Titans Coach Justin Holbrook has called out the performances of centres Greg Marzhew and Treymain Spry after the Gold Coast's trial match against the Burleigh Bears.
The Titans team was missing a host of first grade talent, including representative players AJ Brimson, David Fifita, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Phil Sami, Jarrod Wallace and Kevin Proctor, but the game at Pizzey Park gave some exciting young prospects a chance to showcase their game.
“I thought Greg Marzhew and Treymain Spry were probably the two good guys for us," Holbrook said after his side's 36 to 34 point loss.
"They (Marzhew and Spry) played really well and Jayden Campbell was dangerous at the back as well."
Spry made his NRL debut in 2020, going on to play five games in his rookie season.
The 21-year-old slotted in at centre and wing and in his small taste of NRL action was able to show that he has a long future in the league ahead of him.
His centre partner in the trial match, Greg Marzhew, will be hoping his chance comes this season.
The 23-year-old is yet to make his NRL debut, but gave Titans fans a glimpse of his talent with a three try performance against Burleigh.
With no Intrust Super Cup in 2020, Marzhew says it has been about 50 weeks since his last competitive game of footy.
"Usually I get nervous before games but I was just that excited," Marzhew said.
"I'm just excited, I don't really care about anything else, I just want to get on the field (in 2021).
"I'm putting the work in, it's time to get it done, put my head down and start working.
"I've missed opportunities and haven't taken opportunities when I should have but I've learnt now big time.
"After the year of COVID, I just want to get out there and play any footy that I can."
After his strong performance, Marzhew was asked if he was ready for the rigours of the NRL.
"100 per cent," he told journalists.
"It should be time soon hopefully."
Jonus Pearson was another who used the trial as a chance to push his claims for a spot in the side, scoring two tries, including a length of the field intercept.
Pearson, who has played 22 NRL games, is back to full fitness after an injury interrupted 2020 season.
Despite the result, the young backline hopefuls showed Justin Holbrook that there is exciting depth in the squad should they need to be called upon during the year.
