NSW Cup GF: Newtown Jets ignite 20th NRL team push ahead of historic GF against North Sydney

George Ndaira has worn the colours of both Newtown and North Sydney, but he will bleed blue in a battle of the foundation clubs as he looks to lead the Jets to a famous NSW Cup premiership.

George Ndaira during his playing days with Newtown. Picture: Supplied

When it comes to the Newtown and North Sydney, George Ndaira knows about the proud history of the two foundation clubs.

Ndaira played for the Jets in 2007 and the Bears a year later during his playing career.

Now the former hooker will lead Newtown as coach ahead of this weekend’s grand final at CommBank Stadium, with the game holding a special significance for him.

“I was lucky enough to play for both foundation clubs. Both were unique yet similar in regards to having a footprint in NSW Cup,” he said.

“All of a sudden you automatically create a connection for any club you play at, especially one you enjoyed yourself at and are made to feel welcome.

George Ndaira playing for Newtown in 2007. Picture: Supplied

“Both do a really good job in regards to looking after their full-time and part-time players.

“They both make their games a real family event. They get crowds and good support which makes it a bit more special. It’s not just another NSW Cup game, it feels as close to an NRL experience as you can get.”

Jets fans swarmed the Keith Barnes stand at Leichhardt Oval last week to lift them over the line to a two-point win over Canberra, and Ndaira said that level of support was something he valued as coach.

“Both crowds really get out and support their team. In our semi you could hear them riding the emotions of the game. It should make for a good atmosphere,” he said.

“There are long-serving fans and a lot side with their parents or family members that supported Newtown and that’s coming through to a newer generation.”

Newtown has enjoyed a rollercoaster finals to date, downing Canberra twice (by 22 points and two points) with a two-point loss to the Bears sandwiched in between.

Ndaira said his side will need to be at their best to be able to turn the tables on North Sydney this time around.

George Ndaira played with the Bears in 2008. Picture: Steve Little.

“We’ve won in a few different ways. The first game against Canberra we got out to a good lead and last week we were behind by 12,” he said.

“We had to crawl our way back into the game and really show some determination and grit.

“We weren’t at our best but we got ourselves back in the game. Canberra defended well so we had to take the penalty goals and back our defence to get over the line.

“This week will be about icing our moments and taking opportunities when they come. There won’t be many chances for either side so whoever does that best will come out on top.”

The Newtown Jets in action at Henson Park. Picture: David Swift

‘It makes sense’: Newtown’s joint push for 20th licence

The race is firmly on to be the 20th team in the NRL in the coming years and one of rugby league’s most iconic brands believes one bid makes the most sense.

The Newtown Jets have aligned with Ipswich as they look to join the Western Bears and Papua New Guinea as the NRL’s newest clubs.

“We’re part of the Jets bid at Ipswich and from a pure rugby league perspective and on merit, it makes more sense than any other bid,” CEO Stu McCarthy said.

“Ipswich is the Penrith of Queensland. They produce so many NRL players and to allow them to grow without having to move away makes sense.

“The bid ticks a lot of boxes.”

It comes as Newtown looks to claim its second NSW Cup in the last four seasons when taking on fellow foundation club North Sydney in Sunday’s grand final.

Somewhat incredibly it will mark the first time the two clubs have met in a reserve grade final over the course of their 116-year history.

McCarthy said it’s a match-up made in heaven between two fan favourites.

“It’s fantastic for both clubs. Fans at this level of football have talked about a Newtown and Norths grand final for ages,” he said.

“They’ve both been mainstays of this competition for a long time.

Tuku Hau Tapuha is a Cronulla-contracted player who has boosted the Jets this season. Picture: NRL Photos

“It’s going to be an amazing day out there on Sunday. Whenever Newtown and Norths play it’s a great contest, and this will be like that on steroids.”

McCarthy didn’t buy into the notion of a title enhancing their NRL claims, but rather a show of strength throughout the Cronulla club currently.

“It would be a good sign, but the two aren’t related,” he said.

“We’re doing this for ourselves and the Sharks. They’ve been the most amazing pathway club and are in a really good space.

“The fact they’ve got four teams (NRL, NRLW, NSW Cup and Jersey Flegg) competing at this time of year shows how strong they continue to be.”

Newtown’s success has extended beyond their on-field exploits, with their home games at Henson Park becoming a must-see experience.

Throughout the year they’ve drawn big crowds for fixtures that in the past would’ve barely rated a mention, tapping into the lucrative inner west market for eyeballs and exposure.

“It’s a unique experience, almost by necessity,” he said.
“Gate receipts are an important part of revenue. Someone once said that you can’t make money out of reserve grade.

“The NRL players get right behind it. There’s a great atmosphere at games. Normally stand-alone games aren’t as vocal, but we have amazing fans.”

Originally published as NSW Cup GF: Newtown Jets ignite 20th NRL team push ahead of historic GF against North Sydney