Jermaine McEwen emerged as one of the key figures in Newcastle’s 20-10 finals victory over South Sydney, producing a standout performance in his first playoff appearance. The 21-year-old backrower scored two tries, the first double of his NRL career, and ran for 187 metres — the best total of his 37 first-grade matches, according to ABC News Australia.
His second try proved especially memorable. After backing up winger Dom Young, McEwen crawled the final metres before forcing the ball down in front of the Newcastle supporters. He said he slammed the ball down because his parents and family were watching from nearby, describing the moment as the best of his football career and one he would “hold forever”.
McEwen’s first try also helped Newcastle settle into the match after Young had claimed a high ball early. The victory gave the Knights their first away finals win since 2013 and set up a sudden-death meeting with the Warriors at Eden Park. Newcastle will be seeking a place in only its second preliminary final in the past 25 years, while the Warriors defeated the Knights three weeks earlier.
The backrower was also central to Newcastle’s defensive effort against South Sydney’s left edge. ABC News Australia reported that McEwen, Sandon Smith and Dane Gagai worked together to contain Alex Johnston, Latrell Mitchell, Tallis Duncan and Cody Walker, a group described as one of the competition’s most dangerous attacking combinations. South Sydney scored on that side late in the match, after McEwen had left the field.
McEwen said the challenge had been a major focus during the week and credited Newcastle’s defensive preparation. He also praised coach Justin Holbrook for helping him develop and said the club and the town had given him strong motivation to perform.
The season has included a difficult period for McEwen, who was suspended for one match in June after being charged with low-range drink driving. He apologised at the time and said the incident had left him deeply ashamed. He now says the experience taught him to accept responsibility and motivated him to repay the club’s supporters through his performances.
With a sellout crowd expected at Eden Park, McEwen said the guidance of experienced teammates including Gagai and Tyson Frizell had helped him handle the pressure. He and Newcastle will now attempt another upset against a Warriors side that previously beat them.