Srama’s crucial switch
TWEED Heads coach Aaron Zimmerle will unleash Titans pocket rocket Matt Srama at halfback in a last-ditch bid to save the Seagulls’ season.
Srama will make his return from an ankle injury against defending Intrust Super Cup premiers Northern Pride at Piggabeen tomorrow.
The 24-year-old has been sidelined for two months after surgery and will switch from his usual position at hooker, where he has played just three NRL matches this season.
Srama did an extra training session this week in preparation for his foray into the halves and will be joined by Titans teammates Ben Ridge, Matt Robinson, Matt White, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Jai Ingram and Leva Li.
Halfback Karl Lawton has been called into the Titans under-20s team and Zimmerle said he was looking for Srama to spark a late-season surge.
“It’s an area we’ve been struggling to maintain and be consistent,” he said.
“Sam Meskell has been good for us at hooker and has been there regularly.
“We need someone creative in the halves and Srama used to be a half. We’ll take him back to where he began.
“He gets to play 80 minutes. He’s got great foot speed.”
The Seagulls slumped to a 49-10 loss to Sunshine Coast last weekend, endangering their finals hopes.
“Everyone wants to help turn it around,” Zimmerle said.
“Last week we probably hit rock bottom. You’ve got to get out and fight hard. We were only a try away from beating the Pride last time we played.
“We just want to finish the year strong. Whether it’s enough for this season, we won’t know, but it gives us something to build upon.”
Burleigh are also looking for redemption against the Cutters in Mackay tonight following a 64-6 humiliation against Redcliffe last weekend.
Bears coach Jim Lenihan has dropped Pele Peletelese and Khan Ahwang and promoted teenagers Talor Walters, Sam Swift and Jenan Parrish for their Intrust Super Cup debuts.
“We did a bit of soul searching after what happened on the weekend,” Lenihan said.
“It was disappointing for everyone at Burleigh, not just the players.
“I don’t think it was a true reflection of us. The boys are really keen to get involved this week and make amends.
“It’s (promotion) been part of our plans all year. We had a good under-20s last year and we do again this year.
“They’re not just getting dragged up. We’ve had a progression plan in place.
“We’re looking to bring those boys through and create some confidence and tightness in the group.”