Hannay's new DNA why he refused to gloss over scrappy Sea Eagles win

It's not often a coach isn't happy with a win... but such is the change Josh Hannay is making at the Titans, he doesn't want to gloss over the number of points his side conceded against the Sea Eagles.

Unapologetic about wanting to change Gold Coast's DNA, they have become a team who are gritty and connected - especially in defence - shown in a number of brave performances to earn wins against the likes of Penrith and Brisbane recently.

They even came within a whisker of upsetting the Storm in Melbourne a fortnight ago - a feat even the best in the NRL struggle to conquer.

A team that has become known for its ability to show ticker and fight defending their line this season, it's why the new Titans mentor was seen disappointed with Sunday's performance.

Proud his team fought back into the game to bank a crucial two competition points, but not content knowing they need to get back to their best this week to continue challenging the top teams in the competition.

"It's a hard one to process because winning is the business we're in, but I'd say that's nearly as bad we've played all year," Hannay reflected post-match.

"It was really loose. We played enough good footy to score enough points to win today but we're a lot better than what we were today.

"They had two opportunities and scored two tries [early]. I've seen us repel teams repeatedly this year when we get down on our line.

"To comeback after being down 10-0... there's a fighting quality about this group now.

"We've been down a number of times now to come back and win so it's not all doom and gloom.

"I just know the group is a lot better than what they were today, but we'll celebrate the win."

What the performance did show was the Titans' spine that is starting to gel after two months together - young guns Keano Kini, Jayden Campbell and Zane Harrison paving the way forward with clear direction, excitement and spark; mixed with hunger and desire to deliver long-term success on the Gold Coast.

"Our combinations are growing and important to all that is our spine... our one, six, seven and nine. They've had [nine] games together and the progress they've made in a short space of time is impressive and there's so much in front of them still," Hannay said.

"Their connection is bringing everyone else to the party. Our forwards are a threat and the progression of our football is certainly a positive."

Hannay was also full of praise for two-try hero Oliver Pascoe, who dominated at dummy-half in only his 14th game of first grade, crediting his energy, determination and desire that has helped lift Gold Coast this season.

"He's a journeyman and he's a cracking lad... he's a good story," he said.

"He's 26 and has been a Q Cup journeyman and I just think the modern game suits him. It's a quick game and he's electric out of there.

"What you'll find with those mature-aged debutants is they've been through such a journey and process to get the opportunity. Once they get it, they just want to hold onto it because it hasn't been gifted to him and it hasn't come easy.

"He's cherishing every game and every moment. Some guys get it straight out of high school... he's had to work so hard, and he's the life of the party."

The Titans coach knows the significance of back-to-back wins against the Dragons this week - allowing the ladder to reflect their growth this season under his new leadership.

He even cracked a cheeky smile in his response to the importance of stringing wins together to end 2026.

"It'd be nice to win eight straight now to finish the year," Hannay quipped.