As the Newcastle Knights prepare for a massive Round 23 showdown against the Penrith Panthers at McDonald Jones Stadium this Friday night, forward Jacob Saifiti has shared his thoughts on the team’s preparation, the importance of the recent bye week, and the player milestones on the horizon.
Speaking to the media earlier in the week, Saifiti provided a measured yet optimistic outlook as the Knights return to action following a crucial mid-season break. With the competition heating up and finals football drawing closer, the timing of the bye could prove to be a turning point in the team’s campaign.
Valuable Rest Ahead of a Tough Run
“The bye came at a good time for us,” Saifiti said. “It gave the boys a chance to freshen up mentally and physically. Everyone’s feeling a bit more energized now, and we’ve had a solid week of training heading into Penrith.”
With the NRL season pushing into its final stretch, recovery and rest are often just as important as form and momentum. For the Knights, who have endured a demanding schedule and dealt with injuries to key players throughout the season, the week off has offered a much-needed chance to reset and refocus.
The Knights will need to be at their absolute best this Friday night, with Penrith continuing to set the benchmark across the competition. While the Panthers are facing their own challenges—most notably the possible absence of their captain Isaah Yeo due to injury—the defending premiers remain a formidable side and one of the toughest teams to break down.
Respect for the Opposition, Confidence in the Team
“They’re a quality side, and we know we have to be ready from the opening whistle,” Saifiti said. “They’ve got threats across the park, and they play with a lot of discipline. But we’re not intimidated. We’re confident in what we can do, especially here at home in front of our fans.”
Playing at McDonald Jones Stadium is always a special occasion for the Knights, and with a strong crowd expected on Friday night, Saifiti hopes the home-ground advantage can give his side the edge they need to compete with Penrith’s precision and structure.
“There’s nothing like playing in Newcastle. The fans here are incredible. They lift us every time we run out, and we’ll be feeding off that energy this week,” he added.
Milestones and Motivation
As the team prepares for this critical clash, there are also several individual milestones on the horizon, which Saifiti believes serve as added motivation for the playing group.
“These milestones are a big deal, especially when it’s for guys who’ve given a lot to the club,” he said. “It’s something we talk about as a group. You always want to get the win when someone’s celebrating a personal milestone – it makes it that much more meaningful.”
While Saifiti didn’t name specific players, it’s understood that several members of the Knights squad are closing in on key appearances, and the team is eager to honour their contributions with a strong performance.
Looking Forward with Purpose
As for Saifiti himself, the experienced prop remains a central figure in Newcastle’s forward pack and a leader within the club. His physical presence and consistency have made him a reliable weapon for the Knights in both attack and defense.
“We know the run home isn’t going to be easy, but we’re up for the challenge,” he said. “Every game from here on is vital. We’ve got belief in each other, and we’re just taking it one game at a time.”
With the Knights sitting on the fringe of the finals race, each match now carries added weight. And as Round 23 looms, Jacob Saifiti and his teammates are ready to leave it all on the field — starting with a battle against the mighty Panthers under the Friday night lights.