2018 Squad, Signings and Rumours Thread

[Ausphin]

I was interested to hear Brennan say yesterday that our squad is pretty much finalised.

I think the signing of Brendan Elliot is underrated. Not a superstar, but a solid local junior who importantly can play fullback , wing or centre.

So for a squad of 30, I am still trying to work out the final makeup.

So far, and I am just guessing -

Backs

Hayne
Don
Hurrell
Copley
Elliot

Olive
Sarginson
Sami
Brimson
Kiah Cooper
Tyrone Roberts-Davis

Halves

Elgey
Taylor

Backrowers

Arrow
Hipgrave
Proctor

Greenwood
Kaisa Matautia
Ryan Simpkins
Apaita Noema

Forwards

Wallace
James

Lawrence
Boyle
King
Jai Whitbread
Jack Stockwell

Hookers

Peats

Mitch Rein
Lawton



Am I missing anybody?

UPDATED 9/11/17 - so not sure of tiers of contracts or who is just trialling but based on reports and photos from training camp have updated expected squad above. By my count that is 30.

[mdrew]

Kaisa Apelu (Tony) Matautia. The Titans have snared this talented young second rower from the Sharks NYC side, signing him to a second tier contract for the 2018 season where he will likely play for the Tweed Heads Seagulls in the QCup competition. Tony Matautia moved over from New Zealand for the start of the 2015 rugby league season from the Upper Central Area of New Zealand where his junior club was The Taupo Phoenix in eth Bay of Plenty region.

The former New Zealand Residents U16 representative also represented New South Wales Maori over the last three seasons at the U17 and U18 levels including captaining the U18 side in 2015.* In 2015 Tony Matautia played a leading hand in Cronulla’s SG Ball premiership success and then in 2016 went on to play in eight NYC matches.* Tony Matautia also played in a couple of trials for the Newtown Jets at the start of the 2017 season giving him some experience in the open age group.

Over the course of the 2017 NYC season, Tony Matautia scored nine tries including doubles in Round Eight against the Titans, Round Fifteen against the Wests Tigers and Round Twenty Two against the Canberra Raiders.* His other tries came in Round two against the Raiders, Round Three against the Dragons and Round Fourteen against the Storm.

Of the twenty four matches that he was involved in Tony Matautia started in the second row nineteen matches and came off the interchange bench in the remaining five.* After Round Seven against Penrith Tony Matautia started in the second row in all of the matches that he was involved in for the Sharks NYC side.

In 2017 Tony Matautia who is 180cm and 104kg played in 24 NYC matches for the Sharks including their ill-fated finals campaign. His 2017 season averages included ten hit-ups, 98 metres and 20 matches a match.* Tony Matautia played a total of 1 474 minutes this season at an average of 62 minutes a match.* On ten occasions Tony Matautia played all 80 minutes including a five match stretch from Rounds Seventeen to twenty two when he did not come off the field in thus matches.

On Thirteen occasions Tony Matautia ran for more than 100 metres with his best match coming in Round Fourteen against the Melbourne Storm.* On fourteen occasions Tony Matautia made in excess of 20 twenty tackles in a match including in Round Six also against the Melbourne Storm when he made 29 tackles.* Across the season Tony Matautia had a tackling efficiency of 89.5% and only was credited with seven errors on the season and only in one match was he credited with more than one error in a game which is quite impressive certainly in relation to the NYC competition.

Tony Matautia’s style of play is that of a powerful wide running back rower with above average speed for the position. I would actually argue that in fact a better definition of his speed would be well above average to plus. Tony Matautia is quite quick off the mark, but what makes him even more impressive from a speed perspective is that when he gets into space, he has an extra gear again which is a plus attribute for such a strong powerful second rower, making it almost impossible for the cover defence to catch him once he is open space.

Couple those two aspects with a very good fend and you have a big strong powerful young player who can cause nightmares for any defensive line. Tony Matautia seems to line up on the left side of the field more so than the right, but I have no doubt moving forward that he will be able to play on either side of the field, he seems to be just so skilful.

For a backrower of his size, he runs with pace, strength and power every time he touches the ball during a game.* For a young player, Tony Matautia seems to have a good understanding of when to off load the ball, currently most of his off loads occur when he is part way through the defensive line and can get his right arm free to pass to his outside support runners.

Tony Matautia is aggressive in defence whether he is defending in the centre of the ruck or on the fringes, and due to his natural strength is more than capable of defending one on one and can and will stop even the biggest opposing forwards in their tracks and targets the area around where the attackers carry the football.* His speed and lateral movement means that he will not be beaten by light stepping halves trying to take advantage of tiring forwards or the opposition running out of dummy half.

Tony Matautia will start the 2018 season with the Tweed Heads Seagulls QCup Colts side in believe (it could well be Burleigh though) and will also train with the Titans First Grade squad over the coming off season under new coach Gareth Brennan.

Even though Tony Matautia has spent some time in the junior rugby league ranks in the centres, based on the way that he has played for Cronulla at both the SG Ball and NYC levels I believe that his futures lies in the back row at either lock or in the second row.* Tony Matautia is a strong hard working backrower with power and strength in abundance.

Tony Matautia has the look of a very talented player with a playing style similar to that of St George Dragons and New South Wales State of Origin second rower Tyson Fizzell as a powerful and devastating runner on the fringes of the ruck.

[Ausphin]

Thanks for the info Mdrew.

Sounds like it could be just what we need in the coming years.

[Mexican titan]

I hope they are playing games re signings because we will not go anywhere with that list. I'm hoping things will happen now that the coach is in place but as we know nothing happens quickly at the titans.

[Mr Bods]

Can’t say I’m unhappy to see TRoberts go. Just because it makes Taylor/LG have to accept each other and make it work.
We definitely needed an outside back added to our squad but I’m massively underwhelmed by the addition of Elliot.

[GCTTSD]

I'm excited about what Garth has to say about looking within before recruiting and talking up our juniors, I'm excited to see what Garth can do with Sami and Brinson and a few other youngsters at the club, also Kane and ash

[ozynorts]

The Cronk circus is now in high gear and it could have quite a ripple effect on player movements soon. We just might snag a couple of good players on reduced salaries if we are patient.

[Titanic]

We don’t need another half but we need about half a squad. At least one of a front row, a back row, an inside back and an outside one PLUS who are The Prosecutor’s support staff?

[DavidBouveng]

i think we have a squad that can make the 8 with good coaching

We could definitely use one more of each position though to strengthen us up.

[ozynorts]

PLUS who are The Prosecutor’s support staff?

He said in the interview that he was going to take his time to talk to the current staff and then make a decision. I am hoping for new conditioning and defensive appointments.

[K2G]

I agree that we have the squad to make the 8 in 2018. Said the same last year though. Really like some of the young guys we have in the forwards (Boyle, King, Arrow, Hipgrave etc). Not so confident about the backs. Anyone know the contract status of Panther's lower grade player Maika Sivo? I think we're lacking speed, talent and xfactor in the outside backs and Maika obviously has the Brennan connection. Both Sami and TRD showed potential, but with the exception of Don, I'm not particularly inspired by our wing options.

Also, my ideal scenario would see us sign Moylan (won't happen) or an equivalent gun fb, and move Hayne permanently into the centres for the last year he's here. That would see Copley move out to a wing.

Really looking forward to 2018 bringing the reemergence of LG. All the haters have written him off. Short memories. Little faith.
Brennan's #1 priority should be to turn the Ash+LG combo into a force.

[Dooldog76]

We need someone with raw pace. I like our forwards, it's our backs that are lacking flair and creativity.

[Ausphin]

Just read an interesting article about Hayne maybe playing 5/8 next year.

As much as I like Elgey I think that could be perfect scenario.

Hayne plays 5/8 where his size and defence will be a plus and his lack of fitness for fullback in the modern game won't be so exposed. Gives Elgey a chance to go to Qcup and regain his confidence. Also allows Brennan to see what he has got in AJ Brimson who I think is a Billy Slater light. Big call I know, but has blazing speed and unlike Slater he already has some ball playing ability from his time in the halves, unlike Billy who really had to work on it. Is also pretty strong and puts his body on the line.

Then half way through the year, when Jarryd gets inevitably injured, Elgey comes in.

http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/jarryd-haynes-future-may-be-in-halves-for-gold-coast-titans-says-garth-brennan-20171020-gz5ep0.html

[Mr Bods]

^^^ I still believe good coaching will make a spine of Hayne/LG/Taylor/Peats to be one of the best in the NRL.

[psmitty]

Good to have the forum back although I still think others are having trouble accessing it. Does anyone remember this article? This would be great if true and with Brennan saying Hayne to the halves it may just work out.

Gold Coast coaching aspirant to bring Penrith Panthers skipper Matt Moylan to Titans: The Mole

By The Mole
Sep 4th, 2017

Titans coaching hopeful promises star power

Panthers NSW Cup coach Garth Brennan is mounting a massive challenge for the Titans job - and has promised the club two elite players if he gets the nod.

Brennan is believed to be saying he may take disgruntled Panthers skipper Matt Moylan with him to the Gold Coast - and also ensure the club retains marquee halfback Ash Taylor.

Brennan made a secret trip to Coolangatta last week, meeting with Taylor and several other senior players.

Gold Coast coaching candidate Garth Brennan is confident of keeping Ashley Taylor at the Titans if he lands the job. (AAP)

Brennan and Taylor are close mates and the star halfback is pushing for him to get the job - and threatening to return to the Broncos if Brennan is passed over.

Despite the denials, Moylan wants out of Penrith and if Brennan get the Titans gig, he’ll be sitting next to him on the plane.

Moylan isn’t happy at the Panthers and the club is likely to grant his request for a release.

Brennan has served a long apprenticeship in the lower grades and sees this as his chance to finally break through into the NRL.


https://wwos.nine.com.au/2017/09/05/06/26/penrith-panthers-matt-moylan-to-gold-coast-titans-the-mole


Would be a good team with Hayne and Taylor in the halves, Peats at Hooker and Moylan at fullback. I hope that this can be done.

[C-Whiz]

Apart from the fact that this is not a competitive first grade squad as it stands, it's not even a full squad! What are we going to do when we start getting the obligatory run of "horror" injuries that we seem to suffer every season?

I honestly can't imagine any quality players, particularly experienced (not one eye on retirement) NRL players wanting to sign a long term contract until other stuff is sorted, and I can't see that happening before pre-season training starts properly.

2018 looks like being the Titans Annus Horribilus, and considering some of the years we've had, that's a concern.

[Titanic]

Contrary to the Whiz-ids worries, I’m quite looking forward to seeing what 2018 produces. There are all sorts of unknowns which make it worth the price of entry. Not the least of those unknowns are who Brennan brings, what structures will we serve up and how does Hayne measure up.

[Mr Bods]

Contrary to the Whiz-ids worries, I’m quite looking forward to seeing what 2018 produces. There are all sorts of unknowns which make it worth the price of entry. Not the least of those unknowns are who Brennan brings, what structures will we serve up and how does Hayne measure up.

Last off season must’ve been totally insipid and it came out onfield. If Brennan is what we think he is we won’t be seeing indifference and confusion on the field next year. If that’s the case we should be ok. At the very least we won’t be an embarrassment.

[C-Whiz]

I agree we have a whole lot of unknowns, and yes, it could be a case of the stars aligning, Hayne coming good, no injuries to key players that impacts our lack of depth, our halves become defensive stalwarts, we pick up some great signings at the 11th hour and our new coaching staff immediately gel with the players and each other, new plays are quickly picked up and we become the team (without the quality players we've had for the past few years) that we always thought we could be.

Or not.

I'd be more than happy if we are the surprise packet of 2018 but I'm going in glass almost empty and see if I can be pleasantly surprised for a change, but I'm thinking we will want William Zillman on our roster in 2018.

[Titanic]

Glass half full Whiz, Wilbur can replace Condon.

[Bayside Titan]

I read that Canberra will be over the CAP it would be nice if we can chat to Rapana about coming home early.

[TitanPremiership]

I read that Canberra will be over the CAP it would be nice if we can chat to Rapana about coming home early.

Just what I was thinking. Can't find thumbs up anymore?

[ozynorts]

Can't find thumbs up anymore?

It is one the things that is currently disabled until Tam gets all of the bugs out..

[TitanPremiership]

Just another thing, he has been resigned until 2019 so it would be very unlikely. (Rapana)

[indoallstars]

Just another thing, he has been resigned until 2019 so it would be very unlikely. (Rapana)

Even better lets try and get Cotric, he would be much cheaper than Rapana and could be a potential move to FB in future years.

[Boonarga]

https://wwos.nine.com.au/2017/10/24/07/32/canberra-raiders-to-shed-nrl-players-over-salary-cap-drama-the-mole

Aiden, come home.

[JunctionBlock]

I think it's BJ Leilua that's getting shopped. Hot and cold last year and had a few run ins with Austin too. Would be an amazing centre line up though. Plus signed to 2020 so maybe some wheeling and dealing can be done.

[mdrew]

Jai Whitbread. The former Gold Coast Titans and Northern Rivers junior has been signed by the Titans on a Top 30 contract and deservedly so after standout performances for the Brisbane Broncos NYC side in 2016 and 2017.* Even though Jai Whitbread is still eligible to play U20’s in 2018 I anticipate that he will start the season in the Tweed Heads Seagulls QCup side. Earlier this season Jai Whitbread was the 18th man for the New South Wales U20 State of Origin side.* *Jai Whitbread in addition to his rugby league commitments is studying a Bachelor’s Degree in Clinical Phycology so is also a very intelligent young man.

Jai Whitbread who originally hails from the Tamworth region and played his junior rugby league with the South Tweed Bears played a First Grade trial with the Broncos in February of this year when he came off the bench against the Ipswich Jets in Ipswich.

In 2017 Jai Whitbread played in twenty three matches for the Broncos NYC side including their finals matches, starting twenty one of those matches in the front row and the other two matches being Rounds Four and Five from the interchange bench.* On those matches Jai Whitbread scored two tries which came against the Wests Tigers in Round Eleven and against Newcastle in the Bronco’s first final match this season.

Jai Whitbread’s 2017 per match averages included 118 running metres on 12 hit-ups and 26 tackles (90% tackling efficiency) in just over 55 minutes.* On sixteen occasions Jai Whitbread ran for more than 100 metres including an incredible effort in Round Eleven against the Wests Tigers when he ran for 201 metres.* On sixteen occasions also Jai Whitbread made more than twenty tackles including Round Eleven against Wests Tigers when he made 47 tackles. Over the course of the 2017 NYC season Jai Whitbread also made six line breaks and off loaded the ball on seven occasions.

In 2016 whilst still U18 eligible, in fact he represented New South Wales U18 that year, Jai Whitbread made twenty one NYC appearances for the Broncos starting in the front row thirteen matches and coming off the interchange bench in eight more,* His 2016 per match season averages included 78 running metres on 8.5 hit ups and 21 tackles (92% tackling efficiency) in 45 minutes.

Jai Whitbread’s two 2016 NYC tries came in Round Eight against the Rabbitohs and Rounds Twenty Six against the Sydney Roosters. His best running metre performance in 2016 was in Round Twenty Two against the Dragons and defensively Jai Whitbread in Round Seventeen made 35 tackles with no misses against the Melbourne Storm.

The table below compares Jai Whitbread’s 2016 and 2017 NYC per game averages.

2016 2017

Games played 21 23

Minutes per game 45 55

Runs per game 8.5 12

Metres made per game 78 118

Tackles per game 21 26

The 186cm 104kg Jai Whitbread was a former Titans contracted junior from just south of the Border and played for New South Wales at the U16 and U18 levels and also CC and MM Cup for Gold Coast based squads in previous seasons. At the start of the 2016 season Jai Whitbread was signed by the Broncos after a successful GPS rugby career with the Southport School where he played three years in the school’s First XV and making a number of GPS representative sides.* Interestingly Jai Whitbread played school boy rugby in the centres but in rugby league has played either front row or second row.

