HAYNE RELIEF

JARRYD Hayne arrived on the Gold Coast when the Titans were on a roll.

The team had overcome injury and early 2016 predictions of a grim year to be already steaming towards finals contention when Hayne lobbed here. The star signing had little chance to settle in, but there was plenty of promise for 2017. League history now shows that promise was not realised.

This year started with concern over Hayne’s pre-season training, then across the season rumours persisted about his future with the club. And of course, there was the falling out that led to the unhappy departure of coach Neil Henry. Hayne’s presence went beyond being a saga to becoming a millstone around the neck of the entire club. We’re happy to see him go.

From the word go, at the first press conference to announce his arrival, it was evident – especially to fans – that he would have preferred to be back with the Eels.

Hayne’s departure will allow the Titans considerable latitude. And it will give other players – homegrown products – an opportunity to step out of the shadow and develop to their potential.