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DeeGan
03-03-06, 11:57 AM
Titans: What position should we focus on next?

Now have our established half (who just so happens to be amongst the best in the game) signed, where do we look to next?

Before we started recruitment, I was of the opinion we needed to ensure the following was covered:

Halfback

Prop

Hooker

Fullback

The half, hooker and fullback touch the ball more than any player in the team and they need to be highly skilled in order for us to succeed. The signing of a top prop is mandatory as he is the man you build around on and starts the forward momentum. All great sides have a very good to great prop, in Bailey we have the box ticked.

Prince's credentials speak for themselves and whilst Friend is not known by many, good judges rate him highly and if not for a certain Cameron Smith at Melbourne, he would be a regular starter for Bellamy.

That leaves fullback.

I think Clinton Greenshields is a quality player and he has expressed interest in coming here to the Titans. I would sign him if I was asked for a preference. Greenshields is a throwback fullback (in the Garry Jack mould) and gives you confidence at the back in attack or defence. He will not tear a team apart like a Bowen or Minichello, though he will ensure the last line of defence is solid with minimal mistakes.

Richie Mathers I have been watching this season (2 from 3 games) and I know he is up to NRL level - simple as that. It may take a little time to adjust though he is a quality fullback and the best in the UK for mine.

In summary, I think we now turn our attention to fullback and another solid prop to partner Bailey with Laffranchi in the back row. Ideally we would have three quality props to form a solid rotations.

Off the field, Billy Johnstone is our priority - let's hope we can get our man there as well.

Thoughts?

DIEHARD
03-03-06, 12:00 PM
Props!!!

Titanium_BD1103
03-03-06, 12:03 PM
A Fullback.. :)

I reckon Greenshields would be a great choice.. or even perhaps Brett Oliver from the Bulldogs..as much as wouldn't want to see him go.. if the Doggies can't keep him under salary cap.. then it would please me no end to see this future star end up at the Titans.. :D :D

lonegull
03-03-06, 12:07 PM
i throw a centre into the ring havent heard much talk what centres that the titans a looking at fullback is another one but i think mathers is on his way really top prospect and knows how to score a try and defence he is a good as any, and i do agree billy johnstone is who we go after next really need him the best there is

Titanium_BD1103
03-03-06, 12:10 PM
I reckon if Tahu is not happy with Hagan at Parramatta and is off contract.. GET HIM.. GET HIM.. I reckon it would be absolutely awesome to have him at the Titans and what an asset that would be... :D :D

Part of my dream Titans RL2 Team and would be great to see him at GC... :)

lonegull
03-03-06, 12:12 PM
Tahu good footballer actually comes from where I live but to injury prone

DeeGan
03-03-06, 12:15 PM
I am not sure Tahu will be affordable though with Hagan coming to the Eels (which Tahu was not reportedly happy about) he might play elsewhere for less money.

Stranger things have happened, the signing of Prince is attractive to any outside back especially with Preston at five-eight.

From the Eels, I am more interested in the young Brett Delaney who has a huge future in the game IMO.

Dakink
03-03-06, 12:18 PM
Im thinking fullback as well, though a good center is a must. They arent exactly thick on the ground at the moment.

lonegull
03-03-06, 12:20 PM
Yeah not to many centres running around for the open market id would like the titans to have a look at eastwood at broncos a real talent theres a pretty big rap on this guy

DeeGan
03-03-06, 12:21 PM
Nick Parfitt may be an option as well - from the Brisbane Broncos. Affordable talent only being held back by Hunt.

Dakink
03-03-06, 12:57 PM
In line with this poll, dothe guys at the Titans have any player salready in line for theiir next few signings, or is it a matter of wait and see? Can we expect any more signings in the upcoming months or not until the anti-tampering deadline is passed.

DIEHARD
03-03-06, 01:34 PM
I'm a big Parfitt fan, if Seymour doesn't return we will get to see him play for the Broncos early in the season.

I think the Titans need another prop.

