Weโve all heard of Joey and Matthew, the Newcastle brothers that defined the Knights' golden era. Now, over a decade since we last saw a member of the Johnsโ clan in the NRL, weโre on the verge of a new wave of brothers set for NRL berths.
With the Perth Nines finally upon us, not only is it a much-needed return of football for long-awaiting fans, but it gives us a chance to see a host of uncapped players lay claims for an NRL debut on the big stage.
Among them? Two brothers that go by Jack and Cooper Johns.
Also known as - Matty Johnโ sons.
There has been some quiet chatter about the two since Jack burst onto the scene with the Knightsโ Holden Cup team in 2017, while Cooper has been plying his trade in Queensland Cup.
Originally a five-eighth like his father, Jack has developed into a handy back-rower who starred for South Sydneyโs reserve grade side in 2019.
While itโs the likes of Damien Cook, Cameron Murray and Dane Gagai that catches South Sydney fansโ attention heading into the tournament, itโs Johns that has a point to prove.
The retirement of John Sutton and Sam Burgess leaves gaping holes in the second-row for the Bunnies, though with Johnsโ increasing frame and ball-playing ability, he could certainly help fill a void.
While heโs currently on a development contract and not in the clubโs Top 30 squad, the departure of Adam Doueihi not only means the Rabbitohs have two roster spots vacant, but theyโre crying out for a bench utility. Enter Jack.
Cooper on the other hand, is part of an NRL clubโs Top 30. The Melbourne Stormโs.
While Jack has the big frame, Cooper is your out-and-out halfback, whoโs been lighting it up for the Sunshine Coast Falcons as part of the Stormโs feeder system.
Blessed with a great knowledge of the game and the game management to match, Cooper has been floated as a potential Round 1 bolter for the first-grade halfback position, with Jahrome Hughes still adjusting to the role.
At 20 years old, Coop is still coming into his own, however still managed to notch 19 try-assists in 19 games of Queensland Cup last season.
Both brothers have been included in their respective teamโs squads for the Nines tournament, and will not only look to take the trophy home with them, but lock down a first-grade spot in the process.
Couldn’t wait to see Robbo unleash his secret weapon Nick Davis as a prelude to a massive NRL season replacing Latrell.
OMG, looks like it’s back to Taree for pizza at least.
Give it to Nick ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ
Half time.
Might have to bring Davis in closer to the ruck.
Wasted on the wing.
Wake up Robbo.๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ
Full time 35 zilch.
Ouch. Nick Davis outstanding in a losing side.
Excellent judgement Robbo ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ๐คฃ
How funny was it watching the Transit.Lounge Duds miss a semi spot after they were backed as hot favourites. ๐๐๐๐๐คฃ
Soufths are just a little betters than Norths.
I tip the Cows to win this years Nines.
The Great Northern Rooster
Bwahahaha 21โฆyou were WRONG,WRONG, WRONGโฆ.no ado carr, no arrowโฆ.your team of chokers will CHOKE yet again without any decent forwards, they will get smashed by every other team. All the flashy backs in the world are USELESS if your engine room is powered by a Prius motor bahahaha.
๐ผGlory glory to the chokers, glory glory to the chokers, glory glory to the chokersโฆwatch them choke for ever more……
lolol…….yeah the Johns brothers really lit up the 9s. Talk about already overrated!
Pair of useless players those Johns next generation boys.
Must be getting a free ride on their fathers past reputations.
Didnโt South Rabbit.transit lounge club buy one of the duds ? Ahahahaha