Jai Whitbread is a hard running forward who is very good at running the right line including both and inside shoulder and outside shoulder line and consistently hits the pass off either the dummy half or play maker flat thus generating his best possible speed and momentum to hit the defensive line at full speed. Where he really excels though is his footwork, Jai Whitbread has very good late and quick foot work which enables him to change direction quickly allowing him to readjust where he is running to take advantage of either a late developing hole in the defensive line or where the defensive line is repositioning late.

Jai Whitbread is adept at cutting back behind the play the ball area when the markers do not work hard and make ground as a result. When the Broncos NYC side were in the attacking area, Jai Whitbread was regularly used to draw the defence into the centre of the ruck thus stretching the defensive line out wide to allow the backline more room to move.* Jai Whitbread also accepted the responsibility of regularly taking the first hit-up from kick offs and was regularly the first forward to take a hit-up after an opposition tactical kick.

Even when he is taking a hit up in the centre of the ruck, Jai Whitbread’s feet are always moving and he is constantly making slight corrections to his running vector and he is also able to maintain his speed regardless of those multiple directional changes.* He seems just to run and think at a faster pace than other forwards on the field. These attributes lead to a lot of line breaks and he has the speed to convert them into tries himself.* Jai Whitbread’s speed is probably a bit above average but it is the speed that he is able to generate from only a few paces which makes it play faster from a defenders perspective. Obviously playing high level school boy rugby for TSS has assisted in the development of this particular attribute.

Defensively he hits very hard and had one of the better defensive technique s in the NYC competition this season. Jai Whitbread’s technique revolves around timing and execution.* Jai Whitbread’s head is almost always correctly positioned and he always drives with his shoulder and never just jersey grabs.* From the matches that I have seen Jai Whitbread also tackles with both shoulders equally effectively. The impressive thing for me also is that Jai Whitbread never seems to bounce off the ball when he makes a front on tackle meaning his target area and the ability to hit the area on a regular basis is quite exceptional for a reasonably inexperienced forward.

Another defensive aspect that I noted during the 2017 season was that Jai Whitbread does not just make one tackle at a time, he makes a series of tackles one after another all as clinical and effective as the one before.* His lateral speed is quite good due to his quick twitch feet and thus he is effective at defending against smaller dynamic runners out of dummy half as well as half backs and five eights running of the fringes looking to isolate forwards.

In addition Jai Whitbread continues to display the leadership attributes that you like to see in a player/person, not just in junior rugby league, but across any level of our game and the community.* He shapes as someone who has the attributes to be a first grade/club captain one day and a well-respected one at that.

As noted Jai Whitbread has signed a Top 30 contract with the Titans and must be a chance to start the 2018 season close to the NRL side likely starting his NRL career from the inter change bench sometime in 2018.* If not he will start the season for Tweed Heads in the QCup* I anticipate bypassing his final year of Colts eligibility all together.

Even though he played a number of matches in the NYC competition this year for the Broncos in the front row I can see Jai Whitbread better suited to the second row as he progresses towards the NRL especially with his mobility work ethic and intelligence way above average if not in the plus category.

In many respects Jai Whitbread has a similar playing style to that of two other former Gold Coast youngsters who are now back on the Gold Coast after stints with the Broncos that being Jai Arrow and Keegan Hipgrave.* Like both Keegan Hipgrave and Jai Arrow, Jai Whitbread is a mobile yet powerful forward who is a tackling machine but also a player who has far more to his attacking game than just putting his head down and running straight into the defensive line.

Make no mistake those three plus the likes Max King are the future of the Gold Coast Titans forward pack for the next ten years or so.* *They are all hard working young men who you can start to build a club around.

[ozynorts]

I think it's BJ Leilua that's getting shopped. Hot and cold last year and had a few run ins with Austin too. Would be an amazing centre line up though. Plus signed to 2020 so maybe some wheeling and dealing can be done.

Hmmmm another right side centre that lacks consistency. We already have Hurrell on that side.

[Mexican titan]

Hmmmm another right side centre that lacks consistency. We already have Hurrell on that side.

I think BJ is being shopped around because he appears to be one of the dumbest blokes that's ever drawn breath. I think he is a problem just waiting to happen. He is a far better player than Hurrell though, however if we are heading in to a no d1ckhead policy we'll have to pass on BJ.

[indoallstars]

TITANS SIGN HOOKER

Garth Brennan has wasted little time making his first signing since taking over as coach of the Titans.

Penrith rake Mitch Rein will follow Brennan to the Titans on a two-year contract.

While Rein still has a year to run on his deal with the Panthers, the club will grant him an early release as he chases more opportunities in the top grade.

The former Dragon was close to joining English franchise Leigh before the deal with the Titans was struck.

It’s understood Rein has verbally agreed to sign on for 2018 and 2019 but will ink the deal when he returns from holidaying in Croatia.

https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/nrl-market-watch-raiders-giant-junior-paulos-new-deal-luke-kearys-roosters-future/news-story/3a66db3f0f818620a8533f5736786ba8

- - - Updated - - -

Great signing once it is formalised, we already know mitch rein is brennans favourite from reserve grade and lets face that peats is a good chance of playing origin again and very injury prone.

Now just need garth to bring in some fast big winger who can hit hard. Marika might be a bit hard now that hes playing for the wallabies.

[JunctionBlock]

I thought Mitch was hard done by at St George and still had it when Wallace was injured at Penrith. I'm very happy with this signing, we now have two NRL and above class hookers.

Hopefully a lock and some some depth in the backs soon (or just a decent left side centre).

[psmitty]

Surely he won't get much game time with Peats in the team and a 80 minute player unless he can play another position.

[JunctionBlock]

Surely he won't get much game time with Peats in the team and a 80 minute player unless he can play another position.

Maybe he gets 35 - 40 mins a game and Peats gets to save his body and not be injured so often. The thing we don't lose is the replacement is able to play at an NRL level.

[Mr Bods]

I find signing Rein to be strange. We have an 80min hooker in Peats and Lawton/Brimson add much greater utility value as number 17s

[JunctionBlock]

Lawton is made of crystal and Brimson is a half back. Last year was a nightmare with a half back playing out of dummy half and all of a sudden there are three play makers making decisions whilst no one else on the team has a clue whats going on.

What a great day for signings, Rein and now Ash.

[indoallstars]

What a fantastic week. Agree with you Junction i kike the signing of Rein, we got Atay locked up and some new coaches. Garth has hit the ground running!

[indoallstars]

http://www.sportingnews.com/au/league/list/the-lurker-parramatta-eels-cooper-cronk-save-big-money-play-israel-folau-sydney-roosters/1xgq3z7l15liy1q9pzspumrnkg/slide/3


Mestrov quit?

[Bayside Titan]

Jai Whitbread. The former Gold Coast Titans and Northern Rivers junior has been signed by the Titans on a Top 30 contract and deservedly so after standout performances for the Brisbane Broncos NYC side in 2016 and 2017.* Even though Jai Whitbread is still eligible to play U20’s in 2018 I anticipate that he will start the season in the Tweed Heads Seagulls QCup side. Earlier this season Jai Whitbread was the 18th man for the New South Wales U20 State of Origin side.* *Jai Whitbread in addition to his rugby league commitments is studying a Bachelor’s Degree in Clinical Phycology so is also a very intelligent young man.

Jai Whitbread who originally hails from the Tamworth region and played his junior rugby league with the South Tweed Bears played a First Grade trial with the Broncos in February of this year when he came off the bench against the Ipswich Jets in Ipswich.

In 2017 Jai Whitbread played in twenty three matches for the Broncos NYC side including their finals matches, starting twenty one of those matches in the front row and the other two matches being Rounds Four and Five from the interchange bench.* On those matches Jai Whitbread scored two tries which came against the Wests Tigers in Round Eleven and against Newcastle in the Bronco’s first final match this season.

Jai Whitbread’s 2017 per match averages included 118 running metres on 12 hit-ups and 26 tackles (90% tackling efficiency) in just over 55 minutes.* On sixteen occasions Jai Whitbread ran for more than 100 metres including an incredible effort in Round Eleven against the Wests Tigers when he ran for 201 metres.* On sixteen occasions also Jai Whitbread made more than twenty tackles including Round Eleven against Wests Tigers when he made 47 tackles. Over the course of the 2017 NYC season Jai Whitbread also made six line breaks and off loaded the ball on seven occasions.

In 2016 whilst still U18 eligible, in fact he represented New South Wales U18 that year, Jai Whitbread made twenty one NYC appearances for the Broncos starting in the front row thirteen matches and coming off the interchange bench in eight more,* His 2016 per match season averages included 78 running metres on 8.5 hit ups and 21 tackles (92% tackling efficiency) in 45 minutes.

Jai Whitbread’s two 2016 NYC tries came in Round Eight against the Rabbitohs and Rounds Twenty Six against the Sydney Roosters. His best running metre performance in 2016 was in Round Twenty Two against the Dragons and defensively Jai Whitbread in Round Seventeen made 35 tackles with no misses against the Melbourne Storm.

The table below compares Jai Whitbread’s 2016 and 2017 NYC per game averages.

2016 2017

Games played 21 23

Minutes per game 45 55

Runs per game 8.5 12

Metres made per game 78 118

Tackles per game 21 26

The 186cm 104kg Jai Whitbread was a former Titans contracted junior from just south of the Border and played for New South Wales at the U16 and U18 levels and also CC and MM Cup for Gold Coast based squads in previous seasons. At the start of the 2016 season Jai Whitbread was signed by the Broncos after a successful GPS rugby career with the Southport School where he played three years in the school’s First XV and making a number of GPS representative sides.* Interestingly Jai Whitbread played school boy rugby in the centres but in rugby league has played either front row or second row.

Jai Whitbread is a hard running forward who is very good at running the right line including both and inside shoulder and outside shoulder line and consistently hits the pass off either the dummy half or play maker flat thus generating his best possible speed and momentum to hit the defensive line at full speed. Where he really excels though is his footwork, Jai Whitbread has very good late and quick foot work which enables him to change direction quickly allowing him to readjust where he is running to take advantage of either a late developing hole in the defensive line or where the defensive line is repositioning late.

Jai Whitbread is adept at cutting back behind the play the ball area when the markers do not work hard and make ground as a result. When the Broncos NYC side were in the attacking area, Jai Whitbread was regularly used to draw the defence into the centre of the ruck thus stretching the defensive line out wide to allow the backline more room to move.* Jai Whitbread also accepted the responsibility of regularly taking the first hit-up from kick offs and was regularly the first forward to take a hit-up after an opposition tactical kick.

Even when he is taking a hit up in the centre of the ruck, Jai Whitbread’s feet are always moving and he is constantly making slight corrections to his running vector and he is also able to maintain his speed regardless of those multiple directional changes.* He seems just to run and think at a faster pace than other forwards on the field. These attributes lead to a lot of line breaks and he has the speed to convert them into tries himself.* Jai Whitbread’s speed is probably a bit above average but it is the speed that he is able to generate from only a few paces which makes it play faster from a defenders perspective. Obviously playing high level school boy rugby for TSS has assisted in the development of this particular attribute.

Defensively he hits very hard and had one of the better defensive technique s in the NYC competition this season. Jai Whitbread’s technique revolves around timing and execution.* Jai Whitbread’s head is almost always correctly positioned and he always drives with his shoulder and never just jersey grabs.* From the matches that I have seen Jai Whitbread also tackles with both shoulders equally effectively. The impressive thing for me also is that Jai Whitbread never seems to bounce off the ball when he makes a front on tackle meaning his target area and the ability to hit the area on a regular basis is quite exceptional for a reasonably inexperienced forward.

Another defensive aspect that I noted during the 2017 season was that Jai Whitbread does not just make one tackle at a time, he makes a series of tackles one after another all as clinical and effective as the one before.* His lateral speed is quite good due to his quick twitch feet and thus he is effective at defending against smaller dynamic runners out of dummy half as well as half backs and five eights running of the fringes looking to isolate forwards.

In addition Jai Whitbread continues to display the leadership attributes that you like to see in a player/person, not just in junior rugby league, but across any level of our game and the community.* He shapes as someone who has the attributes to be a first grade/club captain one day and a well-respected one at that.

As noted Jai Whitbread has signed a Top 30 contract with the Titans and must be a chance to start the 2018 season close to the NRL side likely starting his NRL career from the inter change bench sometime in 2018.* If not he will start the season for Tweed Heads in the QCup* I anticipate bypassing his final year of Colts eligibility all together.

Even though he played a number of matches in the NYC competition this year for the Broncos in the front row I can see Jai Whitbread better suited to the second row as he progresses towards the NRL especially with his mobility work ethic and intelligence way above average if not in the plus category.

In many respects Jai Whitbread has a similar playing style to that of two other former Gold Coast youngsters who are now back on the Gold Coast after stints with the Broncos that being Jai Arrow and Keegan Hipgrave.* Like both Keegan Hipgrave and Jai Arrow, Jai Whitbread is a mobile yet powerful forward who is a tackling machine but also a player who has far more to his attacking game than just putting his head down and running straight into the defensive line.

Make no mistake those three plus the likes Max King are the future of the Gold Coast Titans forward pack for the next ten years or so.* *They are all hard working young men who you can start to build a club around.


Thanks for that mdrew. Great to see that we are getting some of our young guys back.

[C-Whiz]

I think BJ is being shopped around because he appears to be one of the dumbest blokes that's ever drawn breath. I think he is a problem just waiting to happen. He is a far better player than Hurrell though, however if we are heading in to a no d1ckhead policy we'll have to pass on BJ.
I agree with all of this, 100%. One day he might get his head together, but we've had enough Carters/Dave Taylors to know better.

- - - Updated - - -

Can anyone confirm when squads and salary figures have to be confirmed to the NRL?
In other words, when will we know which clubs are likely to be shedding players?

[ozynorts]

I hear the boffins referring to Nov 1 as the NRL financial year so at a guess they would need to be compliant then???

[Mr Bods]

Just a reminder that the likes of LG/Brimson/Lawton are local juniors
Have a nice day

[rj62]

Taylor signs! You bloody beauty !

[Boonarga]

I'm ambivalent about Taylor signing. Especially for that amount of money. His end of season form this year didn't warrant it. Hopefully Brennan can get him back to his best.

[Titanic]

If it was my money I’d be worried but it’s not so let’s all take solace from the messages that it sends and The Prosecutor being true to his word ... awesome.

[JunctionBlock]

http://www.sportingnews.com/au/league/list/the-lurker-parramatta-eels-cooper-cronk-save-big-money-play-israel-folau-sydney-roosters/1xgq3z7l15liy1q9pzspumrnkg/slide/3


Mestrov quit?

http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/gold-coast-titans-official-tony-mestrov-to-be-new-boss-of-greyhound-racing-nsw-20171024-gz71vs.html

- - - Updated - - -


Just a reminder that the likes of LG/Brimson/Lawton are local juniors
Have a nice day

As is Elliot whom you found "underwhelming". Are you suggesting I/we back local juniors regardless of talent or ability to stay on the field or am I way off what you're trying to say?

[Mexican titan]

It will be interesting to see how they use Rein. Will he be on the bench to cover Peats or will they treat peats as an 80 minute player, which I think he is, and just play Rein in QCup awaiting an injury to Peats. Not sure that I want Rein taking up a bench spot and unless I'm wrong Penrith didn't have him on the bench. Is he versatile enough to cover other spots or is he a hooker only.
Will be interesting to watch.

As for local juniors, if they are good enough they make it. Based on the NYC results over recent years there isn't much there other than a few diamonds.

[Mr Bods]

http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/gold-coast-titans-official-tony-mestrov-to-be-new-boss-of-greyhound-racing-nsw-20171024-gz71vs.html

- - - Updated - - -


As is Elliot whom you found "underwhelming". Are you suggesting I/we back local juniors regardless of talent or ability to stay on the field or am I way off what you're trying to say?

Elliot cashed in his chips by leaving. I’m saying we positively discriminate in favour of our juniors and we look after them.

- - - Updated - - -


It will be interesting to see how they use Rein. Will he be on the bench to cover Peats or will they treat peats as an 80 minute player, which I think he is, and just play Rein in QCup awaiting an injury to Peats. Not sure that I want Rein taking up a bench spot and unless I'm wrong Penrith didn't have him on the bench. Is he versatile enough to cover other spots or is he a hooker only.
Will be interesting to watch.

