Kalyn Ponga Urges Knights to Find Another Gear

Kalyn Ponga led the Newcastle Knights to a 12-6 win over Wests Tigers on 29 June.

The Knights scored two second-half tries to erase a 6-0 half-time deficit.

Ponga made a try-saving tackle on Tigers centre Heamasi Makasini in the second half.

The Knights captain threw the last pass for Dylan Lucas to score their first try.

Ponga said the team needs to be better in the back-end of the season.

Newcastle coach Justin Holbrook praised Ponga's defensive play, saying it was a winning moment.

The Knights will host the Dolphins in Round 18, with Ponga and Bradman Best missing due to State of Origin commitments.

The Dolphins will be without at least six stars, including halfback Isaiya Katoa with a broken wrist.

Ponga and the Newcastle playmakers were out of sorts in attack for much of the game.

The Knights will test their finals credentials in a challenging stretch against the Rabbitohs, Sharks, Roosters, Broncos, and Raiders.

Ponga was responsible for the defensive play of the game, turning and chasing to make a try-saving tackle.

The Knights have 10 victories to their credit and are one of four teams on 24 points.

Ponga wants his team to find an extra gear in the weeks ahead.

The Knights have won four straight home games by single digits.