NRL fans rave about Dom Young after stunning Newcastle Knights performance

There were several standout performances from the opening round of NRL action this weekend, none more so than young English winger Dominic Young.

The 20-year-old is into his second season with Newcastle Knights after joining from Huddersfield last winter, having graduated through the Giants’ academy system.

He impressed in the few appearances he made in 2021, scoring four tries in six games, and was handed a huge vote of confidence by

Knights head coach Adam O’Brien last week who named him to start in the no.2 jersey for the opener against Premiership hopefuls Sydney Roosters.

It proved to be a dream start to the season, with Newcastle sealing a surprise 20-6 victory, which included Young flying over in the corner late on to score his first try of the campaign.

It wasn’t just attack where Young caught the eye either, with the youngster making a huge play in defence moments before to deny NRL veteran Daniel Tupou a certain try.

His performance garnered praise from pundits, as well as head coach O’Brien, who said: “I’m really, really happy for Dom. I feel like he’s arrived now. I underestimated him when he moved out here, he hadn’t played a lot against adults.

“He moved out here as a really young guy and it shocked him, the pre-season. But this year it’s a complete 180. He’s thrived. I know it’s only one game but I’m really happy for him.”

Taking to social media, fans and journalists from both sides of the globe were also quick to praise Young for his efforts.

His performance also posed a question that is likely to persist throughout the year.

Born in England, Young is registered to play for Jamaica having qualified through the heritage rule, with Jamaica boss Jermaine Coleman previously stating he is hopeful the