As for local juniors, if they are good enough they make it. Based on the NYC results over recent years there isn't much there other than a few diamonds.

Many of our best local juniors have never played a game of NYC for the GC. We need to stop them getting poached at age 15-16.

[TitanPremiership]

This is more directed at mdrew who I have noticed is the main man on junior talent. I have heard that we’ve signed an u20s Roosters player, Kiah Cooper. Any information you got on him. Also not sure if there is a different thread for this still?

[mdrew]

A try scoring fullback or centre mate will start with either Tweed or Burleigh. He has a great try scoring record in NYC


This is more directed at mdrew who I have noticed is the main man on junior talent. I have heard that we’ve signed an u20s Roosters player, Kiah Cooper. Any information you got on him. Also not sure if there is a different thread for this still?

[Titanic]

I think now that Taylor has extended then we should only refer to him as a loyal Titan. Money or not he’s ours and we should respect that.

[JunctionBlock]

Elliot cashed in his chips by leaving. I’m saying we positively discriminate in favour of our juniors and we look after them.

- - - Updated - - -



Many of our best local juniors have never played a game of NYC for the GC. We need to stop them getting poached at age 15-16.

So how do we tell if they cashed in their chips or were poached?

Just asking before the thumbs come back.

[mdrew]

Kiah Cooper is Ash Taylors cousin I believe and was at the training facility today

[Mr Bods]

So how do we tell if they cashed in their chips or were poached?

Just asking before the thumbs come back.

They are two separate acts by different parties......
The opposition club does the poaching
The kid who leaves by doing so cashed in their chips

Catchcry of the new revolution....”no more thumbs”

[Bayside Titan]

Kiah Cooper is Ash Taylors cousin I believe and was at the training facility today

Where is he from mate ? Just tried to look him up. Is he the guy that went to the Roostaers for abit. ?

[Bayside Titan]

Kiah Cooper is Ash Taylors cousin I believe and was at the training facility today

I see on one of the FB Titans Supporter Pages there is a picture of him with Ash and Brennan. He is wearing a Titans shirt. Looks like he’s signed with us. Looks a fair Centre for his age. There was a link to a YouTube segment on him as well.

[Bayside Titan]

Leigh Centurions have confirmed the signing of Paterika Vaivai on a two-year contract to November 2019.

The 25-year-old Prop Forward joins the Centurions from Gold Coast Titans in the NRL.

Leigh Centurions Head Coach Neil Jukes said: “Paterika is an outstanding signing for our Club. He is an unbelievably powerful player and his explosive, direct running style will be really instrumental for our team next year.

“I have no doubt whatsoever that the Leigh Centurions fans are going to really enjoy watching Paterika play for our Club and showcasing his ability.

“From speaking to him it is clear that Paterika is a highly motivated player who is really looking forward to coming here and playing his best footy and the Coaching Staff will 100 percent support him in that objective.

“Again, I’d like to thank (Head Of Rugby) Keiron (Cunningham) for all the work he has done getting this one over the line. We have no doubt that Paterika is going to be a huge fans’ favourite.”


Leigh Centurions Owner Derek Beaumont said: “I am really excited by this signing and have been since Kez (Keiron Cunningham) mentioned him to me.

“The biggest statement this club made when I got back involved was signing a man that good they named him twice, and he was a massive asset to this club and a fans’ favourite.

“I hope that the fans get the same excitement from Patty, especially given he is at the early part of his career and has lots in front of him. I can’t wait to see him get going for us.”

https://www.zerotackle.com/leigh-centurions-sign-gold-coast-titans-forward-30015/

[gotitans101_]

Leigh Centurions have confirmed the signing of Paterika Vaivai on a two-year contract to November 2019.

The 25-year-old Prop Forward joins the Centurions from Gold Coast Titans in the NRL.

Leigh Centurions Head Coach Neil Jukes said: “Paterika is an outstanding signing for our Club. He is an unbelievably powerful player and his explosive, direct running style will be really instrumental for our team next year.

“I have no doubt whatsoever that the Leigh Centurions fans are going to really enjoy watching Paterika play for our Club and showcasing his ability.

“From speaking to him it is clear that Paterika is a highly motivated player who is really looking forward to coming here and playing his best footy and the Coaching Staff will 100 percent support him in that objective.

“Again, I’d like to thank (Head Of Rugby) Keiron (Cunningham) for all the work he has done getting this one over the line. We have no doubt that Paterika is going to be a huge fans’ favourite.”


Leigh Centurions Owner Derek Beaumont said: “I am really excited by this signing and have been since Kez (Keiron Cunningham) mentioned him to me.

“The biggest statement this club made when I got back involved was signing a man that good they named him twice, and he was a massive asset to this club and a fans’ favourite.

“I hope that the fans get the same excitement from Patty, especially given he is at the early part of his career and has lots in front of him. I can’t wait to see him get going for us.”

https://www.zerotackle.com/leigh-centurions-sign-gold-coast-titans-forward-30015/

dead weight.

[mdrew]

Kiah Cooper.* The former Sydney Roosters fullback/centre has signed with the Titans for the 2018 season after two outstanding seasons in the NYC for the Roosters including starting at fullback in their NYC Grand Final winning side against the Penrith Panthers in 2016.

In the 2017 NYC competition Kiah Cooper played in twenty three matches for the Roosters starting in all twenty three contests.* For the first twenty matches Kiah Cooper alternated between fullback and centre starting ten matches in each position and started on the wing in the final three rounds.* In twenty two of his matches Kiah Cooper played the entire 80 minutes, playing 54 minutes in the other match. Kiah Cooper also scored nine tries including a double against the Titans in Round Twenty Six.

Kiah Cooper’s other seven tries came against the Rabbitohs in Round Four, Sea Eagles in Round Five, Knights in Round Seven, Round Eleven against the Bulldogs, Round Sixteen against the Storm, Round Seventeen against the Sharks and finally in Round Twenty against the Newcastle Knights.

Kiah Coopers totals in 2017 included running for 1 958 metres from 196 carries, nine line breaks, seven try assists, nine off loads and 87 tackles however he was also credited with 45 missed tackles thus he had a tackling efficiency of 66%. His per game totals included 85 running metres from 8.5 carries and four tackles.

On six occasions Kiah Cooper ran for more than 100 metres including in Round Twenty against the Newcastle knights when he ran for 151 metres.* Defensively Kiah Coopers “best” match was against the Parramatta Eels in Round Ten when he made ten tackles.

In 2016 Kiah Cooper played in twenty seven matches including the finals series playing all 80 minutes in every match, scoring thirteen tries including a double against the Dragons in Round Eight.* Over the course of the 2016 NYC season, Kiah Cooper ran for 2 514 metres from 272 carries, made eleven line breaks, twelve try assists ten off loads and made 75 tackles.

Kiah Coopers 2016 per game averages included carry the ball ten times for 93 metres and making three tackles.* On eight occasions Kiah Cooper ran for more than 100 metres including twice running for 160 metres with those games being in Round Nine against the Newcastle Knights and the Roosters first 2016 final against the Canberra Raiders.

The table below compares Kiah Cooper’s 2016 and 2017 NYC per game averages.

2016 2017

Games played 27 23

Minutes per game 80 78

Runs per game 10 8.5

Metres made per game 93 85

Tackles per game 3 4

Kiah Cooper moved to the Sydney Roosters at the end of the 2015 season where he played in the SG Ball competition with the Central Coast Centurions and played for Newcastle Wests in the Newcastle U19 competition finishing as the second leading try scorer with ten tries from eleven matches. Kiah Cooper also kicked thirteen goals to finish with 66 points on the season.* Kiah Cooper scored a hat trick against Kurri Kurri and a double the week prior against Lakes United.

In 2015 Kiah Cooper was a star with Hunter Sports High going on to represent New South Wales Combined High Schools at the ASSRL U18 championships that year as well as touring New Zealand with the NSWCHS squad and in 2013 Kiah Cooper toured France with the New South Wales Indigenous U16 squad.

The powerfully built young man has a variety of attacking moves that he utilises depending on where he is positioned on the field.* It is interesting that when he is lining up at left centre his primarily attacking move is to run an outside shoulder route and just prior to contacting the defensive line Kiah Cooper will step off his left foot to cut back inside the left shoulder of his direct opponent, he scored from this on a number of occasions last season in the NYC.* Kiah Cooper gets the defenders momentum moving to their right and then cuts back before the defender has time to adjust and redirect their momentum.

When he is lining up at right centre Kiah Cooper seemingly runs a straighter line more often than not and looks to get on the outside shoulder of his immediate defender after slowing or halting the defenders momentum by running directly at him. When he has played at fullback Kiah Cooper is constantly around the centre of the ruck looking to either snipe out of dummy half himself or benefit from an off load. In the instances when he runs from dummy half the majority of the time Kiah Cooper runs to his left and then looks to cut back behind the play the ball into open space.

When he is open space Kiah Cooper is able to step off either foot but seems to prefer stepping off his right foot.* In addition to a very good step, Kiah Cooper has a powerful fend and usually with his right hand.* He starts off with a bent arm looking to absorb the contact and then extends his arm out with explosive power to “shock” the defender.* A number of fullbacks in the NYC over the last two seasons were knocked back in this fashion.

In relation to Kiah Cooper’s speed, it is probably in the above category but his speed off the mark is elite and he can maintain his top speed over an extended distance.* Kiah Cooper does not necessarily score a lot of long range tries as he starts to progressively work through his support options as soon as he breaks into open space, but he is incredibly difficult to combat in his attacking twenty as he is often able to maintain his momentum through the initial defensive contact and keep defenders away from his body with his strength and fend and regularly drag defenders over the line from ten metres out.

In his games on the wing, Kiah Coopers best attribute is that his maintains his line and stays out wide meaning that his inside play makers have confidence to either throw the cut out pass after a back line move or when they attack on a short blind side.

Defensively Kiah Cooper’s strength and body control are his best attributes.* When defending in the centres Kiah Cooper twists his body towards the side line so that his momentum does not stall and he can defend against an opposing player whether they cut back inside or try to beat him on the outside.* This defensive technique can cause issues when an attacker looks to run directly at him but Kiah Cooper’s natural functional strength mitigates this potential issue significantly.* When defending at fullback Kiah Cooper pushes forward to eliminate as much time that the attacker has as possible to make his decision in relation to the options available to them as Kiah Cooper converges.

Kiah Cooper is related to Ashley Taylor and was on hand at the Titans training facility when Ashley Taylor signed his new four year contract yesterday.* I would anticipate that Kiah Cooper who will obviously train with the Titans NRL squad in the off season will start out in the QCup likely with the Tweed Heads Seagulls prior to pushing for a possible NRL spot later in the season as he adjusts to the rigours of the NRL.

Over his two seasons in the NYC with the Sydney Roosters, Kiah Cooper played primarily in the centres or at fullback but did play a couple of matches in 2017 on the right wing, specifically the final three regular season rounds.* Whilst I anticipate that Kiah Cooper will break into the QCup and potentially the NRL on the wing, I believe that with his solid build deceptive speed and powerful fend, Kiah Cooper will ultimately find himself in the centres in the long term.

Even though Kiah Cooper has a slightly different build to the Roosters centre Latrell Mitchell in that he is stockier and a touch shorter, they have a similar playing style in terms of deceptive speed and a powerful fend making them difficult to stop one on one especially inside the attacking 20 metre area

[ozynorts]

Sounds like a real talent that Brennan can hopefully nurture into a regular first grade player.

[Mexican titan]

dead weight.

Things must be quiet in Leigh if they are celebrating the signing of Vaivai. Most people on the Coast would still say they haven't heard of him.

[C-Whiz]

I expect any NRL signing is a big signing in English club football.

- - - Updated - - -

mdrew, US Presidents get less of a background write up than that! ;-)
Good info though. Very thorough.

[GCTTSD]

I wish we still had Mead

[Titanic]

I wish we still had Mead
I wish we still had Mead and the other $1m to spend.

[indoallstars]

Pearce the target, Elgey the backup

They missed out on Matt Moylan, and may do the same with Mitchell Pearce.

Now Manly have set their sights on a new playmaker for next season to partner Daly Cherry-Evans - boom Titans youngster Kane Elgey.

With Ash Taylor signing a long-term deal on the Gold Coast and new coach Garth Brennan looking to play veteran Jarryd Hayne at five-eighth, Elgey shapes as the odd man out.

The youngster is assessing his options - and Manly shape as the perfect fit.

The Sea Eagles are happy to release veteran Blake Green to the Warriors - giving them room in the salary cap to pick up a new playmaker.

Don’t be surprised if they begin formal talks with Elgey soon.


http://www.sportingnews.com/au/league/list/the-lurker-manly-sea-eagles-kane-elgey-backup-plan--mitchell-pearce-talk-falls-through-cronk/1qjc8xgp8w9r917s3wcg1i1auy/slide/1

- - - Updated - - -

Probably usual Lurker BS

[Titanic]

If he goes there he’ll go the same way as Cullen.

[Mexican titan]

If he goes there he’ll go the same way as Cullen.

God i hope manly don't let Blake Green go to sign Elgey. As things stand Green is a far better player and he can tackle.

[psmitty]

I can't see it happening. As much as I don't like LG I can't see Hayne going into the halves without a fullback option. If we got Moylan then that would change things.

The other option is to get Zillman back for a year or two by popular demand.

[Mr Bods]

This will all get sorted out on the footy field. I’m a believer in both LG ability and in Brennan’s coaching for this to work itself out

[psmitty]

So what is our best 17 currently looking like at this stage for next year? What positions are our weakest and who should we target?

[C-Whiz]

The other option is to get Zillman back for a year or two by popular demand.Ironically Cartwright and Searles plan of signing him for half a decade to avoid a bidding war has actually worked. :p

Anyway, this.

https://www.zerotackle.com/rugby-league/players/off-contract-2018/

https://www.zerotackle.com/rugby-league/players/by-position-2018/

[Mexican titan]

What a shame we have Hayne taking up a million of the cap.
There was a story doing the rounds today that the Roosters haven't offered Keary what he wanted and that he might be on the market after 2018. The story mentioned that he may in fact be the one to leave (now) if he had a better long term deal and then Pearce would play 5/8. I would grab Keary in a heartbeat but we couldn't have funds for Ash, Keary and Hayne at the same time. It seems like we waited a few years before got rid of Zilly who was chewing up a large amount of cap and now we have the same with Hayne.
Keary and Ash as our halves....we can only dream.....but it would be possible if the chosen one took off.

[psmitty]

The good thing about the year the has just passed is that most players performed poorly so they will have a point to prove next year. Not many players will want to have another year like that especially with so many off contract.

On LG - He has had one breakout year and one very average year. I think 2018 needs to be a very improved year for him. If he has another year like this year then I think he won't be worth re-signing. Time his potential is reached or give him the boot.

[C-Whiz]

On LG - He has had one breakout year and one very average year. I think 2018 needs to be a very improved year for him. If he has another year like this year then I think he won't be worth re-signing. Time his potential is reached or give him the boot.I agree. He either performs or he's dropped until he is ready. Taking up a key position in 1st grade waiting for him to show he is capable is not the way to be competitive across a season.

[ALX25]

Pearce the target, Elgey the backup

They missed out on Matt Moylan, and may do the same with Mitchell Pearce.

Now Manly have set their sights on a new playmaker for next season to partner Daly Cherry-Evans - boom Titans youngster Kane Elgey.

With Ash Taylor signing a long-term deal on the Gold Coast and new coach Garth Brennan looking to play veteran Jarryd Hayne at five-eighth, Elgey shapes as the odd man out.

The youngster is assessing his options - and Manly shape as the perfect fit.

The Sea Eagles are happy to release veteran Blake Green to the Warriors - giving them room in the salary cap to pick up a new playmaker.

