FORAN-SIC EVIDENCE OF A TITANS REJUVENATION
OVER the past few years the Titans have produced performances that were up and down. At different stages they raised eyebrows and other times let them down. They played finals in 2021, but last year was very disappointing as they finished 13th. They need to focus on putting together acceptable performances on a weekly basis.
BACKS
Jojo Fifita showed last year he’s a first-grader and will be better for the run. Aaron Schoupp is a great buy, an aggressive ballrunner who’s hard to handle. Phillip Sami has also proved he is a quality player. Alofiana Khan-Pereira is in his rookie season but is electric and has speed.
The Titans have a promising backline but the reality is they need 1-17 playing well every week or they won’t get the job done.
SPINE
They’ve chopped and changed positions to come up with a new spine. Is AJ Brimson the right fullback? They have to persist with him. Kieran Foran brings a lot of experience but has to spend time with the new guys, especially young halfback Tanah Boyd. Sam Verrills has come to the Gold Coast from a big club in the Roosters and has won a competition. With two new players in the spine, the Titans will need some time to find their rhythm and cohesion.
FORWARDS
This is where the Titans’ strength is. They’ve got a great front row with Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, Moeaki Fotuaika and Jaimin Jolliffe, who gets the job done. I’ve got a big rap on
Beau Fermor, who will play State of Origin at some point. David Fifita is the big talking point and Foran will be really good for him. He’s worked with some good backrowers throughout his career and has the experience to boss Dave around. Erin Clark will play that lock role well and they’ve got players who can do the job.