{
  "id": 10339763,
  "title": "Sandon Smith leads Newcastle out of an Immortal shadow",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/28/sandon-smith-leads-newcastle-out-of-an-immortal-shadow-10339763",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-28T02:13:10.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News",
    "slug": "abc-news",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-09-28/sandon-smith-nrl-grand-final-newcastle-knights-andrew-johns/107201820"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Sandon Smith has achieved a rare honor by playing alongside Andrew Johns, the club's ultimate hero, as they both eye the grand final. The comparison to Johns, while inevitable, is ultimately unproductive as Johns remains the club's exceptional talent. Smith's electrifying double in the Knights' recent win over Penrith has brought him one step closer to this historic milestone. His first try showcased his speed and cleverness, while his second, a crucial interception in the final seconds sealing the team's grand final berth, was a moment of pure emotion. Smith's performance, filled with tears and joy, demonstrates his deep connection to the team and town. This achievement marks a significant moment for the Knights as they aim to create a new legend, free from the colossal shadow of Johns.",
  "summary": "Sandon Smith scored two tries in Newcastle's 22-14 win over Penrith in the NRL preliminary final. According to ABC News, these tries earned him a share of history alongside the club's greatest ever player, Andrew Johns.\n\nSmith will join Johns as the only men to play halfback for Newcastle in a grand final. Smith said it's \"pretty cool to hear\" and that he doesn't think he's anywhere near Johns.\n\nJohns is considered a legend and hero in Newcastle, having won premierships in 1997 and 2001. His greatness has made it difficult for halfbacks who have played for the club since his retirement in 2007.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "ABC News AU",
        "title": "Sandon Smith leads Newcastle out of an Immortal shadow",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/28/sandon-smith-leads-newcastle-out-of-an-immortal-shadow",
        "published": "2026-09-28T02:13:10.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}