Living on the edge: Fifita ready for relentless Riki
Fans watching the Macca’s Local Derby will be treated to an almighty battle on the edge between two in-form forwards who want to make their mark in the contest.
On the Titans’ left edge is the ever-powerful David Fifita, marking up against 51-gamer Jordan Riki, who has had a formidable start to his 2023 season.
It can easily be said Fifita has also been in blistering form since his switch to the left edge this season, and whilst the 23-year-old hasn’t scored a try yet, that’s because he’s played a different role this season.
Instead of just being the hulking bash-and-crash player that fans have come to know and love, the Tongan International has been a pivotal player on the edge, with a high work rate in both attack and defence, averaging 161 running metres in his first five appearances as well as 130 tackles at 91 percent.
Match: Titans v Broncos
Round 7 -
home Team
Titans
12th Position
away Team
Broncos
1st Position
Venue: Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast
What hasn’t been lost on Fifita though is his ability to bust tackles, breaking 27 attempts in the Coast’s first run of games, opposed to his opposite number who has only been able to evade the defensive line nine times.
But on the other hand, Riki has found the try line on three occasions – all in the last fortnight – but is averaging 90 running metres less than the former Bronco, which should play nicely into the Titans skilful back-rower’s hands.
As will Fifita’s ability to ball-play, setting up three tries – including a Khan-Pereira double in the Round 4 clash against the Cowboys.
Speaking ahead of the contest, the Gold Coast forward is looking forward to his fifth local derby, hoping to help square the ledger between the two combatants.
“There’s always a bit of banter leading up to the contest and you always want to get one up on your good mates,” Fifita told 9 News.
“We’re two Queensland teams and however you want to say it… it’s little brother versus big brother, so it’s definitely very exciting.”
Kick-off is at 7.35pm on Saturday at Cbus Super Stadium.
