It took more than half the season for Adam O’Brien to unleash this 21-year-old English sensation on the NRL, and now it’s hard to see the Knights continue on without him this season.
A poor performance from Jack Cogger against Penrith a fortnight ago had pundits again calling for Pryce’s debut, O’Brien finally caving to the pressure of three consecutive losses, and the youngster certainly lived up to the hype.
While many were expecting flashy footwork and blinding speed, it was Pryce’s composure that shined the brightest, a number of deft kicks keeping the Knights afloat, as well as a debut try to cap off a memorable night, finishing it with an entertaining post-match interview.
“Honestly, the toughest 80 minutes so far in my career. I love this place, I love this city, this club, my f***ing best mate here (Bradman Best),” Pryce said.
“Oh sorry for swearing, oh my god.”
Pryce tallied a linebreak, a try and 68 running metres on debut.
It’s been a memorable week for Mitchell Moses, putting up a dominant display in his fourth game in sky blue, only to return to the 17th-placed Eels and just as much pressure on the mercurial seven.
Fortunately for the Eels, Moses didn’t leave his cape in camp after another super performance in the Hunter, scoring two solo tries on the back of his speed, and some crucial kicks that had the Eels on the verge of a crucial win.
While the Eels couldn’t find the win in the end, it certainly wasn’t down to their halfback’s efforts.
He’s elevated himself in the past few weeks into the elite category, and his stats show proved why he’s one of the NRL’s best.
Moses finished the night with two line breaks, a try assist and 580 kicking metres in a losing side.
It’s easy to find an excuse for the Knights at times, whether it be injuries or the bounce of the ball at times, but there’s no doubt Newcastle are taking their performances into their own hands.
Missing the incumbent Dally M medallist, you couldn’t blame the Knights for packing it in at times and throwing in the towel.
But their fightback in the Penrith game before finding the win tonight really solidified the Newcastle DNA, the grit, the desire, and the ability.
In front of 27,000 fans, it’s the type of win the diehard’s cry out for, ensuring that win or loss, there’s passion in the jersey.
Halfback Jackson Hastings has personified it in recent weeks, taking it straight to the opposition and going looking for their chances.
