ethos
BroncoKiwi
2009 Season Preview - Gold Coast Titans
February 23rd 2009 04:28
Category: Opinion
To put it bluntly, the Gold Coast Titans need to develop consistency if they’re going to be a force this year.
The club started the 2008 NRL season on fire but, as was the case in 2007 as well, faded abysmally during the latter stages of the competition. Injuries to co-captains Scott Prince and Luke Bailey cruelled their top eight aspirations but the late season fatigue of the entire squad must be concerning for coach John Cartwright. The Titans must ensure they peak at the right time, while some luck on the injury front would be welcome. Furthermore, the Coast also need to learn how to win away from home. At times they surrendered meekly when in opposition territory.
Looking at the club’s 2009 roster, it’s fair to say it is the best Titans’ squad in their short history. The major addition is talented former Raiders’ backline utility William Zillman, who will probably slot in at centre with evergreen veterans Preston Campbell and Mat Rogers at fullback and five-eighth respectively. Backrower Sam Tagataese (Storm) and prop Matt White (Knights) should provide some impact off the bench, something the club has missed in previous years.
The Titans also have unprecedented depth in the outside backs. Former Origin star Chris Walker, Papua New Guinean sensation David Mead, Ben Jeffrey, Jordan Atkins, Esi Tonga and the nifty Shannon Walker are all in the mix for wing spots in Round One.
I think the Gold Coast have the team to progress to finals footy this season. The club has increased depth, meaning they’ll be better positioned to handle injuries than in earlier years. But the key to success is keeping the magical Prince fit and healthy.
Gains:
William Zillman (Raiders - 2012), Sam Tagataese (Storm - 2010), Matt White (Knights - 2009), Jackson Nicolau (Cowboys), Sam Howe (Tweed Heads), Ian Lacey (Ipswich Jets - 2009)
Losses:
Matt Peterson (mid season). Michael Hodgson (Bulldogs), Josh Lewis (Tigers), James Stosic (ESL - Wakefield Trinity Wildcats), Kris Kahler (France - Pia Donkeys), Gavin Cooper (Panthers), Luke Swain (ESL - Salford Reds), Clint Amos (Cowboys), Matt Cross (Storm), Kurtis Lingwoodock (Broncos)
Predicted line-up:
1. Preston Campbell 2. David Mead 3. William Zillman 4. Brett Delaney 5. Jordan Atkins 6. Mat Rogers 7. Scott Prince (c) 8. Luke Bailey (c) 9. Nathan Friend 10. Brad Meyers 11. Anthony Laffranchi 12. Mark Minichiello 13. Ashley Harrison
Interchange: 14. Luke O’Dwyer 15. Michael Henderson 16. Matt White 17. Daniel Conn
Predicted Finish:
5th-8th
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