Round 16: Dragons v Titans preview
A remote top 8 chance could be on the line for the St George Illawarra Dragons as the Gold Coast Titans look to prevent a third straight loss on Friday night at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium.
The St George Illawarra Dragons are looking for three straight victories following their victories over Parramatta and Brisbane over the past fortnight. Last weekend, the Dragons were pushed by the Brisbane Broncos in their 28-24 victory which saw the margin helped by three extra penalty goals to the Dragons.
Surprising many a fortnight ago, the victory over Parramatta highlighted the frustrations that the Dragons have put on their fans and pundits who have seen both many highlights and lowlights.
Coming into this weekend, the Dragons sit in 10th spot and with victory could move into ninth spot but with defeat they could slip back to 12th if results go against them.
The Red ‘V' have been forced into two changes with Korbin Sims succumbing to a calf injury whilst Paul Vaughan sits out this weekend after being suspended. Jackson Ford & Billy Brittain have been added to the bench to replace the missing pair.
The Gold Coast Titans have shown signs of encouraging improvement but still they come into Round 16 sitting in 13th place with just four victories this season. Last weekend, the Titans weren't able to match the Canberra Raiders as they fell to a 36-16 defeat despite a good start.
Despite having just four wins for the seasons, the Gold Coast Titans have been able to be competitive with some of the top sides, pushing both the Panthers and Roosters despite their defeats.
The Titans could fall to 14th place if they lose and results go against them, whilst a win would keep the Titans in 13th spot.
Justin Holbrook has been forced to make changes to his Titans side with Ash Taylor returning from injury pushing Tanah Boyd to the reserves. Moeiaki Fotuaika's suspension has seen Tyrone Peachey starting at lock with Erin Clark coming onto the bench. Nathan Peats calf injury has seen Mitch Rein named at hooker.
Last meeting: Round 6 2020 - Titans 8 Dragons 20
Who to watch: Dragons five-eighth Corey Norman has come under plenty of focus for his performances this season which have been a big part of the Dragons struggles. Norman has not been able to take a command of the side this season and has only missed the one game this season. If the ‘Red V' are wanting to win this game, Norman has to stand up.
Titans halfback Jamal Fogarty has been making a big impression since coming into the side in Round 1. Fogarty's impact has been on show this season and so much so in that he has been named captain for the Titans this weekend. Fogarty has been a controlling force for his side and with each game his confidence is boosted and will benefit the Titans.
The favourite: The Dragons come into the game as favourites after coming off two straight victories against the Eels and Broncos as well as being back at home this weekend compared to the Titans who are coming off two straight defeats.
My tip: The Titans struggled against the Raiders last weekend but will be boosted by the return of Ash Taylor and the Dragons did struggle to get past the Broncos. Everything points to a victory for the Dragons but there is just something that makes me feel that the Gold Coast Titans will be up for victory. Titans by 6.
