One of Keano Kini's fondest memories of Kieran Foran is seeing him live in action for the first time for his beloved Kiwis in New Zealand.
Watching on in the stands that day, the 20-year-old never expected the pair to become teammates down the track; let alone be influential cogs in Gold Coast's attacking prowess.
It's why Kini is motivated more than ever to get the two points this Sunday against the Dragons, as the milestone man celebrates his 300th NRL appearance.
"Foz is an absolute legend on and off the field," he said.
"He brings that passion and it's awesome to play under him. He's bought more than just playing to this club... it's also what he does off field as well.
"I know me and all the boys want to make him proud this weekend and play for him because he's a special man."
Match: Titans v Roosters
Round 25 -
home Team
Titans
13th Position
away Team
Roosters
2nd Position
Venue: Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast
Rising for Foran's incredible achievement is also consolidated by the desire to bounce back from Friday's 44-0 loss to the Sharks, with the amount of points leaked hurting the playing squad most.
With a defensive mindset at training this week, Kini also wants to keep improving his game despite being a revelation in Gold Coast's No. 1 jersey - even keeping Origin fullback AJ Brimson on the pine due to his scintillating form.
"I feel a little bit more comfortable [in the NRL], but I don't want to be 100 percent comfortable where I am," he said.
"I always want to get better. There's lots of parts I'm still working on in my game.
"Mainly my defence and my defensive reads, but I'm going to work with the coaches this week.
"[The need to improve hasn't] actually hasn't come from them , but I just know personally myself what I need to work on."
Playing a part in the Titans' Round 1 defeat against the Red V, all eyes are avenging that season opening loss with the stakes as high as ever - both teams chasing that final spot in the top eight with only four games to go.
"We played them in Round 1 and they towelled us up, but we're looking to get one back on them this time round," Kini said.
"The Dragons will be really tough but both teams are fighting for that last spot, so it should be good."
