Foran brings confidence
Titans coach Des Hasler says there are no question marks over whether Kieran Foran’s body can still withstand the rigours of rugby league as the Gold Coast playmaker prepares to return from injury this weekend.
Foran was a late withdrawal from the club’s round 1 NRL game against St George due to a hamstring injury while he also missed a pre-season clash with Parramatta due to a calf complaint.
But Hasler has no lingering fears over Foran’s health ahead of Gold Coast’s round 3 game against the Canterbury Bulldogs at Belmore Sports Ground in Sydney on Saturday.
“No. (The injury) could have happened to anybody,” Hasler said.
“It was just right on the eve of kick-off. Probably at a stretch (he could have played) but this early in the season it wasn’t worth the risk.”
The Titans were smashed in the second half by the Dragons and eventually lost 28-4, with young halves Tanah Boyd and Tom Weaver struggling in Foran’s absence.
Hasler said Foran would not only bring in experience, but give teammates enormous confidence when he returns.
“It isn’t just his experience he brings but also the confidence he brings to the playing group,” Hasler said.
“Players like young Tom Weaver and Tanah Boyd are still learning and they will gain a lot by having a player like Kieran on board.”
Foran said his hamstring had healed well and benefited from the club’s round 2 bye.
“The leg is really good. I have had a great week Foran said.
“I trained a full session Tuesday and (Friday) and pulled up fine. I’m looking forward to getting out there.
“As I have said previously I have had a great pre-season and I was really confident in my body leading into round 1.
“Unfortunately I didn’t quite get there but I have responded really well over the last weekand-a-half. I feel as good as I have ever felt.”
Foran said it was best the team forget about its round 1 training,” performance and focus on what it could do against a Bulldogs outfit that has lost both its opening games.
“We have to bounce back and find a way to get this win,” Foran said.
“Canterbury have been much improved over the first two rounds and put in some solid performances.
“They have been unlucky and they will see this week as a real opportunity at home and against us.
“We have to see same.” it as the