LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
In a crucial stretch for the Gold Coast Titans, currently sitting 16th on the ladder but just one game outside the top eight, they prepare to face the Melbourne Storm at home.
Following this match, they will travel to Brisbane to challenge the Broncos and then return home to meet Manly.
Coach Des Hasler's team has a golden opportunity to secure wins against three formidable opponents during the State of Origin period when teams may be vulnerable due to player absences.
While the Titans have the potential to defeat any team when their attack functions effectively, they are hampered by the worst defense in the NRL, allowing an average of 31 points per game.
Their defensive struggles are highlighted by significant losses, including a half-century of points conceded against the Cowboys and 40 against the Bulldogs and Raiders.
The Melbourne Storm have experienced a mixed performance trajectory recently, with a record of wins and losses from Round 6 to Round 11 before a bye last weekend.
They are now looking to regain consistency in the latter half of the season.