Round 9: Gold Coast Titans vs Wests Tigers

[DIEHARD]

Gold Coast Titans vs Wests Tigers

7:30pm Saturday 5 May 2012


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[DIEHARD]

Tickets: http://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/Show.aspx?sh=TIT0912

Memberships: http://www.titans.com.au/membership

[TITAN PETE]

If we can keep our missed tackles to a minimum we are good enough to beat the Tigers but if we miss another 39 we will get 40 points put on us..

Looks like we may have a new set of halves again this week with Prince in doubt , Rankin/Sezar ....

[karnage]

If we can keep our missed tackles to a minimum we are good enough to beat the Tigers but if we miss another 39 we will get 40 points put on us..

Looks like we may have a new set of halves again this week with Prince in doubt , Rankin/Sezar ....

The Tigers have done something for the past 2 weeks that we have not done for the entire season - score 30 points. 30 points is hardly a benchmark...

The Tigers generally score points so we will need to enter the game with an attacking mindset. I actually wouldn't mind losing if the score was something like 32-28 and we put on a good show - but I don't see that happening.

The Tigers are a team that we should be able to dominate up front - but I don't see that happening either.

[Titan Dad]

I would have liked Ryan JAMES back for this game as I beleive this TIGERS pack is tailor made for him to get back to his bonecrushing best.:thumbsup:

[Mr Stupid]

Heading up with a group of boys for my son's eleventh birthday. Hope their hero SP is playing for all our sakes. His form seems to be returning.

[Princey's Titanz]

Rankin is not a halfback. I am worried about this game. Can anyone name the people who we have as back ups in the halves?

[matti]

It's not like we have a chance to win the comp, why can't rankin play?

[Boofhead]

I don't Rank Rankin.

[matti]

And sezer is winning us games?

[Rage]

Hope the Tigers don't come out firing after the Eels debacle...

[Boofhead]

And sezer is winning us games?

He's not losing us games.

[Tamwelg]

I'd rather see Henry given a shot at 7 if he's fit overcome his injury.

[DavidBouveng]

He's not losing us games.

theres no way you can say Rankin lost us any games.

if our forwards played like they did against manly in any of the games Rankin played in, we most likely would have won with him in the team.

the poor guy didnt stand a chance.

i personally think Sezer is a greater talent, but im not going to start saying Rankin lost us games. In fact i do think there is a place for him in our team at some point

[matti]

his fast, bring him on when the forwards are tired, wait for our forwards to offload to him. Win Win

[Princey's Titanz]

And sezer is winning us games?

Hes only played 2 matches mate. And he played well in the first match which we won. :thumbsup:

[shamus]

TiXXXs by 30+ :D

[matti]

Looking at rankin's stats and sezer and it seems rankin does more during the game then sezer does.

[Tamwelg]

Looking at rankin's stats and sezer and it seems rankin does more during the game then sezer does.

So it would be quality vs quantity then.

[matti]

Not really, Both are on 1 try each, i do think both of these boys will go well together. They also seem to be best mates as well , good combo there.

[TITAN PETE]

It would be different to see a young pair of halves throwing caution to the wind & not being predictable all the time , who knows maybe they could do a Benji on the Tigers...

[Nick]

It may do the kids a world of good.. prince is a fairly dominant half, it would be hard for a young 5/8 to come in and assume control over a game while prince does demand a lot of ball. I expect to see a big game from both!
After watching his games with burleigh, sezer seems like someone who can control a game, rankin adds some unpredictability to the playmaking.
Idris should expect to see a lot of ball.. the tigpies left side defence was shocking against parra.

[Smakked]

SO is Prince out for this game?
Said so on the news

[teke]

I gotta say Sezer looks the role out there on the field and I dont think he has anything to worry about in terms of getting axed.

I simply dont think Rankin is a fullback and with Prince more than likely sitting this week out Jordan has a chance to impress at halfback (if that's where he is put). If he just relaxes on his passes and concentrates on putting in good kicks these 2 kids should combine well.

[Smakked]

I think i will go to this game thinking we will loose so when we win it will be more awesome.

[DIEHARD]

I think i will go to this game thinking we will loose so when we win it will be more awesome.

Haha now that is an interesting strategy.

I dunno if we will win or lose but Im looking forward to some footy at Skilled Park.

[DIEHARD]

Whats wrong with Prince? This is news to me. I hope he plays.

[DavidBouveng]

hearing prince is possibly out, led me to think whther he would throw Rankin in, go for good ol Birdy at 6 like he does as a default or maybe Henry...

didnt even think Zillman would come back into the picture.

If so, the positive is that Mead might get his chance at FB, and if he goes bananas, then he could force the move there permanently.

but who knows, i will await the team naming with interest.

[Bayside Titan]

WILLIAM Zillman has emerged as the man most likely to replace Gold Coast captain Scott Prince if he is ruled out with a biceps tear as the Titans prepare to face-off against Wests Tigers magician Benji Marshall.

Scans yesterday confirmed Prince has a small tear in his left biceps but he is yet to be officially ruled out of Saturday's clash against the Tigers.

The Bulletin can reveal Zillman stayed back after training to complete passing drills with rookie five-eighth Aidan Sezer.

The decision indicates the Titans fullback is the likely replacement for Prince.

Coach John Cartwright will decide today whether to name Prince and have him face an 11th hour fitness test or rest the skipper.

Prince was initially ruled out of the round 5 clash against the Bulldogs with a similar problem but was a late addition to the team that almost pulled off a win against the competition heavyweights.


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Gold Coast Titans news, photos

Prince trained with his arm strapped yesterday and while he was in some discomfort, he completed most of the session.

But the discovery of a tear in the same muscle has medical staff debating whether to send Prince to a specialist to determine the extent of the injury.

The loss to the Broncos aside, Prince has been one of the Titans' best over the past month and will be sorely missed if he is absent from Saturday's clash.

With Sezer heading into just his third NRL match, the Titans are likely to plump for an experienced halves partner, with Zillman and Greg Bird the leading candidates.

The Titans have an inexperienced spine, with Sezer and hooker Matt Srama (22 games) in the mix, and would be loath to pitch Jordan Rankin (13 games) into the halves.

If Zillman is pushed forward, Rankin could wear the No.1 after playing much of the pre-season there, while former Rooster Phil Graham is also an option.

Cartwright refused to tip his hand yesterday, saying he had depth to cover for Prince.

"There's plenty of options there," he said. "You've got Greg Bird, you've got William Zillman. Beau Henry's been out (injured) but he's not far away and Jordan Rankin.

"It's tough. We're trying to get some stability there (in the spine).

"It would be very tough to have only a handful of first grade games between them playing in the six and seven, so that's something we've got to be aware of when we find out about Scott (Prince playing)."

Zillman spent the majority of the pre-season wearing the No.6 while Sezer recovered from a knee injury and is comfortable in the halves.

With Sezer's left-foot kick, the Titans are likely to stand a playmaker on either side of the ruck rather than opt for a textbook halfback/five-eighth combination.

[Chaos]

"There's plenty of options there," he said. "You've got Greg Bird, you've got William Zillman. Beau Henry's been out (injured) but he's not far away and Jordan Rankin.

"It's tough. We're trying to get some stability there (in the spine).


If he wants stability...he'd just replace Prince with another half back.
Moving Zillman changes the half back, fullback and wing position.

[Tamwelg]

Graham earns Titans debut against Tigers

Adam Gardini
Tuesday 1 May 2012 1:00 PM

Prolific try scorer Phil Graham will make his anticipated club debut for the Jetstar Gold Coast Titans in Saturday night’s battle for the Larry Corowa Shield against the Wests Tigers at Skilled Park.
Jetstar Titans Coach John Cartwright today named former Sydney Roosters and Canberra backline utility Graham at fullback in a reshuffled line-up for the Tigers clash following the loss of Captain Scott Prince to an arm injury.

Scans have confirmed Prince has suffered a small tear to the brachialis muscle in his elbow joint, with the halfback to consult an arm specialist in the coming days.
The loss of Prince for this weekend will see William Zillman shift to five-eighth and 20-year-old playmaker Aidan Sezer move to halfback, with Graham promoted to fullback in his first game for the Titans since joining the club in the off-season.

Impressively, Graham has scored 79 tries in 145 NRL matches since making his NRL debut for the Canberra Raiders in 2002.
The Titans will also welcome back Queensland State of Origin forward Ashley Harrison from a one-match suspension.

Jetstar Titans vs Wests Tigers
7.30pm – Skilled Park
Saturday, May 5

1 Phil Graham
2 Kevin Gordon
3 Jamal Idris
4 Dominique Peyroux
5 David Mead
6 William Zillman
7 Aidan Sezer
8 Luke Bailey
9 Matt Srama
10 Nate Myles
11 Greg Bird
12 Luke O’Dwyer
13 Ashley Harrison

Interchange

14 Matthew White
15 Luke Douglas
16 Mark Minichiello
17 Bodene Thompson
18 Michael Henderson

www.titans.com.au

[amaline]

One injury means three positional changes. Classic Cartwright.

[Jamal's Hamstring]

No Rankin, no BJ, no care.

[Titanic]

Ho, ho, friggin' ho ... While I am very happy to see Graham in the team, I certainly never would have in a million years dreamed this combination. Amaline is soooo right. I swear this bloke invents ways to trip us up.

We should really have Wests measure this week but Sezer/Zillman in the halves? Henderson has obviously been passing his pics around.

[Fan from afar]

Can someone explain to me why White and Henderson got named for the interchange bench but Lawrence didn't?? No seriously I don't understand :fist:

[amaline]

Can someone explain to me why White and Henderson got named for the interchange bench but Lawrence didn't?? No seriously I don't understand :fist:

While we're there, we might as well ask why O'Dwyer is starting over Douglas. :doh:

[Fan from afar]

While we're there, we might as well ask why O'Dwyer is starting over Douglas. :doh:


CLASSIC CARTWRIGHT :thumbsup:

[teke]

While we're there, we might as well ask why O'Dwyer is starting over Douglas. :doh:I was just about to post on that very topic. It's laughable, buying an 80 min player from another club to put on our bench behind a Q Cup player :laugh:

[Boofhead]

If Hendo doesn't play, we will win.

[Titan Dad]

Seriously, what is going on with BJ Lawrence... He has been fantastic for us and still no sight of him..

[karnage]

This is beyond a joke now.:nope:

The problem is that if we do win Cartwright will look to the one win as vindication of his disgraceful selections rather than looking at the previous 34 rounds of complete and utter rubbish. How is it possible to get so many selections wrong:

Nate Myles is a representative BACKROWER!! He plays second row in the greatest State Of Origin team in history. Cartwright picks him at prop.

Douglas is a starting prop who plays 80 minutes. Starting him on the bench is a waste of a rotation and a clear indication that he prefers his 'favourites' over the new recruit.

O'Dwyer offers us nothing that a player on the rise could not offer. He is not a solution for the future and should not be chosen over players who could be getting valuable experience in the top grade such as Ridge and Page.

Jordan Rankin has been axed for no known reason. Last season he got prolonged exposure at fullback. This year he beat Zillman out for the five-eighth jersey and now he is axed from the entire squad in favor of a player who has done nothing to impress at Q Cup level and who is very much in the twilight of his career. He offers us nothing moving forward into 2013 and beyond.

Henderson named on the bench AHEAD of Brenton Lawrence, Ridge and Page. If this is not blatant selection of his old 'favourites' I don't know what is.

