In the mix: Fifita one to watch against Sharks as Origin recall beckons
Titans coach Des Hasler is expecting another strong performance from David Fifita against the Sharks, endorsing the powerhouse forward for Maroons selection for the upcoming Origin decider.
Set to play a commanding role in the clash against third-placed Cronulla at Coffs Harbour, the Gold Coast mentor has lauded the 24-year-old's last month of footy, expecting him to be well and truly in the discussion for a Queensland recall given the magnitude of the final game in Brisbane on Wednesday week.
"I think he has to be in the mix, doesn’t he?" Hasler quizzed journalists at his weekly press conference on Wednesday.
"I thought what he’s been doing this year so far has been pretty consistent across the board and I think his last month of footy has been quite strong.
"I'm not partial to any inside word there but he’s got those pieces in his game that would make him very handy at some stage and it’s a big game. It’s a decider at Suncorp, so they don’t get any bigger and he certainly has some X-factor."
Match: Sharks v Titans
Round 18 -
home Team
Sharks
4th Position
away Team
Titans
15th Position
Venue: C.ex Coffs International Stadium, Coffs Harbour
Fifita's experience and desire to be back in Maroon will be welcomed for the must-win battle upon losing AJ Brimson and Phil Sami late to injury, but the visitors will see Moeaki Fotuaika (Origin) and Jojo Fifita (flu) return as they continue the quest to remain in finals contention.
"We get a few back which is good," Hasler said.
"It’s really important that we get a bit of consistency about our play. We need to string some wins together for us."
Expecting a tough assignment to snap a nine-game losing streak against the Sharks - who enter the clash with back-to-back losses - there will be plenty of motivation to claim the club's first win in Coffs Harbour after being unlucky in their previous two visits to an area that appreciate their chance of watching NRL in the flesh.
"It’s a great region who love their footy," he said.
"I think it’s really good to see the initiative by the Sharks to attract those types of areas and for the locals to come down and support the game.
"I just hope it stays dry."
