Newcastle know why Wests Tigers have become the best defensive unit in the NRL

CHRIS Heighington reckons he knows the secret to the new defensive wall at the Tigers as the Knights prepare to take on the revived joint venture in Tamworth.

Mitchell Barnett, Mitchell Pearce and Jamie Buhrer of the Knights enjoy their win after the Round 5 NRL match between the Newcastle Knights and the Brisbane Broncos at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle, Saturday, April 7, 2018. (AAP Image/Darren Pateman) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY

AN in-your-face style of defence may be why Wests Tigers have let in the fewest points this season. At least that’s what Knights forward Chris Heighington — a former Tiger himself — thinks.

Heighington has kept an eye on the fortunes of his old club this season and has noticed their defence is taking a less traditional approach.

Many are lauding the Tigers’ defence in 2018 which has helped them to fourth on the ladder and knock off premiers Melbourne twice this season.

Heighington believes aggression is the key for the Togers.

Heighington has noticed their edge players are quick to shut down plays.

“Watching them at home and they’re defending a bit different to most teams,” he said.

“They’re defending well and winning close games and that’s what you’ve got to do this time of year.

“They’re more up and in. The wingers and centres are coming up and shutting the ball off, which most teams are up and out. It’s a bit technical.”

That technicality is paying off. Wests Tigers have let in just 67 points this season, the best in the league, with competition leaders the Dragons and second-placed Panthers the next best with 80.

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While Heighington joked he may put in a chip kick to negate the up-and-in approach when Newcastle face them this weekend, he will need to be wary of former teammate Benji Marshall.

Marshall has started all six games in 2018 and had people drawing comparisons to his form in his glory days for the club.

Heighington hopes to draw on his knowledge of the playmaker’s game when they meet in Tamworth and said his team will need to make sure they limit Marshall’s chances.

Newcastle are yet to hit their best form away from home.

“I played nearly 200 games with Benj so I know him very well, I know how he plays and he’s playing really good footy at the moment and scored two good tries,” he said.

“He’s one of their danger men and we’re going to have to be on our game to minimise his involvement.”

Saturday is a Wests Tigers ‘home’ game, but the Knights could have an edge with it being in Tamworth.

Heighington said the Newcastle crowd had played a part in their wins at home this year and could do so again if fans make the three-and-a-half hour trip.

“Hopefully a lot of people can get in their cars and turn up because we love playing in front of you,” he said.

“The last three home games, I fully believe that the crowd got us home.”

Originally published as Newcastle know why Wests Tigers have become the best defensive unit in the NRL