Key three: Toby, you Sexy thing

1. Toby, you Sexy thing

Ending a 252 day NRL hiatus, the 22-year-old flourished in his return to first grade, scoring a scintillating try to win the game for the Titans.

The 77th minute moment of brilliance topped off the young half playing an admirable role on his right edge for the Titans in a near man of the match finish.

Known for a strong kicking game - which was in full display and on-point as usual - it was his moments running with the ball that really made an impact... including in the final minutes.

The Titans No. 6 ended the game with two line break assists and three try involvements - including putting his body on the line and taking a shot in the line for his troubles before getting a classy pass for Jayden Campbell to score under the posts.

Playing against the very side he debuted against in Round 19, 2021 at Cbus Super Stadium, it was a pleasing return for the young gun who has worked extremely hard in a tumultuous 12-month introduction to playing regular top grade rugby league.

2. Gritty defence sets up victory

Whilst many pundits tipped it to be a try-fest at Cbus Super Stadium between the two combatants, it was anything but... with the duo going blow-for-blow in a grinding clash to the delight a strong long weekend crowd.

The Titans spent a lot of their pre-season working on their defensive structures, resilience and conditioning and it was all needed today. 

Having less percentage and making more tackles then their opponents (346 v 310) - the home side spent much of the game on their line; but remained in the contest only conceding the two tries - one an aerial contest from a last play kick.

But despite bringing some of the challenges on themselves, conceding five ruck infringements to two, their defence held strong which allowed the chance for Toby Sexton to ice the game late.

3. Flying Phil lights up right touchline

Phil Sami gave the Gold Coast an Easter Sunday delight, making his mark on the right edge to win the battle over St George-Illawarra youngster Matt Feagai.

The day out included an astronomical 14 tackle breaks, three line breaks and a try to watch back and saviour for days to come - his third four-pointer of the season.

Sami amassed a massive 275 run metres to drag his side into the contest and came oh, so close to the all-time club record of 290 metres by Jai Arrow in 2019.

In his 92nd NRL appearance, the 25-year-old has certainly given Justin Holbrook a selection headache with Jojo Fifita anticipated to return from his medial knee injury next week... making the decision on who to leave out a tough one for the Titans coach.