Tigers v Knights preview

Wests Tigers v Newcastle Knights
Campbelltown Stadium - Saturday 3:00pm

Do-or-die match for both sides as they look to avoid the wooden spoon.

Having struggled throughout much of 2015, the Tigers have strung together consecutive wins for the first time since the opening rounds. Producing a committed performance against the Raiders in Canberra, the Tigers can all but avoid the wooden spoon with a win over the struggling Newcastle Knights. Coach Jason Taylor has retained the same squad that was successful last Monday night, however expect Kevin Naiqama to be ruled out with his place to be taken by either Delouise Hoeter, Nathan Milone or Kyle Lovett.

After delivering a woeful first half against the Roosters last Sunday, Newcastle showed they are capable of producing an attacking brand of football by threatening a late comeback, but ultimately the poor defence which has plagued their season once again cost them victory. With Kade Snowden and Jake Mamo returning, the Knights will be hoping to record a win which will elevate them off the bottom of the ladder, pending the outcome of the Titans match against Canterbury. Managing just two victories at Campbelltown since 2001, the Knights will know they have the ability to score points, but will need to improve their defence if they are to succeed.

Last meeting: Round 10 2015 - Newcastle Knights 22 Wests Tigers 12

Who to watch: For a player who has experienced so many injuries early on in his career, it's remarkable to see the impact James Tedesco has made this season. Producing a Man of the Match effort against Canberra, Tedesco will be eager to exploit the fragile defensive deficiencies that have seen Newcastle plummet from first to last over the course of 2015. Crossing for 15 tries so far this season, Tedesco may well find himself in for a big afternoon if his recent performances are any indication.

Having given so much to the Knights over the past 15 years, the way 2015 has panned out for Kurt Gidley is incredibly disappointing. Consistently among the best performers each week, Gidely will be looking to finish off his time in Newcastle with a bang. Shifting into the halves alongside Tyrone Roberts, the Knights captain will be hoping his experience can help lift his side off the bottom of the ladder and avoid the ignominy of a last-placed finish.

The favourite: Putting together consecutive wins, the Tigers will be expecting to extend their streak to three at home.

My tip: With both side failing to live up to their potential in 2015, the side that defends the best will come away with the win. Knights by 2.

1. James Tedesco 2. David Nofoaluma 3. Kevin Naiqama 4. Tim Simona 5. Pat Richards 6. Mitchell Moses 7. Luke Brooks 8. Aaron Woods 9. Robbie Farah 10. Keith Galloway 11. Curtis Sironen 12. Dene Halatau 13. Sauaso Sue
Interchange: 14. Kyle Lovett 15. Jack Buchanan 16. Ava Seumanufagai 17. Brenden Santi 18. Manaia Cherrington

1. Jake Mamo 2. Nathan Ross 3. Sione Mata'utia 4. Dane Gagai 5. Akuila Uate 6. Kurt Gidley 7. Tyrone Roberts 8. Kade Snowden 9. Adam Clydsdale 10. Korbin Sims 11. Beau Scott 12. Tariq Sims 13. Jeremy Smith
Interchange: 14. Tyler Randell 15. Joseph Tapine 16. Chris Houston 17. Clint Newton 18. Sam Mataora

Referees: Gavin Reynolds, Chris Sutton; Sideline Officials: Adam Reid, Rohan Best; Video Referees: Gerard Sutton, Luke Patten;

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