Titans v Knights preview

Gold Coast Titans v Newcastle Knights
Cbus Super Stadium - Sunday 6:30pm

The Titans will be out to kick-start their season against an unbeaten Knights side.

After a solid first-up showing against Wests Tigers, the Gold Coast were brought down to earth by Penrith, conceding eight tries in Bathurst last Saturday. In response to the 40-point drubbing, coach Neil Henry has made several changes, including the benefit of bringing back Greg Bird, David Taylor and Beau Falloon from club-imposed suspensions. The Titans will also be boosted by the returning Matthew White on the bench, while Josh Hoffman moves to his preferred position at fullback, with William Zillman shifting to left centre.

Following consecutive wins over the Warriors and Cowboys, the Knights will be looking to extend their strong early form at Cbus Super Stadium, a venue which has seen them post three wins from four appearances. Apart from the suspended Tariq Sims, Newcastle will be at full strength for Sunday night's game. Sione Mata'utia has once again been named 18th man, but after holding his own so far this year, the Australian international will likely come onto the bench at the expense of Tyler Randell.

Last meeting: Round 19 2014 - Newcastle Knights 8 Gold Coast Titans 22

Who to watch: While he only joined the Titans mid-way through 2014, former Rabbitoh and Panther James Roberts has been a constant threat for opponents. Scoring the match-winner in their last encounter, Roberts will be out to match Joseph Leilua in the centres. While he may not have the strength of his opposition, what he lacks in size he more than makes up for with raw speed.

The last time Akuila Uate came up against the Gold Coast, he produced a performance reminiscent of Manu Vatuvei's infamous 2007 showing against Parramatta. His inability to hold onto the ball made him an easy target for the Titans to exploit on several occasions. So far this season, the former Test and Origin winger has showed glimpses of his best form, improving his defence, while also making huge runs resulting in tries. If the Knights hope to extend their unbeaten run, expect Uate to play a major role with and without the ball.

The favourite: After overcoming a 14-0 deficit last week, the Knights will be looking to establish an early lead and if they are able to do so, it may well be another long night for the Titans.

My tip: With their returning players back in the side, the Titans will put up an improved showing, but it won't be enough to overcome Newcastle. Knights by 8.

1. Josh Hoffman 2. Anthony Don 3. James Roberts 4. William Zillman 5. David Mead 6. Aidan Sezer 7. Daniel Mortimer 8. Luke Douglas 9. Beau Falloon 10. Nate Myles 11. Ryan James 12. Dave Taylor 13. Greg Bird
14. Eddy Pettybourne 15. Matt White 16. Ryan Simpkins 17. Kierran Moseley

1. Kurt Gidley 2. James McManus 3. Dane Gagai 4. Joseph Leilua 5. Akuila Uate 6. Jarrod Mullen 7. Tyrone Roberts 8. Kade Snowden 9. Adam Clydsdale 10. Korbin Sims 11. Beau Scott 12. Robbie Rochow 13. Jeremy Smith
14. Tyler Randell 15. Chris Houston 16. David Fa'alogo 17. Jack Stockwell 18. Sione Mata'utia

Referees: Adam Devcich, Gavin Reynolds; Sideline Officials: Michael Wise, Brett Suttor; Video Referees: Gavin Badger, Ben Galea;

Check out all the action live in our Match Centre