Revealed: Titans five-eighth  has credited the work on his defence as a big catalyst for his seamless transition to the playmaking position.

Jayden Campbell demonstrated his class and expertise in his 50th NRL game, leading his team to a 24-16 victory over Parramatta – the first time they had defeated the western Sydney club since 2018.

The 24-year-old is improving week after week as he takes over the five-eighth position.

After smashing many club records in the Gold Coast’s Round 16 win over the Warriors, including 11 out of 11 conversions, Campbell extended his own streak by converting four out of four against the Eels.

Unsurprisingly, Campbell’s half-century saw the continuation of high-class ball-handling displays that have become a vital part of his game, as he assisted three tries and played a role in the fourth thanks to a great defensive shot on Jake Tago.

Improving his defense has been a goal for the young star for the past two years, and Campbell credits his current progress to the Titans coaching staff’s encouragement and advice.

“It hasn’t just been the last 12 months, it’s been the last two years with Brett White coming in as our assistant coach last year,” Campbell said post-match.

“I knew myself that defence was an area of improvement, and Whitey last year really helped me with my tackle technique.

“Des is a really big defensive coach as well, so I really wanted to improve over the last two years.

“I just feel I’ve put the work in and it’s nice to reap the rewards, but I’ve still got a lot of work to do though but starting to tackle a lot more.”

Leading from the front, Campbell was awarded Macca’s player of the match after his performance against the Eels, despite still carrying a hand injury picked up in Round 16.

“I’ve got plates and screws in there holding it together so hopefully it holds it together for the next few weeks,” Campbell said.