Titans make statement with comfortable win over Knights

v BYE

The Gold Coast Titans have opened their 2016 campaign with a resounding 30-12 win over the Newcastle Knights tonight in front of a small Cbus Super Stadium crowd.

Going into the game this contest was always the great unknown quantity with both sides not looking likely contenders in 2016 - but it was the Titans who started the stronger of the two, crossing the line after 14 minutes through new recruit John Olive. Agnatius Paasi was the next to get his name on the scoresheet - getting his way to the line and having his effort converted by former Newcastle half turned Titan, Tyrone Roberts.

At 12-0 the Titans already looked to be in the drivers seat but it would be the Knights to trouble the scoreboard attendant next - Pat Mata'utia the man to score for the visitors at the 22 minute mark.

There would be no more points til after halftime with the Titans ahead 12-6 when the sides changed ends - and the heavens opened.

Much of the game, as a result, was played in driving rain with slippery conditions opening the contest up for both sides. Despite staying close in the first half though, it was Newcastle who couldn't go with the Gold Coast after the resumption of play - Anthony Don jagged a double while Zeb Taia also found his way over the line against one of his former clubs and within the space of 14 minutes, the home side had opened up a 28-6 buffer.

From there the Knights slowly wrestled their way back into the contest, providing a brief scare when debutant Daniel Saifiti crossed with 12 minutes remaining, but ultimately it was pure consolation as the Titans capped the win with a 77th minute Tyrone Roberts penalty goal, finishing 18-point winners in front of their home crowd.

Next week Newcastle have a 5:30pm Saturday clash with the Rabbitohs at ANZ Stadium, while the Titans are away to the Storm next Sunday night at AAMI Park.