Western Bulldogs have the bye this week, but coach Brendan McCartney says his players will be thinking about their 92-point loss to Sydney for some time.

Newcastle coach Wayne Bennett says he'll be forced to stick with his under-achieving Knights stars after Saturday's dismal 24-14 NRL defeat to the Gold Coast.

Wayne Bennett admits he's embarrassed by his Newcastle side's poor recent run of form, following Saturday's loss at home to the Gold Coast.

Coach Brian McClennan says the Warriors need to stiffen their defence or they could get embarrassed by the in-form Brisbane Broncos.

Canberra have notched their third win of the NRL season - and their first at home - with a 32-12 victory over the Warriors.