Controversial salary cap rule robs young Gold Coast Titan Tom Kingston of NRL game
TRAVIS MEYN THE COURIER-MAIL JULY 26, 2014 12:00AM
THE NRL’s controversial salary cap rules have stunted another player on the rise with Titans forward Tom Kingston forced to play reserve grade this weekend.
Kingston made his NRL debut recently after the club sought a second-tier salary cap exemption from the NRL.
The exemption was granted because the Titans argued they did not have any other available player in their top 25, or second tier who had already played NRL this season, that could play in the backrow against Souths in Round 17.
Kingston made the most of his opportunity, playing three solid games, and was a certainty to play in tonight’s home game against Parramatta.
But the availability of Greg Bird and Cody Nelson after two-match suspensions has ended Kingston’s debut season, for now.
Co-captain Bird was always going to return to the team but Kingston would have held his spot ahead of Nelson, who made his debut in Round 8.
Kingston, 26, shelved a career in the air force to chase his NRL dream.
He was in camp with the Titans on Friday night but will play for Tweed Heads in the Intrust Super Cup.
Kingston’s coach at the Seagulls, Aaron Zimmerle, said it was an unfair ruling for a player on the rise.
"I find the NRL ruling on that is really unfair,” he said.
“You’re talking about a guy who’s had to bide his time and overcome so many obstacles to make it to the NRL.
“His performances since he’s been in the NRL have been really good. I’m proud of how well he’s transitioned into that level.”
The early retirement of Ashley Harrison as well as injuries to Caleb Binge and Ben Ridge paved the way for Kingston to crack the top grade following standout seasons for the Seagulls in the Intrust Super Cup.
Titans football manager Scott Clark said Kingston was dealing with his forced demotion well and he wouldn’t be allowed to play again this season unless the team suffers more injuries in the backrow.
“He’s disappointed and frustrated but understanding,” Clark said.
“It’s not an ideal model because a young bloke misses out on playing a game but it is what it is at the moment.”
Hayne is a little overrated anyway. Not in the same class as Slater.
Unlucky for Tommy who has been one of our best forwards in recent weeks. Sign him up in our best 25 Titans!
Abit overcast this morning. Talk of a storm this afternoon.
Interesting article in the paper today about Parra's away record (5 wins from their last 52 games away from Pirtek Stadium) and our shocking home record.
Perhaps this game will be a draw after golden point!
I see there is a few changes to the wenty magpies side (parra's reserves) by the looks of things and seeing who has come out of the first grade to au for wenty I would say Sio, Mannah and Hopoate will be inclusions today into first grade
I think you're right too, nrl.com reporting it too .... will be watching a delayed telecast tonight so won't be commenting until you are all asleep ... good luck lads, our season rests on this game.
Four reasons to escape to Queensland: Sun, Surf, Sand & the Titans.
Nice try by Taylor after a fantastic pass by Taka. Kevvie converts.
6-0 Titans
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Taka playing good in first 10 at five-eighth. Maybe our specialist coaches taught him some skills
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Good defence so far
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Eels score through Sio from a Chris Sandow pass that May have been forward. Sandow converts.
6-6
KFFL somehow held up with a miracle try saver! Still 6-6. Deadset Mortimer's crossfield kicks have been absoutely woeful! Not even the slightest bit threatening! Always too short and behind the attackers
Kevvie Gordon penalty goal.
8-6 Titans
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Half time 8-6 to us. We're not playing that bad but we need to hold on.
Defence has been great but like 5 year contract said, our kicking has been woeful. Taka hasn't played that bad at five-eighth but does dummy a lot. C'mon Titans! We need to win this one.
Heard people turned up @ the gate wearing #sackcarty t shirts & were told take them off or ya not coming in..
Karnage ??
Haven't read any posts if someone has already posted it
#itaintweaktospeak
Titans through Don after a nice kick by Morts. Great try.
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Gordon misses the conversion.
Titans lead 12-6
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Hayne scores a good try from his own half. Poor defence by us.
12-10 KTC
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Sandow converts it.
12-12