Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Kalyn Ponga’s tackling technique is under fresh scrutiny after the Newcastle Knights fullback was involved in another shoulder-led defensive moment during Friday night’s 32-30 loss to Melbourne Storm.
Just nine days after being sent off in State of Origin I for a shoulder charge, Ponga came across in cover defence and stopped Will Warbrick with contact that forced a knock-on but went unpunished by officials.
For more Melbourne Storm coverage, read Harry Grant Says Storm Will Support Xavier Coates Through Rehab.
Ponga Tackle Draws Fox League Debate
The incident was not placed on report, but the Fox League panel reviewed it at halftime and raised concerns about Ponga’s defensive habits.
“Kalyn Ponga definitely has a technique problem with his tackling. It looked very similar to what happened last Wednesday night, but he made contact with the ball,” Greg Alexander said.
“If that makes any contact with the head, he’s absolutely in trouble,” Cooper Cronk added.
”He has tucked the arm. He to be cautioned about the way he goes about that because look, technically it probably is a penalty, but it wasn’t just because he made contact with the ball.
“So he’s got some challenges when doing cover defence Kalyn Ponga.”
Hughes Try Adds To Concern
Ponga later had another difficult defensive moment when Jahrome Hughes ran through his attempted tackle from 20 metres out to score for Melbourne Storm.
The Newcastle Knights star appeared to make some effort to wrap his arms, but the contact looked awkward as Hughes brushed him off.
“He got his body and head in the wrong place there,” Kevin Walters said in commentary.
Ponga was then seen clutching his shoulder, creating concern for Newcastle Knights and Queensland, though he stayed on the field.
Speaking after the match, Newcastle Knights coach Justin Holbrook said the early view was that Ponga had suffered a burner.
“He’s real sore, so he’s getting some work on it now,” he said.
“KP’s a real sore neck, but I think it might just be one of those burners.”
Official match updates are available through the NRL website.