Newcastle has recorded just two victories this season but star halfback Tyrone Roberts insists it will only take one win to kick-start some belief within the playing ranks.
In the lead-up to Sunday's crucial clash against the Wests Tigers at Hunter Stadium, Roberts says his side is determined to salvage their season with a powerful display on home turf.
"A win would definitely kick-start our confidence," Roberts said after training on Wednesday.
"As a team... we are just making sure we stick together through these tough times."
On top of trying to keep their slim finals hopes alive on Sunday, the Knights will also have the extra motivation of playing for the region's miners as part of the 'Voice for Mining Family Day' initiative.
Newcastle players will take the field for the first time in the special edition, hi-vis replica mining jersey in support of the Hunter's miners.
Roberts can't wait to don the new-look jumper and pay his respects to one of the most important industries in the local community.
"Mining is a big part of Newcastle," he says.
"It’s good for us to get out and dress up in bright colours (laughs) and hopefully everyone can come down and enjoy the weekend with us.
"It’s always good to be back home in front of the Newcastle fans.
"We love everyone that comes to the game and we are just looking forward to getting a good win."
Asked if his confidence has been affected by the recent run of losses, Roberts was up front in his response.
"Not really," he says.
"As the losing keeps going, we’ve got to stay upbeat and make sure we don’t lack on the training field, because it will just continue into the game.
"We’ve just got to keep enthusiastic and train hard.
"It’s just a bit of concentration, so we’ve got to go back to the drawing board and work on those little things."
It's a challenge that starts with the Tigers on Sunday, a must-win game according to Roberts.
"Yeah they (the Tigers) have been playing well and that comes back to confidence within the team," he says.
"Everyone is confident with each other and they are playing well.
"We’ve just got to get back to training focus on our own performance and hopefully we can get the result on the weekend."
Be a part of Voice for Mining Family Day
See the Knights decked out in their special edition hi-vis mining jersey and be part of one of the biggest crowds this season when the Knights take on Wests Tigers on Sunday! Get your ticket here.
