Senior Coach Craig Hodges has had his final say ahead of tomorrow’s clash against the Sydney Roosters at the SCG.
Here are five talking points ahead of the match.
1. Off-field distractions
In a week where a new Coach for 2020 has been named, it could’ve been easy for the playing group to be distracted but Hodges believes the group has responded well.
“We have really had to focus on the footy,” he said. “There were a few days of news and speculation but they handled that well.
“We’ve had a number of things happen this year and they’re a pretty resilient bunch.”
2. Brian Kelly returning from illness
“Unfortunately Brian was crook at the end of last week and he just got worse as the week went on.
“He missed the start of this week but he’s had a few sessions with the group now and is ready to go. He’s a good in for us.”
3. Playing at the SCG
“I don’t think anyone in our group has played there before at any level of footy or sport.
“It’s an exciting ground for all Aussies and I was even talking to Kallum Watkins who is excited about it as well.
“The dimensions and facility aren’t your traditional footy ground so we’ll need to adapt to that pretty quickly.”
4. Attitude, effort and discipline
“Whatever we want to build at this club, or any club for that matter, they are the things you need to get right, first.
“If you get those things right, you’ll be well on your way and can start to work on other things.
“It may not have shown on the scoreboard the last few weeks but we’re taking steps in all of those areas.
5. AJ out, Jacks in
“AJ just hasn’t recovered. He is a tough fella and would play for us but it’s just not fair on the kid.
“He’ll need at least a week off and then a full week of training. If he needs another week off, we’re open to that as well.
“It does make it easier when you’ve got someone like Ryley in your squad who can come in and play that role.”
The Titans take on the Roosters at the SCG tomorrow (Sunday) with kick-off at 2:00pm.
