South Newcastle Lions 18 def Maitland Pickers 16 after extra time in Newcastle Rugby League.

South Newcastle are the 2026 Newcastle Rugby League premiers after defeating Maitland 18-16 in an extra-time thriller at McDonald Jones Stadium.

The victory ends Maitland’s run of four consecutive premierships within the Newcastle Rugby League, and gives South Newcastle their 12th premiership and first since 2018.

Maitland opened the scoring through Ethan Parry before Souths responded with a powerful try to James Taylor.

The Pickers regained control through Jake Lewis, with a penalty goal from Brock Lamb giving Maitland a 12-6 lead at half-time.

Taylor struck again early in the second half, bringing South Newcastle level at 12-all.

Neither side could break the deadlock during the remainder of regulation time, sending the grand final into extra time.

South Newcastle finally moved ahead when Jacob Afflick broke through the Maitland defense to score. Mitch Black converted to put the Lions six points clear.

Maitland immediately hit back, with Gary Anderson scoring in the corner.

Lamb was unable to convert the difficult sideline attempt, leaving the Pickers trailing 18-16.

South Newcastle held on to secure the premiership.

Reeve Howard was named player of the match.

The result brings an end to Maitland’s four year reign, having won the 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 premierships.

FULL-TIME

South Newcastle Lions 18
James Taylor 2, Jacob Afflick tries
Mitch Black, goal

defeated

Maitland Pickers 16
Ethan Parry, Jake Lewis, Gary Anderson tries
Brock Lamb 2 goals

📍 McDonald Jones Stadium
📅 September 6, 2026

Crowd: 5,823