Knights v Wests Tigers preview

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Defence no issue in battle of the oranges.

First things first - don't let your eyes confuse you. For the second time in three seasons, the Knights will be wearing their hi-vis Orange + Navy "Voice for Mining" jersey against the only club in the NRL with orange in it's colour scheme - the Wests Tigers.

With that housekeeping out of the way - the thing to predict here is how many tries will be scored. Or more accurately - let in. Both sides have been a bit ordinary this season when it comes to defending their line - but strangely it's the Knights who come into this one with a bit of form. Despite a last-up loss to the Storm, Newcastle were in the contest right up until the end. They'll take a lot out of what could best be termed an "honourable loss" and will be tough to shake at home.

The Wests Tigers meanwhile will be disappointed they managed to cross for 26 points and still lose last week against Cronulla. Their attack is no issue - with James Tedesco at the back and decent form from Luke Brooks and Mitchell Moses, they'll score from anywhere. The key for them to get a result at Hunter Stadium today will simply be to defend.

Last meeting: Round 23 2015 - Tigers 18 Knights 24

Who to watch: Newcastle's halfback says he's not thinking about State of Origin but if you're Trent Hodkinson is that a little white lie? The former Bulldog and his link with Jarrod Mullen is important for the hosts if they're to go toe-to-toe with the young Tigers halves. If it's high scoring - his goalkicking could become vital too.

Contain Tedesco - they're the two words that will be key amongst the Knights' forward pack. Tedesco was electric in the Wests Tigers' loss to Cronulla last week, getting his side everything but a win. Tries, try assists - Jimmy T can do it all. Speaking of Origin - Tedesco for fullback, anyone?

The favourite: Split hair between them. Both sides have minimal favouritism with various bookmakers. Could be anyone's match.

My tip: How do you tip this one? Erring on the side of caution and seeing how awful the Tigers were last week, we'll stick with the hosts. Knights by 10.

1. Dane Gagai 2. Nathan Ross 21. Jaelen Feeney 4. Pat Mata'utia 5. Akuila Uate 6. Jarrod Mullen 7. Trent Hodkinson 8. Sam Mataora 14. Tyler Randell 10. Korbin Sims 11. Tariq Sims 17. Pauli Pauli 13. Jeremy Smith
Interchange: 15. Jack Stockwell 16. Jacob Saifiti 18. Daniel Saifiti 20. Will Pearsall

1. James Tedesco 2. David Nofoaluma 18. Nathan Milone 4. Kevin Naiqama 5. Jordan Rankin 6. Mitchell Moses 7. Luke Brooks 8. Aaron Woods 9. Robbie Farah 10. Tim Grant 11. Dene Halatau 12. Chris Lawrence 13. Sauaso Sue
Interchange: 14. Curtis Sironen 15. Ava Seumanufagai 16. Josh Aloiai 17. Kyle Lovett

Referees: Gavin Badger, Chris Butler; Sideline Officials: Michael Wise, Ricky MacFarlane; Video Referees: Ben Galea, Jason Robinson, Luke Patten;