Newcastle’s high-profile recruits have delivered to power the NRLW side from wooden spooners to grand finalists.

Fullback Tamika Upton scored twice while Millie Boyle produced a spectacular solo try in the 30-6 defeat of last season’s grand finalists St George Illawarra.

The former Brisbane pair starred on their old turf at Suncorp Stadium in the first of Sunday’s double header, three-time champions Brisbane absent after missing the semi-finals for the first time.

Newcastle, which was 0-5 last season, will play the winner of Sydney Roosters and Parramatta in next Sunday’s decider.

Grand final-bound! 💙❤️#9WWOS #NRLW pic.twitter.com/NDNC5Jarrf

— NRL on Nine (@NRLonNine) September 25, 2022

The Dragons, who had lost 30-8 to the Knights a week ago, had powered back into the contest when star fullback Emma Tonegato crossed in the right corner.

But a knock-on was spotted on review and a 12-10 scoreline was suddenly 18-6 at half-time, when Knights’ five-eighth Kirra Dibb scooted over from dummy half.

The Dragons dominated territory in the second half, but the Knights’ defence held firm.

Boyle storms through!! 💪 #NRLWFinals #NRLWKnightsDragons pic.twitter.com/lDhM3h3HiG

— NRLW (@NRLWomens) September 25, 2022

Upton breezed through for a second try to seal the result before Kiana Takairangi’s try was the icing on the cake.

Dragons winger Teagan Berry kept her side close early on, plucking an intercept from Upton’s kick return to score against the run of play.

Tonegato’s no-try followed, her side unable to score another point as the Knights made an early grand final statement in Brisbane.

The Upton Express! 🚂🚂

📺 NRLW Finals | LIVE on Channel 9 and 9Now.#9WWOS #NRLW pic.twitter.com/DBBRwH849u

— NRL on Nine (@NRLonNine) September 25, 2022

-AAP