The Newcastle Knights look forward to the opportunity for redemption when they take on the Gold Coast Titans according to second rower Mitch Barnett.
Barnett was happy to take the field as a starting second rower following two weeks on the sideline, but lamented the team's second half lapse that saw the Knights defeated by the Penrith Panthers.
“I was a bit sore and always a lot sorer after a disappointing game like that,” he said.
“We’re back into it today to start the week off and will prepare for this week.
“They (teammates) are still upbeat as usual, but there’s a lot more disappointment this week."
He believes it’s important for the team to maintain a positive outlook in the pursuit of improvement in Round 24.
“We will show up this week and all we can look to do is turn it around for these last three games,” he said.
“It was disappointing especially after such a good first half. We really let ourselves down in the second half letting Penrith run away with it."
The Knights meet an equally challenging opponent this Saturday, but remain confident in their ability to compete against the Gold Coast Titans.
“It’s going to be a really tough grind and the Titans are playing for their season’s basically,” he said.
“They are in the eight and have a lot to play for. They are a really improved side this year.
“They have their new recruit Jarryd Hayne there who is firing, so I think they are going to be a very tough opponent this week so we have to be a lot better than last week.”
The young Knight looks to build personal momentum in the final matches of the season.
“I want to get picked for the last three games and just want to play good consistent footy and each week get better,” he said.
“I don’t want to take a backwards step, then I’ll get into the pre-season and hopefully go from there.”
All three grades are in action at Hunter Stadium this Saturday. Be there to see the Knights take on Jarryd Hayne’s Gold Coast Titans. Buy your match ticket now.