Titanium_BD1103
03-03-06, 01:38 PM
Lets go after Fui Fui Moi Moi.. :D

No seriously, I mean it.. he was in great form for the Eels late last season and I know we need established players.. but he could be a start of the future... he is strong, tough and knows how to play the game.. I reckon he would be a great asset if off contract.. :)

Also it would be great to have Fui Fui in the Titans team, why.. well he is Fui Fui.. :D

Steelers
03-03-06, 02:47 PM
I think that a fullback is needed, then go after some big forwards

brn2bwyld
03-03-06, 04:15 PM
Gavin Lexter is a solid defender and has experience. Give him a go in the centres withe wes naiqama. Jack Afamsunga and henry perenara a re both good young players. Afamasunga in particular would work well with bailey

Queenslander
03-03-06, 05:00 PM
The titans should be next looking for a fullback, the forward pack will slowly create itself probably from the Titans feeder clubs.

Super Cronk
03-03-06, 05:05 PM
Hooker is fine...friend will do good.

The Original Idiot
03-03-06, 05:08 PM
Anybody know what happened to Junior Langi and Semi Tadulala? They played for Norths in the qld cup a while back. They would do nicely in the centres.

Luke
03-03-06, 06:21 PM
I think Titans should sign a fullback next, then sign some fowards.

Coaster
03-03-06, 06:43 PM
I vote for a fullback.

Greenshields would be the smartest option, young, fit, playing top footy, and wont break the bank

Christabella
04-03-06, 12:19 AM
A Fullback.. :)

I reckon Greenshields would be a great choice.. or even perhaps Brett Oliver from the Bulldogs..as much as wouldn't want to see him go.. if the Doggies can't keep him under salary cap.. then it would please me no end to see this future star end up at the Titans.. :D :D
Brett Oliver? WTF are you talking about?
Firstly he's a halfback/hooker, secondly he's been released by the Bulldogs thirdly we do have two fullbacks off contract this year and if the Titans can't get Greenshields, they'll be mad not to chase Trent Cutler (perhaps thats who you meant?) Anyone who saw his performance against the Panthers last year will tell you he's up to the rigours of first grade but I don't know if the Dogs will give him a fair chance with Patten also off contract.

Steve Dangerous
04-03-06, 12:38 AM
I'm in favour of signing another top quality forward, be it prob or second row. We've definately got a good backline starting to shape but our pack needs another experienced quality player.

Moejoe
04-03-06, 01:50 AM
Personly I think the Titans should look at Completing the back line... Get some depth in the backs and the forwards will come together nicely.... Being that we already have some very talented forwards in the likes of players like bailey. You could bring in some less experienced players from the QLD cup feeder teams.

I think it is more important to have an established and very experienced Full back.

DeeGan
04-03-06, 09:29 AM
Brett Oliver? WTF are you talking about?
Firstly he's a halfback/hooker, secondly he's been released by the Bulldogs thirdly we do have two fullbacks off contract this year and if the Titans can't get Greenshields, they'll be mad not to chase Trent Cutler (perhaps thats who you meant?) Anyone who saw his performance against the Panthers last year will tell you he's up to the rigours of first grade but I don't know if the Dogs will give him a fair chance with Patten also off contract.

I think BDT_311 definately meant Trent Cutler ;)

wombat68
04-03-06, 10:11 AM
a quality centre is a must.I was hoping bailey would talk Matt Cooper around, but he's just re-signed with the Dragons. Of course there's Jamie Lyon and Gasnier. Tahu sounds good.

Dakink
04-03-06, 10:14 AM
a quality centre is a must.I was hoping bailey would talk Matt Cooper around, but he's just re-signed with the Dragons. Of course there's Jamie Lyon and Gasnier. Tahu sounds good.

All Id agree with bar the fact they all would take too large out of the salary cap when we have to establish a squad of 30. Lyons and Gaz would be a great pairing though - almost as good as Cooper and Gaz!