We need the broom through the entire organisation and soon because the entire club is losing support and is fast losing relevance. The only reason I am going this Saturday is because I have a season ticket that I have paid up over $400 every year since we have been in the competition. I have not got any value out of my membership since 2009. I have basically thrown the best part of $900 down the toilet by supporting this team for the past 2 years. As a supporter base we need to stop being so supportive of the crap and start demanding some sort of professionalism from the front office and the coaching staff. I am fed up!!

[patskE]

sigh...
thats lineup makes me wanna cancel my flights n stuff to come n watch the game...
sezer is a run but i dont know if his ready to run the show seeing zillman wont do anything at 5/8, should of brought in rainkin or henry..
and i dont need to say anything else bar wheres BJ.
n grahman, meh back up winger/centre, should of given mead a shot at fb.

[Tamwelg]

This is beyond a joke now.:nope:

The problem is that if we do win Cartwright will look to the one win as vindication of his disgraceful selections rather than looking at the previous 34 rounds of complete and utter rubbish. How is it possible to get so many selections wrong:

Nate Myles is a representative BACKROWER!! He plays second row in the greatest State Of Origin team in history. Cartwright picks him at prop.

Douglas is a starting prop who plays 80 minutes. Starting him on the bench is a waste of a rotation and a clear indication that he prefers his 'favourites' over the new recruit.

O'Dwyer offers us nothing that a player on the rise could not offer. He is not a solution for the future and should not be chosen over players who could be getting valuable experience in the top grade such as Ridge and Page.

Jordan Rankin has been axed for no known reason. Last season he got prolonged exposure at fullback. This year he beat Zillman out for the five-eighth jersey and now he is axed from the entire squad in favor of a player who has done nothing to impress at Q Cup level and who is very much in the twilight of his career. He offers us nothing moving forward into 2013 and beyond.

Henderson named on the bench AHEAD of Brenton Lawrence, Ridge and Page. If this is not blatant selection of his old 'favourites' I don't know what is.

We need the broom through the entire organisation and soon because the entire club is losing support and is fast losing relevance. The only reason I am going this Saturday is because I have a season ticket that I have paid up over $400 every year since we have been in the competition. I have not got any value out of my membership since 2009. I have basically thrown the best part of $900 down the toilet by supporting this team for the past 2 years. As a supporter base we need to stop being so supportive of the crap and start demanding some sort of professionalism from the front office and the coaching staff. I am fed up!!

When the Titans first came into existence I'd never of thought I would have felt this way, but I agree with you. If things don't change I can't see myself in the stands as often next year.

[DavidBouveng]

odwyer starting is a joke.

Douglas is a must over him, and bodene and mini should both be starters before odwyer.

I wonder if graham at fb is a ruse, and mead is likely to be switched closer to game time.

Teke might be able to help on that one.

[DavidBouveng]

Also, Cartwright needs to use the Inevitable injuries as chances to look at the future.

Graham at fb is the same as moving bird to 5/8th. A stop gap.

Rankin and mead might not end up being great fullbacks, but it would be nice to give them a chance. Or give rankin or Henry a new chance in the 7, be good to know what a future without prince might look like.

All we are doing is messing up Zillmans head just as he was starting to show some decent fullback play

[DIEHARD]

This is getting beyond a joke....

[GoldCoastTitans100]

Cartwright you moron !


1 Phil Graham/ William Zillman
2 Kevin Gordon
3 Jamal Idris
4 William Zillman/ Phil Graham
5 David Mead
6 RANKIN !
7 Aidan Sezer
8 Luke Bailey (C)
9 Matt Srama
10 Nate Myles
11 Greg Bird
12 Luke Douglas
13 Ashley Harrison

Interchange

14 Lawrence
15 Ben Ridge
16 Mark Minichiello
17 Bodene Thompson

Dominique Peyroux, Luke O’Dwyer, Michael Henderson, Matthew White are not good enough !

Get it right !

He doesn't want to play Rankin because he is afraid the combination of Sezer and Rankin will work !

[DavidBouveng]

This team announcement is as depressing as any of the losses this year.

[gotitans101]

I'm over this.

[Toads]

Might be a good time to wet a line. Now that the winter whiting are on the run.. http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-merv/fishing.gif

[matti]

It's like chucking a accountant in the surgical room to perform a heart surgery.

[Noddy1979]

I have nothing I can add.

[Princey's Titanz]

Shocking utter shocking. This was the perfect opportunity for Mead to have a go at fullback. Im left undecided about putting Zillman in the halves. Rankin is randomly dropped from the team. Not sure if Phil Graham is the right choice at fullback.

HENDERSON?! A absolute crap player. This is pissing me off. What happened to Ridge, Lawrence & Page? The future of the club. Please sell Henderson.

[matti]

Give him away!

[Jamal's Hamstring]

Ridge, Lawrence & Page? The future of the club.

I would be confident in putting money on two of those three leaving the club at the end of this year.

[Chaos]

I few people have jumped on the Mead at fullback wagon and he'd probably do a good job there but he's still a great winger and it's the least of our worries.

The bad decision is to put Zillman back into the halves after he wanted stability through the spine...and choosing Odwyer and Henderson before all the quality forwards we have.

Until we know what direction the Titans are going as a club, there wont be any change in the coaching staff.
The longer this drags out, the more fans we lose.

[Smakked]

SO another lose our way then it seems FFS, good way to get fans to the ground.

[Rage]

Why is Zillman being moved from fullback to a position he's gonna be in for 1-2 weeks only! If you want stability in the spine like Cartwright said he did, just slot a halfback into the vacant 7 for now and leave the rest as is.

[DavidBouveng]

Carty probably thinks he's doing a favour to the young halves by not throwing them to the wolves, but the tigers pack is so young as well, and aside from Blair, there is no one to be afraid of. If anything, it would be good for them to have a crack against a pack they mostly have played not long ago in Toyota cup.

[Nick]

Although I am not happy with the team selections, I am positive about a win. The tigers are nothing special.

[Titanic]

We should stomp all over these pretenders ... emphasis on should ... as long as Srama cuts out his ridiculous waving his hands in the air at the ref every play the ball ... this costs us precious seconds every time for no return at all ... call me old fashioned.

[teke]

We should stomp all over these pretenders ... emphasis on should ... as long as Srama cuts out his ridiculous waving his hands in the air at the ref every play the ball ... this costs us precious seconds every time for no return at all ... call me old fashioned.Sramas delivery from Dummy half isnt as good as most others in the comp also. I know he is a hooker on the rise but he needs to keep improving in this area.

[teke]

Rankin was dropped because Carty saw fit to give Sezer a go, it was the correct decision especially after Jordans passing and kicking game v the Roosters...However, I think management failed by not putting him into halfback this weekend, perfect time to see what 2 fresh faced kids can do together.

[DIEHARD]

Injured Prince could be out for a month

THE struggling Titans could be without captain Scott Prince until the end of the month, with the star halfback set to consult a specialist for the biceps tear that will rule him out of at least the next two matches.

The Titans will rely on the makeshift halves combination of Aidan Sezer and Will Zillman to turn their fortunes against the Wests Tigers on Saturday after Prince was ruled out of the clash.

The Coast are set to take advantage of their bye in just over a fortnight to rest Prince in the hope his biceps tear can mend in time for the clash against the Newcastle Knights on May 26.

"They can be dangerous, biceps tears and there's a definite tear there," coach John Cartwright said, adding the problem was different from the one that Prince overcame in round 5 to make a surprise start against the Bulldogs.

"He won't play this week and probably the next week but we'll get him off to the specialist and we'll be a bit the wiser when he sees them."

The Titans know plenty about the ramifications of biceps injuries, with hooker Beau Falloon ruled out for three months after tearing the muscle late in the pre-season.

Unlike Falloon, they are hoping Prince can avoid surgery and build on the promising partnership he is developing with Sezer.

Viewed as a long-term solution to the club's five-eighth problems, Sezer will shift to halfback this week, with William Zillman to wear the No.6.

Former Roosters utility Phil Graham will make his club debut at fullback.

Cartwright said there had been plenty of discussion about the best way to cover for Prince, with Greg Bird, Zillman and Jordan Rankin in the mix for a halves spot. The one player that was not considered a variable was Sezer.

"We brought Aidan here to play first grade and we'll see how he goes this week," Cartwright said.

While he will wear the No.7 jersey, he will be asked to do little different from his first two NRL games at five-eighth, with the Titans to play one half on either side of the ruck.

"He's played in the halves, there's not a lot of difference between the halfback and five-eighth these days, especially the way we play," Cartwright said.

"We spoke about (moving Bird to five-eighth) but we just thought Zilly (Zillman) trained the off-season there and Birdie's in really good form in the back row."

And with Sezer seemingly a preferred long-term option to Rankin, the 20-year-old misses out with the Titans reticent to field such an inexperienced pairing.

"You've got to look at the personality of the guys there too in those key positions," Cartwright said when asked if Rankin's inexperience had counted him out.

"Zilly's a very composed fella. He plays a little bit like a half for us when he's at fullback, the only major difference for him will be coming up and defending in the front line.

"We just thought that it was the least amount of reshuffling we had to do.

"There's also try-scoring players in key positions with Zillman and Phil (Graham) at the back."

Source: http://www.goldcoast.com.au

[securitron_ch]

I don't think Graham will ever be a problem if you put him anywhere from 1-5. He may not win you the game but he'll put in a solid game and not make a lot of mistakes which would put him the top half of performers at the moment.

His two best games for the Roosters last year were also both at fullback and he was probably best on ground against the Panthers.

I would have been more inclined to include him for Peyroux though who seems like a huge defensive liability at centre when our line is under a bit of pressure.

This would have also allowed Idris to go back to his better side.

[hatchy84]

Well guys we are all passionate carty is a disgrace. To this club we need to get him out.moving zillman would be easiest without upsetting the team pffft.henry should slip straight in I am sick of it like the rest of you mead better play fullback I don't even think I will bother watching carty is hopeless our qcup coaches could do a better job.on a positive havnt been on here for long but the forum is great its a everyday thing now. Thanks guys I'm loving it

[DavidBouveng]

Well guys we are all passionate carty is a disgrace. To this club we need to get him out.moving zillman would be easiest without upsetting the team pffft.henry should slip straight in I am sick of it like the rest of you mead better play fullback I don't even think I will bother watching carty is hopeless our qcup coaches could do a better job.on a positive havnt been on here for long but the forum is great its a everyday thing now. Thanks guys I'm loving it


glad your loving it mate. i only joined towards end of last year. now im on this site more than any other and enjoy talking to like-minded invididuals.

as for carty... this quote from that article is laughable ""Zilly's a very composed fella. He plays a little bit like a half for us when he's at fullback, the only major difference for him will be coming up and defending in the front line.

Zilly plays like a half? he plays like a statue. he doesnt play like a half when hes in the halves let alone when hes at fullback. i think Cartys been taking those crazy pills again....or i have

[amaline]

Well guys we are all passionate carty is a disgrace. To this club we need to get him out.moving zillman would be easiest without upsetting the team pffft.henry should slip straight in I am sick of it like the rest of you mead better play fullback I don't even think I will bother watching carty is hopeless our qcup coaches could do a better job.on a positive havnt been on here for long but the forum is great its a everyday thing now. Thanks guys I'm loving it

I'm pretty sure Henry is injured. Seems to be on the outer with Cartwright anyway. If Carty doesn't like someone, they don't play. :fist:

[DavidBouveng]

another thing, ive been to each home game this year except canberra as i was working.

this week im am tossing up going or not, and Phil Graham isnt really helping me.

