Key Three: Foran a lock, defence in focus and fresh faces

It was hot and humid conditions in Toowoomba as the Gold Coast Titans took on the Brisbane Broncos in the pre-season challenge.

While there is prizemoney up for grabs, both coaches would have been more interested in their own performance than the outcome as the Broncos were victorious 50-12.

Foran a lock

The experienced Kieran Foran is a definite in Des Hasler's Round 2 team but what his role looks like in 2025 may have become a little clearer, with the veteran starting at halfback, before shifting to lock after twenty minutes. 

His halves partner of 2024, Jayden Campbell, was on Indigenous All Stars duty meaning it was Foran and AJ Brimson as the starting halves pairing today.

Exactly which two of the three start in the halves is still to be seen, but Foran's role through the middle shows his versatility should he claim the utility bench position.

Foran has also spent time at hooker for the New Zealand Kiwis so offers good coverage in that role. 

Defence remains the focus

Defence will no doubt be the focus for Des Hasler's men after conceding 50 points today.

The Broncos turned in four tries in 16 minutes in the first half, before continuing the scoring in the second stanza.

Naturally in pre-season fixtures there was range of players trialed in multiple positions and a host of regular stars missing, so combinations are not strong, however the amount of points will no doubt be a focus this coming week. 

Fresh faces taste the top-level

There were plenty of fresh faces donning the Titans jersey for the first time.

The game saw 11 uncapped Titans play for the first time in the NRL squad.

This included pathways prospects Zane Harrison, Sam Stephenson, Cooper Bai and Sunny Kama who got their opportunities in the second half from the bench.

The quartet are unlikely to feature in the NRL this year but the experience will be invaluable as the build towards being top 30 squad members in years to come.