DeeGan
04-03-06, 10:59 AM
I would be looking at Willie Tonga who is a QLD boy possibly looking for a fresh start with a new team entering the competition in 2007 :D

Dakink
04-03-06, 11:43 AM
Yep - agreeing with you is a catching disease! Have we disagreed yet this morning? I need a bex and a lie down....

Tonga is certainly a center worth looking at - especailly if he wants to head back home.

DIEHARD
05-03-06, 12:50 AM
Best yet to come

TITANS 2007 recruit Scott Prince is yet to play his best football, according to elated Gold Coast coach John Cartwright.

The Titans coach was alternating between relief and excitement when he was told early yesterday that the most important piece of his debut season had been locked in place.

Prince, the Wests Tigers premiership-winning captain who turned 26 last Monday, yesterday announced he would be coming north to the Gold Coast next year.

It is understood he has signed a four-year deal, at $350,000 a season.

The Titans won an arm wrestle with the Tigers for Prince, with the Gold Coast lifestyle winning out.

The Titans had put their final offer to Prince early this week. The Tigers put their claim forward on Thursday believed to be $450,000 a season for two years.

Cartwright said he had no doubts Prince was yet to show the rugby league world his best.

"I genuinely believe his best football is ahead of him," said the Titans coach.

"He is experienced with around 100 first grade games. I am sure he will just get better. His organising game is going to improve and that will be important because everyone is going to be new to each other."

Cartwright said the club had 'gone in hard' for Prince because he was their No.1 choice as playmaker and halfback.

"We have said all along that we wanted a general on the field and when that someone is of his calibre it makes you very happy," he said.

"The injury was the only thing that had held him back. His good form at the end was a result of continuous football.

"He is an inspiring leader. When we were looking at halfbacks coming off (contract), he was top of our list.

"His ability to be a general is one of his great attributes, but he is not only a good organising halfback he also has brilliance in him. He has great pace, a great kicking game, great feet."

Cartwright said the Titans needed someone who could turn potential into premiership points, and Prince had a proven record.

"The grand final last year was a perfect example because nobody gave the Tigers a chance of wining it.

"You need fellows like him because he is an inspiring player. He is a general on the field and he never shuts up. He drives his forwards and players like playing with him."

However Cartwright said it was too early to start talking about Prince as a captain in 2007.

"Scott will be in the mix as captain," he said. "You usually find that after an off-season at training the captain generally picks himself.

"Sure, he has the form on the board. He has led the Tigers to a grand final win but it is too big a decision to come out now and say he will be captain."

The Titans success in spiriting Prince away from the Tigers will no doubt send a shudder through other clubs, especially those with quality centres coming on to the market, because that is where the Gold Coast are now focusing.

"There are not a lot of quality centres around and that is an area I am keen to fill," said Cartwright.

"We have a great front rower. Now we have a great set of halves. The centres is such a specialised position and it is so important to have experienced centres who can handle situations."

Although Prince is likely to be the Titans' highest-priced player, according to Cartwright he is unlikely to be the last big-name player the Coast attracts.

"Other players will be able to see that we can put a competitive side on the field," said Cartwright.

Source: GC Bulletin

DeeGan
05-03-06, 08:58 AM
I agree with Carty.

Scott Prince missed ALOT of football early in his career after leaving North QLD suffering two broken legs in that time - he is 26 though rugby league wise is younger than that after missing those games.

Prince can improve on his career best year of 2005 and I think we will see the best of him in two or three seasons time.

RIP
05-03-06, 10:46 AM
Time 2 get Fielden he was thinking of coming over anyway why not the titans :D

Gee
05-03-06, 03:00 PM
The way the game is now days i think hooker and fullback is the next singing we should go affter

DIEHARD
05-03-06, 03:12 PM
Second prop and centres.

lonegull
06-03-06, 07:13 AM
The way the game is now days i think hooker and fullback is the next singing we should go affter
we already have friend from melbourne a by all reports he is a smart hooker he just couldnt oust cameron smith at melbourne

Research Station Drive
06-03-06, 01:59 PM
I agree with Carty.