Meady at FB, or even seeing rankin and sezer together would excite me and i would already have bought tickets and hit the phone trying to get a group of mates around.

im not sure of my point, just that the coach is doing his best to pick an uninspiring team.

[DavidBouveng]

i wonder if Carty is doing a Reverse-Brian Smith.

Brian Smith quite famously stopped picking Kirk Reynoldson a few years ago for the knights when one more game would trigger a option in his contract for another season.

Carty might be trying to trigger their clauses and then he can go back to picking the real team...usually only 12 games or so... so we might get a decent side come round 13.

im only parting joking.

[Mr Stupid]

i wonder if Carty is doing a Reverse-Brian Smith.

Brian Smith quite famously stopped picking Kirk Reynoldson a few years ago for the knights when one more game would trigger a option in his contract for another season.

Carty might be trying to trigger their clauses and then he can go back to picking the real team...usually only 12 games or so... so we might get a decent side come round 13.

im only parting joking.

This does raise the question about all that info that the coach is privy to that we are not. Is David's point a factor, are injuries a consideration, some player effort/committment may be questionable etc etc. Just wish we had a proper insight into the Coach's decision making, then we may not be thinking he's such a dick!

[Chaos]

This does raise the question about all that info that the coach is privy to that we are not. Is David's point a factor, are injuries a consideration, some player effort/committment may be questionable etc etc. Just wish we had a proper insight into the Coach's decision making, then we may not be thinking he's such a dick!

Carty needs to win games to save his career...I'd say he'd be fielding his best possible side.

The main factor is missing with Carty's coaching...he doesn't know how to score try's...that's all it is!

[securitron_ch]

There are some things though that are completely coach based and inexplicable.

Why has Idris played exclusively on the left when all of the play that got him a contract if the first place was on the right?

It just seems like a punt that if it paid off you claim to be a supercoach for being the only guy in the world to see how great he is on the other side and if it doesn't you blame the player.

[TITAN PETE]

To top it all off channel 7 has said that Sezar & Zillman are both in doubt after neither being able to complete today's training session...I don't trust the station but time will tell

[Jamal's Hamstring]

Tigers by thirty.

[Rage]

To top it all off channel 7 has said that Sezar & Zillman are both in doubt after neither being able to complete today's training session...I don't trust the station but time will tell

Henderson for 5/8th
Rankin in 7

[Toowoomba Tiger]

G'day guys, sorry to sneak into your camp but I'm a Tigers fan from Toowoomba and looking to bring the family to the coast for the game.

Can anyone suggest the best bays for Tigers fans (be nice:) ).
Also is there somewhere nearby reasonably priced to stay overnight.
Is the free bus from Firth park the best way to go?

Thanks and good luck.

[DIEHARD]

G'day guys, sorry to sneak into your camp but I'm a Tigers fan from Toowoomba and looking to bring the family to the coast for the game.

Can anyone suggest the best bays for Tigers fans (be nice:) ).
Also is there somewhere nearby reasonably priced to stay overnight.
Is the free bus from Firth park the best way to go?

Thanks and good luck.

GET HIM! :boo:

click here to buy tickets (http://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/Show.aspx?sh=TIT0912)

Section 16 would be best, the Away Team Bay. Lots of Tigers fans will be there. Or if you want better seats. Titanium towards the 50min line.

[DIEHARD]

Poor crowds tipped for Coast clash

THE stage is set for an almighty attendance flop on Saturday when the Gold Coast's Titans and Suns matches clash for the first time this year.

The Titans host Wests Tigers at Skilled Park with a 7.30pm kick-off while the Suns have a twilight fixture against Fremantle.

The Tigers have been the third-best drawing crowd for the Titans in their four-year history at Skilled Park, coming in behind Brisbane and St George-Illawarra. But the Titans are expecting a crowd of about 13,000, about 4000 fewer than when the sides met last year and half of what the record (26,103) crowd is for the fixture.

The Suns are also expecting a lean attendance at Metricon Stadium against the Dockers, who are traditionally one of the poorer drawing teams.

The Suns are also without star captain Gary Ablett, with his absence sure to affect crowd figures.

The Suns "won" both clashes last year when playing at the same time as their NRL rivals but Titans operations manager Ian Buchanan said there were two different markets.

"I think we're talking about two different markets," he said.

"I'm sure there's a small percentage that cross over but at the end of the day, if you're a rugby league fan you're a rugby league fan.

"I don't know that there's too much of a crossover."

The Titans' home crowds have been poor this year with clashes against the Storm, Raiders and Roosters occupying three of the club's four worst crowds.

The Titans have won just one of their past 12 matches at Skilled Park and Buchanan said the team's poor form over the past 18 months was causing the paltry crowds.

"We're not expecting anything out of the box. The crowds at the moment would point to around about the 13,000 mark.

"That's consistent with how we're travelling this year.

"It's a combination of the sign of the times and as Carty (coach John Cartwright) said we've got to give them a reason to come."

Suns chief executive Travis Auld said he was not worried about who would attract the better crowd.

"The only competition we are worried about on Saturday will be Fremantle," Auld said.

"We think it will be one of our lower drawing crowds given there are not many Dockers fans on the Coast. (So) we think we'll get around 10,000."

Neither club executive thought public transport would be a problem.

SourceL http://www.goldcoast.com.au

[DIEHARD]

Titans in tatters over Sezer, Zillman doubts

THE Titans' halves crisis has copped another blow, with stand-in pairing Aidan Sezer and Will Zillman in doubt for Saturday's Skilled Park showdown against Wests Tigers.

Sezer (buttocks) and Zillman (hamstring) left the Titans' training session early yesterday before ball-work started and are in a race against the clock to be fit.

The duo is yet to play together and have been entrusted with filling the void of injured captain and halfback Scott Prince (biceps).

While neither injury is serious, they will be monitored closely ahead of tomorrow's final training run.

Titans football manager Scott Clark said a decision would be made on the pair's fitness tomorrow.

Five-eighth Sezer has just two NRL matches next to his name and will be thrust into the No.7 for the Tigers match, with Zillman to slot in at pivot for the first time this season.

Yesterday's session was a major opportunity for the two to work on their combination but youngster Jordan Rankin and in-form back-rower Greg Bird were instead shifted into the halves.

Rankin is slated to play five-eighth for Burleigh Bears in the Intrust Super Cup this weekend and coach John Cartwright was hesitant to name Bird in the halves as he has been one of the club's best forwards.

Zillman, who is battling a chronic back problem, tweaked his hamstring while completing a sprinting drill early in the session while Sezer was in the rehabilitation group with muscle tightness. Both left the session with the club's physiotherapist.

The lack of training time is a problem for the Titans, who will roll out their fourth different play-making combination in nine rounds this year.

The club is also looking to break a four-match losing streak at home this year and has won just one of its past 12 matches at Skilled Park.

Zillman trained at pivot for much of the pre-season before a bulging disc in his back forced him to miss two of Gold Coast's three trials, paving the way for Rankin to get first shot at the No. 6.

Rankin made way for Sezer a fortnight ago, with the debutant having a memorable debut in the Titans' shock win against Manly at Brookvale Oval.

He was quieter last weekend but with the Titans to field a full-strength forward pack on Saturday, the halves should have ample opportunities to create points.

Fringe playmaker Beau Henry trained with the squad yesterday but he is still recovering from a broken wrist and he has not been named for Tweed Heads this weekend.

Source: http://www.goldcoast.com.au

[karnage]

Urgh......

[TITAN PETE]

Gold Coast Titans v Wests Tigers
Skilled Park
Saturday 7.30pm

It might not go down as the game of the round, but there’s plenty for both the Titans and Wests Tigers to play for in their Saturday night clash on the Gold Coast.

Both teams will be desperate to claim the victory and two competition points as both line-ups are currently struggling and positioned well outside the top eight.

The Titans, after just two wins this season, are second last on the table. In recent weeks their form has, as you’d expect, been inconsistent – they beat Manly away in Round 7, but backed up that performance with a 20-point loss to the Broncos last week.

The Tigers, meanwhile, have also had a disappointing start to 2012. With many experts having them the competition favourites entering the season, Tim Sheens and his players wouldn’t be happy with their 3-5 start to the year which has them in 11th position. The past fortnight, though, they’ve stayed in the winners’ circle – they smashed the Panthers 30-0 at Penrith in Round 7 before jumping out to a huge lead against the Eels and eventually winning a thriller 31-30.

The Titans have been weakened following the arm injury to captain and halfback Scott Prince. Scans have confirmed Prince has suffered a small tear to the brachialis muscle in his elbow joint. Titans coach John Cartwright has named former Sydney Roosters and Canberra backline utility Phil Graham at fullback in a reshuffled line-up. The loss of Prince for this weekend sees William Zillman shift to five-eighth and 20-year-old playmaker Aidan Sezer move to halfback, with Graham promoted to fullback in his first game for the Titans since joining the club in the off-season. Forward Ashley Harrison also returns to the Titans’ line-up after a one-match suspension.

For the Tigers, interchange forward Matt Groat has been replaced by Junior Moors. Groat suffered a knee injury in the win over Parramatta Stadium last Sunday. He joins a host of Tigers forwards on the sidelines, including Chris Heighington and Gareth Ellis.

Watch Out Titans: The Tigers are starting to purr – and their attack is at the fore. In the past two weeks Wests Tigers have scored 30 points or more, a sign they might be finally clicking into gear. Combine that recent form with the fact the Titans have the worst kicks-defused rate in the competition (just 57 per cent) and there’s a likelihood the Tigers will be scoring plenty of points in this one. The Gold Coast defence had best be ready.

Danger Sign: Livewire five-eighth Benji Marshall is the key to the Wests Tigers’ attack. In the past two weeks he’s orchestrated six tries, and has eight line-break assists to his name for 2012. The Titans will need to wrap up Marshall each time he gets the ball… and keep a close eye on his ball-runners, too. If the Gold Coast put Benji on lockdown, their chances of winning increase significantly.

Watch Out Wests Tigers: The Titans have an air of unpredictability about them now, following the loss of injured halfback Prince. The No.7 has played all of the Gold Coast’s matches this season… and as always has been their attacking linchpin. How will the Titans direct their attack without Princey? Who will be the Gold Coast’s go-to man in the opposition’s 20-metre zone? Time will tell, and there’ll need to be some guesswork from the Tigers defenders. That could well work in the Titans’ favour.

Danger Sign: The Titans, without their key playmaking star and most experienced player, enter this match as underdogs. But, as recent history shows us, that status won’t worry John Cartwright and his players. In Round 1 they upset the Cowboys in Townsville, and two weeks ago they defeated the Sea Eagles at Brookvale. The Titans will be quite happy if the Tigers are talked up in the lead-up to this clash.

Phil Graham v Tim Moltzen: They mightn’t embroil themselves in the kicking duels of days gone by but the modern-day No.1s still have a big bearing on match results, and they will in this clash. Journeyman utility back Phil Graham returns to the NRL for the Titans, named to make his first NRL appearance for the Gold Coast after stints with the Roosters and Canberra. Moltzen, the Tigers’ No.1, mightn’t have the experience of 145-gamer Graham, but he is a talent in his own right. Last season Moltzen played all 26 games for his team – scoring eight tries and making 12 line-breaks in the process.