Don’t be surprised if they begin formal talks with Elgey soon.


http://www.sportingnews.com/au/league/list/the-lurker-manly-sea-eagles-kane-elgey-backup-plan--mitchell-pearce-talk-falls-through-cronk/1qjc8xgp8w9r917s3wcg1i1auy/slide/1

- - - Updated - - -

Probably usual Lurker BS

Looks like it was, as they have signed Lachlan Croker instead.

[TitanPremiership]

Now i know most of these players weren't on very large contracts at all except maybe McQueen and Zillman, but all in all that is alot of players cut for the I think it is 4 signings we have done this year... Any thoughts on potential targets been a bit quiet all in all. Bloody 9 news tried to tell me we were looking at Cordner today and then said we werent looking at him.

Chris McQueen (Wests Tigers), Leivaha Pulu (Warriors), Tyrone Roberts (Warrington Wolves), Tyler Cornish (released), Nathaniel Peteru (Leeds Rhinos), Paterika Vaivai (Leigh Centurions), Daniel Vidot (retired), Eddy Pettybourne (not re-signed), Ryan Simpkins (not re-signed), William Zillman (not re-signed) (ADD $300k Paasi who has already been released on compassionate grounds I'm hearing) On a side note can we please get the money back on Sarginson...

[DavidBouveng]

i agree on that redic 9 gold coast story. - the clickbait was 'is Cordner headed to the titans' and the actual story was nothing like it, Just Brennan saying he knows him well and categorically saying he woudn't even attempt to sign him. Its in the top handful of misleading titles i can recall.

[Nols of the Goldy]

Gold Coast Titans to grant Agnatius Paasi immediate release on compassionate grounds

TRAVIS MEYN, The Courier-Mail

THE Titans are on the hunt for a new front-row weapon following the departure of “The Tongan Torpedo” Agnatius Paasi.

Paasi has requested a release, which will be granted in the coming days, to return to New Zealand on compassionate grounds.

His departure is expected to be confirmed once Paasi can finalise a contract with the Warriors.

The 25-year-old prop played 54 NRL matches for the Titans over three years, but his 2017 season was plagued by a series of shoulder injuries.

In his return from a shoulder reconstruction, Paasi only managed 11 games last season and looked far from the player that dominated in 2016.

Paasi was close to being crowned the player-of-the-tournament at the 2016 Auckland Nines and had a sensational season as the Titans made the play-offs.

Paasi made his NRL debut for the Warriors in 2014 but only played one match for New Zealand before resurrecting his career at the Titans under Neil Henry in 2015.

Paasi’s departure will free up around $300,000 in the Gold Coast’s salary cap for 2018, giving new coach Garth Brennan an opportunity to draft in some fresh blood.

Football manager Anthony Laffranchi will be given an interim recruitment role at the club when COO Tony Mestrov leaves on Friday to take up the CEO role at Greyhounds NSW.

The Titans are unlikely to appoint a new COO until they are under new owners in the coming weeks.

[ALX25]

Might need to poach Oliver Clark from the Panthers...

[TitanPremiership]

Additionally to finding it quite ironic that Hayne has a bigger thread then the whole squad rumours... Given the now likelihood of his exit, I would like to pose the question of who you think would be a good buy for us? As someone posted earlier (sorry can't look up that far while writing this), here is the off contract list for given positions and teams.

https://www.zerotackle.com/rugby-league/players/by-position-2018/

https://www.zerotackle.com/rugby-league/players/off-contract-2018/

[teke]

Isaako is a fella i'd be looking at to try and pinch from the bronx

[indoallstars]

Additionally to finding it quite ironic that Hayne has a bigger thread then the whole squad rumours... Given the now likelihood of his exit, I would like to pose the question of who you think would be a good buy for us? As someone posted earlier (sorry can't look up that far while writing this), here is the off contract list for given positions and teams.

https://www.zerotackle.com/rugby-league/players/by-position-2018/

https://www.zerotackle.com/rugby-league/players/off-contract-2018/

Looking at that list i would try bring Brian Kelly home as left centre, try pick up crighton, nathan brown, will smith/dylan edwards could go well at fullback for a cheaper price.

[lonegull]

With Hayne going Watching the PNG side today if I was brennnan I would be getting onto meady see if he wants a substantial pay rise to come back down the free way and play fullback his positional play has really impressed me today along with the tough hit ups

[DavidBouveng]

Meady always been my homey and i would love him to play for this season as a homecoming until we land a name for next year or get a kid to develop for 2 years -

A full actual season for Mead at Fullback- the season he never got but always deserved and is still the best performed fullback we have had since Preston left. His worst games would be better than anything Zillman ever did, and Dave would put more effort into his ice baths and warm up than jarryd does on the field.

[teke]

Forget Meady get the Kumul wingers !!!

[DIEHARD]

Just sign up the Kumuls team.

I'd love to see Mead back, he was never treated with the respect he deserved.

[Titanic]

Kumuls won’t go much further unless they solve their on-field leadership issues.

[teke]

Kumuls won’t go much further unless they solve their on-field leadership issues.You noticed that aswell, I see the ppls champion Mead vs the Hunters champion Boas vs the self proclaimed champion Segeyaro.

Segeyaro just over plays his role massively, they look much better when he's not on the field

[Titanic]

I’d get Puara in 9, ditch Watson Boas and Paul Aiton for starters.

[NZTITAN]

Sounds like we've picked up Jack Stockwell

[Bayside Titan]

Official: Agnatius Passi rejoins the Warriors for 2018-19 after being granted a release from his Titans deal #NRL


https://twitter.com/nath_ryan/status/927342901331247104

- - - Updated - - -

Few new signings at the Titans today in Jack Stockwell (Knights) and Jai Whitbread (Broncos). Mitch Rein arrives later this week. #nrlhttps://twitter.com/travismeyn/status/927343359936495616

[Mr Bods]

Some comments please on Jack Stockwell people??

[Randomologist]

Lurker saying Napa on the outer at the Roosters, possibility?

[JunctionBlock]

Some comments please on Jack Stockwell people??

I think he did well with his first year with the Knights but he's had some injuries these last two years. He's a big boy so probably in the bench rotation with the props.

[gotitans101_]

All seem like very average 'not-very-high-ceiling' signings to me.

[mdrew]

Jai Whitbread is by no means an average low ceiling type. He is a real talent and a local junior for good measure

[gotitans101_]

Jai Whitbread is by no means an average low ceiling type. He is a real talent and a local junior for good measure

Thanks mdrew. Should have clarified - I don't see much of a ceiling for Stockwell or Reign.

[psmitty]

Ive seen in a few articles recently that Hoffman may be looking at coming back to the Titans. There is talk if Hayne goes they will release Hoffman to come back.

[Titanic]

No to Hoffman on several levels ... surely we must move forward, I don't want to spend another season counting how many times he didn't pass the ball.

[Hail Sezer]

Thanks mdrew. Should have clarified - I don't see much of a ceiling for Stockwell or Reign.

I can see where you're coming from GT. I think Rein fills that void of capable as opposed to development potential - we would have picked him up at the price you'd usually pay a fringe or "potential" footballer though, which I'm ok with - good bang for buck and I'll enjoy seeing him out there with the 9 when Peatsy is injured, as opposed to Simpkins.

One thing I do want to comment on is our Rookie contract allocation, which I don't think the club has done with much of a strategy or eye to scouting. 3 or 4 of the 6 are straight from our NYC team last year and the others from other NYC teams. Why did we not look wider and deeper - there are 16 clubs that have all had NYC players over the past few seasons that have been just as dominant, graduated to QCUP and are performing at QCUP without being allocated to a club because the rookie system wasn't around when they graduated NYC 1-2 years ago. Are these not proper rookies? I.e. playing the grade below NRL adequately, yet still only 21/22? Who says that all of these players we have given these rookie contracts in 2018 can even compete at QCUP level this year or next year? I mean no disrespect to these players whatsoever and am a huge fan of junior development as you all know, however this roster management tactic does not make sense to me - I would have thought that we would have looked to allocate it moreso with 6 players aged 18-22, as opposed to 6 players aged 19 or 20. I just think we've limited ourselves with a narrow approach with respect to age. Just my thoughts.

[ALX25]

Should be an even split 3 under 20 and 3 over 20.

[gotitans101_]

tbh I am glad Passi is gone, was being talked up at the start of last season but never really evolved.

[Mexican titan]

tbh I am glad Passi is gone, was being talked up at the start of last season but never really evolved.

Like all of the over hyped hair bears. It was obvious early that none of them had the motors that are necessary to be consistently good at NRL level.

[Toads]

No to Hoffman on several levels ... surely we must move forward, I don't want to spend another season counting how many times he didn't pass the ball.

Good point, those times were frustrating.

No to Hoffman, thanks!

[Bayside Titan]

Like to know our exact squad numbers , does anyone know as zero tackle is wrong at the minute.

Also can someone clear up for me that the clubs can only use the 30 players in the squad through the year and not use outside the 30 should they need to due to injury?

[NYCDB]

This is from an NRL email:

"Under the 2017 contracting model, clubs had 25 players to choose from plus an additional 2nd tier salary cap. In the past if clubs needed to use more than this they made application to use additional players.

From 2018, clubs have an additional 5 players (30) to choose but no 2nd tier. Clubs can then make application to use more than 30 players from the development list (up to 6 players) and then players from the 2nd tier competitions (ISP in NSW and ISC in QLD) if they still can't field a team in position from the 30 +6 Development List players."

[indoallstars]

http://www.sportingnews.com/au/league/list/nrl-the-lurker-boyd-cordner-sydney-roosters-cooper-cronk-contract-link-gold-coast/b6nm88n1xh3112p79zlxxzlod/slide/1

Lurker saying titans linked with Cordner as he is close with Garth Brennan. I never trust the lurker but boy I hope it is true, he can take that plodder Greenwoods spot, if he doesnt i sure hope that Morgan Boyle, Keegan Hipgrave, Max King or Ryan James does for the start of the season.

[psmitty]

http://www.sportingnews.com/au/league/list/nrl-the-lurker-boyd-cordner-sydney-roosters-cooper-cronk-contract-link-gold-coast/b6nm88n1xh3112p79zlxxzlod/slide/1

Lurker saying titans linked with Cordner as he is close with Garth Brennan. I never trust the lurker but boy I hope it is true, he can take that plodder Greenwoods spot, if he doesnt i sure hope that Morgan Boyle, Keegan Hipgrave, Max King or Ryan James does for the start of the season.


Surely they won't release him but great if we did get him.

[Titanic]

Left centre... what have we got? Sarginson and Copley .... ?

[Hail Sezer]

Left centre... what have we got? Sarginson and Copley .... ?

You've also got Olive who is naturally a left centre despite playing right last year, as well as Elliot, Sami and Cooper. That's 5 competing for that spot, with another being a contender for the wing with TRD also around.

A lot of players with the potential hat on but nothing to get overly excited or confident about. I guess the battle between the young blokes for the spots will give pre season and trials some zest?

[psmitty]

Simpkins receives NRL lifeline

Tony Webeck
Wed 08 Nov, 2017, 1:00pm
By Tony Webeck, Chief Queensland Correspondent,


The appointment of Garth Brennan as coach has already paid off for one Titans player with utility forward Ryan Simpkins issued an NRL lifeline that will see him link back up with his former Panthers mentor.

For the past two years Simpkins has finished the Telstra Premiership with uncertainty surrounding his playing future and when he ruptured his ACL in the opening minutes of his 50th NRL game earlier this year, a return to his trade as a plumber looked increasingly likely.

One of the most valued members within the playing group for the selfless way in which he plays, the skill he possesses with ball in hand and the clean-up work he does in defence, Simpkins was waiting to see who Neil Henry's replacement would be before deciding his future and struck gold when Brennan was announced as the new head coach last month.

Now 29 years of age, Simpkins won a NSW Cup premiership in 2014 under Brennan when he was at the Panthers and although the final paperwork is still yet to be signed off on, he has returned to training with the club in order to continue the rehabilitation on his knee injury.

"I was looking at my options elsewhere and possibly going overseas but most probably staying on the coast and going back to work," Simpkins told NRL.com of his alternatives had the Titans not offered a new deal.

His next challenge is to complete the rehabilitation on the ACL injury he suffered in Round 10 against the Storm after becoming a regular member of the Titans' 17, then push for selection in Round 1 against the Raiders.

"The last time I did my knee it was roughly seven months before I was back to full training so it would be after Christmas definitely but I'd be doing a lot of the running stuff through the first month or two," Simpkins said of the recovery. "It's more the contact and sideways movement stuff [that takes time].

"As long as there's not too many setbacks I should be right by the start of February for the trials which will be nine months [since the injury].

"Hopefully I can just start progressing and when I start running I can continue progressing.

"Strength-wise it feels really good so hopefully it all goes smoothly."

A strong advocate for Brennan's head coaching claims, Simpkins believes the new coach's personality and ability to communicate with players will help to bring back a playing group that became splintered towards the back end of the 2017 season.

With Agnatius Paasi the latest player to leave the club after receiving a release to join the Warriors next season there has been a high turnover of talent on the Gold Coast with the likes of Brendan Elliott, Brenton Lawrence, Jai Arrow, Jack Stockwell and Jai Whitbread all reporting for their first week as a Titan this week.

It was every player's first chance to see how Brennan's style will transfer to the high-pressure environment of an NRL head coaching role but Simpkins is confident he is a man who will get the best out of his players.

"It will be interesting to see how that evolves as a first grade coach but you speak to any of the players that have played under him, they all say the same thing. He's a coach you want to play for," Simpkins said.

"He's passionate and not in it for the glory of the money or anything like that. He's in it because he genuinely enjoys doing it and you feel that he takes a genuine interest in you as a person and as a player.

"He's got a blow-up in him. He can blow up as good as any of them and when it's time to train and work he's all business but away from football I feel he tries to get to know his players and wants more of a relationship than just player and coach."


http://www.nrl.com/simpkins-receives-nrl-lifeline/tabid/10874/newsid/115252/default.aspx


Not sure if this was mentioned before.

[Titanic]

Not posted previously but predicted after his endorsements of Brennan ... an honest local but I hope we are raising the bar this year.

[Ausphin]

I have updated original post with what now looks like might be squad of 30 (unsure of developmental players), after checking training pictures etc. Let me know if I have missed anyone.

[ja4220]

I have updated original post with what now looks like might be squad of 30 (unsure of developmental players), after checking training pictures etc. Let me know if I have missed anyone.

Missing Jai Arrow that I can see mate.

[Ausphin]

Missing Jai Arrow that I can see mate.

Nope, he's there. I tried to list who I thought might be starters and then depth below them. I have him pencilled in as our starting lock with Proctor and Hipgrave as 2nd rowers. ��

[RenegadeGC]

Development Players - Brimson, Cooper, Matautia (So not top 30)

[ja4220]

Nope, he's there. I tried to list who I thought might be starters and then depth below them. I have him pencilled in as our starting lock with Proctor and Hipgrave as 2nd rowers. ��

Oops so he is, guess my coffee hadn't kicked in yet.

[NZTITAN]

Joey Leilua anyone?

[Mexican titan]

Joey Leilua anyone?

As in BJ Leilua from the Raiders? If so a huge no from me. The worlds dumbest human.

[NZTITAN]

As in BJ Leilua from the Raiders? If so a huge no from me. The worlds dumbest human.

Theres an article that says we'll chase him if Hayne leaves thats why I asked, apologies.

Its in 'sports confidential II' daily telegraph if anyones interested, paywall for me atm.

[Mexican titan]

Theres an article that says we'll chase him if Hayne leaves thats why I asked, apologies.

Its in 'sports confidential II' daily telegraph if anyones interested, paywall for me atm.

Geez mate, don't apologise. You have every right to put his name out there, in fact I think his name was mentioned a few weeks back.

As you might have gathered though, I think if we are following our no d1ckhead policy, then he shouldn't be anywhere near the place. He has played pretty well for a while so I wonder what is up if the Raiders are letting him go.

And thinking about it further, if I had a choice between Hayne and BJ and no other, I'd take BJ. That's how highly I rate Hayne.

