In this week's Rookie Report, we take a look at the nib Newcastle Knights players developing in the Knock-On-Effect NSW Cup competition.
The side suffered a second-straight defeat in the Round 13 30-22 loss to Parramatta Eels.
As a result, the team slipped to sixth on the table but remain in the playoffs spots.
"We got ourselves back into the game to lead 12-10 at half-time," Ryan said.
"It was all positive going into the second half but unfortunately, we just made error after error and they capitalised on it.
"You just can't afford to surrender possession like we did on the weekend."
Although on the wrong end of the scoreboard, the side did have some standout performers.
Ben Talty was one of the team's best, scoring a try and ran for 114 metres from 13 runs.
Bailey Hodgson made a team-high 182 run metres including six tackle breaks.
Dylan Lucas made a strong return from injury with one line-break assist and 40 post-contact metres.
Recovery Report: Pearce, Hunt nearing returns
"The guys that have come into our side have been working very hard," Ryan said.
"A lot of our guys are part-time and getting their opportunities.
"Ben Talty got player's player on the weekend.
"Dylan Lucas returned from injury and had a big game back as well.
"He was one of our best performers before he got injured so it was great to have him back.
Peden: 'There was a rookie journalist who piped up with a question'
"Mat Croker got his opportunity playing NRL, which is what we're here for. We want to see guys getting their opportunities."
The team will travel down the M1 to play the Rabbitohs this weekend.
The Bunnies sit in bottom spot on the NSW Cup ladder with two wins so far this season and are yet to win a game at home.
However, coach Andrew Ryan says his team will need to be wary of an experienced Rabbitohs team.
"South Sydney have got a good team with plenty of NRL experience," Ryan said.
"Liam Knight, Josh Mansour and Tautau Moga are just some.
"We're under no allusions we will have go down there and perform."