Where It Will Be Won: Ball-handling and completed sets. Last start against the Broncos, the Titans capitulated in the first half, making seven errors and completing just 63 per cent of their sets to gift the Broncos a 20-0 lead at the break. In the second half their completion rate improved – jumping to 74 per cent – but by then it was too late. Exactly the opposite can be said of the Tigers’ last-start effort against the Eels. In the first half Tim Sheens’ men performed to plan, leading at the break 19-0 following a half that featuring just four errors and an 87 per cent completion rate. In the second half, as the Eels came surging back from 31-0 down to see a final scoreline of 31-30, the Tigers were scrappy, conceding eight errors and completing just 63 per cent of their sets. “Hold onto the ball, complete the sets, then look to score,” will be the message from both coaches. Whichever team does it better will win.

The History: Played 9, Gold Coast 5, Wests Tigers 4. The Titans enjoy playing the Tigers… especially on the Coast. At Skilled Park the Tigers have won just once, losing three times.

Last Time They Met: It was a Benji Marshall masterclass in Round 25, 2011, when the star five-eighth led the Tigers to a 39-10 win against the Titans. Marshall produced a five-star performance against the Gold Coast at Campbelltown, scoring a try and having a hand in four others just days after being cleared of an assault charge.

Missed tackles cruelled the visitors’ chances – they missed a whopping 52 attempts – and they also struggled with their completions, registering 63 per cent to the Tigers’ 75 per cent.

The Tigers ran their opposition ragged, registering a season-high 11 line-breaks and dominating territory 1597 metres to 1087 metres. Marshall made 187 metres by himself, as well as four line-breaks, while young prop Aaron Woods pounded out 166 metres.

For the Gold Coast, Preston Campbell tried hard (10 tackle-breaks) while Greg Bird added 108 metres with 40 tackles.

Match Officials: Referees – Gerard Sutton & Alan Shortall; Sideline Officials – Adam Reid and Peter Gough; Video Referee – Paul Mellor.

The Way We See It: The Titans have nothing to lose in this game – all the pressure is on the Wests Tigers who, with a victory, could make it three in a row. Benji Marshall’s Tigers should be too strong here… even if Skilled Park isn’t their favourite ‘away’ ground. Scott Prince’s injury is a big blow to the home side. Wests Tigers by 12.

[securitron_ch]

G'day guys, sorry to sneak into your camp but I'm a Tigers fan from Toowoomba and looking to bring the family to the coast for the game.

Can anyone suggest the best bays for Tigers fans (be nice:) ).
Also is there somewhere nearby reasonably priced to stay overnight.
Is the free bus from Firth park the best way to go?

Thanks and good luck.

Mort Bay :wave:

But in all seriousness sounds like they need all the fans of any type they can get to attend.

[Titanic]

I'm surprised Henderson isn't afflicted with the same injury as Sezer.

[matti]

And here i was thinking that Zilly was the "fittest" person in the team.....

[Princey's Titanz]

wtf. And i thought Prince's injury was bad. Now our whole spine is gone. Bird in the halves isnt going to create any spark. Its basically all down to Rankin and Srama to get the job done.

[decentrix]

Rest assured all titans fans!
Even if sezer and zillman are both injured, carty can just put in Henderson and O'Dwyer :D

[Titanic]

Rest assured all titans fans!
Even if sezer and zillman are both injured, carty can just put in Henderson and O'Dwyer :D

You forgot Michaels ;)

[GoldCoastTitans100]

I hope Sezer is fit, we need him and Rankin we don't have anyone who can get the job done apart from them.

[Steelers]

G'day guys, sorry to sneak into your camp but I'm a Tigers fan from Toowoomba and looking to bring the family to the coast for the game.

Can anyone suggest the best bays for Tigers fans (be nice:) ).
Also is there somewhere nearby reasonably priced to stay overnight.
Is the free bus from Firth park the best way to go?

Thanks and good luck.

Section 16 is the Away Supporters Bay so should be full of Bunji fans.
Try wotif.com for accommodation or ask one of the locals on here.
I've found when driving that parking at Mudgeeraba is the only option usless you park at Nerang station and catch the train to Robina.

[Tamwelg]

I hope Sezer is fit, we need him and Rankin we don't have anyone who can get the job done apart from them.

The news I've heard is that Sezer is good to go and Zillman will miss the game, so looks like Sezer and Rankin in the halfs. I'm very interested to see how they combined. I think not having Prince out there will force both of them to take a more commanding role and will give them a bit more freedom to play their games. Rankin needs a big game to show Carty he has what it takes.

[Titanic]

Totally agree and I just hope that Graham has some talk in him. I'm very interested to see how we go with a different FB talking them through. This game just took a positive turn, imvho.

[karnage]

Rankin and Sezar in the halves sounds exciting and atleast gives us a reason to go to the ground.

It is more likely that Carty will revert to his boring conservative gameplan though and play Bird at 5/8 and bring Henderson into the 17. I hope to God I'm wrong...

[Titan Dad]

Rankin and Sezar in the halves sounds exciting and atleast gives us a reason to go to the ground.

It is more likely that Carty will revert to his boring conservative gameplan though and play Bird at 5/8 and bring Henderson into the 17. I hope to God I'm wrong...

Loose Hendo, include BJ and then we are starting to look as though we are working towards the 5 year plan

[Titanic]

I can't get past the fact that our centres and two of our back three, with the exception of Mead are our real problem ... can't tackle, can't catch, don't pass and have no combination.

[teke]

There is no hiding the fact that our backs are a big problem.

[DavidBouveng]

once again fate and injuries have delivered us a team that carty couldnt.

im super excited about this, and the only thing better would be mead at FB also, but baby steps.

if we get a few weeks into the Rankin / Sezer Combo and its flowing nicely and Graham hasnt made a huge impression...could be time to test out MR Mead.

but im pumped to go watch the game now.

also, how many effing leg injuries are we getting. if i was part of our conditioning / fitness staff id be feeling a bit sheepish about now.

[GoldCoastTitans100]

The news I've heard is that Sezer is good to go and Zillman will miss the game, so looks like Sezer and Rankin in the halfs. I'm very interested to see how they combined. I think not having Prince out there will force both of them to take a more commanding role and will give them a bit more freedom to play their games. Rankin needs a big game to show Carty he has what it takes.

Thanks for the update ! :D

I think you could see a really entertaining game this week.

[heidstar]

once again fate and injuries have delivered us a team that carty couldnt.

im super excited about this, and the only thing better would be mead at FB also, but baby steps.

if we get a few weeks into the Rankin / Sezer Combo and its flowing nicely and Graham hasnt made a huge impression...could be time to test out MR Mead.

but im pumped to go watch the game now.

also, how many effing leg injuries are we getting. if i was part of our conditioning / fitness staff id be feeling a bit sheepish about now.

[Smakked]

once again fate and injuries have delivered us a team that carty couldnt.

im super excited about this, and the only thing better would be mead at FB also, but baby steps.

if we get a few weeks into the Rankin / Sezer Combo and its flowing nicely and Graham hasnt made a huge impression...could be time to test out MR Mead.

but im pumped to go watch the game now.

also, how many effing leg injuries are we getting. if i was part of our conditioning / fitness staff id be feeling a bit sheepish about now.

Im Gald your excited :frown:
Im far from it I can see tigers putting 30 - 40 on us, I hope i am wrong but thats how i feel, anyway i will still be at the game.

[Rage]

Some of the best games we've had is with Prince out. Let's hope that trend continues

[Smakked]

One positive is if we lose we still won't be on the bottom of the ladder LOL

[Titanic]

id be feeling a bit sheepish about now.

I am sure you mean "goat-ish" ;) and to be honest I don't mind if we get done as long as we are moving forward with the younger members and allowing the squad to try something creative.

[GoldCoastTitans100]

Im Gald your excited :frown:
Im far from it I can see tigers putting 30 - 40 on us, I hope i am wrong but thats how i feel, anyway i will still be at the game.

Im not ruling out that possibility but since the start of the season I have been waiting for Sezer and Rankin to play at HB and FE together.

[DavidBouveng]

I am sure you mean "goat-ish" ;) and to be honest I don't mind if we get done as long as we are moving forward with the younger members and allowing the squad to try something creative.


Im not ruling out that possibility but since the start of the season I have been waiting for Sezer and Rankin to play at HB and FE together.


yeah thats my point.

if we are gonna get done by 20 points, let it be for a purpose, in this case exposing our future halves to what they can expect shortly.

losing by 20 with stop gaps and fill ins and coaches pets is what pisses me off.

[DIEHARD]

Im excited by the possibilities that come with these changes. Not ideal but gives me something extra to look forward to.

Rankin and Sezer look like a next generation Titans halves pairing.

And a different fullback will certainly be interesting.

[Bayside Titan]

Im excited by the possibilities that come with these changes. Not ideal but gives me something extra to look forward to.

Rankin and Sezer look like a next generation Titans halves pairing.

And a different fullback will certainly be interesting.
Agree 100% .We now have the half pairing that we wanted. Let's get behind these boys and ride the change out. I'm excited about this combo.

[Titanic]

All right lads we are all agreed ... go the new generation and bugger the consequences ... game on!!!!

[DIEHARD]

All right lads we are all agreed ... go the new generation and bugger the consequences ... game on!!!!

Star Trek The Next Generation
Degrassi The New Generation
Titans The Next Generation

Ok, Im a nerd. :ugh:

[DIEHARD]

Oh crowd support, reports hoping we break 13,000 which would be significantly down on past games against the Tigpies.

Anyone got any PAX numbers out there?

Legion is listed as Limited Availability, which is a good sign.

[DIEHARD]

Gold Coast Titans v Wests Tigers
Skilled Stadium, Gold Coast, Saturday 7.30pm (AEST)

Last meeting: Round 25 2011 - Tigers 39 bt Titans 10 at Campbelltown Sports Stadium
Head-to-head: Titans 5 Tigers 4
Referees: Gerard Sutton, Alan Shortall
TV: Live, FoxSports 2 (red button)
TAB Sportsbet: Titans $3.65 Tigers $1.30
FootyTab: Titans +6.5

Greg Prichard writes: The Titans occasionally stick their heads up with a good performance, but with six losses to go with their two wins they are way back in 15th place. Their two wins came in difficult assignments on the road, against the Cowboys and Sea Eagles, and they are 0-4 at home. The Tigers are showing signs of a recovery, having beaten battlers the Panthers and Eels at their last two starts, but the jury is still out on them.

AAP writes: Two teams that are struggling to come to grips with the 2012 season so far. The Titans looked to have turned a corner against Manly two rounds ago, but fell right back to the bottom with last round's poor showing against Brisbane. The Tigers were in cruise control against the Eels but nearly blew a 31-0 lead with 13 minutes to go. Things seem to be picking up for Gold Coast off the field, but their fans deserve better than what has been dished up recently - the Titans have won just once in their past 12 games at home.

Key: The Titans desperately need more from their dormant outside backs. David Mead has done his part, but the likes of William Zillman, Kevin Gordon and Jamal Idris need to lift otherwise the Titans will find it hard to get on the scoreboard.

TITANS: Phil Graham, Kevin Gordon, Jamal Idris, Dominique Peyroux, David Mead, William Zillman, Aidan Sezer, Luke Bailey, Matt Srama, Nate Myles, Greg Bird, Luke O'Dwyer, Ashley Harrison. Interchange (from): Matthew White, Luke Douglas, Mark Minichiello, Bodene Thompson, Michael Henderson

TIGERS: Tim Moltzen, Beau Ryan, Joel Reddy, Chris Lawrence, Lote Tuqiri, Benji Marshall, Tom Humble, Aaron Woods, Robbie Farah (c), Keith Galloway, Adam Blair, Liam Fulton, Matt Bell. Interchange: Ben Murdoch-Masila, Blake Ayshford, Ray Cashmere, Junior Moors.

http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/rugby-league/

[DIEHARD]

Titans go red in support of Red Cross Blood Service

Gold Coast Titans are getting behind the Red Cross Blood Service's "Donate for Your State" challenge, with players to wear red adidas socks and the Titanettes to shake red pom poms at Saturday night's clash against the Wests Tigers at Skilled Park.