[Titanic]

Leilua is the Hurrellcane without brains. When he’s hot he’s hot but when he’s not he’s abysmal. No thanks.

[JunctionBlock]

It was also pointed out last time his name came up that they both play the right side.

[5 Year Contract]

Not a player signing but some interesting news from mole.

https://wwos.nine.com.au/2017/11/10/13/15/nrl-news-gold-coast-titans-raid-penrith-panthers?ocid=Social-9NewsGC

Titans to launch daring raid on Penrith and Parramatta staff

By The Mole
an hour ago

New Titans coach Garth Brennan is set to launch a daring raid on both Penrith and Parramatta as he builds his staff for next season. Moley has heard that Brennan has targeted Eels NYC coach and former wing star Luke Burt as his assistant coach.

And Brennan is also chasing Penrith high-performance manager Matt Cameron and the club’s refereeing advisor, former Roosters fullback Luke Phillips. Cameron is one of the most respected co-ordinators in the game, having worked at both the Eels and Tigers before joining the Panthers.

Significantly, both Cameron and Burt are close to controversial fullback Jarryd Hayne, who is currently weighing up whether to remain at the Titans or move back to his home town of Sydney. Phillips was signed by Panthers boss Phil Gould and, as a former referee, has been giving the players and coaching staff valuable insights into the workings of the referees over the past two seasons.

[mdrew]

Apology all, in a previous post I noted that former Cronulla Shark Tony Matautia signed for 2018 but in fact he signed a two year deal. Poor form by me

[psmitty]

Gold Coast Titans earmark Canberra Raiders centre Joey Leilua as Jarryd Hayne's replacement

Adrian Proszenk

The Gold Coast have earmarked Canberra centre Joey Leilua as the man to replace Jarryd Hayne if the cross-code star returns to Parramatta.

Hayne, in camp with the Fijian national squad, is considering whether to ask for a release from his $1.2 million Titans deal to switch back to the Eels. He will need to take a hefty pay cut to do so as the Eels are only prepared to offer him about half that amount for a one-year deal.

Canterbury announced that the NRL had officially deemed them salary-cap compliant for the 2018 season after offloading fullback Brad Abbey to the nation's capital. The Raiders, however, have some work to do before they get under the limit. They will need to move on at least one big name and have been shopping Leilua around to rival clubs. The Titans, regardless of whether they move Hayne on, have expressed interest, although it's likely they will only be able to afford him if the former San Francisco 49er departs.

Leilua has been on the cusp of State of State of Origin selection in recent seasons. The 25-year-old would have debuted for the Blues in place of an injured Josh Morris in game two of the 2016 series had Canberra coach Ricky Stuart not rejected a request to have him in camp as a shadow player. The former Knights and Roosters three-quarter earned Dally M centre-of-the-year honours that season and signed a two-year extension only four months ago. However, his form has since tailed off and the Green Machine are prepared to release him to help balance the books.

The Gold Coast maintain Hayne hasn't asked for a release, although his public silence on the matter – save for a Tweet a week ago – has further fuelled speculation he wants out. If he does return to the Eels it will be on their terms – they want to see that he is fully committed to the cause after being released from his contract to pursue his NFL dream. While the departure of Semi Radradra has left a huge void, the Eels have injured utility Clint Gutherson to return to a side that already has a capable fullback in Bevan French. If Hayne was to don the blue and gold again, Parramatta may consider a player swap that involves former Titan Josh Hoffman.

The Raiders confirmed their own swap, signing Abbey on a two-year deal in exchange for Clay Priest. Abbey made his NRL debut for Canterbury this year after switching from the Warriors, making four first-grade appearances and scoring one try.

"Brad was a standout at junior level and was one of the best young fullbacks to come out of the NYC competition," said Canberra's recruitment and high-performance director Peter Mulholland.

"At just 20 years of age he showed he can perform at NRL level this year with the Bulldogs and we know he'll work hard during the pre-season and will add strong depth to our squad."

While Abbey's contract is for two years, the Raiders have an option in their favour for an additional season in 2020.

Abbey's departure has allowed the Bulldogs to retain hooker Michael Lichaa while still remaining cap compliant following the signings of marquee men Aaron Woods and Kieran Foran.

"Although we are extremely sad to see Brad Abbey leave, we look forward to Clay joining us at the club," said Bulldogs chairman Ray Dib.

"After meeting with the NRL, we are pleased to announce that the club is salary-cap compliant for next season and we can now put all our focus into preparing well in the coming months under new head coach Dean Pay."


http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/gold-coast-titans-earmark-canberra-raiders-centre-joey-leilua-as-jarryd-haynes-replacement-20171110-gziwl0.html

[indoallstars]

Gold Coast Titans earmark Canberra Raiders centre Joey Leilua as Jarryd Hayne's replacement

Adrian Proszenk

The Gold Coast have earmarked Canberra centre Joey Leilua as the man to replace Jarryd Hayne if the cross-code star returns to Parramatta.

Hayne, in camp with the Fijian national squad, is considering whether to ask for a release from his $1.2 million Titans deal to switch back to the Eels. He will need to take a hefty pay cut to do so as the Eels are only prepared to offer him about half that amount for a one-year deal.

Canterbury announced that the NRL had officially deemed them salary-cap compliant for the 2018 season after offloading fullback Brad Abbey to the nation's capital. The Raiders, however, have some work to do before they get under the limit. They will need to move on at least one big name and have been shopping Leilua around to rival clubs. The Titans, regardless of whether they move Hayne on, have expressed interest, although it's likely they will only be able to afford him if the former San Francisco 49er departs.

Leilua has been on the cusp of State of State of Origin selection in recent seasons. The 25-year-old would have debuted for the Blues in place of an injured Josh Morris in game two of the 2016 series had Canberra coach Ricky Stuart not rejected a request to have him in camp as a shadow player. The former Knights and Roosters three-quarter earned Dally M centre-of-the-year honours that season and signed a two-year extension only four months ago. However, his form has since tailed off and the Green Machine are prepared to release him to help balance the books.

The Gold Coast maintain Hayne hasn't asked for a release, although his public silence on the matter – save for a Tweet a week ago – has further fuelled speculation he wants out. If he does return to the Eels it will be on their terms – they want to see that he is fully committed to the cause after being released from his contract to pursue his NFL dream. While the departure of Semi Radradra has left a huge void, the Eels have injured utility Clint Gutherson to return to a side that already has a capable fullback in Bevan French. If Hayne was to don the blue and gold again, Parramatta may consider a player swap that involves former Titan Josh Hoffman.

The Raiders confirmed their own swap, signing Abbey on a two-year deal in exchange for Clay Priest. Abbey made his NRL debut for Canterbury this year after switching from the Warriors, making four first-grade appearances and scoring one try.

"Brad was a standout at junior level and was one of the best young fullbacks to come out of the NYC competition," said Canberra's recruitment and high-performance director Peter Mulholland.

"At just 20 years of age he showed he can perform at NRL level this year with the Bulldogs and we know he'll work hard during the pre-season and will add strong depth to our squad."

While Abbey's contract is for two years, the Raiders have an option in their favour for an additional season in 2020.

Abbey's departure has allowed the Bulldogs to retain hooker Michael Lichaa while still remaining cap compliant following the signings of marquee men Aaron Woods and Kieran Foran.

"Although we are extremely sad to see Brad Abbey leave, we look forward to Clay joining us at the club," said Bulldogs chairman Ray Dib.

"After meeting with the NRL, we are pleased to announce that the club is salary-cap compliant for next season and we can now put all our focus into preparing well in the coming months under new head coach Dean Pay."


http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/gold-coast-titans-earmark-canberra-raiders-centre-joey-leilua-as-jarryd-haynes-replacement-20171110-gziwl0.html

I have mixed feelings about bj leilua, at his best he can rip into opponents, he has that mongrel we have been missing, i can almost guarantee that he will try knock anyones head off protecting his team...essentially the titans need exactly a player like this, we have not had an enforcer since bird.

But then i think of bjs brain snaps, poor defensive reads, sometimes getting too hot headed and their are rumours he is beefing with teamates.

We have gone with no ********s policy at the titans, but for all of bjs shortcoming boy oh boy do i want a mongrel player for the team. Looking at the off contract list currently there is not many options out there, its also solves our left centre problem. Now i think about it......i want him

[Geeman]

"No Thanks" to Leilua, his whole attitude onfield just grates me, and why would we want to do a swap and get Hoffman back???

[NZTITAN]

Id actually be happy with Leilua, yes he has some brainsnaps but christ id love to have someone other than Hurrell that actually threatens the line in our back five.

Only issue is he plays rightside so it doesnt solve our left centre debarcle.

[JunctionBlock]

If Brennan can teach how our centres to defend and then in turn our second rowers know how to defend with our centres and then our half's know what the hell they are supposed to do defensively he could be a good buy.

[mdrew]

If people want a tough hard player in the side, wait until Keegan Hipgrave gets a few games under his belt.

[Bayside Titan]

Id actually be happy with Leilua, yes he has some brainsnaps but christ id love to have someone other than Hurrell that actually threatens the line in our back five.

Only issue is he plays rightside so it doesnt solve our left centre debarcle.


I’d take BJ if it could mean his mate Rapana comes back the following year to take maybe Dons spot.

[lonegull]

If people want a tough hard player in the side, wait until Keegan Hipgrave gets a few games under his belt.
Greg bird mark II

[Mr Bods]

^^^ there is only one Greg Bird
He was/is a complete footballer, skills, toughness, versatility and mongrel.
Hipgrave will need to forge his own identity.

[indoallstars]

If people want a tough hard player in the side, wait until Keegan Hipgrave gets a few games under his belt.

Cant wait to see hipgrave get some more game time, he really impressed me in the last game.

Mdrew where do you see hipgrave playing? He seems to be a lock, but i think they will play Jai Arrow there knowing our club. Do you think hipgrave could do well in 2nd row as a starter, or more coming off the bench?

I would prefer anyone over greenwood starting.

[mdrew]

For me Keegan Hipgrave is better suited in the second row. he has some speed and mobility that is certainly underrated


Cant wait to see hipgrave get some more game time, he really impressed me in the last game.

Mdrew where do you see hipgrave playing? He seems to be a lock, but i think they will play Jai Arrow there knowing our club. Do you think hipgrave could do well in 2nd row as a starter, or more coming off the bench?

I would prefer anyone over greenwood starting.

[TITAN PETE]

For me Keegan Hipgrave is better suited in the second row. he has some speed and mobility that is certainly underrated

I agree mate & he brings aggression & a bit of attitude which we lost when Bird left & James was made Captain

[indoallstars]

For me Keegan Hipgrave is better suited in the second row. he has some speed and mobility that is certainly underrated

Thanks mate, I was hoping you would say that. Bring on 2018

- - - Updated - - -


I agree mate & he brings aggression & a bit of attitude which we lost when Bird left & James was made Captain

Agreed, the only problem is we only have 1 hipgrave. If he gets injured unless james can release the inner beast, we have no enforcer.

[ALX25]

Imagine Valentine Holmes.
Imagine no Hayne.
Win Win.

[Mexican titan]

This is from the NRL site. I haven't heard of this guy but those who have might want to provide some comments:

"The Gold Coast have snared Roosters NYC outside back Kiah Cooper.

The 20-year-old was part of the victorious 2016 NYC grand final side and has signed a one-year-deal with the club.

A left centre who can also play fullback, Cooper has a lethal left foot step."

EDIT: sorry guys, as BT has noted this is old news. It was only on the NRL site today.

[Bayside Titan]

This is from the NRL site. I haven't heard of this guy but those who have might want to provide some comments:

"The Gold Coast have snared Roosters NYC outside back Kiah Cooper.

The 20-year-old was part of the victorious 2016 NYC grand final side and has signed a one-year-deal with the club.

A left centre who can also play fullback, Cooper has a lethal left foot step."



He's a good footballer mate. Massive left foot step and a good fend. Touched up GL big time when the Roosters played Titans 20's last year on the coast.

He's a centre long term IMO. Played fullback in 20's but moreso just to touch the ball more, just like Phil Sami. with our 20's this year.



This is from mdrew on page 4 here mate.



Kiah Cooper.* The former Sydney Roosters fullback/centre has signed with the Titans for the 2018 season after two outstanding seasons in the NYC for the Roosters including starting at fullback in their NYC Grand Final winning side against the Penrith Panthers in 2016.

In the 2017 NYC competition Kiah Cooper played in twenty three matches for the Roosters starting in all twenty three contests.* For the first twenty matches Kiah Cooper alternated between fullback and centre starting ten matches in each position and started on the wing in the final three rounds.* In twenty two of his matches Kiah Cooper played the entire 80 minutes, playing 54 minutes in the other match. Kiah Cooper also scored nine tries including a double against the Titans in Round Twenty Six.

Kiah Cooper’s other seven tries came against the Rabbitohs in Round Four, Sea Eagles in Round Five, Knights in Round Seven, Round Eleven against the Bulldogs, Round Sixteen against the Storm, Round Seventeen against the Sharks and finally in Round Twenty against the Newcastle Knights.

Kiah Coopers totals in 2017 included running for 1 958 metres from 196 carries, nine line breaks, seven try assists, nine off loads and 87 tackles however he was also credited with 45 missed tackles thus he had a tackling efficiency of 66%. His per game totals included 85 running metres from 8.5 carries and four tackles.

On six occasions Kiah Cooper ran for more than 100 metres including in Round Twenty against the Newcastle knights when he ran for 151 metres.* Defensively Kiah Coopers “best” match was against the Parramatta Eels in Round Ten when he made ten tackles.

In 2016 Kiah Cooper played in twenty seven matches including the finals series playing all 80 minutes in every match, scoring thirteen tries including a double against the Dragons in Round Eight.* Over the course of the 2016 NYC season, Kiah Cooper ran for 2 514 metres from 272 carries, made eleven line breaks, twelve try assists ten off loads and made 75 tackles.

Kiah Coopers 2016 per game averages included carry the ball ten times for 93 metres and making three tackles.* On eight occasions Kiah Cooper ran for more than 100 metres including twice running for 160 metres with those games being in Round Nine against the Newcastle Knights and the Roosters first 2016 final against the Canberra Raiders.

The table below compares Kiah Cooper’s 2016 and 2017 NYC per game averages.

2016 2017

Games played 27 23

Minutes per game 80 78

Runs per game 10 8.5

Metres made per game 93 85

Tackles per game 3 4

Kiah Cooper moved to the Sydney Roosters at the end of the 2015 season where he played in the SG Ball competition with the Central Coast Centurions and played for Newcastle Wests in the Newcastle U19 competition finishing as the second leading try scorer with ten tries from eleven matches. Kiah Cooper also kicked thirteen goals to finish with 66 points on the season.* Kiah Cooper scored a hat trick against Kurri Kurri and a double the week prior against Lakes United.

In 2015 Kiah Cooper was a star with Hunter Sports High going on to represent New South Wales Combined High Schools at the ASSRL U18 championships that year as well as touring New Zealand with the NSWCHS squad and in 2013 Kiah Cooper toured France with the New South Wales Indigenous U16 squad.

The powerfully built young man has a variety of attacking moves that he utilises depending on where he is positioned on the field.* It is interesting that when he is lining up at left centre his primarily attacking move is to run an outside shoulder route and just prior to contacting the defensive line Kiah Cooper will step off his left foot to cut back inside the left shoulder of his direct opponent, he scored from this on a number of occasions last season in the NYC.* Kiah Cooper gets the defenders momentum moving to their right and then cuts back before the defender has time to adjust and redirect their momentum.

When he is lining up at right centre Kiah Cooper seemingly runs a straighter line more often than not and looks to get on the outside shoulder of his immediate defender after slowing or halting the defenders momentum by running directly at him. When he has played at fullback Kiah Cooper is constantly around the centre of the ruck looking to either snipe out of dummy half himself or benefit from an off load. In the instances when he runs from dummy half the majority of the time Kiah Cooper runs to his left and then looks to cut back behind the play the ball into open space.

