NRL News
Bailey rates no-name Titans forwards highly
The new look Titans forward pack is rated equal to the best he's ever played with by Luke Bailey - including at a representative level for NSW and Australia. The ex-St George Illawarra bookend said the Gold Coast forwards might not have the big names at present but they have worked hard for each other in recent outings and training sessions.
"I am happy with the current forwards we've got," Bailey has commented. The Titans' final pre-season hit-out is tonight against Penrith at Gold Coast Stadium - and local interest has been impressive, with Gold Coast officials expecting a big crowd for the trial game.
"I think it's right up there with some of the best I've played with, which is a pretty big rap really." "These blokes aren't household names but they are kenn and hungry and will certainly work their butts off for the club" "These are the sort of guys you want to play alongside."
This certainly is a massive statement from a man who's contested 11 Origins for NSW and played in two Tests for Australia. "I haven't played a whole lot of games with these guys but looking at their attitude I think they're up there," said Bailey, who was also put in a good showing in last weekend's trial game win over the Eels in Lismore.
When pressed on whether he thought the Titans pack were comparable with NSW and Australian teams he has played in, Bailey added: "I think so, in ability and attitude. "These guys don't worry about the limelight or getting their name in the media, they just care about working for each other and cementing a spot while they have been given the chance."
Bailey also said it was a shame his former Dragons stablemate Michael Henderson (hamstring) won't be lining up with him in the front-row against Penrith on tonight. "It's a blow to me personally because he's a good mate of mine," said Bailey.
It's also ironic that the Titans will face off against his old club the Dragons in Round 1 of the NRL. This will surely bring out the best in the man they call "The Bull" and he can expect a warm welcome from his old teammates. Bailey is also expected to get more time on the field as will Anthony Laffranchi and Kris Kahler.
Samoan rookie Pele Peltelse gets his chance in the top grade, filling in for Henderson in the 22-man squad after his manager Gavin Orr approached coach John Cartwright for a shot at the big time. Pele has spent time with Qld side Aspley, and has played several League games out of Auckland for lower grade clubs.
New Titan Chris Walker will also start at fullback for the Gold Coast with Preston Campbell slotting into the hooking role against his old club. Expect to see some confrontations here, with Campbell being in the middle of the action and his old clubmates keen to get at him. Bailey said he was happy to have Campbell packing down with him in the scrum. "He's half my size and you always try to get at the smaller blokes when you play," the 27-year-old Bailey said.
It's easy to forget Bailey is only 27 years old. The work-a-holic forward has been a senior member for the Dragons for what seems like an age. Regularly carrying his old club through tough games, he will certainly be an asset to the Titans.
Stay tuned to NRL News on Saturday for Trial game results and reviews. Feel free to send your comments or reviews through to operations@NRLnews.com and we will publish reader feedback.
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