25 YEARS ON FROM JOHNS’ GLORY – CAN BROWN & PONGA BRING THE TROPHY HOME?
NEWCASTLE – A quarter of a century has passed since Andrew Johns led the Newcastle Knights to their famous 1997 premiership, and as the club marks that historic milestone, new head coach Justin Holbrook has issued a bold promise: the Knights are primed to rewind those glory days with star duo Dylan Brown and Kalyn Ponga at the heart of their charge.
The 1997 grand final victory – sealed with a 22-16 win over Manly-Warringah – remains etched in Knights folklore, with Johns producing a masterclass that cemented his status as one of the game’s all-time greats. Now, 25 years later, Holbrook believes the “money men” Brown and Ponga have the talent to replicate that success.
In a fiery pre-season address, Holbrook confirmed his intention to pair the two playmakers in the halves – provided they stay fit – creating a dynamic combination that could terrorise NRL defences. “Dylan and Kalyn have the ability to change games in an instant,” he said. “When they’re on the park together, magic happens – that’s the foundation we’re building on.”
The coach also highlighted the emergence of young gun Trey Mooney, who he says is “stepping up in a big way” in the forwards, while veteran Fletcher Baker has pledged his full support, stating he’s “happy in whatever position he finds himself” to help the team succeed.
Holbrook’s confidence doesn’t stop there. “Mark my word – we will be top 8 this season and one to watch,” he declared. “If we find the harmony we’re chasing, we’ll be the Raiders of 2026.” The reference to Canberra’s stunning 2026 title run – where they defied all odds to claim the premiership as rank outsiders – sends a clear message: the Knights are ready to shock the competition.
Fans have greeted the coach’s words with renewed optimism, with social media buzzing about the potential of a Brown-Ponga partnership. The pair have only played 11 games together due to injury setbacks, but in those outings, the Knights have won 8 – a statistic that fuels hope of a return to the club’s golden era.
As the 25th anniversary of Johns’ triumph looms large, the Knights are positioning themselves to write a new chapter in their history – one that could see Brown and Ponga follow in the footsteps of a legend.