When he is open space Kiah Cooper is able to step off either foot but seems to prefer stepping off his right foot.* In addition to a very good step, Kiah Cooper has a powerful fend and usually with his right hand.* He starts off with a bent arm looking to absorb the contact and then extends his arm out with explosive power to “shock” the defender.* A number of fullbacks in the NYC over the last two seasons were knocked back in this fashion.

In relation to Kiah Cooper’s speed, it is probably in the above category but his speed off the mark is elite and he can maintain his top speed over an extended distance.* Kiah Cooper does not necessarily score a lot of long range tries as he starts to progressively work through his support options as soon as he breaks into open space, but he is incredibly difficult to combat in his attacking twenty as he is often able to maintain his momentum through the initial defensive contact and keep defenders away from his body with his strength and fend and regularly drag defenders over the line from ten metres out.

In his games on the wing, Kiah Coopers best attribute is that his maintains his line and stays out wide meaning that his inside play makers have confidence to either throw the cut out pass after a back line move or when they attack on a short blind side.

Defensively Kiah Cooper’s strength and body control are his best attributes.* When defending in the centres Kiah Cooper twists his body towards the side line so that his momentum does not stall and he can defend against an opposing player whether they cut back inside or try to beat him on the outside.* This defensive technique can cause issues when an attacker looks to run directly at him but Kiah Cooper’s natural functional strength mitigates this potential issue significantly.* When defending at fullback Kiah Cooper pushes forward to eliminate as much time that the attacker has as possible to make his decision in relation to the options available to them as Kiah Cooper converges.

Kiah Cooper is related to Ashley Taylor and was on hand at the Titans training facility when Ashley Taylor signed his new four year contract yesterday.* I would anticipate that Kiah Cooper who will obviously train with the Titans NRL squad in the off season will start out in the QCup likely with the Tweed Heads Seagulls prior to pushing for a possible NRL spot later in the season as he adjusts to the rigours of the NRL.

Over his two seasons in the NYC with the Sydney Roosters, Kiah Cooper played primarily in the centres or at fullback but did play a couple of matches in 2017 on the right wing, specifically the final three regular season rounds.* Whilst I anticipate that Kiah Cooper will break into the QCup and potentially the NRL on the wing, I believe that with his solid build deceptive speed and powerful fend, Kiah Cooper will ultimately find himself in the centres in the long term.

Even though Kiah Cooper has a slightly different build to the Roosters centre Latrell Mitchell in that he is stockier and a touch shorter, they have a similar playing style in terms of deceptive speed and a powerful fend making them difficult to stop one on one especially inside the attacking 20 metre area

[NZTITAN]

SHHHHHHH I
Which non Sydney club is keeping a keen eye Brisbane’s NYC fullback Corey Allan?
The 20-year-old is off-contract in 2018 and a standout in the Holden Cup.
With Darius Boyd playing on a further four seasons, one rival is hopeful Allan’s NRL pathway has been blocked and they’ll be able to swoop.
A product of Marsden State High, the former Australian Schoolboy averaged 118 running metres per game last season.


^This is interesting too

[DIEHARD]

Titans buy up big on local produce
http://www.nrl.com/

Brendan Elliot still has the jersey he got signed by the inaugural Titans team of 2007 at his parents' house in Runaway Bay; Jai Whitbread's mother has a pile of old Giants and Seagulls jerseys that her husband Greg wore almost 30 years ago.

The pair have come to the club from Newcastle and Brisbane respectively but like a lot of the Titans assembling for the 2018 season they have a deep-seated connection to the Gold Coast that club officials believe is integral in fostering greater local support.

Of course, the great panacea to the sometime apathy of footy fans is to win plenty of games on the field, but there is no question that a community of any size loves nothing more than seeing locally grown talent succeeding on the big stage.

From senior leaders at the club such as Ryan James, Jarrod Wallace, Kevin Proctor, Ash Taylor and Kane Elgey through to new recruits including Elliot, Whitbread, Keegan Hipgrave and Jai Arrow the Titans have placed a premium on bringing back talent they have let slip through their fingers.

Elliot was a student at Coombabah State High School before he was signed to the Roosters academy system as a 15-year-old, while Whitbread was in the Titans system until a period of uncertainty at the club saw him take up an opportunity at the Broncos.

For Elliot, whose jersey and footy from K-Mart is adorned with the signature of current Titans football manager Anthony Laffranchi among others, playing for the Titans in 2018 will be in many ways the realisation of a boyhood dream.

"I would have been 13 when the Titans came in," Elliot recalled.

"I actually had a friend of mine that got me into the sheds after a game. I had one of the K-Mart jerseys with no sponsors and got it all signed up.

"I didn't even realise until I got here and started speaking to everyone and asking where they are from, how many of the boys are local talent.

"I found out there are a lot of local boys here that have either worked their way up or gone and come back like me.

"It's great to hear because the Gold Coast is our home town and it burns the fire deep inside your belly that you want to play for the Gold Coast Titans and want to do well for the Gold Coast.

"That was a massive point for me to get back up here and play for the Titans."

Whitbread's connections to Gold Coast rugby league stretch back to the inaugural season of the Giants in 1988 where his father Greg played 16 games, going on to make 52 first grade appearances for Gold Coast across four seasons.

Whitbread Jnr was part of the Titans' high performance academy program up until two years ago when an apparent lack of interest on the Gold Coast saw him join Brisbane, playing 44 NYC games over the past two seasons and representing the New South Wales under-18s.

"I saw a great opportunity to go to Brissie," Whitbread said on Tuesday.

"They have a really strong program up there with their juniors and the Titans were still maturing as a club. So I took that opportunity to move up to Brisbane and then I found myself back here, back home.

"To be honest I sort of knew that [the Titans] were going to try and find their feet and they were just going to grow as a club.

"I never put it out of my mind that I'd never come back but I was just keeping my doors open to whatever popped up.

"When I had my meeting here they had a big emphasis on having the boys that have grown up here play here because it will be a lot more special playing for where you grew up."

[Just-a-Fan]

Give a life line to Johnny Tuivasa-Sheck and make a play for Roger Tuivasa-Sheck to take over from Haynes

Reed Mahoney as a development player and give Sami sago at centre

[DIEHARD]

Leilua not in Titans’ backline blueprint
http://www.gcbulletin.com.au

JOEY Leilua will not be at the Titans next season, with the Gold Coast confirming the Raiders centre is “not part of our plans”.

Reports emerged last week linking the 25-year-old with the Titans but chief executive Graham Annesley quashed the rumours, saying the club had made no offer to Leilua or his manager.

“We have discussions with agents about a whole range of players, like every club does,” Annesley said.

“But we never made an offer for that player and he’s not part of our plans. Player agents throw up all sorts of names.

“But throwing them up and entering into negotiations for their services are two completely different things.”

With the Raiders facing salary cap pressure, Leilua has been shopped to rival clubs but it’s understood Canberra has been unwilling to contribute significantly to his salary, leaving the Titans unwilling to make an offer.

Gold Coast, who are under the cap for next year, are looking for a centre and backrower to finalise their list.

With a cloud still hanging over the future of Jarryd Hayne, rumours Leilua could join the Titans gathered steam.

But Annesley said the Gold Coast’s star fullback was still expected to report for pre-season training after the World Cup.

“We’ve got nothing new on Jarryd. He’s a contracted player and he’s on World cup duties, so we’re expecting him back at the end of the World Cup,” Annesley said.

While the Titans may be on the lookout for a strike centre, Dale Copley is keen to step up and claim his place alongside Konrad Hurrell next season after his first uninterrupted pre-season in three years.

“It has been pretty disrupted the last few years, so I’m looking forward to being able to build camaraderie through the pre-season and then taking that into the season, it’s something I haven’t been able to do the last couple of years,” said Copley, who moved from Brisbane to the Sydney Roosters and then the Gold Coast in the past two seasons.

“It hasn’t just been moving clubs, it’s been moving cities as well which is very disruptive.

“Just to be able to build those combinations over the pre-season is something I haven’t been able to do. I came in late last year and was trying to learn on the run which is not ideal when you’re playing against guys who have been training together for months.”

Copley said talk Leilua could link with the club had not concerned him.

[ALX25]

Give a life line to Johnny Tuivasa-Sheck and make a play for Roger Tuivasa-Sheck to take over from Haynes

Reed Mahoney as a development player and give Sami sago at centre

Mahoney is locked down at the Eels. JTS I think has headed back to NZ.

[Just-a-Fan]

Mahoney is locked down at the Eels. JTS I think has headed back to NZ.

Thanks for the info Well I hope JTS does get a chance somewhere

[Bayside Titan]

Gold Coast Titans are pleased to confirm the signing of Mitch Rein, for season 2018.

Rein has commenced training with the Titans at the TFH High Performance Centre after moving north from the Penrith Panthers. The 27-year-old spent the majority of 2017 as part of the victorious Intrust Super Premiership team under the tutelage of new Titans Head Coach Garth Brennan.

The hooker made his NRL debut in Round 1 of season 2011 for the St George Illawarra Dragons, playing 132 matches in the red and white, before shifting to the Panthers where he spent one year, playing five games in the top grade.

Click here to hear from the new recruit.

The Kiama junior is excited about the move north of the border.

“I came here not knowing many of the guys but they’ve been very welcoming and I can’t wait to rip in for the rest of the pre-season,” Rein said.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge and having the opportunity to link up with Garth again, is great.

“He is a champion guy and a great coach, once he gave me a call it was a pretty easy decision.”

Head Coach Garth Brennan is happy he was able to lure Rein to the Titans.

“Mitch is the ultimate competitor and someone that I enjoy coaching,” he said. “He is a terrific trainer and his attitude across every aspect of the game can’t be faulted.

“He has made a smooth transition into the club and I know he is looking forward to working hard over the next few months of pre-season training.

“It’s great that we have been able to acquire an experienced player who has played over 130 NRL games and represented Country Origin.”



This was an email from the Titans this morning.


https://twitter.com/gctitans/status/932370402994786304

[indoallstars]

Gold Coast Titans are pleased to confirm the signing of Mitch Rein, for season 2018.

Rein has commenced training with the Titans at the TFH High Performance Centre after moving north from the Penrith Panthers. The 27-year-old spent the majority of 2017 as part of the victorious Intrust Super Premiership team under the tutelage of new Titans Head Coach Garth Brennan.

The hooker made his NRL debut in Round 1 of season 2011 for the St George Illawarra Dragons, playing 132 matches in the red and white, before shifting to the Panthers where he spent one year, playing five games in the top grade.

Click here to hear from the new recruit.

The Kiama junior is excited about the move north of the border.

“I came here not knowing many of the guys but they’ve been very welcoming and I can’t wait to rip in for the rest of the pre-season,” Rein said.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge and having the opportunity to link up with Garth again, is great.

“He is a champion guy and a great coach, once he gave me a call it was a pretty easy decision.”

Head Coach Garth Brennan is happy he was able to lure Rein to the Titans.

“Mitch is the ultimate competitor and someone that I enjoy coaching,” he said. “He is a terrific trainer and his attitude across every aspect of the game can’t be faulted.

“He has made a smooth transition into the club and I know he is looking forward to working hard over the next few months of pre-season training.

“It’s great that we have been able to acquire an experienced player who has played over 130 NRL games and represented Country Origin.”



This was an email from the Titans this morning.


https://twitter.com/gctitans/status/932370402994786304

Glad we have Mitch on board he will be great off the bench and filling in when peats is in origin/injured!

Does anyone know if we have signed him just for 2018 or numerous years?

Any idea of his salary, I imagine it wouldn't be too high as we didn't have to compete with other NRL clubs, but we do have this habit for paying overs.

[Randomologist]

http://www.sportingnews.com/au/league/list/the-lurker-jarryd-hayne-parramatta-eels-fiji-rlwc-mitchell-pearce-sydney-roosters/p35k2ynjgs2q1k6xg7wdiwtcv/slide/1
Lurker saying Hayne to Eels is a done deal, I hope he's on the money.

[psmitty]

Apparently we are linked to Kenny Edwards.

http://forums.leagueunlimited.com/threads/rumoured-signings.452237/page-285

Any one have any opinions on him?

[mdrew]

Kenny Edwards seems to be very good at getting under the oppositions skin

[NZTITAN]

Oh my god id love Kenny Edwards, Keebra boy too im pretty sure

[Bayside Titan]

Apparently we are linked to Kenny Edwards.

http://forums.leagueunlimited.com/threads/rumoured-signings.452237/page-285

Any one have any opinions on him?


Could be our compensation for sending Hayne back.

[Mr Bods]

Oh my god id love Kenny Edwards, Keebra boy too im pretty sure

If you are right and he’s a Keebra Boy coming home then I’m sold. That’s exactly the strategy we need to employ with our recruitment

[Mexican titan]

He is a bit of a loose cannon on the field as well and I think every side needs one of those types.

[Titanic]

The penalty magnet we need. What about Murdoch-Masila? Another Keebra graduate.

[DavidBouveng]

i think he is up there with Joey Leilua as one of the dumbest players in the comp, and grubby too.

would prefer we didn't sign him but i don't really care. just found this on wiki for what its worth.

In 2008, Edwards played for Manly Warringah Sea Eagles (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manly_Warringah_Sea_Eagles)' NYC (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Youth_Competition_(rugby_league)) team,[4] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-4) however his contract was terminated at the start of 2009 due to disciplinary reasons.

He instead joined the St. George Illawarra Dragons (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._George_Illawarra_Dragons) for the 2009 season, again playing in the NYC competition.[5] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-5) Later on, he had his contract terminated once again for disciplinary reasons which forced him to sit out the 2011 season.[3] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-1eyedeel.com-3)

In 2012 Edwards joined the Southport Tigers (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southport_Tigers) in the Gold Coast Rugby League (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold_Coast_Rugby_League) competition. After acting as a trainer in one of the Tigers' under-17s matches, Edwards was accused of repeatedly inciting his team to fight their opponents. He was subsequently banned for the rest of the season, but had the charges downgraded on appeal and was allowed to play for Southport in the final series.[3] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-1eyedeel.com-3)


During the 2015 NRL season, Edwards was handed a 9 month playing ban and missed the entire season for taking a urine sample on behalf of fellow Parramatta player Kaysa Pritchard (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaysa_Pritchard). [11] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-11).


In 2017, Edwards missed the first 7 rounds of the season after pleading guilty to a domestic violence charge, having poured alcohol over the head of his partner during an argument. In his second game back, Edwards was the first player to be sinbinned after the NRL changed the rules to outlaw players slapping opposition players. Edwards was shown throwing a chair across the change rooms after the incident.[12] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-12). Kenny Edwards played his 50th NRL match against the St George Illawarra Dragons in round 15 of the 2017 NRL season (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2017_NRL_season).

Ask yourself do we REALLY want that?? he no where near good enough to put up with this sort of baggage in my opinion

[Randomologist]

i think he is up there with Joey Leilua as one of the dumbest players in the comp, and grubby too.

would prefer we didn't sign him but i don't really care. just found this on wiki for what its worth.

In 2008, Edwards played for Manly Warringah Sea Eagles (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manly_Warringah_Sea_Eagles)' NYC (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Youth_Competition_(rugby_league)) team,[4] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-4) however his contract was terminated at the start of 2009 due to disciplinary reasons.

He instead joined the St. George Illawarra Dragons (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._George_Illawarra_Dragons) for the 2009 season, again playing in the NYC competition.[5] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-5) Later on, he had his contract terminated once again for disciplinary reasons which forced him to sit out the 2011 season.[3] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-1eyedeel.com-3)

In 2012 Edwards joined the Southport Tigers (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southport_Tigers) in the Gold Coast Rugby League (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold_Coast_Rugby_League) competition. After acting as a trainer in one of the Tigers' under-17s matches, Edwards was accused of repeatedly inciting his team to fight their opponents. He was subsequently banned for the rest of the season, but had the charges downgraded on appeal and was allowed to play for Southport in the final series.[3] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-1eyedeel.com-3)


During the 2015 NRL season, Edwards was handed a 9 month playing ban and missed the entire season for taking a urine sample on behalf of fellow Parramatta player Kaysa Pritchard (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaysa_Pritchard). [11] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-11).


