THE Rugby League season is over for Charleville’s homegrown NRL and State of Origin star Kurt Capewell, whose Warriors finished the home-and-away rounds in second place but were eliminated yesterday by Newcastle before a sellout crowd at Eden Park.
The Knights booked their place in a grand final qualifier with a tense 12-10 win, marred by a series of touch-and-go calls by match officials that had some Warriors fans absolutely seething in Auckland.
According to Gordon Gibbons, former team manager for the Kiwis and well known in the Auckland Rugby League community, it was not a good look.
“One of the first things that you are taught when you start playing Rugby League or any sport is that you always respect the referees, right or wrong. Shame on those people tonight who embarrassed not only Rugby League but our country,” Gibbons posted on his Facebook page.
The post was applauded by several Rugby League identities including former Warriors chief executive officer Mick Watson.
“Well said Gordy,” Watson wrote before former Warriors hooker or halfback Aaron Whittaker chipped in. “Terrible vision,” he posted.
Newcastle, who collected the wooden spoon last season, now play minor premiers Penrith this Sunday (September 27) with the victor advancing to the season finale at Accor Stadium on Sunday, October 4.
The first of the grand final qualifiers will be played at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium under lights on Friday (September 25) when the Dolphins, contesting the play-offs for the first time this season, welcome the Sydney Roosters who are expected to play halfback Sam Walker in his comeback from injury.
In the UK, the season is also over for Mungindi’s David Armstrong, whose Leigh Leopards bowed out of the Super League finals, thanks to Wakefield Trinity.
Playing at home, Wakefield defeated Leigh 26-16 with former Newcastle player Armstrong getting Adrian Lam’s Leopards on the board with a try just before the break.
Wakefield will now take on the might of Wigan, who finished first in the regular season, in Greater Manchester this Sunday (September 27) morning Australian time for a place in the grand final at Old Trafford.
The other grand final qualifier is between Brad Arthur’s Leeds Rhinos and Warrington Wolves, coached by Sam Burgess.
That game will be played at AMT Headingley on Saturday (September 26) morning Australian time.
PHOTO: Kurt Capewell in action for the Warriors last season.
PHOTO THANKS TO PHOTOSPORT NZ
POSTED: Monday, September 21, 2026