Scott Prince missed ALOT of football early in his career after leaving North QLD suffering two broken legs in that time - he is 26 though rugby league wise is younger than that after missing those games.

Prince can improve on his career best year of 2005 and I think we will see the best of him in two or three seasons time.

I'm not sure about this - still sounds like spin to me.

I can't see how two horrific leg breaks can actually make you a 'younger' player - particularly when it's legs that give you trouble.

He'd be more likely to be on older legs IMO.


As for this debate - we've got to sign some big centres who can tackle.

With two small halves we'll be looking decidedly shaky out-wide without some solid centres.

Cooper would have been ideal, but he's gone.

Maybe someone in a Chris McKenna type mould? Or a mobile second rower like Ben Creagh.

Preston and Prince are going to be targeted in defence, we can't afford another defensive liability.

RIP
06-03-06, 04:20 PM
Good call we need massive centre since we got little halves how about Semi Tadulala he played 4 the storm a year or two ago he's playing 4 Wakefield Trinity Wildcats now He's a big boy

MOPL
06-03-06, 04:24 PM
We need to focus on a centre pairing and a quality back rower who can cover a few positions similar to Travis Norton for the Cowboys

DeeGan
06-03-06, 04:25 PM
I'm not sure about this - still sounds like spin to me.

I can't see how two horrific leg breaks can actually make you a 'younger' player - particularly when it's legs that give you trouble.

He'd be more likely to be on older legs IMO.

"Spin" as you call it comes from the media, this is simply my opinion.

I believe missing ALOT of rugby league over an extended time due to those two injuries and the death of his father only makes Prince a "young" 26 in comparison to say a Darren Lockyer at the same age who had a hellova' lot more games under his belt.

If there were any concern with the legs of Prince we would of found out in 2004 or 2005 yet instead he has gone from strength to strength as a player as we know.

MOPL
06-03-06, 04:27 PM
We need to focus on a centre pairing and a quality back rower who can cover a few positions similar to Travis Norton for the Cowboys[/QUOTE]

Chaos
06-03-06, 07:31 PM
I think it's a smart move looking at positions like fullback and Prop as they are speciallist positions and we do have to make a good choice there.

I do however have a philosophy that you can greate a great team just by choosing great players no matter what position they have played...you could throw Lockyer in any backline position and he would shine. 5/8 would have to be one of the toughest positions on the feild.
We just need to balance out the emotion and athletic ability of the team.

Willy Tonga has the potential to be the best centre in the game and if we have a chance to get him...we have to go for it.

From the atheleticism of Tonga, you then need a hard man that players are scared of.

Anyone know if there are any hard forwards availible? someone like Tallis, O'Donell, Southern.

The Original Idiot
06-03-06, 07:51 PM
Good call we need massive centre since we got little halves how about Semi Tadulala he played 4 the storm a year or two ago he's playing 4 Wakefield Trinity Wildcats now He's a big boy
Finally, someone who speaks my language. Junior Langi would be good as well.

Chaos
06-03-06, 08:43 PM
Has there been any talk about signing Ben Creagh?
Doesn't he come off contract this year?

If he isn't already, he will be one of the most dangerous forwards in the compitition. Opposition coaches will design training sessions just to stop him.

Kingytek
10-03-06, 07:25 AM
I would honestly be looking at a 5/8th. Although we have Preston with maybe two years left in him I would be looking at a teenager with the dynamics to be come a possible superstar to partner Prince in the halves. Preston is an excellent utility and can cover many different positions but I mean like a 5/8th that can double as a ball playing lock. Cross between SBW and Braith.

The Original Idiot
10-03-06, 05:37 PM
^ We have Chris Sandow, an up-and-coming young 5-8th. I'm sure he will be able to fill in for Presto at some later date.

Nice sig Kingy

DeeGan
10-03-06, 05:48 PM
Very nice sig Kingtek ;)

Chris Sandow is an awesome prospect and definately a "future" star with Shannon Walker - these two kids have all the talent in the world, I would love to see them in action at the top level one day.

mayzie
11-03-06, 07:01 PM
it has been noted how we have small halves who need protection but we also need the all important go forward that only the bigmen provide so solid forwards would be my next move.
And remeber dont forget the juniors, we are in an area that probably produces more great players than anywhere else so don't let them get snapped up by the established clubs, keep em local.

