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New Post has been published on http://www.sportsbanter.com.au/nrl-2015-the-optimist-v-the-pessimist-gold-coast-titans/
NRL 2015 - The Optimist v The Pessimist - Gold Coast Titans
The 2015 NRL previews continue, Michael places Gold Coast Titans under the microscope telling us why they’ll win it all this year, and at the other end of the spectrum why they’ll struggle!
Fresh start – Out with the old and in with the new as Neil Henry takes the reins and not before time. The side appears to need a new direction after spending 8 years under foundation coach John Cartwright and Henry will bring a fresh approach and a new spin on life for the Gold Coasters
Hoffman more than useful – In new recruit Josh Hoffman the Titans now have not only an ace up their sleeve at fullback but also some added cover across the back line. The way their halves have dropped like flies in the last couple of years, Hoffman could even turn out to be the perfect utility.
Ryan James – The big hairy prop is back and will enjoy an injury free season. His size and mobility will be welcomed by his team mates, leaving the Titans knockers with their heads in the sand. The downside could be a potential NSW origin selection but the Gold Coast will worry about that when or if it happens.
Career Defining year for Roberts – James Roberts is in for a big year! After being picked up from the Panthers in 2014 the 21 year old flyer is set to stay free of trouble and become the X-Factor in the Titans back line has been missing since the exit of Jamal Idris at the end of 2013.
Injury Free halves – Aiden Sezer, although currently sidelined with a cheekbone injury, and Daniel Mortimer will form a solid halves pairing thanks to a clean bill of health which is something Titans fans have craved from their halves over the last couple of years. Sezer will have a magic season with the boot while Mortimer will be solid without being spectacular but will suit the Titans game plan.
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Tough only gets you so far – During the early rounds last year the Titans found themselves at the top of the table but you’d be forgiven for thinking how they got there especially with a negative points differential. That form is unlikely to cut it again this year – Being gritty only gets you so far and losing the likes of Mark Minichello and Ashley Harrison won’t help their cause.
Lacking X-factor – Despite a bit of potential in the back line, when you compare this side to others it’s a simple case of the names just not grabbing your attention. Someone has to lose and in 2015 this roster has defeat written all over it.
Letting Albert Kelly go – The guy took 2013 by storm after being signed from Cronulla and was massive for not only the Titans but also for us Fantasy players. An injury ravaged 2014 saw him struggle to stay on the park let alone reproduce that same 2013 form however releasing him to Hull KR seems baffling at best.
Bird on his shoulder – Greg Bird’s acting career will finally catch up with him and the referees will start pinging him for his simulating antics – something that will become more predominant in 2015. As a consequence losing the captaincy will become the least of his worries.
Crowd numbers – The echoey Cbus stadium should be a fortress for the Titans but for opposing teams the mach day experience is likely to feel more like a training run in front of the empty sea-blue seats. On the positive side, the Titans are still likely to draw a big crowd for their June 20 match albeit full of ex-pat Kiwis as they cheer on the visiting Warriors side.
Watch out for: A big year from Ryan James providing he stays fit, will give the Titans and bit of X-Factor and also some value for Fantasy NRL/Super Coach players.
Don’t hold your breath: For the Titans to get outta 2nd gear in 2014. Look for a bottom 4 finish.
Michael’s Prediction: 15th
Editor’s Prediction: 15th
