Broughton calls for a ‘pest’ to be the coach

Michael Ennis may have irritated Queenslanders on the field but league stalwart Paul Broughton is a fan, as Paul Weston writes

FOUNDING chairman Paul Broughton has dropped a bombshell – he believes a player considered by Queenslanders as a NSW “pest” should be the future coach of the Titans.

Approached by the Bulletin for his views after the sacking of Garth Brennan, Broughton first outlined the qualities needed of a future coach.

They had to be innovative, have a great work ethic with an ego that reflects the team’s tough attitude and beliefs.

“The person I consider could take the high ground as the Titans coach – and I have only met him socially – ticks every boss except experience,” Broughton said ahead of tomorrow’s clash with the Storm.

“Have I spoken to him? No. Has he had experience? Only with NSW 18s (in) a week camp. Do I think he fits the role? Definitely.

“He is a smart, savvy judge and has a record of on-field leadership with every club he has played. A clear analytical mind and articulates himself with confidence.”

Broughton reveals Fox Sports commentator and former NSW hooker Michael Ennis (right) after his stint in this year’s under-18 series is the person most likely to make the successful leap to NRL coaching.

He acknowledged “Ennis the Menace” divided public opinion with both his strong commentary and on-field nigspeculate gle, but he was a winner and would instil belief in the Titans playing group.

The leading contenders mentioned for the job are Maroon coach Kevin Walters, St Helens mentor Justin Holbrook, Ipswich’s Ben and Shane Walker, Roosters assistant Craig Fitzgibbon and former Aussie boss Tim Sheens.

Broughton declined to what the Titans should do on recruitment, but he is a fan of experienced players with personality and grunt like Preston Campbell, Luke Bailey and Scott Prince.

He wants the Titans to take on the Broncos at Beenleigh in the north and extend the club’s reach beyond the NSW border.

“If we island ourselves at Robina we are doing the Gold Coast a disservice,” he said.

“The Titans must not confine themselves to Gold Coast city. The Titans should be defined as Beenleigh to Ballina and with the third ‘B’ the border, including the Hinterland. They should set aside training sessions in these towns and cities. Play a game at Coffs (Harbour).

“Much of the history of the various Gold Coast teams originated in the traditional rugby league homeland of NSW.

“However, it’s had a chequered history of ups and downs, and this is where it must regenerate itself. The Gold Coast rugby league fans deserve to be recognised because of their resilience and ongoing support through so many sporting code traumas in this region.”

The former player, coach and administrator, regarded as one of the game’s great thinkers who looks outside the rectangular ground, Broughton knows the bottom line for the Titans is becoming winners.

“Everything must focus on that (winning games),” he said.