In 2017, Edwards missed the first 7 rounds of the season after pleading guilty to a domestic violence charge, having poured alcohol over the head of his partner during an argument. In his second game back, Edwards was the first player to be sinbinned after the NRL changed the rules to outlaw players slapping opposition players. Edwards was shown throwing a chair across the change rooms after the incident.[12] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-12). Kenny Edwards played his 50th NRL match against the St George Illawarra Dragons in round 15 of the 2017 NRL season (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2017_NRL_season).

Ask yourself do we REALLY want that?? he no where near good enough to put up with this sort of baggage in my opinion

I agree, never been impressed with the way he plays either. Seems to be full of errors and can't keep a calm head at all.

[Mexican titan]

i think he is up there with Joey Leilua as one of the dumbest players in the comp, and grubby too.

would prefer we didn't sign him but i don't really care. just found this on wiki for what its worth.

In 2008, Edwards played for Manly Warringah Sea Eagles (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manly_Warringah_Sea_Eagles)' NYC (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Youth_Competition_(rugby_league)) team,[4] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-4) however his contract was terminated at the start of 2009 due to disciplinary reasons.

He instead joined the St. George Illawarra Dragons (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._George_Illawarra_Dragons) for the 2009 season, again playing in the NYC competition.[5] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-5) Later on, he had his contract terminated once again for disciplinary reasons which forced him to sit out the 2011 season.[3] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-1eyedeel.com-3)

In 2012 Edwards joined the Southport Tigers (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southport_Tigers) in the Gold Coast Rugby League (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold_Coast_Rugby_League) competition. After acting as a trainer in one of the Tigers' under-17s matches, Edwards was accused of repeatedly inciting his team to fight their opponents. He was subsequently banned for the rest of the season, but had the charges downgraded on appeal and was allowed to play for Southport in the final series.[3] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-1eyedeel.com-3)


During the 2015 NRL season, Edwards was handed a 9 month playing ban and missed the entire season for taking a urine sample on behalf of fellow Parramatta player Kaysa Pritchard (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaysa_Pritchard). [11] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-11).


In 2017, Edwards missed the first 7 rounds of the season after pleading guilty to a domestic violence charge, having poured alcohol over the head of his partner during an argument. In his second game back, Edwards was the first player to be sinbinned after the NRL changed the rules to outlaw players slapping opposition players. Edwards was shown throwing a chair across the change rooms after the incident.[12] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenny_Edwards_(rugby_league)#cite_note-12). Kenny Edwards played his 50th NRL match against the St George Illawarra Dragons in round 15 of the 2017 NRL season (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2017_NRL_season).

Ask yourself do we REALLY want that?? he no where near good enough to put up with this sort of baggage in my opinion

My God, never knew most of that. I'm happy to reconsider and give him a wide berth.

[psmitty]

Apparently Edwards two kids live on the Gold Coast. This would be the reason he wants to go I would assume.

[Mr Stupid]

My God, never knew most of that. I'm happy to reconsider and give him a wide berth.

Thumbs Up.

[Mr Bods]

Consider me now unsold on Edwards. That rap sheet is unacceptable.

[Upthetits]

The blokes bad news. Would be a terrible signing cultural wise

[DavidBouveng]

yeah he is a jail term waiting to happen imo.

[Bayside Titan]

AJ Brunson contracted until the end of the 2020 season

Is this a win for both the club and the player ?? He seems to have talent.

[Mr Bods]

It’s well documented that I think Brimson is as exciting a talent as Taylor and LG. Having him till 2020 locked down is amazing.
If our squad is fit and firing next season it’s going to be interesting to see who is the number 17.
Rein, Lawton, Brimson all options and all 3 bring different skill sets.

[Mexican titan]

It’s well documented that I think Brimson is as exciting a talent as Taylor and LG. Having him till 2020 locked down is amazing.
If our squad is fit and firing next season it’s going to be interesting to see who is the number 17.
Rein, Lawton, Brimson all options and all 3 bring different skill sets.

Rein at this stage I reckon.
While all the Hayne rubbish has been going on it's easy to forget that other than replace the coach and sign a few average players, nothing has happened to excite me about next season.

[Titanic]

That's right MT. We've lost a lot and got little quality in return. For the third year in the last four we are heading into a re-building year ... sux big time.

[Bayside Titan]

Coaching/signing news: Luke Burt told the Eels last night he's accepted a job at the Titans. Burt has signed a 2 year deal to become Garth Brennan's assistant. Starts at Titans on Tuesday #NRL

https://twitter.com/nath_ryan/status/933531100705464320

[Toads]

That's right MT. We've lost a lot and got little quality in return. For the third year in the last four we are heading into a re-building year ... sux big time.

The rebuilding part is getting a bit ordinary, though I am looking forward to next season with a little more optimism than previous years. No high expectations, just hoping to see it come together like Brennan explained it, and the bit about managing the players on a individual level. As much as it ****s me to say it. It's a formula that has worked for Bennett for quite some time now.

[gothabull]

Coaching/signing news: Luke Burt told the Eels last night he's accepted a job at the Titans. Burt has signed a 2 year deal to become Garth Brennan's assistant. Starts at Titans on Tuesday #NRL

https://twitter.com/nath_ryan/status/933531100705464320

That's great news

[JunctionBlock]

https://au.sports.yahoo.com/league/a/37987438/leilani-latu-may-leave-panthers-join-gold-coast-titans/

Possible signing news.

[Mr Bods]

^^^ that’d be great
I really rate him
Be dynamic as a off the bench prop

[NZTITAN]

Garth, good pickup.

[DavidBouveng]

^^^ that’d be great
I really rate him
Be dynamic as a off the bench prop

Kenny Edwards aggression and impact without the rap sheet

[Titansborn'n'bred]

Latu would be a fantastic signing IMO. Last year he was in great form and one of the more damaging running props going around in the game. Providing he can recover and get back to form, great buy. Good decision to put James to the backrower running on the edges and Latu will ease the pressure on hard running aggressive forwards. For what it's worth I can confirm that Hayne has moved out of his GC home (as reported) Dog act on the club if he pulls out before 2018 kick-off

[Bayside Titan]

SIGNING NEWS: @PenrithPanthers prop Leilani Latu set to join @GCTitans on three-year deal after visit to QLD today. Full story @7th_Tackle soon.


https://twitter.com/josh_massoud/status/933630921822973952

[Nols of the Goldy]

I spoke with a parting Titan player last night and said I was so over all this Hayne crap and the damage he has done and is doing to our club, to which he said "lucky he is leaving then". I asked him if he was sure as that would be music to our ears and he said "yep he's gone". Therefore it seems the players know he is going as I am sure if he knew, then they all would. He also implied that it was a good thing, as the way he spoke I don't think Hayne was a very popular member of the squad by a long shot. Just wish the circus would hurry up and be over. The more things drag on, the more it feeds his ego. Come on Australia, whoop his **** tonight for all of us Titans fans.

[NZTITAN]

Ben Murdoch-Masila now on the Titans radar

[Bayside Titan]

As NZTitans said.

November 24 2017 - 3:51PM
Adrian Proszenko
Follow via Email

Follow on Twitter
Ben Murdoch-Masila could be on his way back to Australia after his blockbusting World Cup form caught the attention of several NRL clubs.

The Salford forward has been a standout coming off the bench for Tonga, reproducing the form that earned him a spot in the Super League Dream Team. The Gold Coast are one club to take notice after several standout World Cup performances, raising the prospect of "BMM" adding to his 58 NRL appearances for Penrith and Wests Tigers.

New lease of life: Tongan forward Ben Murdoch-Masila.
New lease of life: Tongan forward Ben Murdoch-Masila. Photo: AAP
Murdoch-Masila will have another opportunity to impress when Tonga take on England at Mt Smart Stadium on Saturday, with the winner earning a World Cup final berth.

"I have spoken to my partner and if the right NRL opportunity presented itself to us, we would take it with both hands," he said.

"There is one opportunity that I know of, but I've been focusing on the World Cup while in camp.

"When I first came into camp, I was one of the last ones to arrive.


"As soon as I walked into the room, everyone was laughing and joking. The thing about these Tongan camps, all the boys know each other and we click so fast. That's been showing on the field, we're gelling well."

Murdoch-Masila came to the Tigers via Keebra Park, the same junior nursery that produced Benji Marshall. The school's league mentor, Greg Lenton has described Murdoch-Masila as the most talented player he has coached. However, the death of one of his closest friends, Tigers teammate Mosese Fotuaika in 2013, changed everything. A devastated Murdoch-Masila lost his mojo and headed overseas in a bid to start afresh.

"I spent some time in the NRL, but unfortunately it didn't end too well," he said.

"My time at Super League, I feel the love of the game again. I went over with a clear mind and it's been a big blessing for me to be over there. My family enjoy it and whatever makes them happy makes me happy. That's showing out on the pitch.

"When I was back in Sydney, it was just too much of a reminder of bad things, of Moses and a couple of other little things as well.

"I went over for a fresh start, which is what I needed. It was just me, my partner and my daughter, so there were no other distractions. It was exactly what I needed."

England will go into the semi-final as favourites, but the Tongans are undaunted. Having already eliminated New Zealand from the tournament, a star-studded side that includes Jason Taumalolo, Andrew Fifita, Michael Jennings and Will Hopoate believes they are capable of reaching the final.

"It would be a fairytale story, but we're just focusing on this weekend," Murdoch-Masila said.

"We do believe we can get to the next stage, no one is doubting themselves. We believe we can do it.

"We know the hype that's been around on us but we still have a job to do. The coach is good at bringing us back down to earth and getting the job done first."

The Titans are making plenty of changes to their playing and coaching rosters. The club has welcomed Eels under-20s coach Luke Burt, is close to signing Panther Leilani Latu and is also eyeing off several other players.

http://amp.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/gold-coast-titans-keen-on-tongan-forward-ben-murdochmasila-20171124-gzsb7j.html

[Mr Bods]

^^^ Ex Keebra is a great idea so long as they don’t have a Kenny Edwards rap sheet however if Brennan sees Elliot, Sarginson and TRD as our Back up Fullback options then we need to forget adding anything to our squad till we get a proper Fullback

[Titansborn'n'bred]

I'm liking the direction we're heading in. Sounds like Latu is a done deal, would happily take Masala as more impact off the bench and with $s freed up with Hayne buggering off were a couple of key signings away from having a quality team. Fullback and centre are the obvious areas we're lacking. An article I read the other day would suggest Brennan has someone in mind to replace Hayne (Gutho or French would be ideal)

[psmitty]

TITANS CONSIDERING ORIGIN SQUAD PLAYER


The Titans are considering signing former QLD Origin squad member Edrick Lee - should Jarryd Hayne link with Parramatta.

Lee, who began his career with Canberra, is contracted to the Sharks for 2018.

However, Hayne's anticipated departure from the Gold Coast would free-up space in the salary cap for the Titans to replenish their backline with a player like Lee, whose manager resides on the holiday strip.


http://www.sportingnews.com/au/league/news/nrl-transfers-contract-rumours-james-maloney-sour-taste-leaving-cronulla-mitchell-pearce/1so98ef8mwq5918hatu5a2w8cg

[ozynorts]

TITANS CONSIDERING ORIGIN SQUAD PLAYER


The Titans are considering signing former QLD Origin squad member Edrick Lee - should Jarryd Hayne link with Parramatta.

Lee, who began his career with Canberra, is contracted to the Sharks for 2018.

However, Hayne's anticipated departure from the Gold Coast would free-up space in the salary cap for the Titans to replenish their backline with a player like Lee, whose manager resides on the holiday strip.


http://www.sportingnews.com/au/league/news/nrl-transfers-contract-rumours-james-maloney-sour-taste-leaving-cronulla-mitchell-pearce/1so98ef8mwq5918hatu5a2w8cg

Not a player who has ever impressed me.

[Mr Bods]

^^^ agreed. A good QCUP player at best
Not NRL standard

[DavidBouveng]

F&%*ing hands like feet.

No thanks.

[BatlowTigers]

Have we resigned Ben Nakubuwai?

[JunctionBlock]

With $1.2 million in the kitty I think we can do better than Edrick Lee.

- - - Updated - - -


Have we resigned Ben Nakubuwai?

I don't think we did.

[teke]

Edrick Lee....oh my

[Titanic]

Edrick Lee? You’d have to be kidding.

[Titansborn'n'bred]

Would much prefer Leutele from Sharks to fix our centre problems and poach a quality fullback from a club who has too many backs on their books or is over budget for next year

[Bayside Titan]

TITANS CONSIDERING ORIGIN SQUAD PLAYER


The Titans are considering signing former QLD Origin squad member Edrick Lee - should Jarryd Hayne link with Parramatta.

Lee, who began his career with Canberra, is contracted to the Sharks for 2018.

However, Hayne's anticipated departure from the Gold Coast would free-up space in the salary cap for the Titans to replenish their backline with a player like Lee, whose manager resides on the holiday strip.


http://www.sportingnews.com/au/league/news/nrl-transfers-contract-rumours-james-maloney-sour-taste-leaving-cronulla-mitchell-pearce/1so98ef8mwq5918hatu5a2w8cg

Good signing for Tweed.

[Bayside Titan]

Gold Coast Titans: Incoming assistant Luke Burt buys into coach Garth Brennan’s vision for club
Emma Greenwood, @EmmaGreenwood12, Gold Coast Bulletin
November 24, 2017 10:00pm
Subscriber only
LUKE Burt has bought so heavily into the vision being created for the Titans he was willing to move from the one NRL club he has known his whole career.

Burt played 264 games for Parramatta between 1999 and 2012 before joining the club’s coaching staff and leading the Eels to the under-20 grand final last season.

While the Eels still had a role for Burt, he has been poached by the Titans, with incoming coach Garth Brennan getting him to buy into his development culture.

“He’s been a one-club man and it’s a big show of support for the Titans that he’s willing to move his family out of Parramatta,” Brennan said.

“They had a role there for him, so it shows a real sign of where this club is heading for him to uproot his family and move up here and believe in my vision that I spoke to him about.


Luke Burt will join Garth Brennan’s staff as a Titans assistant.
“He’s young, he’s enthusiastic, he’s very passionate about the development side of things.

“He’s coached 20s similar to Hodgo (fellow assistant Craig Hodges) and myself, so we get the development side of things and how important that is.

“And he obviously had some success last year being beaten in the grand final.”

But there was one ingredient that was more important than any for Brennan.

“More than anything, he’s a good guy,” Brennan said.

“You don’t play all your career at one club and do what he’s done in the game if you’re not a good person.”


Burt also received a glowing assessment from newly anointed NSW Origin coach Brad Fittler, who he worked alongside for Lebanon at the Rugby League World Cup.

“Brad Fittler spoke very highly of him in the Lebanon team — he was assistant coach for Lebanon — and we saw how well they went in the World Cup, especially against Tonga last week,” Brennan said.

“His passion is attack and he’ll be hands-on in that area to a certain degree.”


Luke Burt in action for Parramatta where he played 264 NRL games.
While Hodges’ passion is defence, those roles will not automatically fall to the pair, with Brennan preferring his staff to be all-rounders.

“I don’t like my coaches just being focused on one area,” he said.

“Hodgo, Burty and myself have all been head coaches in our own right, so we have the ability to cover both sides of the game.

“I’m really excited to have Luke and Craig both working alongside me.

“We’re going to be very active out in the junior league and coaching the coaches and coaching the Titans way.”

http://www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au/sport/nrl/gold-coast-titans-incoming-assistant-luke-burt-buys-into-coach-garth-brennans-vision-for-club/news-story/012ef445d25427b6435a57bc66cf10a7

This last paragraph says a lot to me and something that I really believe that this has been lacking.


Hey

[Titanic]

Yes that’s what we want ... go team!

[Bayside Titan]

So a fair amount of social media and good jurnos saying that Hayne has signed with Parra, and looking at Haynes Twitter it has location as Parramatta. Our player signing have gone into over drive in the past week or so, so it’s easy to join the dots and consider Hayne gone. My only hope is that whom ever had it in their mind that signing Hayne would end well has learnt from this experience. The Titans have had to cough up $600k to punt King and launch the Plane Sydney bound, money that is not just laying around.

