Today’s result makes it four wins in a row for the Titans who look to finish off the season on a high despite not being a contender for this year’s finals series.
After conceding the opening try of the match, the Titans then scored four consecutive tries and never really looked back as Manly struggled to keep up with Gold Coast’s attack.
In some more disappointing news for the Sea Eagles, star fullback Tom Trbojevic, who had just returned to the side from a lengthy stint on the sidelines with a hamstring injury, left the field midway during the second half.
According to Fox League’s Megan Barnard, Trbojevic suffered a knock to his shoulder which club medical staff at the time described as a « stinger. »
« They’re saying it’s just a stinger and that his arm went a bit dead, » she said.
Tom’s brother Jake conceded the injury to his younger sibling was « devasting » when asked after the match.
« So frustrating for him, being his big brother and to see how hard it is on him.
« He would be disappointed with today. He works so hard and he just loves his football.
Just over 20 minutes remaining and it’s the Titans who are in full control against the Sea Eagles.
What was just a 10-point deficit for Manly at halftime has now blown out to 24 points as the Titans continue to put the foot down.
Three tries in the second half to Sam Stone (42), Kevin Proctor (49) and Alexander Brimson (52) have the Gold Coast cruising to what will be their fourth win in a row should they go on with it.
« It happened in the first half and it’s happening in the second. It’s all to do for the Manly side. »
In some more disappointing news for the Sea Eagles, star fullback Tom Trbojevic, who had just returned to the side from a lengthy stint on the sidelines with a hamstring injury, left the field midway during the second half.
According to Fox League’s Megan Barnard, Trbojevic suffered a knock to his shoulder which club medical staff at the time described as a « stinger. »
« They’re saying it’s just a stinger and that his arm went a bit dead, » she said.
Head referee Matt Noyen was forced off the field midway during the first half after tweaking his hamstring as he attempted to keep up with the play.
Titans fullback AJ Brimson caught Manly players napping after they coughed up a seven tackle set.
As the Manly defenders were walking back to the defensive line, Brimson went for the quick tap and caught them all off guard as he raced away and scored under the posts.
Referee Noyen was unfortunately the unlucky victim as he pulled up with a hamstring injury while trying to keep up with the pace of Brimson.
« Matt Noyen looks like he’s hurt himself here, drama at Lottoland! » Commentator Dan Ginnane told Fox League.
The Gold Coast Titans will welcome back captain Kevin Proctor from suspension on Saturday against Manly.
Centre Brian Kelly will wait another week to his return from an ankle injury, with Treymain Spry retaining his spot in the centres in his fourth NRL appearance.
Eighth Immortal Andrew Johns said in previewing today’s clash between the Sea Eagles and Titans that if the NSW Blues star was to play, he’ll be the difference.
Brad Fittler agreed, and said the stats say Manly most-likely only need 14 points to defeat Gold Coast.
« If you score 14 points you beat the Titans – that’s since round four or five. They can’t defend more than 14 points at the moment, » Fittler said.
Trbojevic’s brother Jake told Fox Sports before kick-off that Tom was « very excited » to be playing again after a hamstring injury had him miss much of the 2020 NRL season.
« It’s been a frustrating three months for him. It’s exciting he makes his return today, » he said.
« It’s a little bit too late for our season, which is disappointing, but it’s great to have him back out here.
« I think he gives our team a lot of confidence. You can’t expect too much. He’s just got to work into it. »
Unfortunately the third Trbojevic brother Ben will have to wait for his NRL debut, after missing out on the final squad for Saturday.
« But I still think it’s good experience for him being 18th-19th man today. He’ll get his opportunity one day. »
SOURCE: https://www.w24news.com
