An emotional Matty Johns was in tears as he was asked about the upset win of Newcastle against red-hot favourites Penrith in the preliminary final at Accor Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

The preliminary final between the Panthers and Knights descended into full-blown chaos midway through the second half when controversy erupted over the interpretation of a unique ruling.

The 2026 NRL Grand Final is here, with the Newcastle Knights and Sydney Roosters battling it out for premiership glory at Accor Stadium next Sunday.

Penrith’s premiership hopes might’ve been stretchered off Accor Stadium as Nathan Cleary was taken to hospital with fears of a possible compound fracture to his left leg.

Minor premiers Penrith host the Warriors’ conquerors Newcastle at Sydney’s Accor Stadium. Stuff sports reporters

While there is a preliminary final to be won and lost on Sunday, all eyes will be on the interchange bench at Accor Stadium to see whether Nathan Cleary takes to the field.

Brisbane will get the chance to send retiring club legend Ali Brigginshaw out a winner in the grand final after it overpowered Gold Coast 20-8 at Robina.

Brisbane will get the chance to send retiring club legend Ali Brigginshaw out a winner in the grand final after it overpowered Gold Coast 20-8 at Robina.

Minor premiers Penrith host the Warriors’ conquerors Newcastle at Sydney’s Accor Stadium. Stuff sports reporters

The Knights will look to continue their fairytale run on Sunday afternoon when they face the Panthers in the second preliminary final at Accor Stadium.