Jetstar Titans duo Mark Minichiello (NSW) and Ashley Harrison (QLD) have both experienced first hand the impact of donating blood in different ways and are urging both Queenslanders and New South Welshmen to get behind the cause.

Statistics from the Red Cross Blood Service show that one in three Australians will require blood in their lifetime but only one in 30 currently donate blood.

Minichiello knows first hand the importance of donating blood after his wife Milena had to have a blood transfusion after giving birth to the couple's first child Luca.

"My wife has been a regular donor since she was back at school,'' said Minichiello.

"We had a pretty tough time with the birth of our first son, Luca. She haemorrhaged pretty badly and lost a lot of blood. Thankfully there was enough blood there for a blood transfusion as she needed a fair bit of blood to get back on her feet.

"I'm very grateful that the Red Cross and the blood bank had enough blood there and I think it's a great cause for everyone to get out there and support.

"Especially with my wife being in the health profession, she knew the importance of giving blood and it came back full circle to help her out when she needed it.''

Minichiello said it was great that the entire Titans team would be wearing red socks to raise public awareness for the cause.

"The whole team will be wearing the red socks and I think it's a really great cause just to appeal to the public to get out there and donate blood. It's very important as there's a lot of sick people out there that need blood at different stages so I believe if we can do as much as we can to help the cause, then we are doing our little bit.''

Harrison's wife Majella is also a regular donor and the Maroons State of Origin forward urged Queenslanders to get behind the cause.

"My wife is a pretty regular donor and I always see her going off to get blood taken. It's just good to see we're going to support the cause and donating blood for their state by wearing the red adidas socks,'' said Harrison.

"The cheerleaders are going to have red pom poms as well so I think it'll be a bit of a sea of red out here tomorrow (Saturday) night.''

Source: http://www.titans.com.au

[DIEHARD]

I wonder what our record stands when we play wearing novelty socks.

[TITAN PETE]

I wonder what our record stands when we play wearing novelty socks.

What ever it is I'm sure it will improve after today's match....


Did u read that the inside word is Benji to fullback & Lawrence to 5/8 :surprise: , maybe just in defense as BM is as good a defender as Prince & Lawrence is a brick wall ...

[Titanic]

I think we are a novelty :thumbsup: and I'm wearing red jocks (possibly in the realms of too much information although I don't normally wear any).

[Smakked]

Our front row should dominate if we don't i won't be impressed ,tigers have the softest front line in the league .

[Princey's Titanz]

What ever it is I'm sure it will improve after today's match....


Did u read that the inside word is Benji to fullback & Lawrence to 5/8 :surprise: , maybe just in defense as BM is as good a defender as Prince & Lawrence is a brick wall ...

Benji is going to play halfback and Lawrence will play 5/8. I actually feel happy for Ayshford as he will get to play again.

[Steelers]

Star Trek The Next Generation

Luke Bailey is Captain Picard
Jamal Idris is Lt. Worf
David Mead is Geordi La Forge
Nate Myles is Commander Riker

[GoldCoastTitans100]

What ever it is I'm sure it will improve after today's match....


Did u read that the inside word is Benji to fullback & Lawrence to 5/8 :surprise: , maybe just in defense as BM is as good a defender as Prince & Lawrence is a brick wall ...

Lets hope they play Benji at FB :D

[timor 2]

Hi guys just about to leave our hotel room... Was talking to Adam Blair and beau Ryan this morning at breakfast and they are pretty confident that they are going to smash us.... I hope we win so I can say to them in the morning and say what happened to the flogging... Go titans...

[Jamal's Hamstring]

I just hope we can stop the Tigers putting up quick points... given our late game fades we can't afford a quick few tries against us in the first half.

Really looking forward to seeing Sezer and Rankin together.

[Steelers]

Just tuned in. Half an hour in and 14-0! What did I miss?

[tnkd]

Just tuned in. Half an hour in and 14-0! What did I miss?

The Sezer and Rankin show, thats what :)

Been a good start so far, let's not speak too soon, lot of game left

[Titanic]

White was fresh ... that's a poor chase and 6 points

[Titanic]

I have two comments on the first half. The first is that Peyroux is not a first grader and I would suggest that that's where Rankin could play. The second is that the starting forward pack needs Douglas.

Other observations: Bailey looks lethargic; Graham hasn't had to do much but looks ok; Sezer needs to steer the team around not Prince - he looks really good tonight.

[teke]

A game that hasnt reached any great heights at the moment.

It was poor defence to let Robbie in, we had the extra man and he still weasled through.

[teke]

I have two comments on the first half. The first is that Peyroux is not a first grader and I would suggets that that's where Rankin could play. The second is that the starting forward pack needs Douglas.

Other observations: Bailey looks lethargic; Graham hasn't had to do much but looks ok; Sezer needs to steer the team around not Prince - he looks really good tonight.Dom is not even looking to his wingman in attack, and not offering too much to when the highball goes up to Mead. The highball will keep coming that way in the next 40.

Its not a bad idea to half Rankin play there if he is up to the extra workload he is use to in defence.

[GoldCoastTitans100]

Sezer and Rankin are playing some good football and the team is responding to it !

Sezer and Rankin are running the ball, one thing Prince could not do and lets not forget they can tackle !

Prince on the sideline is the best thing that could have happened, lets sit back and watch Rankin and Sezer get better and better :D

But Peyroux needs to be dropped and Mead looks uncomfortable under the high ball.

[Titanic]

His first pass was ten feet behind Mead and the one for the try was a no-brainer and in between he bombed one by not passing; another by fumbling around; I totally agree he offers no protection; and his defence is rushing out of the line ... let's hope he goes better in the second stanza.

Agree, Mead's catching is woefull but I'll get shouted at for that ... lol.

[gotitans101]

According to NRL.com, Champion should be back from injury next week, so maybe he could fill that spot after tonight if he's ready.

[Boofhead]

Anyone who has ever supported Rankin is a fool. Putting it nice.

[Boofhead]

****ing piece of ****. That message was before that.

[Toads]

.. and that's exactly why it should be 'golden try'..

[tnkd]

Anyone who has ever supported Rankin is a fool. Putting it nice.

Speechless. Rankin, QLD Cup, Go, Now.

[Titanic]

I would have given the goose of the match to Idris ... missed tackles - no tackles - poor reads and pass to the opposition ... rubbish ... plus the bench was ineffectual - Thompson, O'Dwyer, White came on and did nothing at all.

Rankin had his moments as did Graham.

[GoldCoastTitans100]

Okay, I was wrong :doh:

It worries me that Rankin was good in the first half and sh!t in the second, it was not his fault his bomb lead to our FB being sent off, idris should have taken the tackle and the game would not have gown to golden point because tigers would not have got the breakaway.

[gotitans101]

Anyone who has ever supported Rankin is a fool. Putting it nice.

Idris was ****ing bad too. Lets Ashford in by running straight past him, then offloads to nobody to let Murdoch Masila run the length of the field. Oh, that's right - he also blew an easy try too.

Blame Rankin for that last play but Dudris was just as bad.

[GoldCoastTitans100]

Idris was ****ing bad too. Lets Ashford in by running straight past him, then offloads to nobody to let Murdoch Masila run the length of the field.

If Idris had run at Ashford instead of running across field we would have been so much better off !

[teke]

Agree, Mead's catching is woefull but I'll get shouted at for that ... lol.Well if there is noone around and he drops its then i would agree but he catching a contested ball, you know, contested?

That is one poorly coached side. Bad options left right and centre add to that some ref blunders and you have one spectacular game by the comps 98th & 99th placed team. Horrendous

[teke]

Idris was ****ing bad too. Lets Ashford in by running straight past him, then offloads to nobody to let Murdoch Masila run the length of the field. Oh, that's right - he also blew an easy try too.

Blame Rankin for that last play but Dudris was just as bad.Dog fans warned us of Idris bad online defending :nope:

[Knightstalker]

Another ****storm of a game. I somehow knew, even when we were leading 14-12 with seconds to go, we'd still ****ing lose!

[Jamal's Hamstring]

****ing Idris. Name change to Jamal's Defensive Effort please.

Really feel for Rankin.

Needs more BJ.

[GoldCoastTitans100]

Another ****storm of a game. I somehow knew, even when we were leading 14-12 with seconds to go, we'd still ****ing lose!

Everyone could see with 20 to go we would lose. :mad:

[Toads]

At least it was entertaining football for a change with a few less errors than normal.

[teke]

Everyone could see with 20 to go we would lose. :mad:Sadly I was expecting a loss even earlier than that

[GoldCoastTitans100]

****ing Idris. Name change to Jamal's Defensive Effort please.

Really feel for Rankin.

Needs more BJ.

I feel for Rankin only because if Idris did not throw the pass and taken the tackle and tackled instead of running past the try scorer Rankin would not have been in the situation he was.

[Jamal's Hamstring]

At least it was entertaining football for a change with a few less errors than normal.

LOL. It was like Keystone Cops.

[Jamal's Hamstring]

I feel for Rankin only because if Idris did not throw the pass and taken the tackle and tackled instead of running past the try scorer Rankin would not have been in the situation he was.

Looked like a pretty cut and dry dropped ball but still **** happens. Would be a shame if he gets the **** on the back of that.

[gotitans101]

Also did anyone else think we really missed Prince tonight?

I sure didn't.

[Toads]

Sadly I was expecting a loss even earlier than that

Lets be honest. Even before kick-off we knew we were pushing it uphill with a stick. It was probably more of a case the First Half restored some faith into us Fans early..

[securitron_ch]

****ing Idris. Name change to Jamal's Defensive Effort please.

Really feel for Rankin.

Needs more BJ.

I feel for Graham, had a pretty decent first up game then put in a farked spot where he has to get binned and sit out the end of the game to stop the Titans losing on the spot when we never should have put ourselves in that position in the first place.

[GoldCoastTitans100]

Looked like a pretty cut and dry dropped ball but still **** happens. Would be a shame if he gets the **** on the back of that.

Oh it was a terrible mistake by Rankin, but if Idris had done his job we would not have entered golden point.

[Toads]

LOL. It was like Keystone Cops.

Worst than last weeks effort?

[teke]

The set where we got caught with the ball on the 5th tackle while attacking inside was the game breaker, they went up the field on the back of a penalty that wasnt...scored a few mins later :nope:

[Jamal's Hamstring]

Also did anyone else think we really missed Prince tonight?

I sure didn't.

Time for Prince to go. Needs to walk away at the end of the year.

[thelwall]

i love sezer

[Toads]

Time for Prince to go. Needs to walk away at the end of the year.

At least relinquish conversion duties to Sezer..

[gotitans101]

Not saying he should go, just saying our halves really gave a courageous effort tonight despite Prince being injured. I REALLY think Sezer has a bright future ahead of him. He looks threatening whenever he gets the ball, even Rankin made some good runs tonight.

[GoldCoastTitans100]

Also did anyone else think we really missed Prince tonight?

I sure didn't.

Prince who?

Prince is like our PM, needs to stand aside

[Jamal's Hamstring]

Not saying he should go, just saying our halves really gave a courageous effort tonight despite Prince being injured. I REALLY think Sezar has a bright future ahead of him. He looks threatening whenever he gets the ball, even Rankin made some good runs tonight.

