Australia jerseys on the line in PDRL showdown

Saturday night is set to be a momentous occasion for the Gold Coast Titans' physical disability rugby league program when they face off against Sydney in a curtain-raiser to the Macca's Local Derby.

Four years in the making, this will be the first time the side has matched up against another team, previously having played games among one another at various home games at Cbus Super Stadium.

Adding to the occasion, there will be more than just bragging rights on the line, with the clash to be a selection trial for the Australian PDRL side, who will travel to the United Kingdom at the end of the year to participate in the Rugby League World Cup.

With green and gold jerseys on the line, no one is more excited than long-time participant and 2021 PDRL player of the year Dean Clark, who has been playing for the Titans the last four seasons.

"It feels really good because it's been about three to four years in the making," Clark said.

"We're supposed to play two years ago and then COVID hit. The players were all ready before we sadly had to cancel. 

The players love playing and they've been waiting for this for a while.

"It's not going to be an exhibition match and Sydney are taking it serious too, especially with it being a try-out for the Australian team to play in England in October at the World Cup."

The 52-year-old - who suffered a traumatic brain injury - has been a rugby league fanatic all his life and is very appreciative of the club's all abilities program which gives people like himself the opportunity to get out and play the game he loves - and even the chance to represent his country.

"Being a PDRL player, it's a great opportunity for people that haven't even played football before to go and play and even represent Australia," Clark said.

"I know a few of our players should make it. They're capable of making it, but we've just got to get through this week first before looking too far ahead."

Given the match is a different style of footy to the usual NRL offering, Clark is encouraging everyone to come down early to catch a glimpse of the action and cheer the Titans home against Sydney.

"Everyone should come down and watch because it is different," Clark said.

"People may think it's like touch football but it's definitely not touch... this is tackle and when you get hit by a tackler who's got cerebral palsy and stuff like that... it's tough.

"We can definitely put on a good show."

Kick-off is at 6pm, ahead of the Titans v Broncos derby at 7.35pm.

Be there for the next instalment as the rivalry re-ignites at Cbus Super Stadium this Saturday, July 16. Secure your seat today!