To try and recoup that Money the Titans should be getting our stable of home grown players that we now have as well as ATAY and Konnie and flood the airwaves, bus stations , tram stations and print media to try and create our own local super stars. I reflect on the era that the Knights had with the Johns boys, Bedirus, Harrigan , Gidley boys, Piedon and Simpson to name a few and that’s the area we need to start now.

[DavidBouveng]

Burt was also a decent goal kicker, so that is an added bonus for Ash and Kane.

[psmitty]

Cordner being shopped around.

http://forums.leagueunlimited.com/threads/rumoured-signings.452237/page-291

[Upthetits]

Cordner being shopped around.

http://forums.leagueunlimited.com/threads/rumoured-signings.452237/page-291

Isn't he their co captain with friend? Surely not?

[Upthetits]

**Kangaroos, Sydney Roosters dismiss talk of Boyd Cordner setback**

*By Dean Ritchie*

AUSTRALIAN officials say Boyd Cordner will play in Saturday night’s Rugby League World Cup final against England despite speculation he had suffered a long-term knee injury.

Social media went into total meltdown that the Sydney Roosters and Kangaroos star would need surgery on chronic ligament damage that would keep him off the field for nine to 12 months.

The Roosters said they had not heard about any new injury news regarding their skipper, while Australian officials confirmed Cordner had ongoing knee issues but was not about to undergo surgery.

Kangaroos staff said Cordner would play in the World Cup final against England in Brisbane on Saturday night.

Cordner may face clean-up surgery after the World Cup following a gruelling season that included State of Origin, a finals campaign with the Roosters and playing a key role in coach Mal Meninga’s Kangaroos team.

The Roosters last week released halfback Mitchell Pearce following the signing of Melbourne Storm halfback Cooper Cronk.

The tricolours are also in the hunt for boom South Sydney back rower Angus Crichton, who has attracted interest from Cronulla and rugby union.

[JunctionBlock]

If he's injured we're definitely going to sign him.

[shamus]

If he's injured we're definitely going to sign him.

Massive lol

[Upthetits]

Manly are trying to offload Brian Kelly and Darcy lussick

[Mexican titan]

Manly are trying to offload Brian Kelly and Darcy lussick

Lussick a definite no - he is a grub.

Kelly, I thought had some good moments with Manly last year but his defence was iffy at times. Not so sure about him.

[DavidBouveng]

i would take back kelly at the right price although i agree he is one that appears to be going great, but people who watch him closey - namely manly fans - see his deficiencies also

[Titanic]

Kelly left for the big time and is welcome back to fight for a place with no guarantees. Lussick nope.

[JunctionBlock]

With Lussick going does that mean that DCE won't have any friends at the club again?

[ozynorts]

Apparently Maloney's deal at the Panthers is hinging on Latu moving to the Titans...

[Titanic]

We know who’s the winner there ... and for a change that’s us!

[gotitans101_]

Luke Burt is a champ, I'm really happy to have him as coaching assistant tbh.

I would also take back Kelly in a heartbeat providing he comes cheap. I still see potential in him.

[Bayside Titan]

NRL Transfer Centre 2017-18: Titans land big man Leilani Latu to kickstart signing spree


PENRITH prop Leilani Latu is headed to the glitter strip.

Foxsports.com.au can conform the big unit has been granted a release to accept a lucrative three-year-deal with the Gold Coast.

It’s understood Latu will arrive in Queensland on Wednesday night before joining his new teammates for training on Thursday in what is a huge boots for Garth Brennan’s side.

Since taking the coaching post from Neil Henry in late October, Brennan has been working overtime on the Titans’ roster for next season.

Signing the 24-year-old until the end of 2020 will also help Penrith close their deal with Maloney.


Leilani Latu of the Panthers is tackled.
Leilani Latu of the Panthers is tackled.
After a $200,000 hiccup due to a rejected third-party deal, the Panthers now have the money to sign off on the Test star’s contract.

It was a move the Panthers never intended on making but one the Titans are thrilled with.

Latu, who played under Brennan in the Panthers’ NSW Cup side, is a crucial piece to the roster puzzle but by no means the final piece.

With cap space still to play with, the expected departure of Jarryd Hayne will gift the Titans a mini war chest of cash to hit the open market with.

It’s understood Brennan is working on luring several other players to the club and has been surveying the Super League for new troops.

It is unlikely he’ll be signing any more Panthers with Latu joining Mitch Rein who has already signed on for 2018 with a player option for an additional season.


The move not only bolsters the Titans squad but solidifies Brennan’s plan to shift Ryan James to the edge next season.

With Latu adding size to a pack already featuring experienced big men in Queensland Origin prop Jarrod Wallace and new addition Brenton Lawrence, the Titans have a great blend of youth and experience.

The departure of Agnatius Paasi to the Warriors on compassionate grounds and James’ shift to the back row, leaves Morgan Boyle, Max King, Jai Arrow and Keegan Hipgrave to battle for the remaining positions in the 17.

The arrival of Latu is a huge boost for the new coach.

Titans coach Garth Brennan is seen during training.
Titans coach Garth Brennan is seen during training.
One player who won’t be joining the Titans’ roster in 2018 is Tonga monster Ben Murdoch-Masila.

The Salford forward is keen on a return to the NRL having previously made 58 appearances in the competition across his time with Penrith and the Wests Tigers.

A product of Keebra Park high, the 26-year-old spoke with Titans management but they have decided not to pursue him.

https://twitter.com/foxnrl/status/935628974293577728

[Titanic]

Latu is a good signing but BMM would be a great fit too being Keebra Park and all. No worries, positive stuff but sorry to lose Nakubuwai to Pommie League.

[mdrew]

Brenton Lawrence has retired

[Titanic Believer]

Brenton Lawrence has retired

WHAT?!

[DIEHARD]

Gold Coast Titans prop Brenton Lawrence announces sudden NRL retirement
http://www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au/

GOLD Coast recruit Brenton Lawrence has dropped a bombshell on the Titans, announcing his sudden retirement from the NRL.

Lawrence in August agreed to re-join the Titans from Manly on a two-year deal but will now instead watch from the sidelines.

The 32-year-old trained yesterday but decided he can no longer handle the rigours of the NRL.

“It’s with mixed emotions I make this decision,” Lawrence said.

“I would love to feel like a 20-year-old and have many more seasons ahead, the reality is I’m not and I believe this is the best decision for the team, and for myself.

“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved in rugby league. I have experienced some of the best years of my life both at the Gold Coast Titans and the Manly Sea Eagles.

“I’ve been so fortunate through rugby league to create incredible memories and friendships that I hold very dear and I would like to thank everyone who has ever supported my career. It is something I have never taken for granted.”

Coach Garth Brennan described Lawrence’s decision as “selfless”.

“Of course we would have loved Brenton to play for the club but he has made a selfless decision and I commend him for that,” Brennan said.

“He knows his body better than anyone else so he has made a personal decision that will keep him in good health down the track.

“Brenton is a player who has made an impact in the short time he has been back, and I, as well as all of the playing group wish him well for the future.”

Annesley added Lawrence may still be an asset in another area around the club.

[Surfers66]

Shame, Lawrence could of taught Hayne a few things regarding humility and being a team player and doing what is best for those around him..

Solid career Brenton, Good luck.

[Mr Bods]

Annesley saying he might find a role for Lawrence on the club staff. How about giving roles in the club to the likes of Friend/Mat Rogers/Presto first.
In general I’m disappointed though was looking forward to seeing Brenton playing for us again.
I hope we can continue to build the depth of the club with more forwards and outside backs.

[Titansborn'n'bred]

Hopefully this changes our chances of landing BMM along with Latu. Just the impact we've been missing the last few seasons. Would happily take Gordon as a 12 month stop gap for FB and look at making a play for a big name the following year

[DavidBouveng]

I imagine we have lots of room in the cap for props, but maybe not in the top 30 squad.

Is it possible that Brentons departure and Latu's arrival are linked?

[JunctionBlock]

Shame, Lawrence could of taught Hayne a few things regarding humility and being a team player and doing what is best for those around him..

Solid career Brenton, Good luck.

Difference between a QLDer and NSWelshman hey Bodsy?

[Mr Bods]

^^^ believe it or not but BJ is South Australian

[Mexican titan]

Difference between a QLDer and NSWelshman hey Bodsy?

No, the difference between Manly and Parramatta blokes. You get one, Lawrence, who decided he wouldn't go through the motions and rip the club off and the other Parra bloke, Hayne, who will screw all around him to make as much as he can without morals or effort.
Now if I can only get you guys to forget about DCE!!

[Bayside Titan]

No, the difference between Manly and Parramatta blokes. You get one, Lawrence, who decided he wouldn't go through the motions and rip the club off and the other Parra bloke, Hayne, who will screw all around him to make as much as he can without morals or effort.
Now if I can only get you guys to forget about DCE!!

I will never forget what DCE had done. Never forgive or forget in my book. Hayne will just join him in that same hole.

[Titanic]

Yep, that would be the ar$e hole.

[Upthetits]

>The Gold Coast Titans are pleased to confirm the signing of Leilani Latu, for three years, through until the end of 2020.

>>“I’m really looking forward to getting up to the Gold Coast,” Latu said. “I’ve crossed paths with a few of the guys before so it will be good to play with them week in, week out.

>>“Of course it’ll be good to hook-up with Garth again. I enjoyed being coached by him before and he always challenges me which is something I’m looking forward to again.

>>“I had a good look at the roster before making my final decision and I’m excited by what I’ve seen. There are a lot of young boys with bright futures so hopefully we can do well.”

[NZTITAN]

@Danny_Weidler - The career of Jarryd Hayne on the Gold Coast is coming to a close. He has told influential Titans figures he is moving on. @9NewsSyd

[psmitty]

I don't have a problem with Hayne moving on because of his daughter. My problem has been the paying of the $180,000 over Nov and Dec. If he has told Influential figures does that mean it's Annersley and do we still have to pay for Nov 30th pay?

[Mr Bods]

^^^^^ exactly...that’s our $180k. He should not be paid a penny of it.
Bye Bye Epic Low Life.

I just again want to send a wave to those who had a crack at me time and time again who felt I was being too hard on poor Jarryd.

[Hail Sezer]

^^^^^ exactly...that’s our $180k. He should not be paid a penny of it.
Bye Bye Epic Low Life.

I just again want to send a wave to those who had a crack at me time and time again who felt I was being too hard on poor Jarryd.

I heard we are now offering Greg Condon the fullback spot so don't go cheering too soon mate

Apparently Hayne has asked for the release this morning. Hopefully true so we can move on and start the hunt for a specialist fullback.

[Bayside Titan]

I heard we are now offering Greg Condon the fullback spot so don't go cheering too soon mate

Apparently Hayne has asked for the release this morning. Hopefully true so we can move on and start the hunt for a specialist fullback.


Do you have a FB in mind mate ?

[NZTITAN]

Even Badel is now confirming hes done deal at Parra

[Hail Sezer]

Do you have a FB in mind mate ?

If it was up to me I'd be watching the Cronulla situation carefully to see if Val Holmes wants a fullback gig. Otherwise an elite young fullback looking for a starting spotto grow with our spine - Jahrome Hughes, Jamayne Isaako immediately come to mind. Natural issue of course is that they are all under contract, not that this really means much.

If we need to be patient then so be it - I can't imagine it would be difficult to acquire Mick Gordon for a year then go looking 2019.

[mdrew]

I would grab Corey Allen from the Broncos

[Titanic]

Prepare for all the Eels homecoming trash.

[Ausphin]

I would grab Corey Allen from the Broncos

MDrew, respect your opinions on young developing players. Do you think Brimson is better suited to the halves or not cut out to be a Nrl fullback?

[mdrew]

I think that AJ could handle fullback but the more the Ball is in his hands the better thus why I think that he ends up at half. In saying that I think with Hayne gone he is our best in house option at fullback


MDrew, respect your opinions on young developing players. Do you think Brimson is better suited to the halves or not cut out to be a Nrl fullback?

[Ausphin]

I think that AJ could handle fullback but the more the Ball is in his hands the better thus why I think that he ends up at half. In saying that I think with Hayne gone he is our best in house option at fullback

Thanks mate. Appreciate the reply.

[JunctionBlock]

If it cost $90K but frees up $1.11 million then I can handle it. As long as we have seen the back of the self righteous W...ker

[ozynorts]

If it cost $90K but frees up $1.11 million then I can handle it. As long as we have seen the back of the self righteous W...ker

Yep, $1.11 million is a lot of cash that we weren't expecting to have. Pity it wasn't available when Teddy was on the market....

[Bayside Titan]

If it was up to me I'd be watching the Cronulla situation carefully to see if Val Holmes wants a fullback gig. Otherwise an elite young fullback looking for a starting spotto grow with our spine - Jahrome Hughes, Jamayne Isaako immediately come to mind. Natural issue of course is that they are all under contract, not that this really means much.

If we need to be patient then so be it - I can't imagine it would be difficult to acquire Mick Gordon for a year then go looking 2019.

Thanks HS for the reply. Gordon / Holmes would be my pick. Gordon so that we can develope a young guy.

- - - Updated - - -

My figuring is that Titans have about $600-$700k of Haynes money now. $400k was TPA from memory.

[psmitty]

Thanks HS for the reply. Gordon / Holmes would be my pick. Gordon so that we can develope a young guy.

- - - Updated - - -

My figuring is that Titans have about $600-$700k of Haynes money now. $400k was TPA from memory.


Apparently the second year is with no TPA so it would be saving $1.1 million. I think it would be hard to get out of the Nov 30th Payment as it is for the month of November which he has been with us.

I am for Holmes also. Go hard and let him take the fullback opinion.

[NZTITAN]

Our options are:

1. Get Michael Gordon and groom Brimson for the Fullback role

2. Get Gordon and also Jamayne Isaako and groom him for that role (problem as he'll need a release)

3. Get Jahrome Hughes out of his contract at Storm (Highly unlikely with Slater's career coming to a close)

4. Bevan French or Valentine Holmes are very unhappy with positional shifts and want our 1 jersey

5. Sign Corey Allan from Bris

6. Get Gordon for 2018 then sign Roger Tuivasa-Sheck for 2019

7. Play Brendan Eliott there

[Mr Bods]

My initial emotion now it’s official is one of relief. Thank god it’s over. We will need to give Mick Gordon a two year contract and match what the Roosters are paying him now I believe to get it done.

But on the other hand I think the mdrew Corey Allen idea is overall much better for our future.

[RavShamrock]

The Hayne thing has been a disaster but on a positive note it has delivered a big clean out and a completely fresh start that otherwise could have been the same old same old for many years to come. So for this Mr Hayne I salute you (may well you implode in your self-righteousness).

This squad is actually starting to look pretty good and I wouldn't discount Dan Sarginson turning out to be an above average full back.

[psmitty]

Apparently Hayne has not requested any of the $180,000 and will not get any of it.

[Toads]

Is it too early to get a start on the eulogy of Brad Arthur's RL career?

- - - Updated - - -

EDIT: Badel's very good at getting down on his knee's and blowing smoke in a upwards direction.*

*The audio cross to FoxSports studios

[JunctionBlock]

Apparently Hayne has not requested any of the $180,000 and will not get any of it.

It's funny, I saw and posted the same report in the Hayne thread but when I read it how you wrote it I think to myself that's a play on words, the same play on words that he was using when he said he hadn't instructed his management to talk to any other clubs.

[Hail Sezer]

It's funny, I saw and posted the same report in the Hayne thread but when I read it how you wrote it I think to myself that's a play on words, the same play on words that he was using when he said he hadn't instructed his management to talk to any other clubs.

this

[psmitty]

Pearce to the Titans.
Elgey to Manly
Gordon to the Titans.

Anyone like that?


Also a big no to a Return from Hoffman.

[ozynorts]

I still yet to see official confirmation from ANYONE that he is leaving. It is still a bunch of media talk. I hope it is true but I am sick of reading rumours.