From Couriermail.com.au
Todd Balym
News Limited
April 12, 2014 10:00PM
DAVID Mead has always coveted a permanent move to fullback and after starring roles in the Gold Coast’s winning streak his dream may be closer to reality.
Mead has carved out a stunning career as a quality finisher, becoming the leading tryscorer in Titans history in his six seasons at the club.
But it’s been his brilliant form wearing the No. 1 jersey in the absence of William Zillman that has made many suddenly take notice of the speed, skills and ability of the Papua New Guinea born star.
Mead produced the match-turning length of the field try in the 12-8 win over Brisbane on Friday night to finish the game with 19 runs, 253 metres and six tackle busts.
In his three games at fullback Mead has averaged 16 runs for 166m, scored two tries, amassed 12 tackle busts plus one try assist and a line break assist.
In comparison, Zillman’s performance in the opening three rounds has averaged 11 runs for 89m, included one try and only three tackle busts.
Mead has studied some of the best fullbacks in the game to take his performances to the next level this season and it’s paying dividends with some “sharp” form according to coach John Cartwright.
Despite playing a key role in the win over the Broncos Mead knows his time in the No. 1 jersey may be limited with Zillman due to return from a hamstring strain for the Penrith clash next Monday.
“I think competition in the team is always very healthy and being put in the No. 1 jersey all I thought was improve as much as I can, learn off the best in the game and try and apply it to my game,” Mead said
“So far the past three games we’ve got some results and I’ve been trying to play that role as best as I can.” Cartwright admitted Mead was capable of coming up with plays few others in the NRL can orchestrate, joining Albert Kelly among those freakish talents in this Titans side who can score from anywhere on the football field.
The problem facing Cartwright now is how does he squeeze Zillman, who at his best is among the finest fullbacks in the comp, back into this winning team.
The Titans are riding a four-game winning streak and while the attack is not clicking as well as they’d like, it’s been the broken play efforts of Mead and Kelly that have ultimately helped get the Gold Coast across the line.
Cartwright has an extended build up for the clash with Penrith to work out exactly how he will shape his team to get the most out of both Zillman and Mead for the trip to Sydney.
“Yeah it’s a good headache,” Cartwright said.
“We have 10 days now, we’ve got a good break.
“Wherever he plays, wherever the pair of them play, they will be there. We just have to work out in what capacity that will be.
“Like I say, next week doesn’t necessarily mean what will happen the following week. It’s a great position to be in.”