Newcastle lost their fourth consecutive match when losing to Melbourne 16-14 in their most recent match.

The poor form sees them sitting just outside the eight in ninth spot, level with Brisbane and New Zealand. With results going against them this weekend, the Knights could fall several positions and their final aspirations in serious doubt.

A win here is imperative.

Gold Coast, like their opponents last week in Melbourne, where without their origin starts but continued their good form and recorded their third win from their past four outings.

The Titans are 3-3 when playing away from home this year and the trip to Newcastle, despite their current form, is always hard.

Newcastle’s only away win this year come at Skill Stadium over the Titans back in round 7 (30 – 6). That was Newcastle’s third win over Gold Coast from their past four matches and, with their season virtually on the line, at home they should be able to hang on – if only just.

Odds Comparison by NRL odds:

Newcastle Knights	1.52	1.53	1.57	1.53	1.52	1.53
Gold Coast Titans	2.55	2.50	2.45	2.50	2.55	2.57

Teams:

Newcastle Knights:
Darius Boyd, James McManus, Dane Gagai, Joey Leilua, Aku Uate, Jarrod Mullen, Tyrone Roberts, Kade Snowden, Danny Buderus, Willie Mason, Robbie Rochow, Beau Scott, Jeremy Smith.
Interchange: Craig Gower, Chris Houston, Zane Tetevano, Neville Costigan

Gold Coast Titans:
William Zillman, Kevin Gordon, David Mead, Jamal Idris, Anthony Don, Aidan Sezer, Albert Kelly, Luke Bailey, Matt Srama, Luke Douglas, David Taylor, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison.
Interchange: Mark Ioane, Ryan James, Ben Ridge, Sam Irwin, Luke O’Dwyer, Nate Myles, Greg Bird.