Match Centre

Round 24: Titans v Knights preview

Tank Bowl: Battle of the Underachievers

The Gold Coast Titans and the Newcastle Knights go head to head in a battle of the biggest underachievers in season 2022 to round out Round 24 of the season. 

It's hard to describe the Titans season as anything other than disappointing, after being predicted to make the finals again this season. Justin Holbrook's team have quickly fell by the wayside as one of the biggest losers of the rule changes from the beginning of the season. Ultimately however, the decision to not have an experienced player amongst this inexperienced spine should see the entire football operations removed. It has blunted the development of Toby Sexton, while we still don't know where AJ Brimson's best position is.

Last start was a classic Titans game against St George Illawarra. They were in it for 65 minutes, but bizarrely the sending off of an opposition player was their downfall much like the Warriors earlier in the season. They let the extra man advantage get to them and they conceded three tries in the last fifteen minutes making a winnable game get away from them. This is their last home game of the season and they'll be looking to send off their home ground in a winning style giving their long suffering fans an exciting end to the season. On the team front, Pat Herbert is out and his place is taken by Brian Kelly. Justin Holbrook has opted for one further change with Klese Haas making his first grade debut on the bench in place of Jarrod Wallace. 

Newcastle are in a similar position to their opponents. After limping into the finals and being bounced out in straight sets. This season has been a complete disaster for the Knights, even going back to when captain Jayden Brailey snapped his achillies in the preseason. After a promising start, it's since gone down the toilet for Adam O'Brien this season. 

They showed some good signs in the first half last weekend against the Raiders. Playing an exciting brand of footy that caught the Raiders off guard. Unfortunately, whatever AOB said in the sheds must've gone in one ear and out the other as the Knights blew a 14 point lead and made a bunch of schoolboy errors that would drive their loyal fanbase insane. Their forwards have dominated the opening exchanges in the last few weeks, and they need the support of their attacking weapons for a FULL 80 minutes. Daniel Saifiti and Tyson Frizell return after being late withdrawals last week with Sauaso Sue retaining his position at lock, which in turn sees Jacob Saifiti drop to the bench and Oryn Keely drop out of the side altogether.

Last meeting: Round 16 2022 - Knights 38 Titans 12

Who to watch: Since his arrival from the Sydney Roosters, Isaac Liu has had a quiet start to his time back in the GC. His stats this season have been immense for a forward pack that has been surprisingly solid, and his leadership has been invaluable for guys like Tino and Mo Fotuaika who have improved their game this season. Look for Liu to charge home with a point to prove for the end of season World Cup. 

Since his return from the after mentioned snapped achillies, Jayden Brailey has been his consistent self. Although he deserves the captaincy, Brailey has taken his ‘demotion' in his stride still playing to a high level every week. Ever since his return, Brailey has scored a try, set up three others and been a tackling machine for the Knights. His crafty service and control of the ruck has been an asset for a Knights side missing a TRUE leader. 

The favourite: The Titans are the favourites for this contest. Although, the Knights have a poor record at Robina, only winning five of thirteen clashes at this venue (last was in 2015).

My tip: Personally it's a hard game to tip, the Knights showed good signs for 40 minutes last week but were unable to finish the job, while the Titans were always keeping pace with their opposition. With that in mind, the Titans just have enough class across their line-up to send their home fans out a winner in 2022. Titans by 8.