bee, Claire Hooper's House of Games and Gruen, all shows where everyone laughs hysterically except viewers. So, who is behind the sackings and dumbing down? Look no further than the head honchos who want to keep their plum jobs and not upset the government of the day. I WAS reading a couple of days ago that the politicians have already been, or are about to be, granted another pay rise, quoted as being the fourth in three years. Providing this is correct, I would like to ask my federal Member, Pat Conroy, and state Member, Jodie Harrison, to provide this masthead with full details of the rise so it can be made public. We, the taxpayers, are the ones who pay their remuneration, so I think it's a fair request. Thank you both in anticipation. MATT Ophir ("Targets of hate speak volumes", Letters, 12/6) is 100 per cent correct. Hamas could easily end the bloodshed by laying down their arms and releasing the hostages. Many people are quick to forget who started the conflict. Meanwhile, Julie Robinson ("Turning away aid ship is telling", Letters, 12/6) seems to have fallen for the propaganda of the world's best-known attention-seeker. Greta and her activist cronies were carrying a minuscule amount of aid, and one boat does not constitute a flotilla. Just another stunt.
News.com.au
14-06-2025
- Sport
- News.com.au
Man, 20, charged over alleged death threats to Newcastle Knights player James Schiller
NSW Police have charged a 20-year-old man for allegedly making death threats and sending vile messages to Knights winger James Schiller last week. Schiller copped a barrage of abuse on his social media following Newcastle's 26-22 golden point victory over the Sea Eagles last week. Schiller had a mixed performance, committing five errors, missing four tackles, and giving away three penalties but also scored and produced several moments of brilliance in the Knights' comeback win. FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports, is the only place to watch every game of every round in the 2025 NRL Telstra Premiership, LIVE with no ad-breaks during play. New to Kayo? Get your first month for just $1. Limited-time offer. But after the Knights' incredible victory, Schiller returned to the dressing room over the moon, only to open his phone to see several vile threats aimed in his direction. 'Count your days c--- I will end your f---ing life,' the private message to Schiller read. 'Doesn't make up for it even though you won … 'Five errors, two penalties, 1 six again and partridge in a pear tree. I hope Dane (Gagai) jams his c--- down your throat and you choke and die.' The threats directed at Schiller were addressed by Knights coach Adam by O'Brien following the game, who labelled it 'worrying'. 'That is worrying,' O'Brien said. 'I want to protect them … and for him to go through that over a couple of errors … it's a game of footy. 'He's got a family. That's partly the reason why you do want to protect them. 'I think it's a societal problem, isn't it? It's not just football players who are getting that sort of stuff. 'I understand there is some legislation, and I think at the moment it's in the hands of authorities to try and help in this situation with James. 'We need to be able to stop people doing it, change their thought process before doing it.' Lake Macquarie Detectives launched an investigation into the incident after Schiller was reportedly shaken up by the ordeal. It led to them arresting and charging a 20-year-old man on Friday. The man was charged with use of carriage service to menace/harass/offend. He was granted conditional bail to appear at Belmont Local Court on Wednesday, July 30. Police have the authority to charge individuals for threats made through social media and this incident isn't the first of its kind. In 2021, two men were charged after sending abusive or threatening messages to NRL star Latrell Mitchell on social media.
