Knights rookie credits Holbrook's pre-season move for team turnaround
Zero Tackle NRL • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 1, 2026, 9:54 PM
Last updated Oct 1, 2026
Newcastle Knights forward Francis Manuleleua praised coach Justin Holbrook for a key pre-season decision as the team prepares for the Grand Final against the Sydney Roosters. Holbrook connected players with the club's successful history, leading a remarkable turnaround from the previous season. The Knights aim to capitalize on their home crowd's support after significant ticket sales for the Grand Final screening. Manuleleua, starting his 15th NRL match, emphasized the importance of team culture in their resurgence and highlighted his bond with teammate Jermaine McEwen.
- •Francis Manuleleua discusses Holbrook's cultural strategy before the Grand Final.
- •Newcastle Knights transitioned from wooden spooners to Grand Final contenders.
- •Holbrook emphasized the team's legacy, using video from 1997 and 2001 seasons.
- •22,000 tickets were sold for the Grand Final screening at McDonald Jones Stadium.
- •Manuleleua highlights strong relationships within the team as key to their success.
- 9:54 PMZero Tackle NRL — Knights rookie reveals the master move that should have won Holbrook coach of the year
"A pre-season move has proved to be a master stroke by the Newcastle coach.
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