Chaos
14-03-06, 06:55 PM
it has been noted how we have small halves who need protection but we also need the all important go forward that only the bigmen provide so solid forwards would be my next move.
And remeber dont forget the juniors, we are in an area that probably produces more great players than anywhere else so don't let them get snapped up by the established clubs, keep em local.

Yeah...I would love to see some local signings, even if they are playing at other clubs now but played their junior years on the coast.

p.s. I don't think Scott Prince needs match protection but it would make his job easier.

Kingytek
15-03-06, 07:26 AM
Very nice sig Kingtek ;)

Chris Sandow is an awesome prospect and definately a "future" star with Shannon Walker - these two kids have all the talent in the world, I would love to see them in action at the top level one day.

Yeah thanks, it's about time Boof was back in the blue and gold!!!
He had the (M'bah) Colts\Mustangs, School and his fav club growing up was the eels! (All blue, gold and white)

But i'll admit, it will be weird to see him wear anything other then black and orange.

Dakink
15-03-06, 08:50 AM
As Coaster said in another thread - Lockyer for Titans fullback ;-)

lonegull
15-03-06, 12:06 PM
It would be nice having lockyer but gee we would be stretching the salary cap

Dakink
15-03-06, 12:10 PM
It would be nice having lockyer but gee we would be stretching the salary cap


Wouldnt it - though cant hurt to dream!

Steve Dangerous
15-03-06, 12:25 PM
hmm i think if lockyer did leave brisbane, which in my view is incredibly unlikely, he'd go somewhere a bit more apart from brisbane. i mean making such a big decision on his part but only moving down the road doesnt make much sense to me.

Dakink
15-03-06, 12:39 PM
Maybe just to get away from Bennett? I know I would love to;-)

Close to home still yet out of the BRisbane Fishbowl. Realistically Lockyer is a big fish no matter where he goes. The GC is as good an area as any other!

RIP
15-03-06, 03:09 PM
Gaz & Cooper off contract this year why don't we get those big centres in da mighy titans team & fielden & a couple of titan jnrs & were not over the cap & we got a bloody awesome team

Dakink
15-03-06, 03:33 PM
Err Cooper has already re-signed with the Dragons - he isnt going anywhere. Gaz if he stays in the NRL will be also with the Dragons. SL or Union are the only other options.

Kingytek
15-03-06, 03:37 PM
Cementing a fullback would be great! Then Maybe a ball playing lock who can cover 5/8

Social Loafer
15-03-06, 03:57 PM
If Canberra don't re-sign Marshall Chalk by June 30, the Titans would have to be mad not to go after him.
If Schifcofske was not o\at our club, Chalk would have alreayd played 50 first grade games.

DeeGan
15-03-06, 04:55 PM
If Canberra don't re-sign Marshall Chalk by June 30, the Titans would have to be mad not to go after him.
If Schifcofske was not o\at our club, Chalk would have alreayd played 50 first grade games.

100% agree in the sense that if there was no Schifcofske that Chalk would have played a hellova' lot more games for the Raiders in the number one jersey. Chalk though at the moment is behind Mathers and Greenshields when discussing the starting fullback position for the Titans IMO.

Coaster
15-03-06, 05:57 PM
Also for 1 season it wouldnt be a bad idea to think about Webke.

There is a good chance he may want 1 more season, and even though he is old, it wont be an old forward pack.

Also the thought of Bailey and Webke as bookends would be awesome

RIP
17-03-06, 09:16 AM
How about RYAN CROSS 192cm same height as Gaz 95kg 5 short of Gaz so possibley faster great bloke on & off the padock

Chaos
17-03-06, 05:49 PM
Also for 1 season it wouldnt be a bad idea to think about Webke.