The Advertiser
13-06-2025
- Sport
- The Advertiser
Another debutant gets chance as injury forces major reshuffle for Knights
BOOM rookie Fletcher Hunt made his Knights debut on the wing, has been deployed at centre and will now line up at fullback against the Sydney Roosters at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday after Fletcher Sharpe succumbed to a calf injury. Sharpe suffered the injury late in the Knights' come-from-behind 26-22 win over Manly. Although a minor issue, coach Adam O'Brien has erred on the side of caution with the gamebreaker. His absence has caused a major reshuffle. Hunt, who this week inked a two-year extension with the club, moves from centre to fullback. Kyle McCarthy was the 18th man and will now line up at left centre. "Fletcher Sharpe pinged a calf at the back end of the game. It is a strain in the gastrocnemius, which you can't play around with. If it has been a soleus, which is at the bottom of the calf, he may have been a chance." There is also a fresh face on the interchange bench. Brock Greacen, who is on a trial and train contract, comes in most likley for Matt Arthur. The 22-year-old from Denman can play in the middle or the edge and has been rewarded for form in the Knights NSW Cup side. "Brock is the exact mould of what we want a Knights player to look like," O'Brien said. "He is tough and gritty. He has been so consistent. He has been our best performer week-in, week-out in the in NSW Cup. That is how you get your debut if an opportunity arises." Greacen will be the fifth player to make his NRL debut for the Knights this season. "One of the exciting things for this weekend is that we have 11 out of the 17 who have come through our pathways," coach Adam O'Brien said. "We have said for a long time that we have to make sure we are developing a strong pathway system. I feel like the club is on the right path." BOOM rookie Fletcher Hunt made his Knights debut on the wing, has been deployed at centre and will now line up at fullback against the Sydney Roosters at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday after Fletcher Sharpe succumbed to a calf injury. Sharpe suffered the injury late in the Knights' come-from-behind 26-22 win over Manly. Although a minor issue, coach Adam O'Brien has erred on the side of caution with the gamebreaker. His absence has caused a major reshuffle. Hunt, who this week inked a two-year extension with the club, moves from centre to fullback. Kyle McCarthy was the 18th man and will now line up at left centre. "Fletcher Sharpe pinged a calf at the back end of the game. It is a strain in the gastrocnemius, which you can't play around with. If it has been a soleus, which is at the bottom of the calf, he may have been a chance." There is also a fresh face on the interchange bench. Brock Greacen, who is on a trial and train contract, comes in most likley for Matt Arthur. The 22-year-old from Denman can play in the middle or the edge and has been rewarded for form in the Knights NSW Cup side. "Brock is the exact mould of what we want a Knights player to look like," O'Brien said. "He is tough and gritty. He has been so consistent. He has been our best performer week-in, week-out in the in NSW Cup. That is how you get your debut if an opportunity arises." Greacen will be the fifth player to make his NRL debut for the Knights this season. "One of the exciting things for this weekend is that we have 11 out of the 17 who have come through our pathways," coach Adam O'Brien said. "We have said for a long time that we have to make sure we are developing a strong pathway system. I feel like the club is on the right path." BOOM rookie Fletcher Hunt made his Knights debut on the wing, has been deployed at centre and will now line up at fullback against the Sydney Roosters at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday after Fletcher Sharpe succumbed to a calf injury. Sharpe suffered the injury late in the Knights' come-from-behind 26-22 win over Manly. Although a minor issue, coach Adam O'Brien has erred on the side of caution with the gamebreaker. His absence has caused a major reshuffle. Hunt, who this week inked a two-year extension with the club, moves from centre to fullback. Kyle McCarthy was the 18th man and will now line up at left centre. "Fletcher Sharpe pinged a calf at the back end of the game. It is a strain in the gastrocnemius, which you can't play around with. If it has been a soleus, which is at the bottom of the calf, he may have been a chance." There is also a fresh face on the interchange bench. Brock Greacen, who is on a trial and train contract, comes in most likley for Matt Arthur. The 22-year-old from Denman can play in the middle or the edge and has been rewarded for form in the Knights NSW Cup side. "Brock is the exact mould of what we want a Knights player to look like," O'Brien said. "He is tough and gritty. He has been so consistent. He has been our best performer week-in, week-out in the in NSW Cup. That is how you get your debut if an opportunity arises." Greacen will be the fifth player to make his NRL debut for the Knights this season. "One of the exciting things for this weekend is that we have 11 out of the 17 who have come through our pathways," coach Adam O'Brien said. "We have said for a long time that we have to make sure we are developing a strong pathway system. I feel like the club is on the right path." BOOM rookie Fletcher Hunt made his Knights debut on the wing, has been deployed at centre and will now line up at fullback against the Sydney Roosters at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday after Fletcher Sharpe succumbed to a calf injury. Sharpe suffered the injury late in the Knights' come-from-behind 26-22 win over Manly. Although a minor issue, coach Adam O'Brien has erred on the side of caution with the gamebreaker. His absence has caused a major reshuffle. Hunt, who this week inked a two-year extension with the club, moves from centre to fullback. Kyle McCarthy was the 18th man and will now line up at left centre. "Fletcher Sharpe pinged a calf at the back end of the game. It is a strain in the gastrocnemius, which you can't play around with. If it has been a soleus, which is at the bottom of the calf, he may have been a chance." There is also a fresh face on the interchange bench. Brock Greacen, who is on a trial and train contract, comes in most likley for Matt Arthur. The 22-year-old from Denman can play in the middle or the edge and has been rewarded for form in the Knights NSW Cup side. "Brock is the exact mould of what we want a Knights player to look like," O'Brien said. "He is tough and gritty. He has been so consistent. He has been our best performer week-in, week-out in the in NSW Cup. That is how you get your debut if an opportunity arises." Greacen will be the fifth player to make his NRL debut for the Knights this season. "One of the exciting things for this weekend is that we have 11 out of the 17 who have come through our pathways," coach Adam O'Brien said. "We have said for a long time that we have to make sure we are developing a strong pathway system. I feel like the club is on the right path."