There is no point keeping him around in my humble opinion. We are a couple of years of even looking like challenging for the premiership so we may as well plan as such. The time is better investing in cementing a halves combination than persisting with a past his prime player.

What benefit does Prince give us in that scenario?

[Toads]

I don't want to see Prince go. That means he'd have his contract paid out, which would be a bit like a slap in the face.. :D

[Jamal's Hamstring]

Worst than last weeks effort?

As a whole- including efforts from us and them- yes.

They should have an option to mute the commentary and play the Benny Hill tune.

[Toads]

As a whole- including efforts from us and them- yes.

They should have an option to mute the commentary and play the Benny Hill tune.

****aye, I must've been watching a different game than you tonight. :p

EDIT: Ahh well, I'm not going to beat myself or anyone else up over it.. If you want to tear strips off team and players. Knock yourself out with it.. I found tonights effort more entertaining than last weeks effort. :)

[Jamal's Hamstring]

I'm just going to take a seat next to Titanic in the pessimist corner.

Speaking of which, someone should call him to make sure he doesn't harm himself.

[Princey's Titanz]

wtf just happened?

[teke]

I'm just going to take a seat next to Titanic in the pessimist corner.

Speaking of which, someone should call him to make sure he doesn't harm himself.Id have to be a quick one if he lives in china

[teke]

wtf just happened?same as last week :thumbsup:

[Toads]

minus the 20 odd point deficit..

[eelectrica]

Turning point was in the final 2 minutes where we decided to go in 'go slow' mode. Tigers were always going to get at least one more set.

We needed quick play the balls, wreck their defensive line, get a good kick away. Prefereably through the back of the dead ball line. Dictate terms.
Instead we allow there defense to set, kick charged down, game freakin' over!!

First half was good though, we actually looked like a team. First half is something to build on, defensively we were great in the second, but the kicking game completely collapsed.

[Jamal's Hamstring]

To be honest Toads I'm not sure there are many positives to be taken from that. The Tigers pretty much did everything they could to lose and we still got rolled... even after going ahead 14- zip.

[teke]

That was a very ordinary Tigers outfit tonight.

[Smakked]

Titans - Inventing New ways to lose since 2011

****in over it

[Princey's Titanz]

Minichiello pretty much summed it up in the post match interview.

[eelectrica]

Titans - Inventing New ways to lose since 2011

****in over it

I knew we were in trouble when the ref stopped play about us using go slow tactics.

[Toads]

To be honest Toads I'm not sure there are many positives to be taken from that. The Tigers pretty much did everything they could to lose and we still got rolled... even after going ahead 14- zip.

Yeah, no doubt. The Tiggers were off tonight. Though at moments we did seem to control the game (something I didn't notice against the Broncs), mainly in the first half. But as usual, silly mistakes crept into our game in the second.

That's pretty well the reason that I choose to say nothing in this thread during the game. Because it was half expected that we'd give it all up again in the final 40 minutes. If we broke away to a 30 point lead in the first half (stuff dreams are made of), I would've responded in this thread a lot earlier.. :p

[Jamal's Hamstring]

Hahaha. We definitely started well...

If we were playing sevens we'd probably be quite happy with this season.

[Princey's Titanz]

we cant play under pressure. Simple as that. We should have been able to kick into touch in the dying seconds and hold onto the footy but we seem to make errors during wrong times. Also there were too many charge downs of kicks.

I love Prince but i think his dominance in the halves overshadows Sezer. If we blood our youth now it will be great for us in the future. We should put Rankin at halfback and Sezer at 5/8.

Sezer had a great game. Rankin showed glimpses. If we work with this then we will be great for the future. But Carty will probably pick Zillman in the halves...

Another loss... Whats the difference? Im so used to losing.

[teke]

Commentators talking up Farahs game as being SOO worthy, as a Maroon I hope they pick him :D

[Jamal's Hamstring]

I love Prince but i think his dominance in the halves overshadows Sezer. If we blood our youth now it will be great for us in the future. We should put Rankin at halfback and Sezer at 5/8.

Sezer had a great game. Rankin showed glimpses. If we work with this then we will be great for the future. But Carty will probably pick Zillman in the halves...

Agreed 100% with this.

I can see Carty's team sheet already:

Out: Rankin, Douglas.
In: Zillman, Henderson

:doh:

[Toads]

Commentators talking up Farahs game as being SOO worthy, as a Maroon I hope they pick him :D

LOL yeah, I found that rather comical.. :laugh:

[teke]

Tigers forum is just as happy as this one.

They know their side is mud aswell :D

[TITAN PETE]

It was a very exciting match for anyone at the game but feel for Rankin , his charge down & then dropped ball cost us the match & if he's gone for the season then so be it , but for the few saying "Scott Who" are kidding yourselves he is a must as a half fit Prince wouldv never had us in that situation ..

Sezar was excellent & Bird wasn't far behind , Mini played his best game this season but if BJ isn't picked next week then We have problems..

Tigers were average & are no more of a chance of winning the comp then we are.

[Boofhead]

Sezer


Prince
































































Rankin

[Jamal's Hamstring]

for the few saying "Scott Who" are kidding yourselves he is a must as a half fit Prince wouldv never had us in that situation ..

There's a few games this year that would disagree with you. And by a few I mean every one except for the Cowboys and Manly effort.

[teke]

It was a very exciting match for anyone at the game but feel for Rankin , his charge down & then dropped ball cost us the match & if he's gone for the season then so be it , but for the few saying "Scott Who" are kidding yourselves he is a must as a half fit Prince wouldv never had us in that situation ..

Sezar was excellent & Bird wasn't far behind , Mini played his best game this season but if BJ isn't picked next week then We have problems..

Tigers were average & are no more of a chance of winning the comp then we are.I hope Rankin isnt gone for the season, the team just hasnt had enough *insert whatever in here* drilled into them.

[Jamal's Hamstring]

I hope Rankin isnt gone for the season, the team just hasnt had enough *how to play rugby league* drilled into them.

I think that just about covers it.

[DavidBouveng]

i cant be bothered saying much, but i am not too dirty on the players.

it was a ****storm last 4 minutes and that was where the inexperience in our halves showed.

for the most part they we really good, just needed to take one or more opportunities earlier to make sure we werent in that pressure situation.

another thing. Graham was pretty darn good i thought. especially in defense and helping the line with talk from the back. and he looked a clip quicker to get to a ball or to assist a tackle than Zillman ever has.

i would be leaving him there if possible.

[teke]

I think that just about covers it.:D

My new signature :thumbsup:

[DavidBouveng]

also if it makes anyone feel better, the suns lost in the last few minutes and they had less than 12k there tonight. for those not at our game we had 14,300

[Toads]

Rankin does have something there, he's pretty good with the boot for one.. To me, it seems his errors are a combo of nerves and trying to play the game too quickly. Something that can only be eliminated from his game with more experience at the top level. Whether if he gets that chance ever again, is another thing.. *shrugs*

[Rage]

I don't really blame Rankin, it's Idris pass right to the Tiger's player where he then ran 90m that lost us the game

[teke]

Lote seems to be a liability to me.

Tigers would get much more use out of Utai as an example

[teke]

I think there were 2 critical penalties against the Titans in the 2nd half that had some impact.

[DavidBouveng]

I don't really blame Rankin, it's Idris pass right to the Tiger's player where he then ran 90m that lost us the game

not sure if that was rankin or sezer who kicked it, but i think the even bigger error than jamals pass, was putting up a cross field kick in the first place. its had to be a grubber behind the line to force a drop out, a mistake or worst case they play the ball 1m out from there line.

a bomb only could maybe score a try, but usually give them a tap on the 20m.

inexperience cost us there. and i can wear that. part of having a young halves pairing is seeing some youthful errors. i still think there was heaps to like about rankin and sezers game. sezer is more polished and will stay in the 6 when prince comes back. but Rankin will get another shot and i hope he is learning from all of this.

[Jamal's Hamstring]

Lote was terrible...

[DavidBouveng]

also, can anyone confirm whether Graham toucher that kick that went into touch and they gave tigers the feed?

looked like an airswing to me, although it could have grazed the leg.

we also did ALOT of line defense tonight and looked more solid than any time i can remember since 09 or so

[karnage]

I enjoyed a pretty good night at the footy tonight and it has been a VERY long time since I have been able to say that. It was a low skill game for sure and any other team in the comp other than Parra or Penrith would have covered the Tigers tonight but atleast it was close and exciting with a decent atmosphere.

I'm not too dirty on Rankin - when you have young halves stuff like that is going to happen, he showed enough to say that he is a pretty decent player.

Graham on the other hand I am dirty on. His form at Q Cup level absolutely did not warrant selection in first grade and yet Carty put him in there anyway. When you put players in the team who are not playing well in the 'minors' that is what happens. He was pathetic. Peyroux wasn't far behind.

Srama is not the player we all want him to be either. His service is average and his decision making his poor. He has a hell of a lot of developing to do and every week that Cartwright remains our coach is another week where he will not be getting the mentoring that he needs/deserves.

A painful loss, but an enjoyable night at the footy.

[DavidBouveng]

Lote was terrible...

Yeah lote has to give it away.

i still maintain he cost us the world cup in 2010 (excluding the 8 metre forward pass)

he got turned around twice in last 10 minutes and let in 2 tries that night.

[Titanic]

Ah ha hindsight is wonderful thing. For those worried about my state of mind, relax ... as I have posted this week I didn't expect too much but was just happy that the young guys got a go together. Also if you want to give me a call then no worries, reverse the charges ... always happy to have a little rant

[karnage]

I didn't mention Idris. He is a USELESS FAT PR!CK.

He didn't even try to lay a hand on Ashford when he scored on him in the second half, he was pathetically lazy on kick chases and he bombed a clear chance at a try when he grassed Gordon's pass back on the inside. I bet if Gordon had thrown the FAT PR!CK a kebab instead of a footy he would have had no worries catching that!!

[DavidBouveng]

I enjoyed a pretty good night at the footy tonight and it has been a VERY long time since I have been able to say that. It was a low skill game for sure and any other team in the comp other than Parra or Penrith would have covered the Tigers tonight but atleast it was close and exciting with a decent atmosphere.

I'm not too dirty on Rankin - when you have young halves stuff like that is going to happen, he showed enough to say that he is a pretty decent player.

Graham on the other hand I am dirty on. His form at Q Cup level absolutely did not warrant selection in first grade and yet Carty put him in there anyway. When you put players in the team who are not playing well in the 'minors' that is what happens. He was pathetic. Peyroux wasn't far behind.

Srama is not the player we all want him to be either. His service is average and his decision making his poor. He has a hell of a lot of developing to do and every week that Cartwright remains our coach is another week where he will not be getting the mentoring that he needs/deserves.

A painful loss, but an enjoyable night at the footy.

OMG, karnage youve changed mate, i like the old Karnage better... lol jokesmate.

glad you enjoyed it. i had a good night too, shame we lost but at least we blooded some kids and saw that they werent out of there depth.

i didnt mind graham personally. but ill see again on TV i guess. Peyroux was dreadful, i was bagging him for not passing, then saw him pass....:( and understood why he doesnt. we did get mead at fullback for 3 mins in extra time :D . no touches though.

[teke]

I enjoyed a pretty good night at the footy tonight and it has been a VERY long time since I have been able to say that. It was a low skill game for sure and any other team in the comp other than Parra or Penrith would have covered the Tigers tonight but atleast it was close and exciting with a decent atmosphere.

