It's been a while, two weeks to the day in fact. But don't worry, the wait is finally over and game day is finally here!!! A very important game tonight against Newcastle, very important. We are now into the Origin period, such a crucial part of any teams Season. It can make or break your year, decide whether you finish top two, top four, top eight, or miss out althogether. We saw in 2019, Origin kind of ruined our Season because we were flying going into it and then didn't win a single game throughout the Origin period. Yes, I know we still made the top four that year but I felt we were never quite the same. Therefore, it's very important to make sure that doesn't happen this year. That all startrs tonight against the Knights.
Newcastle are doing it a bit tough at the moment. They've been decimated by injuries and suspension and their results have suffered because of that. However, we have to be wary of a wounded side like that. I get the feeling the Knights will be pretty fired up, especially after being smashed at home last week. They'll be desperate to get a win tonight and will see it as a chance against us minus some Origin stars. You only have to look back to two weeks ago against Manly to see what the Knights can do, that was a huge upset so I still feel like we need to be on our game tonight.
For us, it's been made a more difficult task tonight missing Cookie, Cam, Jai and Gags. They're four senior stars, huge losses. Certainly makes it harder. However, I still think we have a fantastic side with strike all over the park even without those guys. The lads stepping up in their place have to do a job and I'll back them to do so. In saying that, I don't want to see us underestimate the Knights. Over the past two Seasons, barring that Finals Week 1 game last year, we seem to save our worst for them so it's time to step up and ensure we get the two points tonight.
Tonight is made even more special by the debut of Peter Mamouzelos. A huge moment for the kid but he's earned it. I hope he gets out there and performs. Also adding to the occasion is the fact that the club is raising awareness tonight for Cystic Fibrosis by wearing those special red socks we wear each year. Hope the boys wear them with pride.
This is a game we really should win if our minds are on the job. Bring it on!!