The Advertiser
06-06-2025
- Sport
- The Advertiser
Knights coach sorry for criticising frustrated fans
Adam O'Brien has apologised for his post-match attack on Newcastle's fans, conceding success-starved Knights supporters are within their rights to boo his team. It comes as the Knights prepare to lose second-rower Kai Pearce-Paul to Wests Tigers next season as the Englishman inks a three-year deal. Calling a snap press conference on Friday, coach O'Brien said he'd let the Knights faithful down with comments made after Thursday's 26-22 win over Manly, and hoped to eventually win their respect back. Trailing 16-0, The Knights were booed off at halftime by their home fans before rallying for just their third win in 11 games. At full-time, O'Brien called the fans' half-time response "really disappointing" and claimed those who booed "don't know anything about rugby league, and they're probably the ones who cheered at the end". On Friday, O'Brien explained he had been walking to the dressing sheds from the coaches' box when the booing occurred, so he was unaware of it until the post-match press conference. "I was unprepared for that question ... I went straight into protection mode for our playing group," O'Brien said. "That's not an excuse, I'm here to own that that's not how I feel about our members. I understand we're here because of those people. "I apologise unreservedly to our members and fans that I offended and I can understand why they would be offended." Through 14 rounds, the Knights have had statistically the worst attack in the NRL and had lost four consecutive games at home before the comeback win on Thursday night. O'Brien's job has come under scrutiny with the Knights languishing in the bottom four, and the coach understood recent results would have left the fans frustrated. "Our members have a right to let us know when we've fallen short," he said. "They're bigger than me. They have every right (to boo) and the reality is we haven't given them the performances recently for them to be cheering about." O'Brien planned to apologise to the playing group on Friday and was particularly disappointed with his comments given the Knights' fan base is traditionally among the most loyal in the league. The Knights had the NRL's fourth-largest home crowds on average last year despite a middling season that finished with an elimination final loss. Even when they collected three wooden spoons between 2015 and 2017, the Knights' average home crowds remained in the top half of the 16 NRL clubs each season. "They sit through all types of weather and all sorts of scorelines with unwavering loyalty," O'Brien said. "I'm disappointed that I let them down with an emotional response, looking to protect the playing group when I didn't have all the facts. "Hopefully over time I can, by owning this, earn back a bit of their respect because it's not how I feel about them." Elsewhere, Pearce-Paul is set to help solve the Tigers' personnel issues at second row by joining the club next season. The Englishman had the best of his 33 NRL games in the Knights' win on Thursday night and is expected to join Samuela Fainu as a first-choice second-rower at the Tigers next season. Adam O'Brien has apologised for his post-match attack on Newcastle's fans, conceding success-starved Knights supporters are within their rights to boo his team. It comes as the Knights prepare to lose second-rower Kai Pearce-Paul to Wests Tigers next season as the Englishman inks a three-year deal. Calling a snap press conference on Friday, coach O'Brien said he'd let the Knights faithful down with comments made after Thursday's 26-22 win over Manly, and hoped to eventually win their respect back. Trailing 16-0, The Knights were booed off at halftime by their home fans before rallying for just their third win in 11 games. At full-time, O'Brien called the fans' half-time response "really disappointing" and claimed those who booed "don't know anything about rugby league, and they're probably the ones who cheered at the end". On Friday, O'Brien explained he had been walking to the dressing sheds from the coaches' box when the booing occurred, so he was unaware of it until the post-match press conference. "I was unprepared for that question ... I went straight into protection mode for our playing group," O'Brien said. "That's not an excuse, I'm here to own that that's not how I feel about our members. I understand we're here because of those people. "I apologise unreservedly to our members and fans that I offended and I can understand why they would be offended." Through 14 rounds, the Knights have had statistically the worst attack in the NRL and had lost four consecutive games at