A hat-trick from Timana Tahu helped the Newcastle Knights turn their season around with a 38-20 win at home over the West Tigers last night, their first win after five consecutive losses.
It had been a long time coming for Tahu who hasn’t scored a treble since 2005.
The first 22 minutes of the game weren’t looking promising for the Knights with tries from Robbie Farrah and Lote Tuqiri bringing the score to 14-0.
But despite being dropped by the New South Wales Origin team, Akuila Uate proved his worth, posting the Knights’ first points with a try in the right corner.
Followed by the first two of Tahu’s tries the Knights had taken the lead to 16-14 at half time.
It was the confidence the team needed, dominating the second half with another two tries from Chris Houston and James McManus and a penalty kick from Tyrone Roberts.
The West Tigers crossed on the buzzer but it was too late, bringing the final score to 38-20.
Knight’s coach Wayne Bennett said the side’s performance didn’t surprise him.
” They can do some special things these guys, but just need to do it on a consistent basis.”
