For Newcastle Knights' coach and captain, the effort in defence was a major positive to take away from Sunday’s 10-point win over the Wests Tigers at Hunter Stadium.
After five consecutive losses, the Knights turned up desperate to get back in the winner's circle.
“I think our goal-line D was a bit like what we showed in the first four weeks, that desperation and there was some good resolve," Rick Stone said.
“We just needed to win in some fashion.
“We just needed to win, and we needed to show our fans that we were desperate and we were willing to fight for everything to get two points today."
Despite winning a scrum against the feed late in the match, the coach admitted the home side made it hard for themselves.
"The scrum against the feed was a timely one, for sure," Stone added.
"We probably could have managed the last 10 minutes of the game a bit better.
"We talked about the average fan coming in and paying his $200 to be a season ticket-holder, and what would he expect today, and he would expect some real desperation and some vitality and some energy out of the boys.
"Hopefully that's what we gave a bit today, even though clinically, everything wasn't perfect.
"I was just happy to get two points.
"After five losses in a row, I suppose you probably nearly start to think you forget how to win but there were some good positive signs there tonight."
While Kurt Gidley added, "I'm proud of the boys, the way we defended.
"A win is a win and that is what we needed."
There were no major injuries to report from the home match win.
"There are a few bumps and bruises but I think overall we have come through okay and everyone should be available for next week's game," Stone said.
The Knights remain at home in Round 11 when they host the Brisbane Broncos on Monday night.
