Gritty Knights win perfect confidence boost to slay Roosters hoodoo

Jojo Fifita believes Saturday's courageous win against the Knights has given the Titans a much needed shot in the arm to help conquer their nine-year hoodoo against the Roosters.

Gold Coast haven't defeated the tri-colours since Round 10, 2016 - their longest drought against any team in the NRL - but bouncing back from their season opener to keep Newcastle to just one try in the 74th minute has given Des Hasler's men trust and belief they can back it up on Friday night.

"It was definitely a different vibe from last week against the Bulldogs," Fifita said.

"I think we really needed that win and it's really given us a confidence booster against the Roosters this week."

A stark contrast to conceding a 22-0 deficit in the first 20 minutes, the side's defensive effort was the catalyst to their first win of the season given the even share of possession and very similar statistics among both teams.

But Fifita knows they can't get too complacent and need to be on their game against the Roosters, who welcome back experienced duo Lindsay Collins and Nat Butcher for Friday night's showdown at Allianz Stadium.

"Our defence was our major focus especially after the Bulldogs game, but our line speed, bounce and talk through the game really helped us defend the Knights," he said.

"I'm pretty sure all the boys were pretty happy with how we played, but we can't get too ahead of themselves.

"We've got one win now, so we just have to keep playing the long game and keep building each week.

"It's been a much better start than last year... I'm just excited to see what's going to happen this week."