I'm not too dirty on Rankin - when you have young halves stuff like that is going to happen, he showed enough to say that he is a pretty decent player.

Graham on the other hand I am dirty on. His form at Q Cup level absolutely did not warrant selection in first grade and yet Carty put him in there anyway. When you put players in the team who are not playing well in the 'minors' that is what happens. He was pathetic. Peyroux wasn't far behind.

Srama is not the player we all want him to be either. His service is average and his decision making his poor. He has a hell of a lot of developing to do and every week that Cartwright remains our coach is another week where he will not be getting the mentoring that he needs/deserves.

A painful loss, but an enjoyable night at the footy.I agree about Srama, his service is not very good at all and tonight his decision making was off.

I like what I see from Sezer though.

Posters on the Tigers forum said that the Titans lost it rather than Tigers winning it, I agree.

[karnage]

OMG, karnage youve changed mate, i like the old Karnage better... lol jokesmate.

glad you enjoyed it. i had a good night too, shame we lost but at least we blooded some kids and saw that they werent out of there depth.

i didnt mind graham personally. but ill see again on TV i guess. Peyroux was dreadful, i was bagging him for not passing, then saw him pass....:( and understood why he doesnt. we did get mead at fullback for 3 mins in extra time :D . no touches though.

You haven't read my Idris post then!!!!!!!!!!!!!:laugh: :thumbsup:

[DavidBouveng]

srama has a tiny bit of swagger in his game that he hasnt earnt yet.

just the way he dummies or takes an option that isnt on just rubs me wrong sometimes. hope hes not reading his own press cos he seems a humble kid.

[teke]

I didn't mention Idris. He is a USELESS FAT PR!CK.

He didn't even try to lay a hand on Ashford when he scored on him in the second half, he was pathetically lazy on kick chases and he bombed a clear chance at a try when he grassed Gordon's pass back on the inside. I bet if Gordon had thrown the FAT PR!CK a kebab instead of a footy he would have had no worries catching that!!hahahaha :laugh: :laugh:

That Beale try last week (even 2 mtrs) forward was the result of Idris daydreaming on the tryline, add in tonights try and the cow prod should come out.

[DavidBouveng]

You haven't read my Idris post then!!!!!!!!!!!!!:laugh: :thumbsup:

Haha i hadnt. glad to have you back, wasnt more than 5 minutes but i missed you.

[Jamal's Hamstring]

I didn't mention Idris. He is a USELESS FAT PR!CK.

He didn't even try to lay a hand on Ashford when he scored on him in the second half, he was pathetically lazy on kick chases and he bombed a clear chance at a try when he grassed Gordon's pass back on the inside. I bet if Gordon had thrown the FAT PR!CK a kebab instead of a footy he would have had no worries catching that!!

The woman giving Jamal a mouthful who was caught by the telecast was hilarious. It was just after the try.

[TITAN PETE]

I agree about Srama, his service is not very good at all and tonight his decision making was off.

I like what I see from Sezer though.

Posters on the Tigers forum said that the Titans lost it rather than Tigers winning it, I agree.

His 40 tackles were pretty handy , nothing to do with our match but our previous Tackling machine in Friendy broke his jaw tonight in the 3rd minute & played 80 making 53 tackles :surprise: ...

[gotitans101]

The woman giving Jamal a mouthful who was caught by the telecast was hilarious. It was just after the try.

I gotta see that. :laugh: :laugh:

[TITAN PETE]

Idriss should be playing for Burleigh for a week or 3

[DavidBouveng]

14,300 crowd is a good thing to come out of tonight, if we could get some 18000s by end of year thats pretty decent in this climate i think.

[Titanic]

Player assessment:

1. Graham deserves another chance ... some really poor bounces and Gordon got in his way badly for that almost airswing.
2. Gordon ... good jump but far from fit imho
3. Peyroux ... QCup beckons and I still think that Rankin with some space and less pressure can do the job there.
4. Idris ... to the bench and put Zillman there. Idris I am lost for words ... he's just so unfit.
5. Mead needs a centre who will put him away but he is not a fullback.
6. Rankin ... as above but I thought he had a good go, obvious errors aside.
7. Sezer will be great for a long time at 6 and needs some time outside Prince because Cartwright can't give him anything.
8. Bailey looked like he had the flu ... not knocking him but took a long time to get going and didn't bend the defence like we expect.
9. Srama needs to stop reading the newspapers. He has the goods but be careful Falloon is back real soon.
10. Myles was fine but to the second row and Douglas starting please.
11. Bird ... what would we do without him.
12. O'Dwyer ... sorry bud but the QCup is for you.
13. Harrison ... first game back and played like it.

14. White ... sorry bud QCup is for you and bring back Lawrence please.
15. Douglas starting please and put James/Page here thanks
16. Minichiello but come off the bench on the right hand side.
17. Thompson digitus extractus or Jamal's big **** will knock you off the bench

[teke]

His 40 tackles were pretty handy , nothing to do with our match but our previous Tackling machine in Friendy broke his jaw tonight in the 3rd minute & played 80 making 53 tackles :surprise: ...I watched Friend closely tonight, his service and decision making is what lil Matty should be striving for. I thought Friend looked uncomfortably coming off a few tackles during the game.

What about McCulloughs 68 tackles, jeepers :surprise:

[teke]

Player assessment:

1. Graham deserves another chance ... some really poor bounces and Gordon got in his way badly for that almost airswing.
2. Gordon ... good jump but far from fit imho
3. Peyroux ... QCup beckons and I still think that Rankin with some space and less pressure can do the job there.
4. Idris ... to the bench and put Zillman there. Idris I am lost for words ... he's just so unfit.
5. Mead needs a centre who will put him away but he is not a fullback.
6. Rankin ... as above but I thought he had a good go, obvious errors aside.
7. Sezer will be great for a long time at 6 and needs some time outside Prince because Cartwright can't give him anything.
8. Bailey looked like he had the flu ... not knocking him but took a long time to get going and didn't bend the defence like we expect.
9. Srama needs to stop reading the newspapers. He has the goods but be careful Falloon is back real soon.
10. Myles was fine but to the second row and Douglas starting please.
11. Bird ... what would we do without him.
12. O'Dwyer ... sorry bud but the QCup is for you.
13. Harrison ... first game back and played like it.

14. White ... sorry bud QCup is for you and bring back Lawrence please.
15. Douglas starting please and put James/Page here thanks
16. Minichiello but come off the bench on the right hand side.
17. Thompson digitus extractus or Jamal's big **** will knock you off the benchYou would give Graham another chance over Zillman?

[TITAN PETE]

I watched Friend closely tonight, his service and decision making is what lil Matty should be striving for. I thought Friend looked uncomfortably coming off a few tackles during the game.

What about McCulloughs 68 tackles, jeepers :surprise:

Massive the guy is a future star, huge effort from the Donkeys without Wallace for more than half the match... But I still hate the Wayne Carrs

[DavidBouveng]

Player assessment:

1. Graham deserves another chance ... some really poor bounces and Gordon got in his way badly for that almost airswing.
2. Gordon ... good jump but far from fit imho
3. Peyroux ... QCup beckons and I still think that Rankin with some space and less pressure can do the job there.
4. Idris ... to the bench and put Zillman there. Idris I am lost for words ... he's just so unfit.
5. Mead needs a centre who will put him away but he is not a fullback.
6. Rankin ... as above but I thought he had a good go, obvious errors aside.
7. Sezer will be great for a long time at 6 and needs some time outside Prince because Cartwright can't give him anything.
8. Bailey looked like he had the flu ... not knocking him but took a long time to get going and didn't bend the defence like we expect.
9. Srama needs to stop reading the newspapers. He has the goods but be careful Falloon is back real soon.
10. Myles was fine but to the second row and Douglas starting please.
11. Bird ... what would we do without him.
12. O'Dwyer ... sorry bud but the QCup is for you.
13. Harrison ... first game back and played like it.

14. White ... sorry bud QCup is for you and bring back Lawrence please.
15. Douglas starting please and put James/Page here thanks
16. Minichiello but come off the bench on the right hand side.
17. Thompson digitus extractus or Jamal's big **** will knock you off the bench

agree with most.

bodene had his worst game for us this year i think. usually adds spark. but tonight he, and the rest of the bench, didnt add much at all. douglas needs to start though.

i think Graham had alot of composure and helped our defense ALOT, beckoning and calling players out more than ive ever seen Zillman do.

I think we were more of a team tonight, and i would say out of our last three games, we have played 5 out of 6 halves quite well. just the cluster**** of errors against brisbane was our lowpoint.

we are streets ahead of penrith, parra and should be beating teams like canberra , roosters and tigers. even newcastle.if we keep improving, we will be a team worthy of the lower end of top 8, but without enough early season points to get there.

[Titanic]

Yeah mate ... I don't like Zillman at all at fullback. I think he doesn't read the game very well and doesn't talk enough but I think we need him at left centre ... but that's just me.

I agree with a lot of the positives on here too and feel we turned a corner in team dynamics tonight.

[teke]

Yeah mate ... I don't like Zillman at all at fullback. I think he doesn't read the game very well and doesn't talk enough but I think we need him at left centre ... but that's just me.

I agree with a lot of the positives on here too and feel we turned a corner in team dynamics tonight.I must say that was the most errors I recall from Graham in a match, he is usually fairly solid at FB but his form hasnt required a call up from Q Cup and def not in place of Zilly. If it means getting Idris out of left centre then Im all for Zilly there :D

If Zilly or Graham or whoever else are FBs then Mead def is, I have seen him play very well in Q Cup and against the Aussies at that position. Lets face it, why hope for someone to pass it to him on the wing when he can get it whenever he wants.

[shamus]

I didn't mention Idris. He is a USELESS FAT PR!CK.

He didn't even try to lay a hand on Ashford when he scored on him in the second half, he was pathetically lazy on kick chases and he bombed a clear chance at a try when he grassed Gordon's pass back on the inside. I bet if Gordon had thrown the FAT PR!CK a kebab instead of a footy he would have had no worries catching that!!

Well I prefer to be a little more diplomatic than you Karnage..........I sort of said the same thing a few weeks back (but was less forthcoming). For the money the guy is on his workrate should be 10 fold!

........and that freakin' release (pass some would call it) on the 5th with minutes to go was a brain snap!

[Titanic]

He plays that way for PNG because they are in awe of him and give him the ball twice every set. He is a great right wing, even if he can't catch ... I take the point that he is catching under pressure but if you go back over his games he is a 50/50 without the pressure.

Regarding Graham, everybody should get a chance to redeem themselves and he is a first grader who has been languishing.

[shamus]

I forgive Graham.........first game back in the NRL this year.
I forgive Rankin..........the guy is only 21 and can only improve.
I forgive Idress...........coz he is a big bastard and may recognise me.

[DavidBouveng]

we cant discount rankin as a FB still either.

if prince is really gonna play till 2014, we need to find a spot for rankin and he looks good in the line, just needs to release that long ball to the wing sometimes instead of cutting back in.

he just shows a bit of spunk and with srama, prince, sezer and rankin we would be a team with multiple points of attack.

i feel like its a long way off, maybe we need injuries to force our hand there as well.

but in meantime, zillman/graham as a solid option with sezer srama and prince is still quite flavoursome.

im more happy that we look to be united and 'digging' in for each other.

[teke]

He plays that way for PNG because they are in awe of him and give him the ball twice every set. He is a great right wing, even if he can't catch ... I take the point that he is catching under pressure but if you go back over his games he is a 50/50 without the pressure.

