Brian Smith the Knight in shining armour
August 12th 2008 08:58
Inspired - Kurt Gidley has played brilliantly under Brian Smith
Brian Smith and his beloved Knights are starting to sense the belief that took them to the most unlikely of premierships in 2001.
In that particular season, the Eels - red hot favourites for the title - were left crying in disappointment as Andrew Johns cast the magic that eventually garnered him as the greatest Rugby league halfback of the century.
After the nightmare of 2007 where Smith - in his first year in charge of the Knights - came second last on the premiership ladder, Newcastle have managed to pull themselves together. And they are now playing terrific footy.
While the likes of Danny Buderus and Kurt Gidley provide Newcastle with the form necessary to challenge for the finals, it is Smith who keeps them sheltered from an arrogance that many teams in the NRL find hard to dispose of.
Sure, the Knights are yet to develop the superstar player that can fill the huge void left by ‘Joey’ Johns.
But in a way, it has made Newcastle develop a habit of effort and consistency that has seen them remain in most contests this season.
It is the only reason why they are in the top eight. And at the moment, they deserve to be.
Their position on the NRL ladder is a testament to the aura of structure Brian Smith brings to the Hunter. The man has coached over 500 first grade games and is now making that experience felt.
Smith is always reminiscing. Whether it be a penalty conceded by his side or a video referee decision, the Knights coach has never let go from his love of Rugby League.
It seems that love is starting to grow on Newcastle.
They have now won three matches on the trot, including Monday’s 20 point victory over the Titans.
They are currently playing an exciting brand of football most teams in this competition struggle to match.
Smith, who was under immense pressure to keep his job last season, has now developed into a hero capable of steering Newcastle to an unlikely finals birth.
He has been the man responsible for turning the tide in a year that, up until now, has been full of inconsistency.
But with confidence now alive and well, Smith has the space possible to weave his magic on a club that was heading into oblivion last season.
Since then, the guidance of Smith has allowed Kurt Gidley in particular to shine to unparalleled heights in season 2008.
The Knights coach cast the torch of leadership to Gidley and the NSW Origin player has responded with aplomb.
Really, the only thing Smith needs now is a premiership to show off the effort that comes with 23 years of coaching at the highest level.
Newcastle have responded brilliantly to Smith’s teachings and now look a side full on spirit.
The real test of their spirit however will come against a Canberra Raiders side who make scoring points look easy.
But judging by their recent performances, it is severely doubtful seeing the Raiders post over 70 points come Sunday afternoon against a Knights side high on attitude and commitment.
If anything, Newcastle are the ones who look most destined to break Canberra’s shell of enthusiasm.
And it will no doubt be up to Smith to inspire his side to glory.
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