NRL Round 2 Preview and Prediction - Newcastle Knights v Gold Coast Titans @ Hunter Stadium

Newcastle Knights v Gold Coast Titans @ Hunter Stadium
 
Preview - Both the Knights and Titans will be looking for their first victory of the season as they lock horns at Hunter Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The Titans came out really flat and lost their game against the Roosters in the opening 40 minutes, going to the sheds 28-0 down. They restored some pride and confidence in the second half getting back to 28-18, before a late try to Latrell Mitchell sealed the deal for the Roosters. The Knights came within 5 minutes of pulling off a real shock to start 2017, as a late Ryan Hoffman try sunk them across the ditch. The Knights built on their impressive trial form with a really energetic and committed performance, however they still suffered some real defensive lapses. Back in front of their home fans for the first time this year on a Saturday afternoon, the Club will be expecting a big crowd and a far more competitive performance from a young side that can only really improve on what they did last season. 
 
History - The Knights have done pretty well against the Titans overall, winning 9 and losing 7. The Titans have only won 4 from 9 in Newcastle, however they were convincing winners there last season in the same Saturday afternoon timeslot. 
 
Newcastle Knights Scouting Report - Young fullback Dylan Phythian suffered a shocking season ending knee injury in Round 1, paving the way for Brendon Elliott to step into the Number 1 jumper to take on the Titans. The Knights would have noted the Titans’ flimsy defence on the edges in Round 1 and will be looking to get Dane Gagai some early ball in the centres with room to move. 
 
Gold Coast Titans’ Scouting Report - All the press this week has centred around Jarryd Hayne and his relationship with his team mates. Hayne sent out a cryptic tweet, having a shot at his Coach and fellow players, which is a very dangerous path to go down. Hayne might be trying to create a siege mentality within his four walls because suddenly this is a very big game for him. His form last season, and in Round 1, has been way down on what he produced at Parramatta, and, with a full off season under his belt, now is the time for Hayne to start delivering on the hype. Last week, the fact that Hayne had to spend some time on the wing, suggests he went into the season not in the right shape to play 80 minutes. 
 
Verdict - Titans 1-12 in a high scoring game
 
I'm tempted to tip the Knights here, however I just think the Titans have more quality in their line up. They have won 2 from their past 3 in Newcastle and I think a dry track will suit their halves. The Titans’ forwards have dominated Newcastle in their past few encounters, particularly Ryan James who crossed for a double when the sides clashed last season. While I am expecting the Knights to be extremely competitive in this game, I just think they still suffer from too many defensive lapses to be confident that they can put 80 minutes together and get a victory. I think this game will be entertaining and high scoring with a few thrills and spills, however the Titans to prevail with Hayne getting a try.