Mitchell Pearce joining Newcastle is great for Knights and NRL

MITCHELL Pearce’s signing at Newcastle is not just a major victory for the Knights. It’s a huge result for the game, writes PHIL ROTHFIELD.

Rooster no more ... Mitchell Pearce will play for the Knights in 2018. Picture: Phil Hillyard

• EXCLUSIVE: Pearce set to join Knights on $4M deal

MITCHELL Pearce’s signing at Newcastle is not just a major victory for the Knights.

It’s a huge result for the game.

The NRL needs a competitive football team in the Hunter.

The Knights have the best and strongest supporter base in the game.

They regularly attract bigger crowds than the Sydney clubs despite being wooden-spooners.

Rooster no more ... Mitchell Pearce will play for the Knights in 2018. Picture: Phil Hillyard

Pearce will turn this team into a semi-final outfit.

They have been crying out for a playmaker of his class and experience for years.

Throw in the other new signings Kalyn Ponga and Aiden Guerra and this is a side heading for the finals in 2018.

They look certain to be the most improved side in the competition.

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Pearce should be made captain of the team with complete ownership.

He could potentially become a hometown hero as big as the Johns brothers, Andrew and Matty.

In the end it was money that swayed him towards Newcastle.

He could have taken a lesser challenge and lesser money at the Sharks or Manly.

He’s backing himself big time.

Originally published as Mitchell Pearce joining Newcastle is great for Knights and NRL