home before the comeback win on Thursday night. O'Brien's job has come under scrutiny with the Knights languishing in the bottom four, and the coach understood recent results would have left the fans frustrated. "Our members have a right to let us know when we've fallen short," he said. "They're bigger than me. They have every right (to boo) and the reality is we haven't given them the performances recently for them to be cheering about." O'Brien planned to apologise to the playing group on Friday and was particularly disappointed with his comments given the Knights' fan base is traditionally among the most loyal in the league. The Knights had the NRL's fourth-largest home crowds on average last year despite a middling season that finished with an elimination final loss. Even when they collected three wooden spoons between 2015 and 2017, the Knights' average home crowds remained in the top half of the 16 NRL clubs each season. "They sit through all types of weather and all sorts of scorelines with unwavering loyalty," O'Brien said. "I'm disappointed that I let them down with an emotional response, looking to protect the playing group when I didn't have all the facts. "Hopefully over time I can, by owning this, earn back a bit of their respect because it's not how I feel about them." Elsewhere, Pearce-Paul is set to help solve the Tigers' personnel issues at second row by joining the club next season. The Englishman had the best of his 33 NRL games in the Knights' win on Thursday night and is expected to join Samuela Fainu as a first-choice second-rower at the Tigers next season. Adam O'Brien has apologised for his post-match attack on Newcastle's fans, conceding success-starved Knights supporters are within their rights to boo his team. It comes as the Knights prepare to lose second-rower Kai Pearce-Paul to Wests Tigers next season as the Englishman inks a three-year deal. Calling a snap press conference on Friday, coach O'Brien said he'd let the Knights faithful down with comments made after Thursday's 26-22 win over Manly, and hoped to eventually win their respect back. Trailing 16-0, The Knights were booed off at halftime by their home fans before rallying for just their third win in 11 games. At full-time, O'Brien called the fans' half-time response "really disappointing" and claimed those who booed "don't know anything about rugby league, and they're probably the ones who cheered at the end". On Friday, O'Brien explained he had been walking to the dressing sheds from the coaches' box when the booing occurred, so he was unaware of it until the post-match press conference. "I was unprepared for that question ... I went straight into protection mode for our playing group," O'Brien said. "That's not an excuse, I'm here to own that that's not how I feel about our members. I understand we're here because of those people. "I apologise unreservedly to our members and fans that I offended and I can understand why they would be offended." Through 14 rounds, the Knights have had statistically the worst attack in the NRL and had lost four consecutive games at home before the comeback win on Thursday night. O'Brien's job has come under scrutiny with the Knights languishing in the bottom four, and the coach understood recent results would have left the fans frustrated. "Our members have a right to let us know when we've fallen short," he said. "They're bigger than me. They have every right (to boo) and the reality is we haven't given them the performances recently for them to be cheering about." O'Brien planned to apologise to the playing group on Friday and was particularly disappointed with his comments given the Knights' fan base is traditionally among the most loyal in the league. The Knights had the NRL's fourth-largest home crowds on average last year despite a middling season that finished with an elimination final loss. Even when they collected three wooden spoons between 2015 and 2017, the Knights' average home crowds remained in the top half of the 16 NRL clubs each season. "They sit through all types of weather and all sorts of scorelines with unwavering loyalty," O'Brien said. "I'm disappointed that I let them down with an emotional response, looking to protect the playing group when I didn't have all the facts. "Hopefully over time I can, by owning this, earn back a bit of their respect because it's not how I feel about them." Elsewhere, Pearce-Paul is set to help solve the Tigers' personnel issues at second row by joining the club next season. The Englishman had the best of his 33 NRL games in the Knights' win on Thursday night and is expected to join Samuela Fainu as a first-choice second-rower at the Tigers next season.