There is a good chance he may want 1 more season, and even though he is old, it wont be an old forward pack.

Also the thought of Bailey and Webke as bookends would be awesome

Your idea isn't bad but we should have a plan in place to try and win the comp in a certain year.
If we were trying to win the comp next year, maybe you would think about signing a high paying player for one year.
As a guess, most signings would be for three years or more...someone can correct me on that...but if that is the case, we would be going for it in the third year.
I think Webke has hit the top of the hill.

Coaster
17-03-06, 05:53 PM
Your idea isn't bad but we should have a plan in place to try and win the comp in a certain year.
If we were trying to win the comp next year, maybe you would think about signing a high paying player for one year.
As a guess, most signings would be for three years or more...someone can correct me on that...but if that is the case, we would be going for it in the third year.
I think Webke has hit the top of the hill.


Heya mate

Yeah i agree he has, but he still hasnt rolled down the other side just yet.
And the proffessionalism he possesses would build the foundation for years to come.

Remember the Foundation is 80% of the hard work, build the culture and the right people stay and come in the years ahead.

Webke is all class. i would love to see him in our squad

A bit like Lazzo did for Melbourne

The Original Idiot
02-04-06, 02:12 PM
While its all good contemplating who should plug in the gaps in our run-on side, we should also be looking for depth and fringe players. I say we should sign Brenton McConnell of North QLD as a backup half. He is one of the best halves I have seen in the Queensland cup, and bagged over 20 tries a couple of seasons ago while playing for Burleigh.

Flanker/5-8
02-04-06, 05:22 PM
Centres?

Trent Cutler - Can play centre, 5/8, fullback, or wing.
Cameron Phelps - Also in the Dogs Premier League team, and a future star at centre, but not off-contract until '07.
Jermaine Ale - From the Raiders. Has awesome pace and can cover at wing.
Aidan Kirk - Only held back from first-grade by Cross and Soliola. Also plays fullback.
Brett Delaney - Has DeeGan's wraps all over him, and deserves it.

The Original Idiot
03-04-06, 03:53 PM
These guys all look pretty good. I get the feeling players in general perform better away from the hustle and bustle of Sydney.

The Original Idiot
03-04-06, 04:11 PM
I think we should prise some players away from the confines of New Zealand. A change of scenery will get some of the Warriors to play better IMO. People like Toopi and Hohaia etc. would benefit greatly from a move to Oz. Hohaia in particular was fantastic about 4 years ago, he might be able to rediscover his form.

DIEHARD
03-04-06, 04:11 PM
Bring Fien home.

The Original Idiot
27-04-06, 03:40 PM
David Solomona for the forward pack.

lonegull
28-04-06, 01:42 PM
i am pretty sure the coaching crew will be running there eyes over the queensland cup there are some real good players playing in it today so i think the titans will pick up a couple of good players and maybe a couple of surprise packets out of the Q cup

patskE
28-04-06, 08:01 PM
we need good centres who price and cambell can give the ball to, and can do somethign with it, eg tonga

Eel 33
01-05-06, 10:57 AM
Fullback options???

patskE
01-05-06, 12:34 PM
greenshields or mathers is the word

Eel 33
01-05-06, 12:38 PM
Outside of those 2???

patskE
01-05-06, 05:30 PM
didnt they sign that d00d from newcastle, he can slot in

Dakink
01-05-06, 08:20 PM
I think he means other fullback options...

Eel 33
02-05-06, 10:13 AM
Wade McKinnon perhaps???

lonegull
02-05-06, 01:04 PM
Wade McKinnon perhaps???

not a chance on the weekends performance

dan the man
02-05-06, 03:41 PM
delaney will drop back down to reserve grade (unless bench) soon with ben smith looking to return in a few weeks..he will realise he does not have a stronghold on the first grade centre spot and will be looking beyond parra.... and maybe the titans can snavvle him.. cross fingers... he is playing well.. and hopefully we can sign a gun centre like tonga....

patskE
02-05-06, 06:21 PM
yep him and tonga ftw!