A dejected Corey Thompson knows the Titans have let the Gold Coast community down with their recent performances, especially after being only one pass away from a semi-finals berth in last year's playoffs.
But with still over a third of the competition to go this season, there is still plenty of time to finish strong and build some ascendency into 2023 - something the flyer is really hoping he can be part of, determined to help make amends as he returns from injury this weekend.
"After last year, we we had such high hopes and obviously this year, we've let ourselves down, let our members down and let our staff down," Thompson said.
"Right now, we really just need to come together as a group and start winning some games to to move further up the ladder."
The rebound begins this Saturday at home, up against the Broncos in the Macca's Local Derby with plenty to play for, especially with extra motivation to avenge that heartbreaking Round 12 loss against Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium that is still vividly in the back of everyone's minds.
Match: Titans v Broncos
Round 18 -
home Team
Titans
15th Position
away Team
Broncos
5th Position
Venue: Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast
"[That game] has pretty much been our whole year.. being inconsistent during games and that's probably what has been the most disappointing thing because we know what we're capable of," Thompson said.
"We're just really inconsistent at the moment and we go through slumps during the game and the opposition scores too many points that we just can't come back from.
"It's put us in a really tough spot and obviously it's a rough year and finals are pretty far away, but we really need to move up the ladder, finish strong and find some consistency moving into the off-season and starting into next year.
"We've been trying to training hard to try and correct that and there's still seven or so games left that we can try to show that we're finding that consistency and moving up the ladder."
Expecting over 20,000 fans to pack the stands at Cbus Super Stadium for the Saturday night blockbuster, Thompson is eager to take down the high-flying Broncos by whatever margin it takes to take back bragging rights.
"We played really well against them at Suncorp, up 24-4 before we let it slip," Thompson said.
"It's always good versing the Broncos and obviously they're going really well this year. They're full of energy and confidence.
"Now at Cbus, we've got to turn the season around... whether we win by one point or 30 points, we have to find a way to win and get a bit more consistent."
The fan favourite also shut down talk of him reportedly joining the Dolphins, wanting to remain a Titan for life, even post his playing career.
"I didn't even know about [the media speculation]. I got told that I was heading there by other people, but it was news to me," Thompson said.
"I love this club and want to stay part of it even after I retire. I love it here and love everyone that is a part of it.
"I really want to stick around here as a player, then hopefully after footy, still stay here and help with the younger boys and with the backs and the edges."
Be there for the next instalment as the rivalry re-ignites at Cbus Super Stadium this Saturday, July 16. Secure your seat today!
