Titans v Knights: David Mead has chance to push case for Gold Coast No. 1 jersey
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A FITTER David Mead will get another opportunity to mount his case for the Gold Coast’s No. 1 jersey against Newcastle.

Mead will move to the back in place of injured co-captain William Zillman (calf), paving the way for South Sydney recruit John Olive to make his Titans debut.

Olive only joined the club on Monday but will be rushed on to the wing for the Cbus Super Stadium clash against a Knights side with five NRL debutants.

Mead has made no secret of his desire to be a career fullback but the extremely fit Zillman is coach Neil Henry’s first-choice custodian.

Running out games has been the NSW Country representative’s battle but co-captain Nathan Friend said he had made big improvements.

“He keeps telling me the (winning) percentage when he plays fullback is quite high,” Friend said.

“He’s got a great running game. It’s always good when they kick downtown and he’s carrying it back for us.

“He’s a strong ballrunner, takes the right options and is a good talker. I’m looking forward to him at the back. He works on his game tirelessly and nutrition is a big part for him.”

Zillman hasn’t played an NRL game since Round 10 last year and is expected to be available to face Melbourne next weekend.

Henry said Mead was relishing the prospect of moving into the role and had worked on his fitness.

“He likes to get back there and bring the ball back,” Henry said.

John Olive will make his debut for the Titans against the Knights. Picture: Adam Head
“He’s really worked hard on his aerobic conditioning.

“It’s a very demanding position. There’s a lot of unseen running that goes on.

“The best fullbacks are clocking up 10km easily in a game. He’s an explosive runner but he’s got to be able to stay on the ball.”

A calf problem for winger Leva Li meant Olive was pushed straight into the side.