Big men to collide with point to prove in Local Derby showdown
There's nothing better than watching two forward packs collide and an explosive matchup is on the cards when two Origin big men go head-to-head in this Saturday's Macca's Local Derby.
The Titans' Moe Fotuaika and Broncos' Tom Flegler will both be ready to aim up when they take centre stage at Cbus Super Stadium for the grudge match, with the pair having plenty of fire in the belly with a point to prove after missing out on playing for their beloved Maroons this year.
The 22-year-old Gold Coast prop - who is on the cusp of reaching 100 NRL games by the end of 2022 should he play in every remaining fixture - has been one of the club's best forwards this season, particularly for his defence in the middle third.
A tackle efficiency average of almost 98 percent, he has got through plenty of work when protecting his own line, making around 28 tackles a game.
He's also been a shining light in attack, averaging a smidge under 120 run metres a game, which has also included 25 tackle breaks and 10 offloads in his 15 appearances this season.
Match: Titans v Broncos
Round 18 -
home Team
Titans
15th Position
away Team
Broncos
5th Position
Venue: Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast
For Flegler, currently in Queensland camp as an extended squad member, he'll be coming out of the Origin period wanting to make a statement given he was so close to another call-up for his state, especially after extraordinary form leading into the representative period.
Averaging 118 run metres a game, the prop has broken 20 tackles and produced 18 offloads, whilst also contributing in defence with 235 tackles across his 10 games at 95 percent.
Fotuaika missed the last Local Derby when the Titans fell away in the second half for the Broncos to overpower his side, so there is no doubt he'll be fired up for the occasion, motivated to help his side seek revenge on their M1 rivals.
The two-week suspension to Jarrod Wallace will also mean the Titans enforcer is a good chance of starting the contest after playing a pivotal role off the bench for the Coast in recent weeks.
There will be plenty of bone crunching hits when these two big men collide... who will come out on top?
Be there for the next instalment as the rivalry re-ignites at Cbus Super Stadium this Saturday, July 16. Secure your seat today!