Regarding Graham, everybody should get a chance to redeem themselves and he is a first grader who has been languishing.Bias aside 50/50 without pressure? I have every game of his ever played and that's not true at all.

He has only played 4 times at FB for PNG, Im talking about the 10+ games straight in Q Cup, he is very capable of playing FB well. Shannon Walker gets a go, Presto gets a go, Zilly gets a go, Rankin gets a go and Graham gets a go but Mead doesnt because of a hunch....hmmm. I think its more contractual than anything else.

[DavidBouveng]

I forgive Graham.........first game back in the NRL this year.
I forgive Rankin..........the guy is only 21 and can only improve.
I forgive Idress...........coz he is a big bastard and may recognise me.

lol, well played.

but seriously, how long till someone addresses the elephant in the room and says hey big guy...Lose some ****ing weight and get fit! your an athlete who gets paid well to play football AND prepare yourself as professionally as possible to do so.

He cant do it mid season without having a block of like 6 games off, but even then he needs a full off season and continued dedication to it. it would be an awesome sight if he could pull it off, but im not holding my breath

[teke]

.
I forgive Idress...........coz he is a big bastard and may recognise me.:laugh:

Recognise your voice from the abuse directed his way?

[DavidBouveng]

Bias aside 50/50 without pressure? I have every game of his ever played and that's not true at all.

He has only played 4 times at FB for PNG, Im talking about the 10+ games straight in Q Cup, he is very capable of playing FB well. Shannon Walker gets a go, Presto gets a go, Zilly gets a go, Rankin gets a go and Graham gets a go but Mead doesnt because of a hunch....hmmm. I think its more contractual than anything else.

Can you explain this a bit more? you mean his, or zillmans contract?

[Supergoose]

I don't know what our right wing options are, but I'm definitely keen to see Mead get a lot more ball. a move to fullback is now a must. Idris is being hamstrung by being on the left side. He must be moved to the right. Maybe put Champion at right wing. I'd have Zillman at left centre and either Champion right wing or Rankin at fullback with Mead at either or depending which one got the nod. I was shattered at fulltime after We through away victory against those soulless clowns. agree that White was terrible Ridge and Lawrence must be close to a recall.

[bigjim]

I'm sorry, I've tried to be positive but please. OuR team has done everything to stuff up a win. We are in front until the final kick of the game. They don't seem to understand the concept of hang onto the ball and play percentage.
Iv'e had it, they are not getting none of my hard earned money until they start using their heads.

[DavidBouveng]

night guys, good chatting to you all.

shame about the finish to the game, but seeing our 2 tyros go at it and a team building some soul has me keen to go back again and cant wait for next week.

laters.

[SassySezza-87]

such a good game from the boys tonight they all played so well and i think they deserved to win by far :l so proud of them all such a bummer it ended that way. Its our turn next time :D :salute:

[TitansFan2020]

I don't know what our right wing options are, but I'm definitely keen to see Mead get a lot more ball. a move to fullback is now a must. Idris is being hamstrung by being on the left side. He must be moved to the right. Maybe put Champion at right wing. I'd have Zillman at left centre and either Champion right wing or Rankin at fullback with Mead at either or depending which one got the nod. I was shattered at fulltime after We through away victory against those soulless clowns. agree that White was terrible Ridge and Lawrence must be close to a recall. Iknow im starteing so sound like im beating a dead horse but how about lausii Taliauli? Scored as many tries as games played this year, averaging over 100m Gained and is a 6'5 110 kg speed machine... Give him a spell? haha

[shamus]

:laugh:

Recognise your voice from the abuse directed his way?

Nah...I have bumped into him twice recently and haven't had the balls to say to his face what I say on here.......I guess there is a small positive to the internet after all.

I like the guy..........I just think he may pay to much attention to the media. He just needs to focus on his footy....I don't know how contracts are written but if I was drawing up a contract there would be a clause that if you don't perform (or if you put on in excess of 5 kgs) you can be sacked with no 'payout'. I am unsure how you would work out the 'don't perform' part as the argument coming from the player is that I done by best so take me to court....

[teke]

Iknow im starteing so sound like im beating a dead horse but how about lausii Taliauli? Scored as many tries as games played this year, averaging over 100m Gained and is a 6'5 110 kg speed machine... Give him a spell? hahaNYC stats doesnt mean much at NRL level but Im with you, he could be a decent option if that position becomes vacant.

[Smakked]

We would be screwed even more without Bird, he is a machine, always puts in 110%. Rankin has nothing he should be gone, Sezer is looking good so far only 2 games in. Idris needs to be put on a diet and train him 10 hours a day, i think we would have won if prince was on the field, experience in this situations is always a good thing. The team seemed a little flat tonight, forwards didn't seem to bend the line like in previous weeks, but a lose is still a lose, after tonights effort i bet Panthers and Eels are looking forward to playing us.

[Boonarga]

Rant time.
Just home from a 4hr drive and yet another surrender by the Titans.
Cartwright has to go.
Rankin, don't you worry too much son. If it wasn't for Idris you wouldn't have been in that position.

Idris should be playing QLD cup next week. That was an atrocious game. The poor read in defense letting that first try in? Players like Myles and Bailey must cry themselves to sleep at night that they have to play with you.

A hypothetical.... Mal Meninga catches that bomb instead of Idris. What happens next. I'll tell you exactly. He would have tried to power over the line and not thrown a STUPID pass! Idris has the same size as Meninga but none of the football brain. It could be coached into him but Cartwright is our coach! Catch 22.

Screw this. I'm not going to another game while he remains as coach.

[securitron_ch]

I don't want Mead moved. Why mess with one of the things that is actually working.

I thought Graham was fine, we look better in defence with him there and he looks more likely to make line breaks than Zillman.

Idris just needs to go to the right. The longer this "experiment" goes on the more it becomes clear he is all at sea on the left. Zillman at left centre for mine.

[Princey's Titanz]

Sezer looks like he can lead the team. He looks to be comfortable in first grade. I cant believe Bulldogs let go off him. Cant believe they also let go off Thurston.

Imagine Thurston and Sezer in the halves for the Bulldogs. :thumbsup:

They would easily be premiership contenders. Lucky for us we have Sezer. He is the future of the club.

[Julius Sezer]

Sezer looked like leading the team. I think Minichiello mentioned that Sezer will take the club further

[Titanic]

Sorry Teke, I had guests last night and had to show at least some hospitality.

You know I'm a Mead fan but I just think he is a better wing than FB but I'm happy enough to agree to disagree ... will Cartwright give him a go? A blind person may as well try and guess what colour jelly bean they pick in a lucky dip.

[Rage]

Wayne Heming AAP Sun, May 06, 2012 - 1:13 PM

Veteran forward Mark Minichiello declared gutted youngster Jordan Rankin was part of the future of a Gold Coast club that would move on after Saturday night's shattering golden point loss to the Wests Tigers.

Minichiello and his teammates rallied behind a crestfallen Rankin assuring him he was not to blame for the side's demoralising 15-14 loss to the Tigers at Skilled Park after leading 14-0 until late in the first half.

The 20 year-old, whose fumble in the second minute of extra time allowed Tigers captain Robbie Farah to win the game with a field goal, cut a glum figure after the game as teammates did their best to console him.

It was the Titans' 12th home loss in their past 14 games.

Injuries to Scott Prince (biceps) and William Zillman (hamstring) forced the Titans to field Rankin and inexperienced 21 year-old Aidan Sezer in the halves against the Tigers pairing of Benji Marshall and Chris Lawrence who've both played at representative level.

"It wasn't his fault at all ... he made one mistake at a crucial time but it could have been any one of us," said Minichiello.

"We got in that position as a team and we should have won the game well before that.

"He made the mistake but we should have had a lot more pressure on Robbie Farah.

"You're in extra time and you don't give someone like him so much time to kick the ball, that was pretty lazy on our behalf."

"Jordan will be a better player for the experience and Aidan will definitely be better for playing in a game like that.

"Those two guys are probably going to be the future halves taking this club forward so it's a good character building experience for them both."

Coach John Cartwright and captain Luke Bailey refused to put the loss down to Rankin's dropped ball or the charge down of his kick which resulted in the penalty in front of the posts by Benji Marshal to tie the game up 14-all.

"I told him just to remember the things he did well," said Bailey.

"He didn't lose us the game. We didn't put enough pressure on Robbie Farah under the posts."

Cartwright also lamented the amount of time Farah had to pot the match winner after executing coach Tim Sheens's two pass tactic the pair rehe****d at training all week in case of such a scenario.

"We had three 20 year-olds out there in key positions and it didn't come down to one thing," said Cartwright.

Cartwright meanwhile backed lock Ashley Harrison to retain his Queensland Origin jumper as "the best player on the field".

[gotitans101]

I hope they don't hook Rankin for this. For those blaming last night's loss solely on him need to go back and watch the game again. If anyone needs a vacation back to QLD cup it's Idris along with Peyroux. Can't believe we payed so much for that defensive liability Idris.

[TITAN PETE]

I hope they don't hook Rankin for this. For those blaming last night's loss solely on him need to go back and watch the game again. If anyone needs a vacation back to QLD cup it's Idris along with Peyroux. Can't believe we payed so much for that defensive liability Idris.

Agree Rank needs another chance but give me a defensive Peyroux over any other centre we have at e moment :thumbsup:

[teke]

Iknow im starteing so sound like im beating a dead horse but how about lausii Taliauli? Scored as many tries as games played this year, averaging over 100m Gained and is a 6'5 110 kg speed machine... Give him a spell? haha


Agree Rank needs another chance but give me a defensive Peyroux over any other centre we have at e moment :thumbsup:Which begs the question - where is Champion, so far our newly recruited centres have done zip, actually probably done worse than zip

[Titanic Believer]

NYC stats doesnt mean much at NRL level but Im with you, he could be a decent option if that position becomes vacant.


I have only saw him play once, against the Roosters. The 20s got hammered but I kept a close eye on him. By my count he only got the ball twice from dummy half, didn't go looking for work even though the team was struggling. I dont know where his averages are coming from. For a twenties player to graduate to the NRL level he should be outstanding in his age level.

[patskE]

heart broken :(
sigh at grahman... shouldnt of been in the side. zzzz
i thought sezer n rankin went well. i dont blame rankin for the lost, i blame grahman more then him

[lambdalogan]

Yeah guys, the blame for this loss should by no means be attributed to Jordo. Don't get me wrong, he hardly had a perfect game, but he certainly doesn't deserve the flak he has copped in the earlier sections of this thread. It has very accurately been noted here we had far worse players on much bigger pay packets.

[Rage]

To be fair, I don't think anyone in this thread has blamed Rankin for the loss. Most seem to put the blame on Idris (which I agree with) and Graham (which I don't agree with).

[Titanic]

I agree with your not agreeing.

[Chaos]

It has very accurately been noted here we had far worse players on much bigger pay packets.

Pay packets should have nothing to do with it...as they run on the field, they are 17 players all playing there're own role to win a football game.

Not only do fans get hung up on players they didn't want to sign...they also grow a hatred towards them and critisise them every game.

[teke]

I have only saw him play once, against the Roosters. The 20s got hammered but I kept a close eye on him. By my count he only got the ball twice from dummy half, didn't go looking for work even though the team was struggling. I dont know where his averages are coming from. For a twenties player to graduate to the NRL level he should be outstanding in his age level.I agree he should be outstanding at his age level before going up, Q Cup is a very big step from under 20s...that's where he will be tested.