Newcastle halfback Jarrod Mullen says a change in attitude, not the change in the coaching box, spurred the Knights to break their three-match NRL losing streak.

Mullen said the Knights were embarrassed by their recent form and wanted desperately to get their season back on track when they thumped Melbourne 26-14 on Monday night.

"I just think we changed our attitude a bit," Mullen said.

"All of the boys were really keen. We had a really good week at training and we could sort of see this win coming.

"It's come at the right time."

Despite losing former coach Brian Smith and being under the tutelage of promoted mentor Rick Stone for just two days, the Knights piled on four tries before the Greg Inglis-less Storm could get on the board at EnergyAustralia Stadium.

Mullen said the Knights put in a top performance for each other, and not to farewell Smith, pushed out last week after signing to coach the Roosters from next year, or to welcome Stone into the top job.

"If you concentrate on that kind of (off-field) stuff you can go away from your game plan," Mullen said.

"It was a win for the boys, we really needed this win. I thought we dug deep and regardless of who the coach was, I think we were due for the win.

"I suppose it is a bit of embarrassment losing three on the trot, we're a club that sort of hold our heads high.

"It was a do or die match for us so I think we played accordingly."

The victory has rocketed the Knights into the eight (7th) and Mullen was certain if Newcastle could manage to bring the same attitude and spirit for matches against North Queensland, Canberra and Penrith they'll be there come finals time.

"We've still got a tough run home but if we keep putting in performances like that we're going to beat most teams.

"It's very confidence boosting and I know all the boys are pumped."

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