Forwards key against Sharks
THE Titans’ forward pack has been challenged to stand up against a Cronulla side looking to send retiring veteran Paul Gallen out on a high note in his final season.
Coach Garth Brennan admitted his side was in for a “tough afternoon” but urged his pack to step up.
“I haven’t personally set that challenge for them, but I’m sure they’re well aware that they need to stand up,” he said.
“Forwards go a long way in contributing to winning football games and there’s probably no bigger challenge than that Cronulla pack.
“Our guys have to stand up and they’re aware of that. It’s like every week, if your pack doesn’t stand up then you’re in trouble.
“The boys understand they’re in for a tough afternoon. When you look at the middle of Cronulla’s team, in Fifita, Prior, Gallen and Woods, they’re a quality pack and the boys have to stand up to them.”
The Titans will be relying on two new playmakers in AJ Brimson and former Storm player Ryley Jacks after injuries cruelled them of their regular halves.
Brennan said Jacks would be counted on to control the game, having developed his skills under Melbourne’s Big Three – Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk and Billy Slater. “He’s excited,” he said. “He’s been waiting for this opportunity.
“He’s played with three of the greatest players of all time, Smith, Cronk and Slater, so I’m sure he’s learnt a lot off those guys in terms of game management and that’s probably what we lacked last week in the wet conditions.”